Search Results for agency_names:"Centers for Medicare

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is extending the comment period on the request for information about export lists for human food from other countries until February 21, 2025. This extension allows individuals and companies more time to provide input, especially regarding the potential fees for export certification services, which could affect businesses significantly. This decision follows requests for more time due to the overlap with the holiday season and the complexity of the proposed changes. Interested parties can submit comments electronically or via mail.

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has amended the margin rules for uncleared swaps for swap dealers and major swap participants without a prudential regulator. The new rules allow for a minimum transfer amount (MTA) of up to $50,000 for each separately managed account (SMA) of a legal entity. They also permit separate MTAs for initial and variation margin, provided they don't exceed $500,000 combined. These changes aim to reduce operational burdens while ensuring the swaps market continues to function smoothly and safely.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) of the Interior Department is seeking public comments on its proposal to renew an information collection related to permits for special types of mining activities. This request is in line with the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. The collected information will help OSMRE determine if applicants can meet specific performance standards for these mining activities. Public comments will be considered until March 16, 2021, and those interested can submit their opinions via mail or email.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), part of the Department of Transportation, is seeking public comments on a new information collection related to the National Scenic Byway Program (NSBP). This program aims to recognize and enhance roads across the United States, offering grants to State Departments of Transportation and federally recognized Indian Tribes. Comments are invited on the necessity and accuracy of this information collection, as well as any suggestions to improve it or reduce the burden on applicants. The deadline for submitting comments is January 29, 2025.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted a request to renew its information collection on solvent extraction for vegetable oil production. This renewal is subject to approval by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and follows previous public comments from May 2020. The EPA invites additional public comments by February 10, 2021. This proposal affects facilities with vegetable oil production processes, and compliance involves regular reporting and recordkeeping to meet federal standards.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have issued a final rule regarding the enforcement of REAL ID requirements for driver's licenses and identification cards used for federal purposes. Starting May 7, 2025, federal agencies must begin enforcing these requirements but can do so using a phased approach until May 5, 2027, if they consider factors like security, operational feasibility, and public impact. This rule aims to provide flexibility for a smoother transition since not all individuals currently possess REAL ID-compliant IDs. Agencies that choose phased enforcement must coordinate with DHS and publicly share their plans.

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is inviting applications for vessels to join the Cable Security Fleet (CSF). This program aims to keep a ready fleet of U.S.-owned cable vessels for national security and global positioning in the submarine cable market. To apply, potential participants must meet specific citizenship and technical requirements and submit applications by February 4, 2021. Once selected, participants will form agreements with MARAD to operate these vessels in the commercial cable industry and make them available to the U.S. Government during emergencies.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued new regulations for managing the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This final rule is part of NOAA's Restoration Blueprint initiative and aims to extend the sanctuary's boundaries, update general and specific marine zones, and redefine what activities are permitted there. NOAA's regulations include measures to protect and restore coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other habitats, prevent environmental threats, and address concerns such as grounded and derelict vessels. The changes also emphasize updated procedures for permits and collaboration with military and state bodies to ensure compliance and effective management of sanctuary resources.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), under the Department of Commerce, announced a pilot program for matching funds to support hydrographic surveys, encouraging partnerships with non-Federal entities like state governments and universities. The program aims to enhance ocean and coastal mapping, contributing to safe navigation, climate adaptation, and more. NOAA will match funds provided by partners and ensure all data collected is publicly accessible. Interested parties must submit proposals by February 26, 2021, highlighting their project plans and funding sources. This initiative is part of NOAA's broader efforts to map U.S. waters by 2040.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has released a final rule updating the policies and procedures for loan guarantees and direct loans under the Title XVII Program and the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Program. The rule aligns with an Executive Order aimed at reducing reliance on foreign critical minerals and includes refined definitions of "Eligible Projects," as well as guidelines for preliminary term sheets, conditional commitments, and third-party payments of costs and fees. The changes are intended to make loan guarantees more accessible for projects involving critical minerals and innovative technologies. Additionally, the rule clarifies that payment of costs and fees by non-Federal third parties is permissible to support applicants.