Search Results for keywords:"Additive Manufacturing

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has issued a final rule that modifies the Export Administration Regulations by adding 140 companies to the Entity List, which bars them from certain export privileges. These companies, mostly based in China, as well as some in Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, are involved in semiconductor production and advanced computing. The U.S. government claims these companies pose risks to national security by supporting China's military efforts. Additionally, the rule updates some existing entries with new license requirements and removes three companies from a program that allowed specific export privileges.

The Department of Defense has identified several companies as "Chinese military companies" in accordance with the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. This list includes entities such as 360 Security Technology, Huawei, and Tencent Holdings, among others. These designations mean the companies are linked to the Chinese military, and the list must be updated and published annually until 2030. Companies on this list have the option to request reconsideration if they believe they were wrongly included.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized a rule to address health risks posed by trichloroethylene (TCE) under the Toxic Substances Control Act. The rule includes prohibitions on the manufacture, processing, distribution, and use of TCE across various industrial and commercial applications, with certain phase-outs and exemptions focusing on critical uses such as in lead-acid battery separators and essential aerospace operations. All consumer uses of TCE are prohibited, and strict workplace controls are mandated for remaining uses until prohibition is fully implemented. These measures aim to eliminate the unreasonable health risks associated with TCE exposure, while providing time for affected industries to transition to safer alternatives.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is seeking information on the production methods and ingredients used in making high-protein yogurt, including Greek yogurt, due to discrepancies with existing yogurt identity standards. This request aims to understand if different standards are needed to ensure consumer honesty and fair dealing, considering innovations and practices in the yogurt industry. The public can submit comments electronically or in writing until April 15, 2025. The FDA is particularly interested in consumer perceptions, industry practices, and the labeling of these high-protein yogurt products.

The Executive Order 14017, titled America's Supply Chains, aims to strengthen and secure the United States' supply chains to protect economic prosperity and national security. It sets a policy for resilience and diversity, encouraging domestic production, and collaboration with allies. The order outlines a comprehensive review and assessment of risks within critical supply chains, like semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, and seeks recommendations to address these vulnerabilities. It also calls for cooperation among federal agencies and various stakeholders to ensure broad and effective implementation of these strategies.

The FDA is inviting drug manufacturing companies to take part in the second year of a program that evaluates and improves their quality management. This voluntary program will use a refined assessment protocol to determine how mature and effective their quality management practices are. The FDA aims to select a diverse group of up to nine companies for this program, which will include a week-long review and feedback session. Companies interested in participating need to apply by June 9, 2025.

The Executive Order 14272 directs the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to investigate the national security impact of importing processed critical minerals and their derivative products. These materials are crucial for the economy and defense because they are used in important sectors like transportation and technology. The investigation will assess risks including the reliance on foreign sources that might be unstable, and it will explore measures like tariffs and incentives for domestic production. This action aims to ensure a resilient and secure supply chain for these vital materials.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is proposing a temporary waiver under the Build America, Buy America Act (BABA) that would allow the use of domestically assembled solar modules for certain federally funded projects, as fully BABA-compliant solar modules are currently not available in sufficient quantities. The waiver aims to consolidate waivers for multiple projects, reduce paperwork, and support the growth of domestic solar manufacturing. This proposal supports creating a supply chain for American-made solar products and promoting the benefits for communities receiving HUD assistance. HUD is inviting public comments on this proposed waiver, which would be effective until December 31, 2025, with installation by June 30, 2026.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that it is reviewing applications for new uses of pesticide products that contain already registered active ingredients. These applications are open for public comment until March 26, 2021. Potentially impacted groups include agricultural producers, food manufacturers, and pesticide manufacturers. The notice provides detailed information on how to submit comments and highlights specific active ingredients and proposed uses for various products.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has made available a final guidance document titled "Notifying FDA of a Permanent Discontinuance or Interruption in Manufacturing of a Device Under Section 506J of the FD&C Act." This guidance updates a previous version and includes a list known as the 506J Device List, which outlines device product codes that manufacturers must notify the FDA about if they stop production. The document clarifies that manufacturers can also voluntarily notify the FDA of any supply chain issues, regardless of public health emergencies. This guidance aims to facilitate continuous device supply and prevent shortages.