Federal Register Digest: November 4, 2025

Making Sense of Today’s Decisions for a Connected, Informed Democracy

Navigating Change in Healthcare, Transportation, and More

Today’s federal documents show how policy continues to evolve on the ground—sometimes quietly, but always with real-world implications. Whether you’re booking a doctor’s visit, catching a train, or running a business, these updates ripple out to shape our collective experience.

Medicare’s Next Chapter: Paying for Value, Not Just Volume

CMS has unveiled its annual overhaul of how Medicare pays doctors—a 2,000-page rule aiming to move away from fee-for-service toward more coordinated, value-based care.

• What’s new: New payment rates take effect for thousands of common procedures, and Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) face changed standards for proving quality and saving costs. There’s also a tougher framework for prescription drug pricing—if costs rise faster than inflation, pharma firms pay the difference.

• Why it matters: This affects everything from appointment availability to co-pays and which doctors stay “in network.” Hospitals, clinics, and especially smaller practices may need to change how they operate—potentially impacting rural and underserved areas most.

• Your move: Patients: keep an eye out for communications from your providers about coverage changes in the next few months. Providers: now is the time to prepare budgets, talk with ACO partners, and ensure your systems are ready for January.

Safety in the Skies: Proactive Moves in Air Travel

The FAA isn’t waiting for problems—it has ordered new inspections for both helicopters (Bell Textron) and regional jets (MHI RJ/Bombardier).

• What’s new: Operators must check key flight parts and, if needed, replace or service them before continuing operations.

• Why it matters: Whether you’re on a medevac chopper or a commuter jet, these updates mean a safer ride.

• Your move: If you work in aviation: review the directives and plan maintenance windows—compliance isn’t just legal, it’s the foundation for public trust.

Restoring Flow for Philadelphia Commuters

The FRA has loosened emergency restrictions on Philly’s main public rail system (SEPTA), giving it more flexibility for scheduling and restoring some comfort for daily riders.

• Why it matters: For millions who rely on SEPTA, this could translate to more reliable service and less crowding—reminders of how responsive government can relieve daily stress.

Protecting Federal Spaces

The Department of Homeland Security is granting agencies and their contractors a revised timeline for updating security protocols in federal buildings.

• Why it matters: The extra runway means facilities can hire, train, and install new tech for public safety—without rushed or buggy rollouts that sometimes make things worse.

• Your move: If you’re a federal contractor, now’s the moment to coordinate with agency points-of-contact and make sure all staff are briefed.

Shipping & Small Business: USPS and PRC Updates

USPS and the Postal Regulatory Commission continue to tweak shipping products, rates, and big-batch mailing contracts in response to a rapidly changing e-commerce landscape.

• Why it matters: Even minor postal tweaks can impact small business margins, charity mailings, and what’s possible for rural home delivery.

• Your move: If you own or manage a business, compare the new products and rates to see if you can streamline costs—or need to adjust your shipping policies.

Farming & Food Safety: Cyclobutrifluram Pesticide Review

EPA is adjusting the tolerance for a key pesticide used in crops, based on new science and industry feedback.

• Why it matters: This sets a national benchmark for what’s considered safe in U.S. food production—and will shape both supermarket offerings and international agricultural trade.

• Your move: Growers and exporters should check compliance soon. For everyone, this highlights the continuous process behind safer food.

Behind the Headlines: Meetings, Governance, and Sunshine

The State Department and Postal Service are publicizing upcoming board meetings—part of an ongoing push for transparent, accountable government.

How to Stay Involved

• Watch for public comment periods from agencies.

• Join conversations (or start your own) about what these updates could mean for your community.

• Let local representatives know which changes you care about.

To see full details or look ahead, use the Federal Register Public Inspection page.

This digest aims to do more than list rules—it’s here to connect policy to people, so we build a government that works for everyone. Let me know if you’d like to expand a section or highlight a particular community impact!

Federal Register Digest: October 31 – November 3, 2025

Welcome back to the Federal Register Digest. Each issue distills what’s happening inside the Federal Register—the government’s official record of new rules, hearings, and public notices—and explains how those decisions shape daily life. From healthcare to aviation safety, environmental protection, and small business logistics, these updates affect our collective security, opportunity, and civic voice.

