Financial Coach Urges Expansion of National Strategy for Financial Literacy to Address Systemic Barriers
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Barbara L. Martinez, an Accredited Financial Counselor and Board Member of the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education, submitted a public comment letter to the Financial Literacy and Education Commission (FLEC) at the U.S. Department of the Treasury regarding the National Strategy for Financial Literacy. Drawing on over a decade of direct experience serving low- and moderate-income individuals in Chicago, Martinez offered recommendations aimed at enhanci more
Joint Statement of 15th U.S.-Italy Joint Commission Meeting on Science and Technology Cooperation
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The U.S. State Department issued the following media note from the Office of the Spokesperson on April 2, 2026:
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Joint Statement of the 15th U.S.-Italy Joint Commission Meeting on Science and Technology Cooperation
The United States hosted the Republic of Italy in Washington, D.C., on April 1-2 for the 15th U.S.-Italy Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) on Science and Technology Cooperation. The State Department's Senior Bureau Official for European and Eurasian Affairs more
U.S.-Japan Trade Agreements & Tariff Negotiations Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, April 4 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11120) on April 3, 2026, by international trade and finance specialists Kyla H. Kitamura and Cathleen D. Cimino-Isaacs.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S.-Japan Trade Agreements and Tariff Negotiations
The United States and Japan have been close economic partners, though they do not have a comprehensive bilateral free trade agreement (FTA). Since 2020, the countries have entered in more
TechNet Releases Comment Submitted to GSA on Draft Procurement Guidance for AI
WASHINGTON, April 3 [Category: Computer Technology] -- TechNet, a network of technology CEOs and senior executives that promotes the growth of the innovation economy, issued the following news release:
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TechNet Releases Comment Submitted to GSA on Draft Procurement Guidance for AI
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Washington, D.C. - TechNet, the national, bipartisan network of tech CEOs and senior executives, today submitted a comment to the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) on the proposed addition of a Gene more
NetSuite Extends Commitment to Helping Businesses Use AI Their Way
SAN MATEO, California, March 31 -- Oracle NetSuite, a subsidiary of Oracle, issued the following news:
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NetSuite Extends Commitment to Helping Businesses Use AI Their Way
Latest additions to NetSuite AI Connector Service help popular AI assistants understand NetSuite's data, permissions, and workflows while also expanding access to NetSuite and third-party data
Customers can now bring familiar NetSuite user experiences directly into their own AI assistants
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Oracle NetSuite, the #1 AI more
Vatn Systems Charts a Course to Growth and Efficiency With NetSuite
SAN MATEO, California, March 31 -- Oracle NetSuite, a subsidiary of Oracle, issued the following news:
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Vatn Systems Charts a Course to Growth and Efficiency with NetSuite
Autonomous underwater vehicles innovator leverages the power of the suite to simplify finance and supply chain processes
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Vatn Systems, a defense technology company building autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), is using Oracle NetSuite to support its mission to deliver AI-powered maritime solutions for the U.S. mi more
Everbridge Expands Commitment to Partner Channel With SMB Lead Share Program
GLENDALE, Calif., March 30 -- Everbridge, an enterprise software company that offers applications which provide information about critical events to help with personal safety and business continuity, issued the following news release:
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Everbridge Expands Commitment to Partner Channel with SMB Lead Share Program
New program reflects a strategic shift toward partner-led growth in the small and mid-sized business market
Vienna, VA - Everbridge, Inc., the global leader in High Velocity Crit more
Congressional Research Service Reports (Weekly)
Arms Sales - Congressional Review Process Topic of CRS Report
WASHINGTON, March 28 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. RL31675) on March 27, 2026, entitled "Arms Sales: Congressional Review Process" by nonproliferation specialist Paul K. Kerr.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
This report reviews the process and procedures that apply to congressional consideration of foreign arms sales proposed by the President. This includes consideration of proposals to sell major defense equipment, defense articles and ser more
Incentivizing New Ventures & Economic Strength Through Capital Formation Act of 2025 Topic of CRS Report
WASHINGTON, March 28 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48885) on March 24, 2026, entitled "The Incentivizing New Ventures and Economic Strength Through Capital Formation (INVEST) Act of 2025 (H.R. 3383)" by financial economics specialist Eva Su.
Here are excerpts:
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Contents
Introduction ... 1
Legislative History ... 1
Title I - Expanding Access to Capital for Small Businesses ... 2
Section-by-Section Summary ... 2
Market Implicatio more
Private Credit Funds Redemption Restrictions - Market Context & Policy Issues Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 28 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12674) on March 27, 2026, by financial economics specialist Eva Su.
Here are excerpts:
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Private Credit Funds Redemption Restrictions: Market Context and Policy Issues
Private credit generally refers to a type of lending provided by nonbank financial institutions, such as alternative asset managers of private funds, to small- and medium-sized private companies. Although th more
Defense Primer - U.S. Policy on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11150) on March 26, 2026, by Kelley M. Sayler, advanced technology and global security specialist:
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Defense Primer: U.S. Policy on Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems
Lethal autonomous weapon systems (LAWS) are a special class of weapon systems that uses sensor suites and computer algorithms to independently identify a target and employ an onboard weapon system to engage and more
Defense Primer - U.S. Strategic Command Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12981) on March 25, 2026, by defense policy analyst Anya L. Fink:
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Defense Primer: U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM)
U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM or STRATCOM) is a Department of Defense (DOD) functional (as opposed to geographic) combatant command (CCMD) whose stated mission is to "conduct operations to deter strategic attack and employ forces, as directed, to guara more
Fixed Term & "For Cause" Removal Provisions Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12673) on March 26, 2026, by American national government specialist Henry B. Hogue and legislative attorney Todd Garvey.
Here are excerpts:
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Fixed Term and "For Cause" Removal Provisions
Unless otherwise specified in law, presidential appointees to executive branch positions serve for an indeterminate period of time and can usually be removed by the President at any time more
Kingdom of Bhutan Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10660) on March 24, 2026, by Asian policy analyst Maria A. Blackwood.
Here are excerpts:
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The Kingdom of Bhutan
Background
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a small, landlocked Himalayan country situated between India and the People's Republic of China (PRC, or China). The kingdom is about half the size of Indiana, with an estimated population of approximately 792,000. Hydropowe more
Nepal Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10216) on March 24, 2026, by Asian policy analyst Maria A. Blackwood.
