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U.S. Mint 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin Wins 'Best Gold Coin' Category in Coin of the Year Awards
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury U.S. Mint issued the following news release:
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United States Mint 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin(TM) Wins "Best Gold Coin" Category in Coin of the Year Awards
The United States Mint (Mint) is pleased to announce the selection of its 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin as the "Best Gold Coin" category winner in the annual Coin of the Year (COTY) award program.
"I am truly honored to accept this prestigious award on behalf of the United States Mint," said the Honorable Paul Hollis, Director of the Mint. "The Mint ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury U.S. Mint issued the following news release: * * * United States Mint 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin(TM) Wins "Best Gold Coin" Category in Coin of the Year Awards The United States Mint (Mint) is pleased to announce the selection of its 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin as the "Best Gold Coin" category winner in the annual Coin of the Year (COTY) award program. "I am truly honored to accept this prestigious award on behalf of the United States Mint," said the Honorable Paul Hollis, Director of the Mint. "The Minttakes great pride in the work we create, and this coin is no exception."
Representing Liberty through the stewardship required to preserve American liberty, the obverse of the 2025 American Liberty Gold Coin features a sunflower and a bee, presenting Liberty as a living symbol reaching toward the light. The imagery reflects the stewardship required to preserve liberty, while evoking themes of unity, hard work, renewal, and harmony with nature. Inscriptions are "LIBERTY," "2025," and "IN GOD WE TRUST." United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Christopher Polentz created the design, and United States Mint Medallic Artist John P. McGraw sculpted it.
The reverse (tails) depicts an energetic, swirling eagle, complementing the obverse with a dynamic expression of freedom and resilience. Inscriptions are "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "100 DOLLARS," "1 OZ.," ".9999 FINE GOLD," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM." United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Christopher Polentz created the design, and United States Mint Medallic Artist Eric David Custer sculpted it.
The Mint launched the American Liberty coin series in 2015. Produced at its West Point facility, these exceptional 99.99 percent fine, 24-karat gold coins display modern interpretations of the concept of American liberty. The obverse (heads) designs depict modern versions of the allegorical figure of Liberty, paired with contemporary eagle designs on the reverse (tails).
The Coin of the Year Awards, which began in 1984, are considered among the most prestigious awards among mints worldwide. Every year, an international panel of judges selects winners from 10 categories focused on aesthetic and commercial appeal, commemoration, inspiration, and innovation. A primary winner is then selected from the 10 category winners, earning the grand title of Coin of the Year.
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About the United States Mint
Congress created the United States Mint in 1792, and the Mint became part of the Department of the Treasury in 1873. As the Nation's sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, the Mint is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The Mint also produces numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; silver and bronze medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. Its numismatic programs are self-sustaining and operate at no cost to taxpayers.
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Original text here: https://www.usmint.gov/news/press-releases/united-states-mint-2025-american-liberty-high-relief-gold-coin-wins-best-gold-coin-category-in-coin-of-the-year-awards
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United States Mint 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin(TM) Wins "Best Gold Coin" Category in Coin of the Year Awards
The United States Mint (Mint) is pleased to announce the selection of its 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin as the "Best Gold Coin" category winner in the annual Coin of the Year (COTY) award program.
"I am truly honored to accept this prestigious award on behalf of the United States Mint," said the Honorable Paul Hollis, Director of the Mint. "The Mint ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury U.S. Mint issued the following news release: * * * United States Mint 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin(TM) Wins "Best Gold Coin" Category in Coin of the Year Awards The United States Mint (Mint) is pleased to announce the selection of its 2025 American Liberty High Relief Gold Coin as the "Best Gold Coin" category winner in the annual Coin of the Year (COTY) award program. "I am truly honored to accept this prestigious award on behalf of the United States Mint," said the Honorable Paul Hollis, Director of the Mint. "The Minttakes great pride in the work we create, and this coin is no exception."
Representing Liberty through the stewardship required to preserve American liberty, the obverse of the 2025 American Liberty Gold Coin features a sunflower and a bee, presenting Liberty as a living symbol reaching toward the light. The imagery reflects the stewardship required to preserve liberty, while evoking themes of unity, hard work, renewal, and harmony with nature. Inscriptions are "LIBERTY," "2025," and "IN GOD WE TRUST." United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Christopher Polentz created the design, and United States Mint Medallic Artist John P. McGraw sculpted it.