Healthcare and Security

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) finalized the 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, updating how doctors and clinics are paid, how value-based programs are measured, and how certain prescription drug rebates under Medicare Part B are managed.

These adjustments influence which providers remain in-network and how much patients pay out of pocket. In practice, this rule affects both physical and financial security. Providers are revising budgets and billing systems; patients should check with their healthcare teams this winter for any coverage changes.

Aviation and Public Safety

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued new safety directives requiring inspections and repairs on certain Bell, Bombardier (MHI RJ), and Polish-manufactured aircraft models.

These actions reinforce the government’s essential role in protecting travelers and aviation personnel. Airlines and operators are required to schedule maintenance immediately, but disruptions to passenger travel are expected to be minimal.

Chemical Oversight and Environmental Health

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released new Significant New Use Rules (SNURs), expanding chemical oversight under the Toxic Substances Control Act. Manufacturers and importers must now notify EPA before using certain regulated substances in new or modified applications.

These safeguards protect both public health and the natural environment—our shared foundation for security and survival. They are proactive rather than reactive, aiming to prevent exposure risks before they occur.

Fisheries, Food Supply, and Ecological Balance

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has set new catch limits for Atka mackerel and Pacific ocean perch in the Alaska Bering Sea and continues work to reduce marine mammal bycatch through the West Coast Take Reduction Team.

For commercial fisheries, these quotas define the limits of sustainable harvest. For communities dependent on the ocean economy, they protect long-term livelihoods and ecosystems simultaneously.

Energy, Resources, and Public Participation

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) posted notices for new Outer Continental Shelf oil and gas lease sales. These leases invite energy companies to bid on exploration and production rights, subject to environmental review and public comment.

This process underscores the participatory nature of modern governance. Citizens have the same opportunity as corporations to comment on the environmental, social, and economic tradeoffs of offshore development.

Finance, Innovation, and Access

Several agencies also advanced transparency and cultural access this week. The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and Farm Credit Administration (FCA) announced open meetings on financial oversight. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) appointed new members to its performance review board. The Federal Council on the Arts & Humanities scheduled discussions on insurance coverage for cultural institutions.

Meanwhile, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called a public advisory session to review cardiac device safety, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) introduced new shipping options to cut business costs, and the FAA approved a land release for airport development in Kentucky.

The Broader Picture

Across all agencies, a consistent pattern is emerging—greater transparency, sustainability, and participatory access. Federal regulators are actively publishing their rationales, inviting public comment, and grounding their decisions in measurable data.

This approach fulfills the constitutional purpose of forming “a more perfect union” by ensuring that governance is understandable, accountable, and inclusive. Under COOF, these are not bureaucratic ideals—they are the daily architecture of ethical democracy.

For full regulatory details and open comment opportunities, visit the Federal Register – Public Inspection Page.

Stay Involved

Each of these updates touches something fundamental: health, safety, livelihood, environment, or access.
Staying informed and participating in open comment periods is how citizens maintain the link between public authority and public trust.

Federal Register Digest: October 30, 2025

Federal policy updates can shape the rules for businesses, consumers, and the environment in ways that aren’t always obvious, but this week’s Federal Register brings a few headline proposals and decisions worth highlighting for stakeholders watching regulatory change.

DHS Ends Automatic Extension for Employment Authorization Renewals

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published an interim final rule that ends automatic extensions of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) upon renewal application filings. This means renewal applicants will not be authorized to work after their EAD expires unless a new authorization is approved. The rule aims to strengthen eligibility vetting for immigration benefits, prioritizing national security and public safety concerns. Affected individuals and employers may see income loss or workforce disruptions if renewal processing times exceed EAD expiration dates. DHS advises timely application to help avoid gaps. This update is of a procedural nature, no standard notice-and-comment period, but DHS has prepped public-facing analysis for transparency.​

EPA: Air Quality Determination, Mariposa County, CA

The EPA determined that the Mariposa County area in California attained the 2015 ozone national ambient air quality standard by the August 2024 deadline, based on monitoring data for 2021–2023. Local contingency planning requirements for air quality can be lifted, marking a milestone for pollution reduction in the region. This action followed a 30-day comment period which ended July 3, 2025; the EPA received no public comments.​

EPA: Polypeptide Biopesticide Tolerance Exemption

EPA granted an exemption from the tolerance requirement for residues of a new polypeptide biopesticide (ASFBIOF01-02) in food and feed commodities. The rule allows broader use of this product with no need for a maximum permissible residue level under normal application conditions.