Here are excerpts:
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Nepal
Overview
The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal is a lower-middle income, relatively small, landlocked state in South Asia. Since parliamentary democracy was restored in 2006 after a four-year period of monarchy, Nepal has faced political instability, with tensions between more
Overview of Small Business Subcontracting Topic of CRS Report
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R47585) entitled "An Overview of Small Business Subcontracting: In Brief" by R. Corinne Blackford, small business and economic development policy analyst.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
For small businesses, participating in federal contracts as subcontractors can offer an important pathway to government contracting work and is one of the ways that the federal government can help maintain more
Regulation of U.S. Outbound Investment to China Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12629) on March 25, 2026, by international trade and finance specialist Cathleen D. Cimino-Isaacs and Asian trade and finance specialist Karen M. Sutter:
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Regulation of U.S. Outbound Investment to China
Introduction
The U.S. government generally has supported an open investment environment at home and abroad to promote U.S. economic growth, sustain the U.S. position as a more
Schedule Policy/Career - 2026 Final Rule, Legal Challenges & Issues for Lawmakers Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11412) on March 26, 2026.
The white paper is written by Legislative Attorneys Jimmy Balser, Jon O. Shimabukuro and Mainon A. Schwartz:
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Schedule Policy/Career: 2026 Final Rule, Legal Challenges, and Issues for Lawmakers
On February 6, 2026, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) published a final rule and memorandum for the implementation of Schedule Policy/Caree more
Section 117 of the Higher Education Act - Reporting of Foreign Gifts & Contracts Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12927) on March 25, 2026, by social policy analyst Alexandra Hegji.
Here are excerpts:
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Section 117 of the Higher Education Act: Reporting of Foreign Gifts and Contracts
Section 117 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA; P.L. 89-329, as amended) establishes foreign gift and contract reporting requirements for certain domestic public and private institutions that (1) o more
Terrorist & Other Militant Groups in Pakistan Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11934) on March 25, 2026, by South Asian affairs specialist K. Alan Kronstadt.
Here are excerpts:
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Terrorist and Other Militant Groups in Pakistan
U.S. officials have identified Pakistan as a base of operations and/or target for numerous armed, nonstate militant groups, some of which have existed since the 1980s. Notable terrorist and other groups operating in and/or lau more
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency FY2026 Appropriations Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13191) on March 25, 2026, by environmental policy specialist Angela C. Jones.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S. Environmental Protection Agency FY2026 Appropriations
Enacted on January 23, 2026, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act, 2026 (P.L. 119-74) provided funding for the U.S. Environmental Protection Ag more
U.S. V. Hasbajrami & the Warrant Requirement for Certain FISA 702 Queries Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11411) on March 26, 2026, by legislative attorney Andreas Kuersten:
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United States v. Hasbajrami and the Warrant Requirement for Certain FISA 702 Queries
Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) (50 U.S.C. Sec. 1881a) governs domestic electronic surveillance targeting non-U.S. persons outside the United States. Under the statute, the Attorney more
U.S.-Japan Relations Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10199) on March 26, 2026.
The white paper is written by Asian affairs specialist Mark E. Manyin, foreign affairs analyst Daniel J. Longo and international trade and finance specialists Cathleen D. Cimino-Isaacs and Kyla H. Kitamura.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S.-Japan Relations
Overview
Japan, a U.S. treaty ally since 1952, is an important U.S. security and trade partner. S more
U.S.-Taiwan Trade & Economic Relations Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10256) on March 26, 2026, by Asian trade and finance specialist Karen M. Sutter.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S.-Taiwan Trade and Economic Relations
Taiwan is a top U.S. trade partner and a key link in global technology supply chains. Taiwan's economy is highly dependent on global trade; exports account for about 70% of its gross domestic product (GDP). Taiwan's policies are se more
Updates on Litigation Over the IRS-ICE Information-Sharing Agreement Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11413) on March 26, 2026, by legislative attorney Justin C. Chung:
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Updates on Litigation over the IRS-ICE Information-Sharing Agreement
On February 24, 2026, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit (D.C. Circuit) affirmed the denial of a preliminary injunction that would have placed restrictions on information sharing pursuant to an agreement between the Int more
Visual Depiction of the Shift From Defined Benefit to Defined Contribution Pension Plans in the Private Sector Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12007) on March 25, 2026, by income security specialists John J. Topoleski and Elizabeth A. Myers.
Here are excerpts:
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A Visual Depiction of the Shift from Defined Benefit (DB) to Defined Contribution (DC) Pension Plans in the Private Sector
Background
One of the notable trends in the U.S. retirement system over the past five decades is that private sector employees hav more
Water Resources Development Acts - Primer & Action in the 119th Congress Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 27 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13112) on March 26, 2026, by natural resources policy specialists Nicole T. Carter and Anna E. Normand:
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Water Resources Development Acts: Primer and Action in the 119th Congress
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is an agency that develops water resource projects, among other civil and military missions. The primary purposes of USACE studies and projects historical more
False Claims Act Enforcement Involving Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Programs Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 26 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11410) on March 24, 2026, by legislative attorneys Madeline W. Donley and Victoria L. Killion:
Here are excerpts:
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False Claims Act Enforcement Involving Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Programs
The Trump Administration has adopted the view that some "diversity, equity, and inclusion" (DEI) programs and policies illegally consider protected characteristics in viol more
Past Government Shutdowns - Key Resources Topic of CRS Report (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, March 26 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R41759) on March 24, 2026, entitled "Past Government Shutdowns: Key Resources" by senior research librarians Justin Murray and Carol Wilson:
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Summary
When federal government agencies and programs lack budget authority after the expiration of either full-year or interim appropriations, they experience a "funding gap," also known as a lapse in appropriations. In many cases, under the Antid more
Past Government Shutdowns - Key Resources Topic of CRS Report (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, March 26 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R41759) on March 24, 2026, entitled "Past Government Shutdowns - Key Resources:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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Office of Personnel Management
OPM has some information publicly available on the internet related to government shutdowns and furloughs.