The reverse (tails) depicts an energetic, swirling eagle, complementing the obverse with a dynamic expression of freedom and resilience. Inscriptions are "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "100 DOLLARS," "1 OZ.," ".9999 FINE GOLD," and "E PLURIBUS UNUM." United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Christopher Polentz created the design, and United States Mint Medallic Artist Eric David Custer sculpted it.
The Mint launched the American Liberty coin series in 2015. Produced at its West Point facility, these exceptional 99.99 percent fine, 24-karat gold coins display modern interpretations of the concept of American liberty. The obverse (heads) designs depict modern versions of the allegorical figure of Liberty, paired with contemporary eagle designs on the reverse (tails).
The Coin of the Year Awards, which began in 1984, are considered among the most prestigious awards among mints worldwide. Every year, an international panel of judges selects winners from 10 categories focused on aesthetic and commercial appeal, commemoration, inspiration, and innovation. A primary winner is then selected from the 10 category winners, earning the grand title of Coin of the Year.
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About the United States Mint
Congress created the United States Mint in 1792, and the Mint became part of the Department of the Treasury in 1873. As the Nation's sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, the Mint is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The Mint also produces numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; silver and bronze medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. Its numismatic programs are self-sustaining and operate at no cost to taxpayers.
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Original text here: https://www.usmint.gov/news/press-releases/united-states-mint-2025-american-liberty-high-relief-gold-coin-wins-best-gold-coin-category-in-coin-of-the-year-awards
Treasury Dept.: Iran's Access to UAE Banks Targeted Under Operation Economic Outcast
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026:
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Iran's Access to UAE Banks Targeted Under Operation Economic Outcast
Banque Misr UAE Processed Suspected Billions for Iranian Regime in Just 2.5 Years
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Today, under Operation Economic Outcast, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) proposed a rule that would revoke Banque Misr UAE's correspondent banking access to U.S. financial institutions.
"Treasury promised to sever every economic lifeline Tehran has left and finally end the ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026: * * * Iran's Access to UAE Banks Targeted Under Operation Economic Outcast Banque Misr UAE Processed Suspected Billions for Iranian Regime in Just 2.5 Years - Today, under Operation Economic Outcast, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) proposed a rule that would revoke Banque Misr UAE's correspondent banking access to U.S. financial institutions. "Treasury promised to sever every economic lifeline Tehran has left and finally end thethreat of the Iranian regime," said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. "We also warned that Iran's enablers cannot continue to enjoy access to the U.S. dollar and the global financial system. Banque Misr UAE decided to find out the hard way, and today, we are taking the first step in holding it accountable for its continued, egregious support of the Iranian regime."
Additionally, Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Reza Mohammad Taeedi, the manager of Bank Melli's Dubai branch. OFAC also sanctioned a Hong Kong-based front company that has helped launder funds for a sanctioned Iranian exchange house.
BANQUE MISR UAE IS A KEY FINANCIAL LIFELINE FOR THE REGIME
Treasury assesses that Banque Misr UAE is a critical node for the Iranian regime's access to U.S. dollars. Treasury estimates that between January 2024 and June 2026, Banque Misr UAE processed approximately $1.8 billion for 103 companies that are potentially part of Iranian shadow banking networks.
Because Iran is already subject to comprehensive U.S. sanctions, in order to generate revenue abroad, it relies on multi-jurisdictional shadow banking networks that provide key access to U.S. dollar correspondent banking relationships. Iran uses these shadow banking networks to launder funds, procure weapons, and bankroll its regional terrorist proxy groups.
Banque Misr UAE's customers include apparent front companies used by Iran's Ministry of Defense and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to evade U.S. sanctions, as well as to launder money on behalf of Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
FinCEN's proposed action against Banque Misr UAE would cut off a key financial lifeline and sanctions evasion vehicle for the Iranian regime. Under Operation Economic Outcast, financial institutions around the world face heightened sanctions risk due to their exposure to Banque Misr UAE and other Iranian financial facilitators.
