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The Coast Guard has proposed a new rule to improve the schedule for operating the Florida East Coast Railroad Bridge over the Okeechobee Waterway in Stuart, FL. The proposed changes aim to make the bridge operation more predictable and reliable due to increased railway activity. The new schedule would ensure the bridge remains open for navigation except when allowing trains to pass, with fixed 10-minute opening periods each hour. The proposal seeks public comments, highlighting the importance of public participation in shaping the final decision.

The Coast Guard, part of the Department of Homeland Security, has made available Revision 9 to the Maritime Security (MARSEC) Directive 104-6. This directive provides important guidelines for U.S. ships operating in areas where terrorism, piracy, and ship robbery are common. Since this information is sensitive, it's not available to the public, but U.S. vessel owners and operators affected by previous versions should contact their local Coast Guard contact for a copy. The new revision also updates high-risk water locations and responsibilities and highlights some changes like reducing electronic vessel transmissions in certain areas.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a final rule updating how the public is notified about countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Instead of listing participating countries in the Code of Federal Regulations, the DHS will now provide this information on their website. This change aims to make updates more efficient and remove the need for administrative updates in the Federal Register. The rule does not change which countries are in the VWP or impact public rights since the information remains accessible online.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has issued a notice modifying a previous major disaster declaration for Delaware, originally declared in April 2020. This change, effective January 20, 2021, includes appointing Janice P. Barlow as the new Federal Coordinating Officer, replacing MaryAnn Tierney. The notice also lists various assistance programs available under the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance for disaster-affected individuals and communities.

The Coast Guard established a temporary safety zone on the waters surrounding downtown Tampa, Florida, during the Super Bowl LV celebrations. This safety zone, effective from January 29 to February 7, 2021, is designed to protect the public and event staff from potential hazards caused by vessel traffic. Vessels must transit the area at a steady speed and cannot slow, stop, or anchor without special permission or in case of emergencies. The regulation aims to ensure safety without significantly impacting local vessel operations.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) issued a notice to update a major disaster declaration for Virginia, originally declared on April 2, 2020. This amendment, effective January 20, 2021, names Janice P. Barlow as the new Federal Coordinating Officer, replacing MaryAnn Tierney. FEMA provides various forms of federal assistance and services following the disaster, including loans, counseling, and housing aid. This notice ensures continued federal support and coordination for the affected communities in Virginia.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) issued a notice amending a major disaster declaration for Louisiana, originally declared on August 28, 2020. The amendment specifically adds Richland Parish to the list of areas affected by the disaster, making it eligible for certain federal assistance programs like debris removal and permanent work support. This includes a range of assistance categories like public assistance and help for individuals and households impacted by the disaster. The amendment was officially issued on January 13, 2021.

The U.S. Coast Guard has submitted a request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for approval to continue collecting information for the Marine Transportation System Recovery. This information helps assess the status of ports and facilities following disruptions, such as natural disasters. The request for comments is open until March 29, 2021. The Coast Guard uses this data to devise recovery strategies to protect and repair essential infrastructure.

The Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) will hold its quarterly meeting on March 17, 2021. The meeting will only be accessible to the public via webinar, and attendees must register online by March 16, 2021. During this meeting, topics to be discussed include updates on unified entry processes, broker exam improvements, bond guidelines, and secure trade lane developments, among others. Public comments are invited before the meeting and additional opportunities for public comment will be available throughout the virtual meeting.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is asking the public for comments on reinstating an information collection that has expired. This collection is connected to the State Administrative Plan for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), which is a guide on administering the HMGP funds. FEMA needs this plan to be approved by its regional administrator before states, territories, or tribal governments can receive funds. This notice aims to make sure the public knows FEMA will submit this information to the Office of Management and Budget for approval, according to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.