• Impacts: Streamlines approval for a new pesticide tool targeted at agriculture, potentially affecting crop producers and food manufacturers.

• Objections/Requests for Hearing: File by December 29, 2025 at EPA docket EPAHQOPP20210157.​

EPA & States: Regional Haze Compliance and SIP Procedures

The EPA published new technical guidance and decisions around regional haze state implementation plans (SIPs), setting standards for states on pollution controls needed to improve visibility in national parks and wilderness areas. This affects long-term state air quality planning, emissions monitoring, and visibility goals for protected environments. Recap of requirements for public input, technical documentation, and regulatory review of SIP amendments.

Bank Regulators Propose Limits on “Reputation Risk” Enforcement

The OCC (Office of the Comptroller of the Currency) and FDIC proposed rules to prohibit bank supervisors from taking enforcement actions based solely on “reputation risk”. This move comes after growing calls for greater clarity and consistency in regulatory standards, especially around institutions’ business relationships deemed controversial for non-financial reasons. For those unfamiliar, reputation risk is the threat or danger to the good name, standing, or credibility of a business or organization. It arises when actions or circumstances cause stakeholders—including customers, employees, investors, and the public—to lose trust or confidence in the entity.

If finalized, banks would no longer face supervisory penalties or restrictions based solely on factors like public image or lawful but disfavored business activities. Reduced compliance burden and greater business certainty are expected for banks and their customers. Agencies seek input on how well the proposal defines and prohibits reputation risk actions, suggested improvements, unintended consequences, and impacts on small institutions. Comments may be submitted through regulations.gov (OCC Docket ID OCC20250142; FDIC comment portal) — deadlines listed in the official notice.​

Post-Publish Updates: Additional Noteworthy Federal Actions

DOT Proposes Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Practices in Transportation

The Department of Transportation has proposed new procedures for regulating and enforcing unfair or deceptive practices in air travel and related consumer services. This rule aims to clarify complaint processes, improve transparency, and strengthen consumer protections for flight delays, disruptions, and misleading business conduct. Airline passengers and travel service users could see clearer rights and remedies for common disputes. Comment Period: Open for public comment; see the official docket for submission instructions.

OCC & FDIC: 'Unsafe or Unsound Practices' Proposed Rule for Banks

Alongside the reputation risk proposal, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation published a companion rule on "unsafe or unsound practices, matters requiring attention." This regulation details how supervisory agencies will identify and respond to banking practices that threaten stability, integrity, or sound business conduct—even if the issue isn't related directly to reputation. Banks and financial institutions may face more structured expectations on compliance and operational risk; potential for increased scrutiny on business operations. Comment Period: Public comment invited; see OCC Docket ID OCC20250135 or FDIC portal for submission guidance.

SBA Issues Major Disaster Declarations for Alaska and Missouri

The Small Business Administration published disaster declarations covering Alaska and Missouri, enabling affected communities, small businesses, and nonprofits to apply for federal loan assistance for physical damage or economic injury following recent severe storms. Eligible individuals and organizations can seek aid to rebuild, recover, and sustain operations in disaster areas. See the SBA disaster loan portal and local outreach provide instructions.

These updates further round out today’s digest, offering new opportunities for public comment and direct impact for business owners, travelers, and citizens affected by federal actions. Check agency sites or federalregister.gov for details and ways to participate.

Federal Register Digest: 10/28/2025

While yesterday’s blog captured the major regulatory actions, today’s Federal Register offers a few more updates…

USPS & Postal Regulatory Commission: Postal Product Changes

The Postal Regulatory Commission published several routine notices regarding new competitive postal products and negotiated service agreements. These include additions and changes to Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage contracts, and several fulfillment contracts for business shipping. These agreements affect how the USPS structures international and domestic business shipping offerings.

The USPS also filed a request to add a new Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International, and First-Class Package International Service contract to the list of competitive products. This is mainly relevant for bulk shippers and businesses using USPS services internationally.