OFAC SANCTIONS ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL FACILITATORS
OFAC is taking additional action against Bank Melli and Iran's shadow banking network. Iranian national Reza Mohammad Taeedi serves as the general manager of Bank Melli's Dubai Branch. Bank Melli has facilitated billions of dollars' worth of transactions through accounts controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Qods Force (IRGC-QF). It has allowed the IRGC-QF and its parent organization, the IRGC, to move funds inside and outside of Iran. The IRGC-QF's accounts at Bank Melli have also been used to fund Iranian-aligned proxies and partners, including in Iraq.
Hong Kong-based Kameng Trading Limited has aided sanctioned Iranian persons in accessing the international financial system. Sanctioned Iranian exchange house Pedram Pirouzan Exchange House, also known as Opal Exchange, has used Kameng Trading Limited to launder money for Iran. Pedram Pirouzan Exchange House was designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.
Reza Mohammad Taeedi is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, a counterterrorism authority, for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Bank Melli. OFAC is designating Kameng Trading Limited pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.
OPERATION ECONOMIC OUTCAST IS ISOLATING THE IRANIAN REGIME
Announced by Secretary Bessent on August 24, 2026, Operation Economic Outcast is severing the remaining financial lifelines that sustain the Iranian regime. Treasury has mapped the networks, facilitators, and financial channels that Iran uses to smuggle oil, evade sanctions, and fund terror. Working with partners across the U.S. government, along with our allies, Treasury is targeting any source of the regime's illicit revenue.
Operation Economic Outcast significantly expanded sanctions risk for those who continue to choose to do business with Iran. Treasury warned that any entity facilitating money laundering or sanctions evasion on behalf of Iran will be cut off from the U.S. financial system. It also expands secondary sanctions exposure for those who continue doing business with the Iranian regime and will accelerate the pace of U.S. enforcement. More information on Operation Economic Outcast is available here.
IMPLICATIONS OF TODAY'S FINCEN ACTION AND NEXT STEPS
FinCEN today issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) finding that Banque Misr in the United Arab Emirates is a financial institution operating outside the United States of primary money laundering concern. In the NPRM, FinCEN proposes, pursuant to section 311 of the USA PATRIOT Act, prohibiting U.S. financial institutions from opening or maintaining a correspondent account for, or on behalf of, Banque Misr UAE.
The rule would also require U.S. financial institutions to take reasonable steps not to process a transaction for a correspondent account in the United States of a foreign banking institution if such a transaction involves Banque Misr UAE and to apply to their foreign correspondent accounts special due diligence that is reasonably designed to guard against their use to process transactions involving Banque Misr UAE. This finding and the accompanying proposed special measure apply only to Banque Misr UAE, as defined in the NPRM, and not to Banque Misr operations in any other country.
The text of FinCEN's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking can be found here. The public comment period will close 30 days after the NPRM is published on the Federal Register.
For questions about this NPRM, please contact FinCEN at http://www.fincen.gov/contact.
SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS
As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the designated or blocked persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. Unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC's regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of blocked persons.
Violations of U.S. sanctions may result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties on U.S. and foreign persons. OFAC may impose civil penalties for sanctions violations on a strict liability basis. OFAC's Economic Sanctions Enforcement Guidelines provide more information regarding OFAC's enforcement of U.S. economic sanctions. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated or blocked person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person. Non-U.S. persons are also prohibited from causing or conspiring to cause U.S. persons to wittingly or unwittingly violate U.S. sanctions, as well as engaging in conduct that evades U.S. sanctions. Individuals located in the U.S. or abroad who provide information about sanctions violations to FinCEN's whistleblower incentive program may be eligible for awards if the information they provide leads to a successful enforcement action that results in monetary penalties exceeding $1,000,000. In addition, financial institutions and other persons may risk exposure to sanctions for engaging in certain transactions or activities with designated or otherwise blocked persons.
