Search Results for keywords:"Naval Surface Technology

The U.S. Department of Commerce has introduced new regulations to strengthen the security of the Information and Communications Technology and Services (ICTS) supply chain in accordance with Executive Order 13873. Effective March 22, 2021, these rules will allow the Secretary of Commerce to review, block, or impose conditions on transactions between U.S. and foreign entities that may pose security risks due to involvement with foreign adversaries. The regulations outline a process for reviewing transactions and require entities to retain records related to a transaction if it is under review. Additionally, certain countries such as China, Iran, and Russia are identified as foreign adversaries, and the rule aims to protect U.S. national security by mitigating risks associated with these and other foreign entities.

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has issued a request for information (RFI) to improve the domestic manufacturing of semiconductors for commercial information technology products. They are seeking feedback from the public on how to strengthen America's semiconductor supply chain by relying on domestic sources and reducing dependency on foreign production. The agency aims to gather insights on various strategies, including dual sourcing and industrial mobilization, to enhance national and economic security. Responses to the RFI will inform potential government actions to support U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and are due by March 17, 2025.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued a final rule concerning the review of transactions involving information and communications technology and services (ICTS) linked to foreign adversaries. This rule establishes procedures to evaluate such transactions for risks to national security, potentially prohibiting them or requiring mitigation measures if they pose undue threats. The rule includes new definitions and procedural updates to clarify transaction reviews, address public comments, and streamline processes. The measures aim to safeguard the ICTS supply chain from foreign threats, enhance transparency, and provide guidelines for penalties if regulations are violated.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) is inviting public comments on the renewal of an information collection, in line with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Interested individuals can submit their feedback by March 31, 2025. The collected data involves procedures for terminating jurisdiction of mining operations and other related activities under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977. The agency is seeking input on the necessity, timeliness, burden estimate, and methods to enhance utility and minimize respondent burden, including through technological means.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is asking for public comments on extending the approval for information collection requirements related to the flammability standards of carpets and rugs. This relates to rules under the Flammable Fabrics Act, and the current approval will expire in March 2025. The CPSC estimates that around 120 manufacturers and importers are affected, and the process involves significant testing and recordkeeping. They are seeking input on the necessity and burden of these requirements, especially regarding potential cost reductions through technology.

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 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has finalized a rule changing the 5.9 GHz band to support cellular-vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) technology, which is intended to improve transportation safety and efficiency. By 2027, existing systems using older technology known as Dedicated Short Range Communications (DSRC) must transition to C-V2X, as the DSRC licenses will no longer be issued. The rule outlines technical guidelines for both roadside and vehicle units, emphasizes message priority for safety communications, and does not require compensation for entities transitioning to the new technology. The FCC expects these changes to enhance traffic safety while supporting the development of new transportation technologies.

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 Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) have finalized a rule to enhance the exchange of health information across networks. This rule establishes the Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA), which sets guidelines and standards for networks known as Qualified Health Information Networks (QHINs) to facilitate seamless and secure data sharing. The rule outlines specific requirements for becoming a QHIN, procedures for onboarding, and processes for dealing with suspensions and terminations. It also ensures that QHINs can voluntarily attest to adopting TEFCA and establishes a directory to list organizations that meet the standards for trusted health information exchange.

The Department of Defense (DoD) has announced a new arms sales notification to the Government of the Netherlands. This proposal involves the sale of various types of missiles, including 120 advanced Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles, along with test vehicles, training equipment, and other necessary support, all valued at approximately $908 million. The sale aims to strengthen the defense capabilities of the Netherlands, a NATO ally, without affecting the U.S.'s own military readiness. The principal contractor for the sale will be Lockheed Martin, and the sale is designed to enhance political stability and economic progress in Europe.