If you’re a small business or frequent shipper, changes to Priority Mail and international shipping agreements could influence your costs and shipping options. Submitting your feedback can help shape how the U.S. Postal Service tailors its services to business or community needs. The Postal Regulatory Commission is currently accepting public comments on several proposed competitive shipping contracts and new postal products through October 31, 2025.

National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration announces Gulf of Alaska Pollock Fishery Rule

NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service announced a temporary rule closing directed fishing for pollock in Statistical Area 620 in the Gulf of Alaska. This closure is required because the annual allowable catch limit has been reached. The action helps conserve pollock stocks under federal fisheries management law and is typical when quotas are met mid-season.

While the agency exercised its authority to waive the public comment period for speed, this rule serves as a reminder of how federal management of fisheries impacts jobs and food prices in affected regions. Even without an open comment window in this instance, these actions demonstrate the tangible effects of regulatory decisions on local economies and consumer access to seafood.

Be sure to check agency sites or federalregister.gov for active dockets and instructions on participating in the rulemaking process.

Federal Register Digest: October 27, 2025

See what’s inside the October 27, 2025 Federal Register: new EPA chemical safety rules, TRICARE changes, AI export program, and more.

The policies announced each week in the Federal Register reach surprisingly far into daily life, overlooking everything from the products in our homes, to the services available to military families, to the standards that guide energy and environmental practices. This week’s updates explain the key changes unfolding across several agencies—and show what steps are next for industries, citizens, or anyone interested in public policy.

EPA Moves to Tighten Controls on New Chemical Uses

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed revisions to its Significant New Use Rules, a regulatory process designed to ensure that certain industrial chemicals undergo additional scrutiny before finding new applications in the marketplace. The SNUR program operates by requiring companies to notify the EPA—and submit relevant safety data—if they plan to use specified substances in products or contexts the agency has flagged as potentially risky or insufficiently studied.

This process means that, before anything changes hands on store shelves, EPA scientists have a chance to assess the possible health and environmental impacts. The affected chemicals often relate to common commercial products such as coatings, plastics, and household cleaners. The proposed rule’s publication opens a period for public comment, giving stakeholders—from manufacturers to advocacy organizations and interested citizens—an opportunity to weigh in before any change takes effect.

TRICARE Unveils Changes to 2026 Military Healthcare Plans

Anticipated updates to the TRICARE program are set to change the landscape of military healthcare for the 2026 calendar year. TRICARE is the healthcare coverage administered by the Department of Defense for active-duty service members, military retirees, and their families, encompassing millions of beneficiaries across the world.

Each year, the program undergoes a review resulting in changes to copays, premiums, and the scope of covered services. The most recent announcement signals adjustments to both cost-sharing requirements at civilian facilities and the list of medical or prescription services included. These annual changes are planned in advance, and usually, the finalized documents and rate tables are provided to the public ahead of the new plan year. For those calculating future expenses, resources like the official TRICARE website provide tools and updates for estimating personal costs.

CFPB Outlines Federal Preemption in Credit Reporting Rules

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has released a proposed clarification on the boundaries between federal and state authority under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The FCRA is the central law governing how credit information is collected, shared, and corrected, applying to all consumers in the United States.

States may sometimes enact their own, more stringent standards regarding credit freezes, error correction, or data privacy. However, under the Supremacy Clause, federal standards can override state laws (“preemption”) where Congress has chosen uniformity. The Bureau’s new guidance lays out when and how this federal preemption applies, an important matter for credit bureaus, lenders, and state regulators. The publication in the Federal Register marks the start of a public comment window, during which the precise details are further shaped by input from the public and affected industries.

Commerce Department Looks to Shape Framework for AI Exports

The International Trade Administration (ITA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Commerce, has begun gathering public feedback on a proposed American AI Exports Program. This initiative aims to develop a framework for exporting American artificial intelligence technologies to global markets, while at the same time considering national security risks associated with certain strategic applications.

In the U.S., export control measures for emerging technologies have a long history, particularly for products tied to defense, communications, or surveillance. The current ITA proposal is part of a broader trend—balancing the drive to promote U.S. technology worldwide against concerns about where and how critical AI systems are deployed. The agency collects comments and suggestions through Requests for Information, with the official rulemaking process and stakeholder consultations to follow.