Furthermore, engaging in certain transactions involving the persons designated today may risk the imposition of secondary sanctions on participating foreign financial institutions. OFAC can prohibit or impose strict conditions on opening or maintaining, in the United States, a correspondent account or a payable-through account of a foreign financial institution that knowingly conducts or facilitates any significant transaction on behalf of a person who is designated pursuant to the relevant authority.
The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List), but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, or to submit a request, please refer to OFAC's guidance on Filing a Petition for Removal from an OFAC List.
Click here for more information on the persons designated today (https://ofac.treasury.gov/recent-actions/20260828).
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Original text here: https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0617/
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Iran's Access to UAE Banks Targeted Under Operation Economic Outcast
Banque Misr UAE Processed Suspected Billions for Iranian Regime in Just 2.5 Years
-
Today, under Operation Economic Outcast, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) proposed a rule that would revoke Banque Misr UAE's correspondent banking access to U.S. financial institutions.
"Treasury promised to sever every economic lifeline Tehran has left and finally end the ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026: * * * Iran's Access to UAE Banks Targeted Under Operation Economic Outcast Banque Misr UAE Processed Suspected Billions for Iranian Regime in Just 2.5 Years - Today, under Operation Economic Outcast, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) proposed a rule that would revoke Banque Misr UAE's correspondent banking access to U.S. financial institutions. "Treasury promised to sever every economic lifeline Tehran has left and finally end thethreat of the Iranian regime," said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. "We also warned that Iran's enablers cannot continue to enjoy access to the U.S. dollar and the global financial system. Banque Misr UAE decided to find out the hard way, and today, we are taking the first step in holding it accountable for its continued, egregious support of the Iranian regime."
Additionally, Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Reza Mohammad Taeedi, the manager of Bank Melli's Dubai branch. OFAC also sanctioned a Hong Kong-based front company that has helped launder funds for a sanctioned Iranian exchange house.
BANQUE MISR UAE IS A KEY FINANCIAL LIFELINE FOR THE REGIME
Treasury assesses that Banque Misr UAE is a critical node for the Iranian regime's access to U.S. dollars. Treasury estimates that between January 2024 and June 2026, Banque Misr UAE processed approximately $1.8 billion for 103 companies that are potentially part of Iranian shadow banking networks.
Because Iran is already subject to comprehensive U.S. sanctions, in order to generate revenue abroad, it relies on multi-jurisdictional shadow banking networks that provide key access to U.S. dollar correspondent banking relationships. Iran uses these shadow banking networks to launder funds, procure weapons, and bankroll its regional terrorist proxy groups.
Banque Misr UAE's customers include apparent front companies used by Iran's Ministry of Defense and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to evade U.S. sanctions, as well as to launder money on behalf of Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
FinCEN's proposed action against Banque Misr UAE would cut off a key financial lifeline and sanctions evasion vehicle for the Iranian regime. Under Operation Economic Outcast, financial institutions around the world face heightened sanctions risk due to their exposure to Banque Misr UAE and other Iranian financial facilitators.
OFAC SANCTIONS ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL FACILITATORS
OFAC is taking additional action against Bank Melli and Iran's shadow banking network. Iranian national Reza Mohammad Taeedi serves as the general manager of Bank Melli's Dubai Branch. Bank Melli has facilitated billions of dollars' worth of transactions through accounts controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Qods Force (IRGC-QF). It has allowed the IRGC-QF and its parent organization, the IRGC, to move funds inside and outside of Iran. The IRGC-QF's accounts at Bank Melli have also been used to fund Iranian-aligned proxies and partners, including in Iraq.
Hong Kong-based Kameng Trading Limited has aided sanctioned Iranian persons in accessing the international financial system. Sanctioned Iranian exchange house Pedram Pirouzan Exchange House, also known as Opal Exchange, has used Kameng Trading Limited to launder money for Iran. Pedram Pirouzan Exchange House was designated pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.
Reza Mohammad Taeedi is being designated pursuant to E.O. 13224, as amended, a counterterrorism authority, for having acted or purported to act for or on behalf of, directly or indirectly, Bank Melli. OFAC is designating Kameng Trading Limited pursuant to E.O. 13902 for operating in the financial sector of the Iranian economy.