* U.S. Office of Personnel Management, Pay & Leave Furlough Guidance, available at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/fur more
Section 301 Investigation - Forced Labor & Import Policies of U.S. Trading Partners Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 26 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12672) on March 24, 2026.
The white paper is written by international trade and finance specialists Christopher A. Casey, Danielle M. Trachtenberg and Cathleen D. Cimino-Isaacs.
Here are excerpts:
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Section 301 Investigation--Forced Labor and Import Policies of U.S. Trading Partners
In March 2026, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) initiated an investigati more
Is "Affordability" An Attainable Policy Goal? Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13189) on March 23, 2026, by macroeconomic policy specialists Lida R. Weinstock and Marc Labonte.
Here are excerpts:
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Is "Affordability" An Attainable Policy Goal?
Concerns about affordability have been a significant focus of the 119th Congress. Affordability is not an official metric that the government or private sector economists report, so discussions of affordabilit more
Legal Authority for Export Controls & Tariffs on Semiconductor Chips Sold to China Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11409) on March 23, 2026, by legislative attorneys Christopher T. Zirpoli and Jennifer K. Elsea:
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Legal Authority for Export Controls and Tariffs on Semiconductor Chips Sold to China
Semiconductor chips (also known as computer chips, microelectronic chips, or integrated circuits) have been a focus of U.S. export control policy for several years, partly due to concer more
Marine Mammal Commission Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13015) on March 23, 2026, by natural resources policy analyst Anthony R. Marshak.
Here are excerpts:
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The Marine Mammal Commission
Introduction
The Marine Mammal Commission (MMC) is an independent advisory agency of the executive branch that provides "independent, science-based oversight" of federal agency policies and actions addressing human impacts on marine mammals more
Reforms to the Mortgage Interest Deduction With Revenue Estimates Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13190) on March 23, 2026, by economics specialist Mark P. Keightley.
Here are excerpts:
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Reforms to the Mortgage Interest Deduction with Revenue Estimates
This In Focus provides an overview of the mortgage interest deduction under current law and presents revenue estimates for selected reforms to the deduction. Reforming or modifying the mortgage interest deduction could more
Safety Considerations for Automated Passenger Vehicles Topic of CRS Report (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, March 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48605) on March 23, 2026, entitled "Safety Considerations for Automated Passenger Vehicles" by transportation policy analyst Naseeb A. Souweidane.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
Automated vehicle technologies offer a range of driver support functions that some stakeholders assert may improve traffic safety. These technologies vary in their capabilities and current stages of development. S more
Safety Considerations for Automated Passenger Vehicles Topic of CRS Report (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, March 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R48605) on March 23, 2026, entitled "Safety Considerations for Automated Passenger Vehicles:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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State and Federal Interactions
Federal and state agencies have separate regulatory authority over vehicle safety and regulate many aspects of automated vehicle safety differently. Among other responsibilities, NHTSA generally sets vehicle standards, ensures compli more
Smithsonian Institution - Selected Legislation, 119th Congress Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, March 24 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13187) on March 23, 2026, by American national government specialist R. Eric Petersen:
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Smithsonian Institution: Selected Legislation, 119th Congress
This In Focus discusses enacted and proposed legislation to authorize new facilities, relationships, or programming within the Smithsonian Institution in the 119th Congress (2025-2026) to date. It excludes discussion of meas more
Tipoffs: Public Comments on Proposed Federal Rules
AARP Urges Increased Transparency in Pharmacy Benefit Manager Fees to the U.S. Department of Labor
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- AARP, an organization representing 125 million Americans aged 50 and older, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) regarding a proposed rule to enhance transparency in fees and compensation received by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and their affiliates. The letter expresses support for the agency's efforts to improve disclosures related to PBM practices, which are considered essential to l more
Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy Urges Safeguards in Federal Anti-Kickback Statute Update
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) regarding its Request for Information on the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute and Beneficiary Inducements. AMCP highlighted the need for regulatory updates that balance affordability initiatives with patient safety, formulary oversight, and federal program integrity.
AMCP, representing nearly 8,000 pharmacy and he more
Air Line Pilots Association Seeks Extension for FAA Pilot School Modernization Comments
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) urging an extension of the comment period for the Part 141 Pilot School Modernization Initiative. The association emphasized the need for additional time to thoroughly assess the extensive proposed changes related to pilot training, certification, and oversight.
The FAA's initiative proposes a comprehe more
Alaska Miners Association Urges BOEM to Prioritize Community Engagement in Offshore Mineral Leasing
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Alaska Miners Association has submitted a public comment letter to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), expressing support for a commercial leasing program for outer continental shelf minerals offshore Alaska, while emphasizing the need for robust community involvement and interagency collaboration. The letter was submitted in response to BOEM's Request for Information and Interest on commercial leasing for minerals in these offshore areas.
Representing more more
Alaska Native Tribes Urge BOEM to Protect Subsistence and Environment in Offshore Mineral Leasing
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP), Kawerak, Inc., and the Bering Sea Elders Group (BSEG) have submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) regarding its Request for Information and Interest on commercial leasing for minerals on the Outer Continental Shelf offshore Alaska. The joint letter emphasizes the critical cultural, subsistence, and environmental importance of the Bering Sea to western Alaska Tribes and cal more
Alliant Insurance Services Calls for Clarification and Statutory Adherence in IRS Proposed Clean Fuel Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the Internal Revenue Service regarding the agency's proposed regulations for the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. The letter outlines recommendations for clearer guidance and criticizes the incorporation of unrelated regulatory concepts from Section 45V clean hydrogen regulations informed by EPA and DOE policies that postdate the statute's enactment.
The insurance services firm, through the more
American Pharmacists Association Urges HHS and OIG to Enhance Support for Pharmacists in Direct-To-Consumer Drug Pricing Programs
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and its Office of Inspector General (OIG) addressing the federal anti-kickback statute and beneficiary inducements civil monetary penalty as part of the agencies' request for information on Medicare and state health care programs. The letter emphasizes the critical role pharmacists play in ensuring proper medication use and calls for polic more
Architect Raises Concerns Over Department of Energy Proposal to Amend Section 504 Accessibility Rules
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Originate Natural Building Materials has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing proposed changes to Section 504 rules that govern accessibility requirements for buildings funded by the federal government. The letter was directed to the DOE's Office of Civil Rights and EEO and the Office of Minority Economic Impact.
