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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has decided to revoke the use of the color additive FD&C Red No. 3 in foods and ingested drugs. This decision was based on evidence showing that FD&C Red No. 3 can cause cancer in male rats, which under the law, makes it unsafe. Although the risk to humans is considered low, the FDA is compelled by law to remove this additive because it has been linked to cancer in animals. The order will take effect on January 15, 2027, but objections can be submitted until February 18, 2025, if anyone is adversely affected by this ruling.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes a new regulation to enable electronic filing of the Certification of Admissibility (COA) form for importing certain fish and fish products to the United States. This rule aims to streamline the entry process for non-restricted seafood imports while maintaining adherence to laws like the Marine Mammal Protection Act, enabling consistency across programs and reducing paperwork burdens. By automating the COA process through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) portal, NMFS intends to facilitate trade while ensuring compliance with U.S. import restrictions on fisheries from foreign nations. Stakeholders, including importers and exporters, are encouraged to submit their comments on the proposal by February 18, 2025.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced preparations for the 20th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), set for November 2025 in Uzbekistan. They plan to propose amendments to the CITES Appendices, which list species needing protection, and are considering resolutions and agenda items based on public feedback. The notice invites public comments on potential proposals and explains how organizations can participate as observers. The Service is also considering various animal and plant species for protection, with a focus on ensuring trade practices do not threaten their survival.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has introduced new regulations to strengthen the security of the Information and Communications Technology and Services (ICTS) supply chain in accordance with Executive Order 13873. Effective March 22, 2021, these rules will allow the Secretary of Commerce to review, block, or impose conditions on transactions between U.S. and foreign entities that may pose security risks due to involvement with foreign adversaries. The regulations outline a process for reviewing transactions and require entities to retain records related to a transaction if it is under review. Additionally, certain countries such as China, Iran, and Russia are identified as foreign adversaries, and the rule aims to protect U.S. national security by mitigating risks associated with these and other foreign entities.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) issued a final rule to address national security risks related to connected vehicles, particularly those involving technology designed, developed, manufactured, or supplied by entities in China or Russia. The rule aims to regulate certain software and hardware that enable vehicle connectivity and automated driving systems. It requires vehicle manufacturers and importers to verify their supply chains and submit Declarations of Conformity to confirm compliance, with some options for specific or general authorizations to continue certain transactions otherwise prohibited. The rule is designed to protect U.S. infrastructure from potential threats associated with these technologies.

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is proposing a new rule that would require all alcohol beverage labels to include a standardized "Alcohol Facts" statement. This label would disclose the per-serving alcohol content, calories, and nutritional information for wines, distilled spirits, and malt beverages. The proposal aims to help consumers make more informed decisions by providing them with vital product information on the label. TTB plans to allow five years for compliance, giving producers time to adjust their labels accordingly.

The U.S. Department of Labor has issued a new final rule to clarify the differences between employees and independent contractors under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This rule is intended to make these distinctions clearer by providing guidance based on economic realities, which consider factors like a worker’s control over their work and the potential for profit or loss. Two main factors, related to control and profit potential, are seen as more significant in determining a worker's status. The rule aims to increase predictability for both workers and businesses across all industries.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has updated the Energy Labeling Rule to include new labeling requirements for portable air conditioners, reflecting changes made by the Department of Energy (DOE). The FTC aims to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions by providing clear energy cost comparisons through these labels. The changes also include updated efficiency descriptors for central air conditioners to align with DOE's new standards. Although the FTC considered wider changes, they decided to explore potential shifts like electronic labeling in future proceedings.

The Department of Defense (DoD) is proposing updates to the rules governing operational contract support (OCS) outside the United States. These changes aim to broaden the scenarios where contracted support can be used, improve accountability and reporting of contractor personnel, and clarify the responsibilities of those involved. The updated rule seeks to enhance integration and oversight of contracted support as a vital defense capability, addressing areas identified as high-risk by the Government Accountability Office. Overall, these efforts intend to minimize wastage and improve the effectiveness of military operations supported by contractors.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has revised the critical habitat designation for the northern spotted owl, resulting in the exclusion of approximately 3.5 million acres across Washington, Oregon, and California. These exclusions reflect a reconsideration of various impacts, including economic and environmental factors, as well as new information since the 2012 designation. The decision is based on the determination that these exclusions will not lead to the extinction of the species, considering the threats posed by invasive barred owls and ongoing habitat conservation efforts. The revised designation continues to protect critical habitat areas for the owl's survival while balancing other land management priorities.