Search Results for keywords:"CNMI Economic Vitality

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has decided to continue limiting travel from Mexico into the United States at land ports of entry, allowing only "essential travel." This decision is in response to the risks posed by COVID-19 and is intended to prevent further virus transmission. Essential travel includes U.S. citizens and residents returning home, medical travel, work-related travel, and more, while tourism and recreation are not considered essential. These restrictions are in effect from February 22, 2021, through March 21, 2021, and do not apply to air, freight rail, or sea travel.

The Federal Reserve System has announced that several companies have applied for approval to either become a bank holding company or acquire another bank or bank holding company under the Bank Holding Company Act of 1956 and related regulations. These applications are available for public inspection at the specified Federal Reserve Banks and the Board of Governors' offices, with comments from the public being invited. The comments must be submitted by May 14, 2025, and will be subject to public disclosure. One specific application mentioned is from Legacy Financial, Inc. of Johnson, Kansas, which seeks to acquire BancCentral, National Association in Alva, Oklahoma.

BMW Manufacturing Company, LLC submitted a notification to the Foreign-Trade Zones Board, seeking to expand its production activities at its Spartanburg, South Carolina facility. This proposal involves incorporating a foreign-source component, specifically electronic toll collection systems, into its existing production capabilities. Such an expansion could allow BMW MC to avoid or defer customs duties on these components when they are used for export or become scrap. Interested parties are invited to submit public comments by March 15, 2021.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has amended an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) declaration for the State of Washington. This amendment specifies that the period of civil unrest, which qualifies for disaster loans, lasted from May 26, 2020, to January 28, 2021. The deadline to apply for an Economic Injury Loan is June 16, 2021. Further details can be obtained from A. Escobar at the Office of Disaster Assistance.

Farmrail System, Inc. has submitted a notice of exemption to continue controlling Land Rush Rail Corporation (LRRC) once LRRC becomes a Class III railroad. This relates to LRRC's plan to lease and operate a rail line owned by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation and Blackwell Industrial Authority. The line does not connect with Farmrail's other railroads, which exempts it from certain approval requirements. The transaction involves Class III carriers only, meaning employee labor protections typically required for larger transactions do not apply. If all information is accurate, the earliest the transaction may proceed is March 20, 2025.

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is inviting public comments on a request to determine the coastwise endorsement eligibility for the foreign-built vessel SEA STAR. This vessel intends to operate as a taxi and tour service in Puget Sound and the Inside Passage, accommodating no more than twelve passengers. MARAD seeks input on potential impacts this determination may have on U.S. vessel builders or businesses that utilize U.S.-flag vessels. Comments can be submitted through various methods by January 6, 2025, and will be publicly available unless submitted confidentially following specific procedures.

The Forest Service of the USDA is inviting public comments regarding the continuation of a current information collection program, known as the Small Business Timber Sale Set-Aside Program. This initiative aims to ensure that small businesses have the opportunity to purchase timber from the National Forest System. Every five years, the Forest Service evaluates and adjusts the amount of timber reserved for small businesses, considering factors like manufacturing capability and business size changes. The public is encouraged to provide feedback on the necessity, accuracy, and ways to enhance the process of this information collection by April 26, 2021.

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is asking for public comments on a draft report that offers initial guidance for classifying environmental-economic statistics. This effort, led by an interagency group of experts, aims to create a framework for including environmental data in national economic accounts, such as measuring assets like land, water, and forests. The goal is to develop consistent statistical categories that align with national and international standards. The feedback from this request will help shape future guidelines, with final guidance expected in 2028.

The President has established the Countering Economic Coercion Task Force to address coercive economic practices, specifically by countries like China. This Task Force is part of the Executive Office and includes representatives from various government departments. Its mission is to develop strategies to counter such practices, with input from stakeholders, including the private sector and international partners. The Task Force is required to submit multiple reports to Congress over a set timeline, detailing their findings and recommendations.

The Executive Order 14002 addresses the economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which have resulted in job losses, business closures, and financial difficulties, particularly impacting communities of color. The order directs federal agencies to find ways to provide relief and improve access to assistance for individuals, families, small businesses, and various levels of government. Agencies are encouraged to use existing resources to reduce barriers and improve coordination in relief efforts. The order stipulates that these actions should adhere to applicable laws and available funding, and it does not create any enforceable legal rights.