In the letter, the architecture professional emphasized the critical role Section 504 plays in ensuring that places more
Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness Urges HHS to Update Anti-Kickback Statute for Contingency Management Safe Harbor
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness (ABHW) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and its Office of Inspector General (OIG) addressing the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute and Beneficiary Inducements Civil Monetary Penalty (CMP) regulations. ABHW, representing payers that manage behavioral health insurance benefits for approximately 200 million people across public and private sectors, advocated for updates t more
Association of American Railroads Submits Nominations for Federal Railroad Safety Advisory Committee
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding nominations for the re-constituted Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC). The RSAC advises the Secretary of Transportation and the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) on railroad safety matters. Following the issuance of a new charter by DOT on January 20, 2026, which allocated five membership seats to AAR and more
Association of Village Council Presidents and Alaska Community Action on Toxics Oppose Alaska Offshore Seabed Mineral Leasing Urging BOEM to Halt Plans
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Association of Village Council Presidents (AVCP), Native Village of Eek, and Alaska Community Action on Toxics (ACAT) have submitted a public comment letter to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) expressing strong opposition to commercial leasing of Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) minerals offshore Alaska. They urge the U.S. Department of the Interior's BOEM to cease any further steps toward leasing, citing risks to ocean environments, marine wildlife, fisheries more
Automotive Safety Council Submits Comments to NHTSA on Voice Command Interface Research
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Automotive Safety Council (ASC) has submitted a public comment letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) within the U.S. Department of Transportation regarding its planned research on modern voice command interfaces (VCI) in vehicles. The ASC is an industry trade association representing leading suppliers of advanced automotive safety systems worldwide. Their letter provides input on NHTSA's efforts to assess the state-of-the-art capabilities more
Bazelon Center Challenges DOE's Proposed Changes to Accessibility Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing the agency's proposed Direct Final Rules aimed at rescinding longstanding regulations related to nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs or activities. The comment letter focuses on two docket numbers, DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024, which would eliminate key provisions under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act concerning accessib more
BMWED Nominates Leadership Trio for Continued Participation on Railroad Safety Advisory Committee
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED-IBT), a labor organization representing railroad maintenance workers, submitted a public comment letter to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to nominate Roy L. Morrison III as their primary representative to the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC). The nomination also includes Sean D. Gerie and Robert Jayce Suprenant as alternate members, ensuring a broad spectrum of expertise in railroad safety o more
Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen Endorses Candidates for Federal Railroad Safety Advisory Committee
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), a division of the Rail Conference of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the collective bargaining representative for more than 31,000 active locomotive engineers and trainmen, has submitted a public comment letter to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) endorsing candidates for nomination and appointment to the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC). The letter highlights the union's vested in more
Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen Seeks Representation on Federal Railroad Safety Advisory Committee
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) Ohio State Legislative Board submitted a public comment letter to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) seeking consideration for membership on the Rail Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC). The letter was addressed by the Chairman of the BLET Ohio State Legislative Board, who expressed a desire to bring extensive professional and academic expertise to the committee.
In the letter, the chairman highlighted a 15-y more
California Disability Services Association Opposes DOE Proposed Rules Weakening Disability Access Standards
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The California Disability Services Association (CDSA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) expressing strong opposition to the agency's proposed direct final rules at docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024. The CDSA represents 120 disability service provider organizations across California, serving more than 100,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization warns that the proposed ru more
Center for Biological Diversity Urges BOEM to Prohibit Offshore Fracking on California Outer Continental Shelf
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Center for Biological Diversity submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) concerning the Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) for federal oil and gas lease sales on the California Outer Continental Shelf. The environmental group strongly urged the agency to halt any new lease sales off the California coast and specifically called for a prohibition on offshore hydraulic fracturing an more
Cerebral Palsy Associations of New York State Opposes DOE Accessibility Rule Changes
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Cerebral Palsy Associations of New York State (CP State) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing two direct final rules under docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024. CP State, a multi-service organization representing over 100,000 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, raised concerns about proposed rescissions of critical regulations related to nondiscrimination in federally assisted prog more
Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition Opposes DOE Rules Rescinding Accessibility Requirements
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition (CCDC), representing over 5,000 members, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing two direct final rules that would rescind key nondiscrimination regulations related to new construction and existing facilities. The letter, addressed to the DOE Office of Civil Rights and EEO and the Office of Minority Economic Impact, criticizes the rules published in the Federal Register on May 16, 2025, which more
Consortium for Constituents With Disabilities Opposes DOE's Proposed Accessibility Rule Changes
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) expressing strong opposition to proposed Direct Final Rules that seek to rescind important accessibility standards under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The letter addresses docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024, which aim to eliminate regulations that require fully accessible new construction and alteration projects funded more
Continental Resources Urges Modifications to BLM's Commingling and Allocation Approval Rules
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Continental Resources Inc., a U.S. oil producer, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management regarding proposed revisions to regulations governing commingling and allocation approvals found at 43 CFR Part 3170. The letter, dated March 31, 2026, strongly endorses the BLM's intention to streamline energy development on federal lands following the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) mandates, but advocates for specific ch more
CoverCress Inc Urges Finalization and Enhancement of 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- CoverCress Inc. (CCI), a developer of domesticated pennycress marketed as CoverCress, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury and Internal Revenue Service regarding the proposed regulations implementing the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. CCI highlights the innovative attributes of pennycress as a winter annual crop that fits into existing corn and soybean rotations, offering environmental benefits such as erosion control, nutrient sc more
Critical Access Hospital Opposes Proposed Shift to Rebate Model in 340B Program
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Daniels Memorial Healthcare Center, a Critical Access Hospital and Rural Health Clinic located in Scobey, Montana, submitted a public comment letter to the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, expressing strong opposition to the proposed transition from an upfront discount to a rebate model in the 340B Drug Pricing Program.