DOE Updates Financing Programs for Major Energy Infrastructure

Modernizing the nation’s energy system is a continuous government priority, and the Department of Energy (DOE) has announced changes to the programs supporting large-scale infrastructure projects. Over the years, DOE has invested in a wide variety of energy technologies, using mechanisms such as loans, loan guarantees, and direct grants to assist in the construction of new power plants, upgrades to the electrical grid, and the manufacturing of equipment for solar, nuclear, and hydrogen energy.

The updated guidance details which project types and sectors will be eligible for support and explains the application timeline for stakeholders. Federal financing programs of this sort are intended to lower costs, spread risk, and accelerate deployment across a range of energy resource types. Proposed rule changes and updates are posted for public input, in line with federal procedure.

USPS and PRC Revise International Shipping Framework

The U.S. Postal Service, together with its regulator, the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC), has moved to update the agreements and rates governing several international mail services—including Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International, and First-Class Package International Service. These changes affect how mail and packages are routed, delivered, and priced for customers sending items abroad.

Proposed operational changes and pricing are subject to regulatory review before they become official. The process includes opportunities for public comment, as well as an assessment of the expected impact on consumers and small businesses. The finalized adjustments are reflected in the published rate tables, and updated information is typically shared across USPS channels and industry bulletins.

USTR Opens New Investigation into U.S.-China Trade Compliance

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated a Section 301 investigation into whether China is upholding its trade commitments under the 2020 "Phase One" bilateral agreement. Section 301 of the Trade Act empowers USTR to investigate and respond to unfair trade practices, and has formed the basis for tariff actions and negotiations in recent years.

The investigation follows a well-defined process involving a fact-finding phase, public hearings, and a final determination on compliance. Depending on the findings, the U.S. could adjust existing tariffs, negotiate new terms, or pursue other remedies intended to address any breaches of the agreement. These steps and their possible outcomes are tied to statutory timelines and procedures spelled out in U.S. trade law.

SBA Issues Disaster Declaration for Leech Lake Band of the Ojibwe

A new disaster declaration from the Small Business Administration (SBA) makes federal loan assistance and recovery programs available to the Leech Lake Band of the Ojibwe community, following severe storms and other natural events. The declaration is activated after coordination with state, local, and tribal officials and hinges on an assessment of damage that exceeds local resources.

Residents, business owners, and nonprofits in the affected area can now apply for low-interest loans for property repair, rebuilding, and related recovery expenses. Details about eligibility, loan types, and how to apply are made available through both the SBA’s disaster loan portal and community outreach. The assistance continues until the community’s needs have been largely addressed, as monitored by federal and tribal agencies.

EPA Expands Reporting Requirements for Power Plant Emissions

The Environmental Protection Agency is renewing its data collection mandate for stationary combustion turbines under the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS). These turbines are frequently used for power generation and are subject to reporting requirements when it comes to certain pollutants, like nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide.

Under NSPS rules, regulated facilities must monitor and submit emissions data on a regular basis, which federal and state authorities then use to enforce air-quality regulations and assess compliance with environmental goals. Periodic renewals of such data collection ensure that the information remains up to date and relevant for current policy decisions. The latest action also opens a window for public comment on the specifics of the rule and the scope of required reporting.

Federal Register Digest

Week of October 20th, 2025

Every weekday, the U.S. government publishes the Federal Register, its official daily record of actions. It’s a dense, detailed log of new rules, proposed regulations, and public notices that, while not exactly beach reading, contains decisions that quietly shape our technology, security, and finances. While most people have never read it, its pages are where policy transforms from an idea into a reality that impacts daily life.

We’ve distilled the most significant updates from the past week's publications, specifically from Volume 90, Number 205, to explain how the government’s work might affect yours.

Here are seven key developments you should know about.

1. Travel & Security

Explain the Change: The Department of Homeland Security has finalized a rule to expand biometric screening for nearly all non-U.S. citizens at American borders. This means the collection of fingerprints, facial scans, and possibly iris or voice data will become standard at airports and land crossings. The stated goals are to close identity gaps and prevent visa fraud.

