Search Results for agency_names:"Commerce Department"

The U.S. Department of Commerce and key Argentine lemon juice exporters signed an amendment to a previous agreement that pauses an investigation into potential unfair pricing of lemon juice imports from Argentina. This amendment updates how pricing is set and introduces better monitoring and enforcement to prevent price undercutting in the U.S. market. The document outlines specific requirements for compliance from exporters and details of how these prices can change over time. It aims to eliminate harmful effects on U.S. lemon juice producers while keeping the agreement effective and in the public interest.

The Department of Commerce is seeking public comments on proposed updates to the American Community Survey (ACS) Methods Panel Tests. These updates aim to improve data quality, reduce data collection costs, and lessen the reporting burden on the public. The proposed changes include enhancements to mailing strategies to improve self-response, the introduction of a feedback mechanism for participants, and the potential use of administrative data to replace or supplement survey questions. Additionally, new testing methods for survey components, like the internet response option and group quarter testing, are being considered. Feedback from the public will be collected until April 12, 2021.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has released the final rule for the 2021 and 2022 harvest limits in the Gulf of Alaska's groundfish fishery. This rule sets the total allowable catch limits for various fish species to sustain fish populations and comply with management plans. The specifications are intended to balance environmental conservation with economic opportunities for fisheries and are in line with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. These regulations take effect from February 19, 2021, ensuring the responsible management of fisheries resources in the region.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has proposed a revised rule regarding the designation of critical habitat for the Arctic subspecies of the ringed seal (Pusa hispida hispida) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This rule specifies areas in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort seas as critical habitat and identifies essential features such as snow-covered sea ice suitable for birth lairs, sea ice for basking and molting, and primary prey resources like Arctic cod and shrimps. The proposal also considers national security impacts and suggests the exclusion of an area used by the U.S. Navy for training and testing activities. The NMFS seeks public comments on various aspects of this proposed designation to ensure that it is based on the best available scientific data.

The U.S. Census Bureau, under the Department of Commerce, is seeking public comments on the extension of an existing survey called the Current Population Survey, School Enrollment Supplement. This survey collects data on school and college enrollment, as well as demographics of students, to help policymakers make informed decisions. They are inviting comments on the necessity and efficiency of this survey until February 24, 2025. People interested can email or submit them online, and all submissions will become part of the public record.

The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), part of the Commerce Department, is inviting public comments on the collection of information related to permits for scientific research and enhancement under the Endangered Species Act. They are specifically looking for input on whether the collected information is useful, the time and cost involved, and how the reporting can be made easier. Comments must be submitted by February 18, 2025, and the feedback will help NOAA in managing information collection more effectively while ensuring that activities have minimal impact on endangered species.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking public comments on the information collection related to the Vessel Monitoring System requirement in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery. This system tracks commercial fishing vessels to enforce fishing regulations and protect marine resources. Comments are invited to assess the necessity, accuracy, and potential burden of these requirements on the public. The feedback will help refine the process and potentially reduce the reporting burden for the public.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) announced a change in the fee rate for the Pacific Coast Groundfish fishery to help repay a loan related to their fishing capacity reduction program. Starting January 1, 2025, the fee rate will be lowered from 3.5% to 2.25% for all groundfish landings. This adjustment is necessary to make sure the loan is paid off within the planned 30-year period. Payments for these fees will be due by February 14, 2025.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking public input on its information collection activities related to vessel identification requirements in the West Coast region. This initiative, guided by the Paperwork Reduction Act, aims to minimize the reporting burden on businesses while ensuring regulatory compliance. Fishing vessels must display identification numbers in specific locations to assist with enforcing conservation laws. Public comments will help evaluate the necessity of this information, its data accuracy, and ways to improve collection and minimize respondent burden.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office, part of the Department of Commerce, is requesting comments on the information collection for the admission and roster of registered patent attorneys and agents. This process involves a series of forms required for registration, reinstatement, and practice before the USPTO. The estimated total annual burden for respondents is 18,188 hours, with an additional non-hour cost of $875,706. The submissions help the USPTO assess the qualifications of individuals wishing to represent applicants in patent processes.