Search Results for type:"Rule"

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a correction to a previous rule concerning updates to BasicMed, part of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. This correction amends a mistake where a rule on flight instructor certification inadvertently removed parts of the authority citation intended by the BasicMed updates. The correction ensures both regulatory changes are accurately reflected in the authority citation for part 61, which relates to the certification of pilots, flight instructors, and ground instructors. The correction took effect on December 27, 2024.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a new rule for all Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-7 airplanes. This rule addresses an identified unsafe condition concerning a missing screw on a harness shoulder strap buckle that could lead to loss of pilot restraint and potential loss of airplane control or crew injury. Effective February 12, 2021, it requires inspections and potential repairs or replacements of the affected parts to ensure safety. The FAA invites comments on this rule until March 29, 2021, and has deemed the situation urgent enough to forgo the usual public comment period prior to enacting the rule.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has accepted a compliance method proposed by the Virginia Tech Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership (VT MAAP) for small unmanned aircraft (sUA) operations, specifically Category 2 and 3, over people. This acceptance means that the document "Operation of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Over People", version 2.1, provides a way, but not the only way, to meet FAA safety regulations. Any future changes to this document will need further FAA approval. The decision was officially issued on December 20, 2024.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved changes to the air quality regulations managed by the Maricopa County Air Quality Department in Arizona. These updates include rules and certifications to control emissions from coating processes and adhesives, as well as declarations related to ozone standards. The EPA's approval, which comes after no public comments were received, ensures that these rules meet federal requirements under the Clean Air Act. The actions taken are not expected to have any negative economic or environmental justice implications.

The United States International Trade Commission (ITC) has made amendments to its Rules of Practice and Procedure. The changes are designed to address technical corrections, clarify provisions, and ensure the rules are harmonized and consistent. These amendments are aimed at improving efficiency and reducing costs in the administration of agency proceedings and apply to future investigations and proceedings starting February 3, 2025. Some key updates include implementing gender-neutral language, eliminating paper copies in favor of e-filing, and refining confidentiality designations during the filing process.

NOAA is expanding the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary by about 104 square miles, adding 14 new reefs and banks in the Gulf of Mexico. This expansion will bring the total sanctuary area to approximately 160.4 square miles, and existing regulations will apply to these new areas. The expansion aims to protect the unique marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and habitats for endangered species like sea turtles and whale sharks. This decision follows extensive public consultation and scientific research to enhance marine conservation while balancing oil, gas, and fishing interests.

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued a final rule to include Saratoga County, New York, in the Jefferson, NY, nonappropriated fund (NAF) Federal Wage System (FWS) wage area. This change is due to one employee working in Saratoga County and aims to address the employee's pay-setting considerations. The rule is set to take effect on January 13, 2025, and OPM anticipates minimal economic impact given the small number of employees affected. The regulation was subject to review and found to have no significant economic or federalism impact and does not impose additional record-keeping requirements.

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), part of the U.S. Treasury Department, has issued a Geographic Targeting Order for certain money services businesses along the southwest border of the U.S. These businesses must report currency transactions of more than $200 but not more than $10,000 and verify the identity of those making these transactions. The order, effective from April 14, 2025, to September 9, 2025, covers specific areas in California and Texas and aims to combat illegal financial activities by drug cartels. Failure to comply with this order could result in civil or criminal penalties.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has officially listed the swale paintbrush, a plant from New Mexico and parts of Mexico, as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. This final rule provides protections for the plant, which is at risk due to habitat loss, climate change, and other threats, though no critical habitat will be designated due to collection risks. The decision's goal is to prevent the plant from becoming extinct, recognizing its precarious status with actions set to be effective on January 6, 2025.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is approving revisions to Connecticut's State Implementation Plan (SIP) concerning air quality standards. These updates confirm that Connecticut's plans meet federal requirements for controlling air pollution, specifically for reducing ozone levels in certain areas. The revisions involve checking new source review permits and ensuring accurate emission reporting from sources of pollution like nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. The changes will take effect on May 22, 2025, and ensure compliance with the Clean Air Act.