Why It Matters: This move tests the limits of the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable searches and the Fourteenth Amendment’s equal protection guarantees. As noted by civil liberties groups, the large-scale collection of biometric data raises important questions about how that information is stored and protected, and whether the facial recognition systems used have inherent algorithmic biases.

What You Can Do: Monitor the implementation of this rule, which goes into effect in 2026, through the Department of Homeland Security's official website.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

2. Safer Internet Connections

Explain the Change: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed new rules to modernize licensing for submarine fiber-optic cables. These undersea lines are the backbone of the global internet, carrying 95% of all international data traffic. The proposal would require companies that own or operate the land-based gear connecting these cables to the network to secure a license and verify that their equipment does not come from untrusted foreign sources.

Why It Matters: The physical infrastructure of the internet is a new frontier for global security. This proposal underscores a simple reality: controlling the cables that carry the world’s data—and the equipment that links them to our networks—means controlling the information that flows through them.

What You Can Do: Public comments are open until November 26th. You can review the proposal and file comments at fcc.gov/ecfs.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

3. Faster Patents

Explain the Change: The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has launched a new pilot initiative called the "Streamlined Claim Set Pilot Program." The program is designed to simplify the patent application process and accelerate the agency’s review of new inventions.

Why It Matters: While it sounds technical, this policy has a direct impact on the speed of innovation. By making the patent review process faster and less complex, the government can help new technologies, medical breakthroughs, and other inventions reach the market more quickly.

What You Can Do: Entrepreneurs and inventors can learn more about the new pilot program at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office website.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Banking & Everyday Money

Explain the Change: The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), the federal agency that oversees credit unions, has posted its draft budget for 2026–2027 for public review and comment.

Why It Matters: An agency budget might seem like a purely bureaucratic document, but it’s a clear roadmap to the administration's priorities. This budget reveals how the NCUA plans to regulate the thousands of credit unions where millions of Americans save their money, making it a quiet but important indicator of financial policy.

What You Can Do: Review the budget and submit feedback directly through the National Credit Union Administration's official channels.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

5. Cleaner Air & Safer Products

Explain the Change: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has convened a scientific advisory panel. Its mission is to conduct a formal review of the safety assessments for various pesticides currently in use.

Why It Matters: This is a critical, though often unseen, first step toward creating new standards for agricultural chemicals. The findings of this panel will directly influence future regulations that impact our food safety, water quality, and the health of the environment.

What You Can Do: Follow the proceedings of the FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel on the Environmental Protection Agency's website to see how chemical standards are evaluated.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

6. Mail Service & Rate Updates

Explain the Change: The Postal Regulatory Commission, which provides oversight for the U.S. Postal Service, has issued a notice regarding the introduction of new postal products and potential adjustments to postal rates.

Why It Matters: Even small changes in postal rates and services can have a big economic impact. These adjustments affect shipping costs for small businesses, the viability of e-commerce, and the budgets of households that rely on mail for bills, packages, and communication.

What You Can Do: Find the latest notices and rate-making dockets on the Postal Regulatory Commission's website.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

7. Government Meetings & Renewals

Explain the Change: The State Justice Institute has released new grant guidelines aimed at helping fund technology modernization projects within state courts across the country.

Why It Matters: Most citizens who interact with the justice system do so at the state and local levels. This federal funding is designed to help those courts improve their efficiency, from digital record-keeping to virtual hearings, ultimately increasing access to justice for the public.

What You Can Do: Interested parties can find the new guidelines and application details on the State Justice Institute's website.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Democracy Is a Habit

Every one of these updates—from border security to postal rates—is part of a public process defined by a law called the Administrative Procedure Act. It requires that agencies seek public feedback on most of these rules before they become final. This is the foundation of participatory rulemaking, a powerful tool for direct democratic input that allows citizens to see and shape policy before it becomes law.

To stay engaged, you can read the full daily publication at federalregister.gov or find accessible summaries through the Forum Network.
These resources provide a window into the decisions being made every day on your behalf.

---

Federal Register Weekly Summary: October 20–27, 2025

Monday, October 20, 2025

• Agencies: Drug Enforcement Administration, Interior Department, Land Management Bureau, Justice Department, Postal Regulatory Commission, Executive Office of the President (Presidential Documents), Transportation Department, Treasury Department, Veterans Affairs Department.