The hospital's CEO highlighted concerns that the proposed rebate model would more
CVS Health Seeks Clarification From HHS OIG on Manufacturer Coupon Eligibility and Pharmacy Responsibilities
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- CVS Health submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) addressing concerns related to the TrumpRx manufacturer coupon program, the application of fraud and abuse laws on direct-to-consumer (DTC) discount initiatives, and operational challenges arising from OIG's recent guidance. The letter highlights CVS Health's role as a national pharmacy, pharmacy benefit manager, and health services organizatio more
Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council Opposes DOE Proposal to Rescind Accessibility Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) expressing strong opposition to proposed rule changes under docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024. The DDC opposes the department's plan to rescind key portions of its regulations that implement Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which mandates accessibility for people with disabilities in federally assisted programs and activiti more
Department of Energy Faces Opposition Over Proposed Changes to Section 504 Accessibility Rules
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Samata Neuropsychological Services has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing proposed modifications to the Section 504 rules that govern accessibility requirements for federally funded buildings. The letter emphasizes concerns about the potential impact of these changes on people with disabilities, particularly regarding new construction and building alterations.
The letter, sent to the DOE's Office of Civil Rights and Equal Emp more
Diabetes Advocacy Groups Oppose DOE Rescission of Accessibility Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition (DPAC) and the Diabetes Leadership Council (DLC) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) expressing strong opposition to the agency's proposed rules to rescind key regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The letter was filed with the DOE's Office of Civil Rights and EEO and the Office of Minority Economic Impact, referencing docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024. more
Disability Resource Center Opposes Department of Energy Proposal to Rescind Accessibility Requirements
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Disability Resource Center (DRC) at Porterville College in California submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing proposed direct final rules under docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024. These proposed regulations would rescind key portions of DOE's implementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in federally assisted programs or activities more
Disability Rights Advocates Oppose DOE Proposed Rescission of Accessibility Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Disability Rights Advocates (DRA), a leading national legal nonprofit advocating for people with disabilities, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy opposing proposed direct final rules that would rescind key regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The letter was addressed to the DOE Office of Civil Rights and EEO and the Office of Minority Economic Impact.
DRA strongly opposes the rules found at Docket Numbers DOE- more
Disability Rights Center - NH Opposes DOE Rule Changes That Would Weaken Accessibility Standards
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Disability Rights Center - NH, the designated Protection and Advocacy agency for New Hampshire, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) expressing strong opposition to proposed rule changes that would rescind critical accessibility requirements related to federally assisted programs and activities. The letter addresses docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024, which propose eliminating regulations implementing Section 504 of more
Disability Rights Maine Opposes Department of Energy Proposed Rule Changes on Accessibility Standards
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Disability Rights Maine submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing the agency's direct final rules under Docket Numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024. The organization expressed strong objections to proposed regulatory changes that would rescind critical portions of DOE's rules implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which mandates nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs and activities, particularly concer more
Disability Rights Pennsylvania Opposes Department of Energy Rule Changes That Threaten Accessibility Protections for People With Disabilities
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Disability Rights Pennsylvania has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing proposed direct final rules under docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024. The organization, designated by Pennsylvania as the advocate for individuals with disabilities, argues that these proposals would rescind critical nondiscrimination regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and undermine accessibility protections for more
Easterseals Opposes Department of Energy Proposal to Rescind Accessibility Rules Under Section 504
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Easterseals, a national network dedicated to supporting people with disabilities, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy opposing proposed rule changes aimed at rescinding key provisions related to nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs. The letter addresses two specific dockets of the Department of Energy's Office of Civil Rights and Equal Employment Opportunity and Office of Minority Economic Impact, which propose eliminating require more
Education Law Center Pennsylvania Opposes DOE's Proposed Rescission of Accessibility Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Education Law Center Pennsylvania (ELC-PA), a nonprofit legal advocacy organization dedicated to ensuring access to quality public education for underserved students, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The letter opposes the DOE's direct final rules at docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024, which propose rescinding important regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act related to nondiscrimination more
Eli Lilly Calls for Expanded Clarity on Federal Anti-Kickback Rules to Support Direct-to-Patient Drug Programs
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Eli Lilly and Company submitted a public comment letter to the Office of Inspector General (OIG) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, addressing the agency's Federal Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) and Beneficiary Inducements Civil Monetary Penalty (CMP) as they relate to direct-to-consumer (DTC) or direct-to-patient (DTP) pharmaceutical sales programs. The letter outlines Lilly's recommendations on policy development to promote patient access through alternati more
Family Violence Appellate Project Urges HUD to Withdraw Proposed Housing Rule Affecting Domestic Violence Survivors
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Family Violence Appellate Project (FVAP) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) opposing a proposed rule concerning verification of eligible status under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1980. FVAP warns that the rule revisions could seriously harm survivors of domestic violence by restricting access to safe, affordable housing, a critical resource for escaping abuse.
FVAP is a California-based organizat more
Financial Coach Urges Expansion of National Strategy for Financial Literacy to Address Systemic Barriers
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Barbara L. Martinez, an Accredited Financial Counselor and Board Member of the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education, submitted a public comment letter to the Financial Literacy and Education Commission (FLEC) at the U.S. Department of the Treasury regarding the National Strategy for Financial Literacy. Drawing on over a decade of direct experience serving low- and moderate-income individuals in Chicago, Martinez offered recommendations aimed at enhanci more
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- FMC Compliance Services has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding proposed amendments to 19 CFR Parts 4, 103, and 113, which concern electronic export manifest (EEM) requirements. As a specialized compliance partner aiding clients with ocean-shipping laws and Federal Maritime Commission regulations, FMC Compliance Services endorses the department's move toward advanced vessel and cargo departure data transmission.
In its l more
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- FMW Rail Operations, a subsidiary of FMW Solutions LLC, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation nominating Kevin Sweat, Director of Safety and Compliance, for membership on the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC). The nomination letter highlights Mr. Sweat's extensive experience in various railroad operational roles and his unique perspective combining regulatory and technological expertise.
