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The Department of Commerce is seeking public comments on proposed updates to the American Community Survey (ACS) Methods Panel Tests. These updates aim to improve data quality, reduce data collection costs, and lessen the reporting burden on the public. The proposed changes include enhancements to mailing strategies to improve self-response, the introduction of a feedback mechanism for participants, and the potential use of administrative data to replace or supplement survey questions. Additionally, new testing methods for survey components, like the internet response option and group quarter testing, are being considered. Feedback from the public will be collected until April 12, 2021.

The executive order establishes a COVID-19 Pandemic Testing Board to coordinate efforts for increasing testing across the United States. It aims to make testing accessible to all, especially priority populations, and to enhance the role of public health workers. Additionally, it proposes creating the U.S. Public Health Job Corps to help with contact tracing, vaccinations, and other pandemic responses. The order emphasizes collaboration among various government agencies to ensure these efforts are effective and sustainable.

OSHA has received an application from Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc. (ITSNA) to expand their recognition as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) to include two additional test standards. The agency has reviewed the application and made a preliminary finding that ITSNA meets the necessary requirements for this expansion. OSHA is inviting the public to comment on this preliminary determination, with a deadline for submission by May 12, 2025. After considering public input, the final decision will be made by OSHA's Acting Assistant Secretary.

OSHA has expanded the recognition of Intertek Testing Services NA, Inc. as a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL). This expansion includes adding two new test standards to Intertek's existing scope. Recognition means that OSHA acknowledges Intertek's ability to independently test and certify specific products for safety. The expanded recognition is effective from December 30, 2024, and Intertek must continue to comply with all relevant OSHA requirements.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is organizing a virtual two-day meeting, hosted by the Association of Public Health Laboratories, to discuss improving hepatitis C virus (HCV) diagnostics. The meeting aims to collect individual feedback on methods like same-day diagnosis and viral-first testing, without seeking a group consensus. Public comments can be submitted online until February 19, 2025. The feedback received will be used to guide future hepatitis C testing strategies and will be documented in a report for reference.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), part of NOAA, is reopening the public comment period for feedback on their Work Plan, which is part of the efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The original comment deadline was January 15, 2021, but has been extended to allow more input until February 24, 2021. This effort is in line with the Maritime Security and Fisheries Enforcement Act, which aims to boost data sharing, improve global fisheries management, and address maritime security threats. NMFS encourages input from the seafood industry, NGOs, and other stakeholders regarding potential collaborations and strategic priorities within the Work Plan.

The U.S. Census Bureau plans to conduct various tests on the American Community Survey (ACS) to improve its data collection methods. They will explore different strategies to increase response rates, such as adjusting the timing of mailing surveys and updating the design of online response options. These tests are also aimed at reducing costs and improving the quality of data collected. Public comments on the proposals are welcomed for 30 days following the publication date of this notice.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has decided to end its plans to test changes to the U.S. naturalization test. Originally, they planned to implement changes, such as a standardized English-speaking component and a new civics format, but received significant public opposition, including from immigrant advocacy groups. Concerns were raised that the proposed changes might create new barriers instead of simplifying the test, particularly for individuals with lower literacy or formal education. As a result, USCIS will continue using the existing test format.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is seeking to renew its approval for collecting information from manufacturers and importers of carpets and rugs. These standards, issued under the Flammable Fabrics Act, aim to ensure that carpets and rugs meet safety requirements for surface flammability. Companies must perform tests and maintain records to certify that their products comply with these flammability standards. The CPSC estimates that manufacturers and importers must collectively perform about 25,000 tests annually, with the associated costs potentially reaching over $1.8 million. Public comments on this information collection request are due by April 4, 2025.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has released a draft regulatory guide, DG-1303, for public comment, titled "Application and Testing of Safety-Related Diesel Generators in Nuclear Power." This guide, a revision of Regularity Guide 1.9, provides updated guidance for ensuring emergency power supplies in nuclear power plants meet safety regulations. The draft endorses certain IEEE standards to certify that these power supplies are reliable and capable during emergencies. The public can submit comments by February 18, 2021, through various channels detailed in the notice.