• Drug Enforcement Administration: Multiple decisions/orders for medical professionals

• Land Management Bureau: Environmental Impact Statement Notice (Castle Mountain Mine Phase II Expansion)

• Presidential Documents: Executive Orders (Federal Hiring Accountability), Notices continuing national emergencies (Colombia, Congo, Sudan)

• Treasury: Debt Management Advisory Committee meeting notice

• Veterans Affairs: Multiple meeting cancellations for advisory committees

• Transportation: Advisory Board public meeting cancellation

• Postal Regulatory Commission: Notice on new postal products

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

• Agencies: Drug Enforcement Administration, Education Department, Energy Department, Federal Aviation Administration, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, Internal Revenue Service, National Credit Union Administration, Postal Regulatory Commission, Transportation Department, Treasury Department.

• FAA: Proposed Rule—Bombardier Airworthiness Directives

• FERC: Rule & Proposed Rule—“Zero-Based Budgeting” to unleash American energy

• National Credit Union Administration: Proposed Rule on reputation risk & draft 2026–2027 budget notice

• Internal Revenue Service: Proposed Rule—Domestically Controlled Qualified Investment Entities

• Education Department: National Advisory Committee meeting notice

• Transportation: Beautifying Infrastructure Council nominations

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

• Agencies: Census Bureau, Children & Families Administration, Health and Human Services, HUD, Interior/Land Management Bureau, Postal Regulatory Commission, Postal Service, Executive Office of the President.

• Census: Collection for 2026 Census test

• HUD: Rule—HOME Investment Partnerships Program streamlining

• Presidential Documents: Proclamations for National Cybersecurity Awareness Month & National Energy Dominance Month

• Commerce: Imports adjustment notice for heavy-duty vehicles

• Postal Service: PMEI/PMI/Commercial ePacket international product change

Thursday, October 23, 2025

• Agencies: Commerce (Patent and Trademark Office), EPA, Homeland Security Department, Internal Revenue Service, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, OPM, Postal Regulatory Commission, Trade Representative, Treasury, Unified Carrier Registration Plan.

• EPA: Air Quality State Implementation Plans (Arizona, Nevada)

• Homeland Security: Proposed Rule—EB-5 fee reforms

• Internal Revenue Service: Proposed Rule—Criteria for qualified tips

• NRC: Environmental Impact Statements (TRISO-X, Kemmerer Power Station)

• Patent Office: Collection notices on post-allowance, reissue

• Trade Rep: Nicaragua labor/human rights Section 301 determination

• OPM: Dental & Vision insurance renewal

• Unified Carrier Registration Plan: Sunshine Act meeting

Friday, October 24, 2025

• Agencies: Commerce (Patent and Trademark Office), Postal Regulatory Commission, Veterans Affairs.

• Patent Office: Collection on sequence disclosures for patent applications

• Veterans Affairs: Annual pay ranges published

• Postal Regulatory Commission: Notice—new postal products

• Veterans Affairs: Performance Review Board notice

Monday, October 27, 2025

• Agencies: Commerce (Patent and Trademark Office), EPA, FCC, Homeland Security, Judicial Conference, National Credit Union Administration, Patent and Trademark Office, Postal Regulatory Commission, State Justice Institute, Transportation Department, Unified Carrier Registration Plan.

• FCC: Final & proposed rules to overhaul submarine cable licensing (national security, foreign tech, security risk focus), seeks public comment until Nov. 26

• Homeland Security: Final rule for biometric data collection on entry/exit, border barrier determination notice

• State Justice Institute: New grant guideline issued

• Patent and Trademark Office: Streamlined Claim Set Pilot Program notice

• National Credit Union Administration: 2026–2027 draft budget staff notice

• EPA: FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel meeting postponement

• Judicial Conference: Advisory committees (Criminal Rules, Evidence Rules) notices

• Transportation Dept.: Agency info collection renewal—acquisition regulation

• Unified Carrier Registration Plan: Sunshine Act meeting for regulatory updates

• Postal Regulatory Commission: Notice—new postal products

---