FMW Rail Operations emphasized Mr. S more
Frontier Infrastructure Holdings Urges IRS to Clarify Carbon Capture Credit Rules Under Sec. 45Z and 45Q
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Frontier Infrastructure Holdings LLC, a Texas-based developer and operator of large-scale carbon capture and sequestration projects, submitted a public comment letter to the Internal Revenue Service addressing proposed regulations under Section 45Z of the Internal Revenue Code concerning the Clean Fuel Production Credit. The company provided detailed feedback aimed at strengthening regulatory certainty around the application of tax credits for carbon capture and sequestrat more
Golden Gate Restaurant Association Backs Zoox Petition to NHTSA for Autonomous Vehicle Deployment
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Golden Gate Restaurant Association submitted a public comment letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration expressing strong support for Zoox's petition, Docket No. NHTSA-2025-0523, which seeks an exemption to allow commercial deployment of automated vehicles under strict federal safety monitoring. The San Francisco-based non-profit, representing a range of restaurant members and vendors including many small, independent establishments, emphasized the p more
Greenpeace USA Opposes BOEM's Proposed Seabed Mineral Leasing Offshore Alaska
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Greenpeace USA submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) opposing the agency's Request for Information and Interest (RFI) concerning commercial leasing for Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) minerals offshore Alaska. The letter, addressing BOEM's Alaska Region, highlights broad environmental, legal, cultural, economic, and national security concerns related to the proposed seabed mining initiative.
Greenpeace USA emphasizes Alaska's more
Health Care Attorney Urges OIG for Formal Guidance on Direct-to-Consumer Drug Sales and Telehealth
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Mary R. Kohler, a health care attorney and founder of Kohler Health Law PC, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) addressing the agency's request for information on the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute and Beneficiary Inducements Civil Monetary Penalty related to emerging direct-to-consumer (DTC) drug sale arrangements and telehealth services.
Kohler expressed appreciation for the OIG's Special more
Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz Opposes HUD Work Requirements and Time Limits Proposal
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz (HACSC) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) opposing a proposed rule titled Establishing Flexibility for Implementation of Work Requirements and Term Limits. The letter expresses strong concerns that the proposed regulation lacks supporting data, risks increasing housing instability, and would impose substantial administrative and financial burdens on public housin more
Idaho State Independent Living Council Opposes DOE Proposed Rule Changes on Accessibility
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Idaho State Independent Living Council (IDSILC) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), strongly opposing the agency's proposed direct final rules (Docket DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024). The comment challenges the DOE's effort to rescind key regulatory requirements implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act concerning accessibility in federally funded facilities.
The letter, filed with the DOE's Office of Civil Rig more
Kenai Fjords Businesses Oppose Seabed Mining Leasing Off Alaska Coast
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Kenai Fjords Glacier Lodge and Kenai Fjords Sea Treks submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Alaska Region expressing strong opposition to commercial leasing for seabed mining offshore Alaska. Their letter was in response to the agency's Request for Information and Interest concerning commercial leasing for Outer Continental Shelf minerals in Alaska.
The businesses highlighted concerns that their operations depend on healthy ocean more
Marine Mammal Commission Raises Concerns Over Hilcorp Alaska's Ringed Seal Protections
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Marine Mammal Commission has submitted a public comment letter to the National Marine Fisheries Service regarding the agency's February 2, 2026, notice and Hilcorp Alaska, LLC's application for incidental take regulations under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The request pertains to Hilcorp's construction, maintenance, and operation of ice roads, trails, and pads on Alaska's North Slope, specifically at Northstar's Production Island, Spy Island Drill Site, and Ooguru more
MetroWest Center for Independent Living Opposes DOE Proposed Rules Rescinding Disability Accessibility Requirements
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The MetroWest Center for Independent Living submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing two proposed direct final rules that would rescind key regulations related to nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs or activities. The letter addresses docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024, which would remove requirements ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities in new construction and existing facilities receiv more
Molpus Woodlands Group Urges Treasury to Support Woody Biomass in Clean Fuel Production Credit Rule
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Molpus Woodlands Group submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury addressing the proposed rule for the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. The organization emphasized the importance of adopting a rule that acknowledges the practical realities of working forests and the forest products supply chain while facilitating environmental and economic benefits.
In the letter, Molpus Woodlands Group conveyed support for a final rule grounded in c more
National Association of Chain Drug Stores Calls for Clarity on Direct-to-Consumer Drug Pricing and Pharmacy Role
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS), representing over 40,000 pharmacies nationwide, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Inspector General (OIG), concerning the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute and Beneficiary Inducements. NACDS highlighted the evolving landscape of direct-to-consumer (DTC) prescription drug sales and urged the agency to consider the impact of these programs on community phar more
National Conference of Firemen & Oilers Seeks Membership on Railroad Safety Advisory Committee
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The National Conference of Firemen & Oilers, 32BJ/SEIU (NCFO) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requesting membership on the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC). The NCFO, a labor organization established in 1898 with deep roots in the railroad industry, seeks to bring its safety expertise and industry experience to the advisory panel.
The NCFO highlights its longstanding role as a more
National Pork Producers Council Supports Removing Maximum Line Speed Limits in Swine Inspection
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) expressing strong support for a proposed rule to remove maximum line speed limits under the New Swine Slaughter Inspection System (NSIS). The NPPC, representing 60,000 pork producers and 42 state organizations, emphasized that the proposed changes would improve efficiency and modernize regulatory frameworks while mai more
National Real Estate Associations Urge Caution on HUD Operating Cost Adjustment Factors Methodology
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- A coalition of leading national real estate associations has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) expressing concerns about potential changes to the agency's Operating Cost Adjustment Factors (OCAFs) methodology. The associations, representing housing providers engaged in addressing America's housing affordability challenges, emphasized the critical role accurate and stable OCAFs play in sustaining affordable multi more
NLHA and CARH Urge HUD to Withdraw Proposed Rule on Verification of Eligible Status in Affordable Housing Programs
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The National Leased Housing Association (NLHA) and the Council for Affordable Rural Housing (CARH) have submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), expressing strong opposition to HUD's Proposed Rule on Verification of Eligible Status affecting affordable housing programs. The organizations represent hundreds of entities providing over a million affordable housing units nationwide and warn that the proposal would disrupt more
Northern Alaska Environmental Center Urges Caution on Alaska Outer Continental Shelf Mineral Leasing
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Northern Alaska Environmental Center (NAEC) submitted a public comment letter to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) Alaska Outer Continental Shelf Region regarding the agency's Request for Information and Interest (RFI) on commercial leasing for mineral extraction in the Alaska Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) areas. NAEC emphasizes the ecological, fisheries, and subsistence concerns posed by proposed mineral leasing across an extensive area spanning approximate more
Northwest Access Fund Urges Department of Energy to Maintain Accessibility Protections in Section 504 Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Northwest Access Fund, a Community Development Financial Institution focused on advancing economic opportunities for people with disabilities, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy opposing proposed revisions to Section 504 regulations related to nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs or activities. The organization emphasized that the current regulations are essential to ensuring accessibility and equity for individuals with disabili more
Occupational Therapist Urges Department of Energy to Maintain Section 504 Accessibility Rules
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Megan Karburn, an occupational therapist at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital in Oakland, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Civil Rights and EEO, and the Office of Minority Economic Impact. The letter opposes proposed changes to Section 504 regulations concerning nondiscrimination and new construction accessibility requirements.
