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The Department of Defense (DoD), General Services Administration (GSA), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) have issued a final rule that changes how small businesses must report their size and socioeconomic status when bidding for government contracts. This rule aligns with the changes made by the Small Business Administration and requires businesses to confirm their status for orders under certain contracts. The updated regulation aims to ensure that orders set aside for small businesses actually go to qualified small businesses, even if their business status changes during the lifecycle of the contract. These changes are effective from January 17, 2025, and include specific conditions under which businesses must update their size and status information.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued an interim final rule to update and relocate regulations regarding other transaction (OT) agreements, which allow for flexible partnerships beyond traditional contracts. This action simplifies existing regulations by removing outdated provisions and clarifying policies, aiming to enhance the use of OT agreements for research, development, and demonstration projects. The changes seek to make it easier for nontraditional government partners, like small businesses, to participate in DOE projects. Public comments on these regulatory adjustments are invited until March 4, 2025.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has implemented new rules to manage the use of certain frequency bands for commercial space launches. This is part of the Launch Communications Act, which requires the FCC to regulate spectrum usage for space operations, ensuring cooperation between various users to avoid interference. The 2360-2395 MHz band has now been allocated for space launch operations, with specific technical and licensing rules to ensure the protection of existing users. These new rules aim to streamline the licensing and coordination process for space launches, making it simpler and more efficient for new and existing space launch providers.

The FAA has issued a final airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-12/47E airplanes to address a safety issue. The problem stems from inboard flap fairings with an incorrect shape, potentially leading to chafing with a tension rod, which could cause a failure in the flap system and reduce airplane control. The AD requires inspections of the affected parts to check for chafing and to ensure the correct shape; corrective actions must be taken if necessary. The rule applies to specific serial numbers and outlines inspection requirements, with expected compliance costs detailed.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved a new information collection related to the implementation of Next Generation 911 Services (NG911). As of March 25, 2025, compliance with specific NG911 rules is required, which will aid in transitioning emergency services to IP-based systems. The rules apply to various service providers, including those of wireline, mobile, and internet-based communication services, ensuring coordination with 911 authorities. The document also discusses procedures for challenging requests and reporting agreements, as well as the associated paperwork requirements and costs for compliance.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has issued a final rule updating regulations for the Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract Program. This rule introduces new definitions, aligns regulations with current laws, and standardizes language across SBA's contracting programs to clarify control and employment requirements. Additionally, it modifies how SBA reviews certification applications and encourages consistency in regulation across various government contracting programs. These updates aim to reduce confusion and streamline processes without significantly impacting small businesses economically.

The Coast Guard has issued a final rule allowing for electronic submission of mariner credential applications and the payment of fees through an online system, aiming to modernize and streamline the process. The rule eliminates the requirement for prospective mariners to take an oath in person, updates certain procedures related to the issuance of credentials, and makes technical amendments like adopting gender-neutral language. The changes, effective January 19, 2025, are designed to improve efficiency and clarity, making it easier for mariners to manage their credentials.

The Department of Education is inviting applications for new awards for fiscal year 2021 under the Educational Technology, Media, and Materials for Individuals with Disabilities Program—Television Access Projects. This initiative aims to improve educational outcomes for students with disabilities by enhancing access to video programming through high-quality audio description and captioning. Eligible applicants include state and local educational agencies, institutions of higher education, and nonprofit organizations. Applicants must demonstrate how their projects will increase the availability and quality of described and captioned educational content, particularly for children with disabilities and English learners.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a final rule exempting certain pesticide residues in food from needing a tolerance level when used according to label guidelines. Specifically, residues of Pseudomonas oryzihabitans strain SYM23945 in all food commodities are exempt as they are deemed non-toxic and safe based on data evaluation. This ruling ensures there is no significant risk to human health, including infants and children. The decision, effective March 27, 2025, reiterates that no maximum permissible residue level is required for this strain when used properly.

The Department of Education is inviting applications for new awards for the Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC) Program, aimed at helping individuals with financial and academic aid to pursue postsecondary education. This program will distribute grants ranging from $232,050 to $1,280,000, with an estimated $55,994,306 in funds available. Eligible applicants include institutions of higher education, public and private agencies, and organizations experienced in serving disadvantaged youth. Up to 140 awards are expected, and applications need to be submitted by March 1, 2021, with a project period lasting up to 60 months.