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In a recent notice, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced changes to actions related to a Section 301 investigation concerning China's technology transfer and intellectual property practices. These changes include raising tariffs on certain tungsten, polysilicon, and wafer products from China starting January 1, 2025. The new tariffs, part of President's instructions to encourage China to change its practices, will be 25% for tungsten products and 50% for polysilicon and wafers. This decision considers public feedback, which highlights the potential benefits and risks of these tariff increases.

The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) announced that it is adopting several categorical exclusions (CEs) from the Department of Energy under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). These exclusions allow for certain proposed actions by EXIM that do not significantly impact the human environment, thereby speeding up project approvals and conserving resources by eliminating the need for detailed environmental assessments. This decision supports EXIM's Make More in America initiative by enabling quicker processing of transactions that promote U.S. business exports. EXIM consulted with the Department of Energy to ensure the appropriateness of these CEs for their proposed actions.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing new rules for the use of certain chemical substances under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). These rules, known as Significant New Use Rules (SNURs), require entities to notify EPA at least 90 days before starting activities considered significant new uses of these chemicals. The EPA will then assess these uses for potential risks. The proposed rules aim to ensure new chemical substances are safely manufactured and processed, protecting human health and the environment.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is updating the test procedures for compressors to correct errors and ensure calculations are accurate across different conditions, such as altitude. These changes include fixing formulas for efficiency calculations and updating the definition of "air compressor" to clarify that multiple compression elements are included. The updates align DOE procedures with industry standards and are designed to be more precise without adding extra testing burdens on manufacturers. The updated rules will be effective April 2, 2025, and mandatory for product testing by July 16, 2025.

NYSE Arca, Inc. has submitted a proposal to the Securities and Exchange Commission to list and trade shares of the COtwo Advisors Physical European Carbon Allowance Trust, which would allow investors to gain exposure to the European Union's carbon emissions market. This trust intends to invest solely in European Union Carbon Emission Allowances and is designed as a cost-effective way for investors to participate in the market. The proposal highlights various mechanisms to ensure transparency and prevent fraud, including surveillance-sharing arrangements with regulated markets like ICE Endex. The SEC is inviting public comments on this proposal before making a decision.

The Surface Transportation Board reviewed a petition from the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition to build an 85-mile railway in Utah to connect the Uinta Basin with the national rail network. The Coalition seeks an exemption from the usual prior approval requirements, arguing that the rail line will provide critical transportation benefits and support local industries. While there is significant support, including endorsements from state officials, there is also opposition citing financial viability concerns and potential environmental impacts. The Board has made a preliminary decision on the transportation merits but will only finalize its decision after completing an environmental review.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed to change the status of Furbish’s lousewort, a plant species, from "endangered" to "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act. The proposal suggests measures to conserve the plant, focusing on preventing harm due to climate change and habitat loss. Public comments are invited, and specific regulations are recommended to protect the species. This action is based on scientific findings indicating that the immediate threat to the plant has been reduced, but long-term challenges remain.

The Department of State is updating the International Traffic in Arms Regulations by revising the U.S. Munitions List (USML) to include or remove items and clarify certain entries. These changes aim to better control defense articles and services, ensuring they continue to provide a critical military or intelligence advantage. While the new rules are set to take effect on September 15, 2025, the department is also seeking public comments by March 18, 2025, to further refine the regulations.

The Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council has announced a new rule that includes mining as a sector eligible for coverage under the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST-41). This means that mining projects can now benefit from improved coordination and transparency in the federal permitting process. The rule aims to make the permitting process for mining projects more efficient without bypassing any environmental reviews or public consultations. By adding mining to the list of FAST-41 sectors, it is expected to help streamline the project review process for eligible mining endeavors.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is considering whether to approve or deny a proposed rule change by NYSE Arca, allowing the listing and trading of shares for the COtwo Advisors Physical European Carbon Allowance Trust. This newly proposed exchange-traded product is designed to reflect the performance of EU carbon emission allowances, offering investors a way to engage in the carbon market without directly holding carbon credits. Key considerations involve the detection and prevention of potential market manipulation and ensuring adequate investor protections by determining whether ICE Endex acts as a significant market for these trades. The SEC is seeking public comments to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of the proposed rules in preventing fraud, manipulating acts, and protecting investors.