Karburn emphasized the importance of Section 504, which mandates that entities receiving federal fund more
Organized Village of Kasaan Proposes Tribal Co-Management Alternatives for Southeast Alaska National Preserves
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Organized Village of Kasaan (OVK), based in Kasaan, Alaska, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. National Park Service (NPS) outlining a series of tribal co-management alternatives tailored for Southeast Alaska national preserves. The letter, responding to NPS Proposed Rule RIN 1024-AE96, advocates for collaborative management approaches that support subsistence protections, ecological sustainability, and fulfill the federal trust responsibility consistent more
Pacific Environment Urges BOEM to Halt Alaska Deep Sea Mining Leases Over Environmental Concerns
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Pacific Environment has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) expressing concerns regarding the agency's Request for Information and Interest (RFI) about potential commercial mineral leasing in several Alaska Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) areas. The specified regions include Norton Sound Heavy Mineral Sands, Goodnews Bay Heavy Mineral Sands, the Aleutian Arc, Canada Basin, Chukchi Borderland, and Gulf of Alaska seamounts.
P more
Parents Helping Parents Opposes Department of Energy Proposal to Rescind Disability Access Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Parents Helping Parents, a nonprofit organization advocating for families with children with special needs, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy opposing proposed direct final rules that would rescind critical sections of DOE regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The proposals, identified under Docket Numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024, would eliminate requirements for new construction and alterations to be more
Pfizer Proposes Safe Harbor to Support Direct-to-Consumer Prescription Drug Programs
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Pfizer Inc. submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General regarding regulatory guidance on direct-to-consumer (DTC) prescription drug programs. The letter responds to the agency's Request for Information on the application of the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) and Beneficiary Inducements Civil Monetary Penalty (BIS) to manufacturer-operated DTC programs. Pfizer emphasized the importance of these progr more
PhRMA Calls for Clarifications on OIG Guidance for Direct-to-Consumer Drug Sales Programs
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) addressing the agency's Request for Information concerning the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute (AKS) and related guidance around direct-to-consumer (DTC) prescription drug sales programs. PhRMA's letter focuses on OIG's January 2026 Special Advisory Bulletin (SAB) that clarifies how manufactur more
Preservation of Affordable Housing Urges HUD to Reconsider Proposed Rule on Mixed-Status Households
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH), a non-profit owner and operator of over 14,000 affordable rental homes in 13 states and D.C., submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) expressing strong concerns about a proposed rule change concerning verification of eligible status in assisted housing. The rule, which would end prorated assistance to mixed-status families, is warned to have multiple negative consequences for more
Rights For All - USA Opposes DOE's Proposed Rollback of Accessibility Regulations
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rights For All - USA (RFA-USA), a grassroots organization advocating for the rights of people with disabilities, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing proposed changes to regulations related to nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs. The letter addresses docket numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024, which propose rescinding key accessibility requirements under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
RFA- more
San Francisco Technology Association Supports Zoox's Petition to NHTSA for Autonomous Vehicle Exemption
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Sf.citi, San Francisco's technology and innovation industry association, submitted a public comment letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advocating for Zoox's petition for a temporary exemption under Docket No. NHTSA-2025-0523. The association highlighted the importance of supporting innovation in autonomous mobility while maintaining safety and sustainability in urban transportation.
Sf.citi emphasized its member companies' dedication to responsib more
Scripps Institution of Oceanography Urges BOEM to Exclude California From 11th Outer Continental Shelf Leasing Program
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California, San Diego, through a public comment letter, has submitted supplemental concerns to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management regarding the scoping framework for the 11th Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program. The letter highlights critical deficiencies in BOEM's evaluation of economic risks, ecological impacts, and mitigation measures related to offshore oil and gas development along Califor more
Seattle-King County Council Opposes Department of Energy's Proposed Accessibility Rule Changes
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Seattle-King County Advisory Council for Aging and Disability Services has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) opposing proposed direct final rules under Docket Numbers DOE-HQ-2025-0015 and DOE-HQ-2025-0024. These rules involve rescinding parts of DOE's regulations that implement Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which mandates nondiscrimination in federally assisted programs and activities for people with disabilities.
The Co more
Southern California College Attainment Network Opposes HUD Proposal on Housing Eligibility Verification
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Southern California College Attainment Network (SoCal CAN) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) expressing strong opposition to a proposed rule that would require reverification of eligible status for public housing residents nationwide. The letter outlines concerns that this policy shift reverses decades of federal policy and could harm thousands of U.S. citizen children living in mixed-status families by incr more
SPARK Urges Treasury to Expand National Strategy for Financial Literacy
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The SPARK Institute and its Financial Literacy Committee submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury, urging an update to the National Strategy for Financial Literacy. In their response to the Financial Literacy and Education Commission's (FLEC) request for information, SPARK, a coalition of financial services and retirement plan organizations, recommended shifting toward a lifecycle-based approach that emphasizes financial capability, incorpor more
Union Square Alliance Urges NHTSA to Approve Zoox's Autonomous Vehicle Exemption
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Union Square Alliance has submitted a public comment letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) expressing strong support for Zoox's petition, Docket No. NHTSA-2025-0523. The petition requests a temporary exemption to permit Zoox's commercial deployment of automated vehicles under federal safety oversight in San Francisco.