OPERATION ECONOMIC OUTCAST IS ISOLATING THE IRANIAN REGIME
Announced by Secretary Bessent on August 24, 2026, Operation Economic Outcast is severing the remaining financial lifelines that sustain the Iranian regime. Treasury has mapped the networks, facilitators, and financial channels that Iran uses to smuggle oil, evade sanctions, and fund terror. Working with partners across the U.S. government, along with our allies, Treasury is targeting any source of the regime's illicit revenue.
Operation Economic Outcast significantly expanded sanctions risk for those who continue to choose to do business with Iran. Treasury warned that any entity facilitating money laundering or sanctions evasion on behalf of Iran will be cut off from the U.S. financial system. It also expands secondary sanctions exposure for those who continue doing business with the Iranian regime and will accelerate the pace of U.S. enforcement. More information on Operation Economic Outcast is available here.
IMPLICATIONS OF TODAY'S FINCEN ACTION AND NEXT STEPS
FinCEN today issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) finding that Banque Misr in the United Arab Emirates is a financial institution operating outside the United States of primary money laundering concern. In the NPRM, FinCEN proposes, pursuant to section 311 of the USA PATRIOT Act, prohibiting U.S. financial institutions from opening or maintaining a correspondent account for, or on behalf of, Banque Misr UAE.
The rule would also require U.S. financial institutions to take reasonable steps not to process a transaction for a correspondent account in the United States of a foreign banking institution if such a transaction involves Banque Misr UAE and to apply to their foreign correspondent accounts special due diligence that is reasonably designed to guard against their use to process transactions involving Banque Misr UAE. This finding and the accompanying proposed special measure apply only to Banque Misr UAE, as defined in the NPRM, and not to Banque Misr operations in any other country.
The text of FinCEN's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking can be found here. The public comment period will close 30 days after the NPRM is published on the Federal Register.
For questions about this NPRM, please contact FinCEN at http://www.fincen.gov/contact.
SANCTIONS IMPLICATIONS
As a result of today's action, all property and interests in property of the designated or blocked persons described above that are in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. In addition, any entities that are owned, directly or indirectly, individually or in the aggregate, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. Unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC, or exempt, OFAC's regulations generally prohibit all transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of blocked persons.
Violations of U.S. sanctions may result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties on U.S. and foreign persons. OFAC may impose civil penalties for sanctions violations on a strict liability basis. OFAC's Economic Sanctions Enforcement Guidelines provide more information regarding OFAC's enforcement of U.S. economic sanctions. The prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any designated or blocked person, or the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person. Non-U.S. persons are also prohibited from causing or conspiring to cause U.S. persons to wittingly or unwittingly violate U.S. sanctions, as well as engaging in conduct that evades U.S. sanctions. Individuals located in the U.S. or abroad who provide information about sanctions violations to FinCEN's whistleblower incentive program may be eligible for awards if the information they provide leads to a successful enforcement action that results in monetary penalties exceeding $1,000,000. In addition, financial institutions and other persons may risk exposure to sanctions for engaging in certain transactions or activities with designated or otherwise blocked persons.
Furthermore, engaging in certain transactions involving the persons designated today may risk the imposition of secondary sanctions on participating foreign financial institutions. OFAC can prohibit or impose strict conditions on opening or maintaining, in the United States, a correspondent account or a payable-through account of a foreign financial institution that knowingly conducts or facilitates any significant transaction on behalf of a person who is designated pursuant to the relevant authority.
The power and integrity of OFAC sanctions derive not only from OFAC's ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (SDN List), but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from an OFAC list, including the SDN List, or to submit a request, please refer to OFAC's guidance on Filing a Petition for Removal from an OFAC List.
Click here for more information on the persons designated today (https://ofac.treasury.gov/recent-actions/20260828).
