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The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is seeking public comments on a request to extend a program that collects feedback from small businesses and their investors. The goal is to better understand how the SEC’s Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation can effectively serve this community through outreach and educational materials. The feedback will address demographic details, opinions on educational content, and challenges small businesses face. Public comments on this information collection are invited, with a deadline for submission of May 12, 2025.

The Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBCS) of the USDA has announced a notice of funding opportunity for grants aimed at providing technical assistance to improve rural transportation systems. These grants, available for fiscal year 2025, especially target transportation systems on Tribal lands of Federally Recognized Native American Tribes. Approximately $750,000 is expected to be available, with applications due by April 7, 2025. The program seeks proposals that align with key priorities like economic recovery, climate change, and ensuring equitable access to resources.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is extending the deadline for the public to submit comments about the National Council for Expanding American Innovation. This extension is aimed at giving all interested parties more time to provide input on plans to expand innovation in various aspects like demographics, geography, and economy. Comments must be submitted by February 23, 2021, and can be sent through the Federal eRulemaking Portal. The initiative includes leaders from industry, academia, government, and nonprofit organizations to ensure a wide range of perspectives are considered.

The National Marine Fisheries Service is considering an application for an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP) that would allow certain fishing boats to operate outside of the usual regulations. This permit aims to help small boats from Cape Cod catch and sell smaller quantities of Atlantic surfclams and ocean quahogs more safely and efficiently. The application involves using alternative containers for the catch, which could benefit local fishermen by improving market access and safety. The public can comment on this proposal until April 7, 2025.

The National Marine Fisheries Service is reviewing an application from the Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries for an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP). This permit would allow some fishing boats to catch herring outside regular fishing rules to help study the genetic makeup of Atlantic herring populations. The study aims to improve fishery management by updating catch limits based on newer scientific findings. The public can comment on this proposal until April 4, 2025.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reviewed a petition requesting testing of 54 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) produced by Chemours Company in North Carolina. The petition, submitted by several health and environmental groups, also asked for a National Academy of Sciences panel to oversee the testing. After considering the information, EPA denied the request, stating that the petition didn't provide enough specific facts to warrant a new rule or order under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). EPA highlighted ongoing actions and research addressing PFAS risks and noted that some existing projects may already cover the requested testing.

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is considering a temporary waiver for the Buy America requirements on battery electric minibuses due to the lack of U.S.-manufactured options that meet these standards. This waiver would allow transit providers to buy these buses despite not meeting local manufacturing rules, as long as certain conditions are met, like having a battery-powered system and specific vehicle size and design features. The FTA seeks public feedback on whether they should implement this waiver or make any changes to it. If the waiver is granted, it will help improve access to zero-emission public transportation for routes with fewer passengers, potentially leading to reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is considering giving special permits to some fishing boats, allowing them to go beyond usual fishing rules. This is to support a research project by the Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute. The project aims to study American lobster genetics to improve how lobsters are managed in specific U.S. regions. Comments on this proposal are being accepted until August 1, 2025.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is asking for public nominations for the Northern New Mexico Resource Advisory Council (RAC). This council advises the BLM on land use and management practices. Nominations are open to New Mexico residents only and must be submitted by February 18, 2025. Nominees should have knowledge and experience in relevant areas and demonstrate a commitment to joint decision-making on resource management issues.

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Retirement Services has announced an opportunity for the public and other federal agencies to provide feedback on the reinstatement of a previously expired information collection request, titled Request for Change to Unreduced Annuity, RI 20-120. This form helps retired federal employees adjust their benefits following the end of a marriage, allowing them to change to an unreduced annuity. OPM is seeking comments on various aspects of this information collection, including its necessity, effectiveness, and the burden it may impose on respondents. Feedback will be accepted until February 18, 2025, via the Federal Rulemaking Portal.