Search Results for keywords:"Pacific Gas

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has introduced a final rule called the Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees. This rule aims to prevent businesses from misleading consumers about the prices of live-event tickets and short-term lodging. It requires businesses to clearly disclose the total price that includes all mandatory fees, to avoid bait-and-switch tactics that hide the real cost. The rule also prohibits businesses from lying about the nature, purpose, amount, or refundability of these fees, ensuring that consumers have a true understanding of the cost before making a purchase.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) proposes a rule to update brake system safety standards for trains that use an electronic air brake slip (eABS) system. This new system would allow certain rail cars to travel longer distances between brake tests, specifically up to 2,500 miles rather than the current 1,500 miles, provided the cars meet specific criteria. The proposal includes maintaining extended records of the cars' brake tests and allowing the swapping of blocks of cars in trains without additional tests. This initiative aims to improve efficiency and reduce employee injury risks while still ensuring train safety.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has expanded the use of unlicensed very low power (VLP) devices across the entire 6 GHz band, from 5.925 to 7.125 GHz. These devices are set to operate under specific technical rules designed to prevent interference with licensed services. The expansion aims to enhance applications like augmented and virtual reality by providing more bandwidth for high-speed, low-latency operations. This move is expected to bring significant economic benefits by increasing opportunity and innovation in wireless communication technologies.

The Administration for Children and Families has issued a final rule permitting State and Tribal child support agencies to use federal funds to provide employment and training services to eligible noncustodial parents. These services aim to help parents find and keep jobs to ensure consistent child support payments. Effective January 13, 2025, the rule allows noncustodial parents with open child support cases to receive assistance such as job search help, skills training, and work support services. The initiative also seeks to enhance coordination with existing federal employment and training programs to prevent duplication and maximize benefits.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a rule to address health risks posed by trichloroethylene (TCE) under the Toxic Substances Control Act. The rule includes prohibitions on the manufacture, processing, distribution, and use of TCE across various industrial and commercial applications, with certain phase-outs and exemptions focusing on critical uses such as in lead-acid battery separators and essential aerospace operations. All consumer uses of TCE are prohibited, and strict workplace controls are mandated for remaining uses until prohibition is fully implemented. These measures aim to eliminate the unreasonable health risks associated with TCE exposure, while providing time for affected industries to transition to safer alternatives.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is proposing a rule aimed at protecting federal properties more effectively. This rule would give more authority to DHS's Federal Protective Service to manage security on and around federal buildings. The rule includes updates to existing regulations, like prohibiting drones, smoking, and unauthorized camping on federal property. It also extends some regulations to areas outside federal properties where necessary to protect the properties and the people there.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is seeking public feedback on potential new rules to protect airline passengers from financial losses caused by flight disruptions. These rules could require airlines to provide cash compensation, free rebooking, and amenities like meals and lodging when flights are significantly delayed or canceled due to reasons within the airline's control. The DOT is also considering how to ensure passengers quickly receive accurate information about their rights and options in these situations. The goal is to offer clear and automatic processes for passengers to obtain compensation and services, especially for travelers with disabilities who may face additional challenges.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing new rules under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for certain chemical substances previously submitted for premanufacture notices. These rules, known as Significant New Use Rules (SNURs), will require any person planning to manufacture or process these chemicals in a way that has been identified as a significant new use to notify the EPA at least 90 days before starting. This allows the EPA to assess the potential risks and decide on any necessary actions before the activity begins. Additionally, the chemicals must not be manufactured or processed for these new uses until they receive EPA approval.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) under the Clean Air Act for the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District in California. This new rule includes stricter guidelines for New Source Review (NSR) in nonattainment areas where air quality standards are not met. The FIP aims to regulate the construction of new major sources and modifications of existing sources, addressing deficiencies in the existing Mojave Desert program. An important aspect of this rule is the EPA's disapproval of a Mojave Desert District rule regarding emissions offsets, following a court decision questioning the EPA's previous approval of that rule.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing updates to regulations governing Federal financial assistance programs under the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act and the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act. The changes aim to align regulations with recent legislation, ensure consistency across the nation, and respond to prior feedback on rulemaking. The proposal includes clarifications on eligible activities, agency responsibilities, and administrative processes to improve program clarity and efficiency. Public comments will be accepted until early 2025, and the updates are meant to enhance management of wildlife and sport fish restoration and related activities.