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Original text here: https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/sb0617/
President Trump Issues Proclamation on Establishing U.S. Space Academy
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- President Trump issued the following proclamation on Aug. 28, 2026:
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Establishing the United States Space Academy
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose and Policy. Space is a critical domain for American national security, economic growth, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. American superiority in space depends on the strength, skill, and character of those who explore, secure, and build the industries critical to it. To continue to lead ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- President Trump issued the following proclamation on Aug. 28, 2026: * * * Establishing the United States Space Academy By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered: Section 1. Purpose and Policy. Space is a critical domain for American national security, economic growth, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. American superiority in space depends on the strength, skill, and character of those who explore, secure, and build the industries critical to it. To continue to leadthe world in space exploration and technology, while securing and defending our national interests in space, the Nation must prepare the next generation of astronauts, scientists, engineers, operators, entrepreneurs, civil servants, and warfighters and ensure that they are capable of advancing American interests in space. Achieving this goal requires us to recruit, train, and retain America's best and brightest from across the Nation.
Therefore, it is my Administration's policy to strengthen the Nation's space workforce by expanding opportunities to educate and develop the next generation of leaders across the space domain.
Sec. 2. Establishment and Composition of the Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy. (a) There is hereby established the Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy (Commission). The Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) shall serve as Chair of the Commission. The Assistant to the President for Science and Technology (APST) and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy (APEP) shall serve as Vice Chairs of the Commission. The Deputy Administrator of NASA shall serve as Executive Director.
(b) In addition to the Chair, Vice Chairs, and Executive Director, the Commission shall include the following officials or their designees:
(i) the Secretary of War;
(ii) the Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff;
(iii) the Director of the Office of Management and Budget;
(iv) the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs;
(v) the Secretary of the Air Force; and
(vi) other full-time or permanent part-time employees of the Federal Government invited to join the Commission, at the discretion of the Chair, in consultation with the Vice Chairs.
Sec. 3. Duties. (a) The Commission shall advise and assist the President regarding proposals to establish the United States Space Academy (Space Academy), a proposed NASA-led Federal academy dedicated to combining rigorous technical education with leadership development, discipline, and a durable commitment to public service. The Space Academy will develop a professional corps of civically grounded leaders prepared to advance American interests within the space domain.
(b) Within 120 days of the date of this order, the Commission shall submit to the President through the APST and the APEP a report proposing key details for the establishment of the Space Academy. The report shall include recommendations regarding:
(i) a governance framework for the Space Academy, including the appropriate organizational structure, authorities, accreditations, and relationships among relevant executive departments and agencies (agencies). Among the frameworks considered, the Commission shall evaluate the option of establishing the Space Academy within NASA, including actions necessary to implement such a structure;
(ii) an academic and leadership curriculum, including recommendations for degree programs, experiential training, and development programs;
(iii) service obligations for graduates, including service in the Armed Forces and civilian Federal service and the conditions under which such obligations should be fulfilled;
(iv) prerequisites for applicants, including citizenship status, security clearances, and government employment or military status;
(v) the process for selection of the permanent physical location of the Space Academy appropriate for the chosen governance framework;
(vi) administrative actions that may be taken under existing legal authorities to advance the objectives of establishing a Space Academy, including opportunities for pilot programs, partnerships, and other preparatory initiatives;
(vii) legislative actions necessary to implement the Commission's recommendations;
(viii) coordination with existing Federal education programs, partnerships, and agreements; and
(ix) an implementation strategy for the establishment of the Space Academy, including timelines, sequencing of administrative and legislative actions, and opportunities to use existing Federal authorities and programs.
(c) The Chair may establish working groups composed of representatives from agencies, as necessary to support the Commission. Such working groups may consult with experts from academia and industry, and with other stakeholders, as necessary to support the work of the Commission. Any such working groups shall report directly to the Commission, and the Commission shall deliberate on any working-group recommendations before it may adopt them.
(d) Following approval by the President, and any necessary legislative action, the Administrator of NASA shall, in coordination with the heads of relevant agencies, implement the approved recommendations of the Commission, consistent with applicable law and available fiscal resources.