The Union Square Alliance represents businesses and stakeholders within one of San Francisco's most prominent commercial more
Williams Companies Advocates for Changes to BLM's Proposed Commingling Rule
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- The Williams Companies Inc., an energy infrastructure provider, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management regarding the agency's proposed rule on site security and production handling, specifically the application process for commingling and allocation approval. Williams, which manages around one third of the natural gas consumed daily in the United States and operates over 33,000 miles of pipeline, outlined ke more
Tipoffs: Iran
Alianza Americas: Absolutely No - to 1.5 Trillion in Military Spending in the 2027 Budget.
CHICAGO, Illinois, April 4 -- Alianza Americas, a transnational advocacy network of Latin American migrant-led organizations, issued the following news release on April 3, 2026:
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Absolutely No! to 1.5 trillion in military spending in the 2027 budget.
The finalized 2027 budget outline submitted by President Trump to Congress prioritizes defense spending over the needs of the American people. Alianza Americas, a network of more than 55 organizations led by immigrants from Latin America and more
KFF: Preview of the Role Health Care May Play in the 2026 Election
SAN FRANCISCO, California, April 4 -- KFF, an organization that says it focuses on health policy, issued the following news release:
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A Preview of the Role Health Care May Play in the 2026 Election
KFF has long examined the role of health care in U.S. elections, tracking how the issue ranks among voters' top concerns, which political party or candidate voters' trust, and how health care issues might motivate voter turnout. This issue brief summarizes the role health care has historically more
Lujan Statement on President Trump's Announcement on Iran War
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Sen. Ben Ray Lujan, D-New Mexico, issued the following news release:
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Lujan Statement on President Trump's Announcement on Iran War
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Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) issued the following statement on President Trump's announcement on the Iran War:
"President Trump didn't have a plan going into this war, and there's still no credible plan to end it now. The American people did not ask for this conflict, Congress did not authorize it, and th more
Lujan: One Year of President Trump's Tariffs Have Driven Up Costs and Made Life More Expensive for New Mexicans
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Sen. Ben Ray Lujan, D-New Mexico, issued the following news release:
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Lujan: One Year of President Trump's Tariffs Have Driven Up Costs and Made Life More Expensive for New Mexicans
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Washington, D.C. -U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, issued the following statement on the one-year anniversary of President Trump's sweeping tariffs that have hurt hardworking New Mexicans and Americans across the country:
"One year a more
Maine State House Speaker: Appropriations Committee Advances Supplemental Budget Focused on Stability, Relief, and Essential Services
AUGUSTA, Maine, April 4 -- The Maine State House Speaker issued the following news:
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Appropriations Committee Advances Supplemental Budget Focused on Stability, Relief, and Essential Services
The Legislature's Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee today voted 8-4 to advance a supplemental budget focused on protecting essential services, delivering targeted relief, and meeting the state's most immediate obligations in a challenging fiscal environment.
The proposal prioritizes st more
Mine Ban Treaty Achieves Progress amid Challenges
NEW YORK, April 4 [Category: International] -- Human Rights Watch posted the following news:
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Mine Ban Treaty Achieves Progress amid Challenges
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Since the 1990s conflicts in the Balkans, Croatia suffered from the scourge of landmines, with hundreds of civilians killed and thousands of acres of land inaccessible due to contamination. In March, the country celebrated becoming mine-free, following a US$1.38 billion, 30-year clearance campaign.
Croatia's story underscores the value of th more
N.C. Democratic Party: From Fayetteville Observer - Michael Whatley Profits Off War In Iran After Dismissing Sacrifice Of Service Members
RALEIGH, North Carolina, April 4 -- The North Carolina Democratic Party issued the following news on April 2, 2026:
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FROM FAYETTEVILLE OBSERVER: Michael Whatley Profits Off War In Iran After Dismissing Sacrifice Of Service Members
A new column from the Fayetteville Observer is highlighting that DC insider Michael Whatley is personally financially profiting from the war in Iran as it spikes his oil and gas investments. Whatley is a "longtime oil lobbyist" who represented Big Oil companies more
Prediction Markets & Insider Trading Law Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, April 4 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11406) on April 3, 2026, by legislative attorney Jay B. Sykes:
Here are excerpts:
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Prediction Markets and Insider Trading Law
The past two years have witnessed the dramatic growth of prediction markets--i.e., online platforms that allow users to buy or sell contracts with payoffs tied to the occurrence or nonoccurrence of specific events, such as sporting event outc more
SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON THE PRESIDENT'S FAILURE TO DEFINE AN ENDGAME IN IRAN
WASHINGTON, April 4 -- Rep. Bradley Schneider, D-Illinois, issued the following news release:
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SCHNEIDER STATEMENT ON THE PRESIDENT'S FAILURE TO DEFINE AN ENDGAME IN IRAN
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LINCOLNSHIRE, IL - Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-founder and co-chair of the Abraham Accords Caucus, released the following statement in response to President Trump's address to the nation on the war in Iran:
"Five weeks after starting his war against Iran, Pres more
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Sen. Jack Reed, D-Rhode Island, issued the following news release:
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Reed Opposes Trump's Unjustified Defense Budget Increase
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WASHINGTON, DC - Today, the Trump Administration proposed raising the fiscal year 2027 defense budget by 50 percent, to $1.5 trillion, a figure that includes some $350 billion that Trump wants Republicans to pass on a party-line vote outside the annual defense authorization and appropriation process, which means less oversight and fewer st more
Senator Blumenthal: Week in Review 3/27/2026-4/3/2026
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Connecticut, issued the following news release:
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Senator Blumenthal: Week in Review 3/27/2026-4/3/2026
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Slamming Trump Cuts Making it More Difficult to File Taxes
[Hartford, CT] - U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) joined advocates to slam cuts by the Trump Administration that are making filing taxes more challenging this year. Last fall, the Trump Administration announced it was ending the free Direct File program following press more
Van Hollen Statement on Trump Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Proposal
WASHINGTON, April 3 -- Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Maryland, issued the following news release:
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Van Hollen Statement on Trump Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Proposal
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Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and lead Democrat on the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, released the following statement regarding the Trump Administration's initial proposed budget for fiscal year 2027:
"Donald Trump's budget propos more