Sec. 4. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
(d) The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
DONALD J. TRUMP
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Original text here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/establishing-the-united-states-space-academy/
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Establishing the United States Space Academy
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose and Policy. Space is a critical domain for American national security, economic growth, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. American superiority in space depends on the strength, skill, and character of those who explore, secure, and build the industries critical to it. To continue to lead ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- President Trump issued the following proclamation on Aug. 28, 2026: * * * Establishing the United States Space Academy By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered: Section 1. Purpose and Policy. Space is a critical domain for American national security, economic growth, scientific discovery, and technological innovation. American superiority in space depends on the strength, skill, and character of those who explore, secure, and build the industries critical to it. To continue to leadthe world in space exploration and technology, while securing and defending our national interests in space, the Nation must prepare the next generation of astronauts, scientists, engineers, operators, entrepreneurs, civil servants, and warfighters and ensure that they are capable of advancing American interests in space. Achieving this goal requires us to recruit, train, and retain America's best and brightest from across the Nation.
Therefore, it is my Administration's policy to strengthen the Nation's space workforce by expanding opportunities to educate and develop the next generation of leaders across the space domain.
Sec. 2. Establishment and Composition of the Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy. (a) There is hereby established the Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy (Commission). The Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) shall serve as Chair of the Commission. The Assistant to the President for Science and Technology (APST) and the Assistant to the President for Economic Policy (APEP) shall serve as Vice Chairs of the Commission. The Deputy Administrator of NASA shall serve as Executive Director.
(b) In addition to the Chair, Vice Chairs, and Executive Director, the Commission shall include the following officials or their designees:
(i) the Secretary of War;
(ii) the Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff;
(iii) the Director of the Office of Management and Budget;
(iv) the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs;
(v) the Secretary of the Air Force; and
(vi) other full-time or permanent part-time employees of the Federal Government invited to join the Commission, at the discretion of the Chair, in consultation with the Vice Chairs.
Sec. 3. Duties. (a) The Commission shall advise and assist the President regarding proposals to establish the United States Space Academy (Space Academy), a proposed NASA-led Federal academy dedicated to combining rigorous technical education with leadership development, discipline, and a durable commitment to public service. The Space Academy will develop a professional corps of civically grounded leaders prepared to advance American interests within the space domain.
(b) Within 120 days of the date of this order, the Commission shall submit to the President through the APST and the APEP a report proposing key details for the establishment of the Space Academy. The report shall include recommendations regarding:
(i) a governance framework for the Space Academy, including the appropriate organizational structure, authorities, accreditations, and relationships among relevant executive departments and agencies (agencies). Among the frameworks considered, the Commission shall evaluate the option of establishing the Space Academy within NASA, including actions necessary to implement such a structure;
(ii) an academic and leadership curriculum, including recommendations for degree programs, experiential training, and development programs;
(iii) service obligations for graduates, including service in the Armed Forces and civilian Federal service and the conditions under which such obligations should be fulfilled;
(iv) prerequisites for applicants, including citizenship status, security clearances, and government employment or military status;
(v) the process for selection of the permanent physical location of the Space Academy appropriate for the chosen governance framework;
(vi) administrative actions that may be taken under existing legal authorities to advance the objectives of establishing a Space Academy, including opportunities for pilot programs, partnerships, and other preparatory initiatives;
(vii) legislative actions necessary to implement the Commission's recommendations;
(viii) coordination with existing Federal education programs, partnerships, and agreements; and
(ix) an implementation strategy for the establishment of the Space Academy, including timelines, sequencing of administrative and legislative actions, and opportunities to use existing Federal authorities and programs.
(c) The Chair may establish working groups composed of representatives from agencies, as necessary to support the Commission. Such working groups may consult with experts from academia and industry, and with other stakeholders, as necessary to support the work of the Commission. Any such working groups shall report directly to the Commission, and the Commission shall deliberate on any working-group recommendations before it may adopt them.
(d) Following approval by the President, and any necessary legislative action, the Administrator of NASA shall, in coordination with the heads of relevant agencies, implement the approved recommendations of the Commission, consistent with applicable law and available fiscal resources.
Sec. 4. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
(d) The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
DONALD J. TRUMP
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Original text here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/establishing-the-united-states-space-academy/
President Trump Issues Executive Order Honoring American History of Great Lakes and Renaming Lake Ontario as Lake America
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- President Trump issued the following executive order on Aug. 27, 2026:
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HONORING THE AMERICAN HISTORY OF THE GREAT LAKES AND RENAMING LAKE ONTARIO AS LAKE AMERICA
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose and Policy. As I announced in Executive Order 14172 of January 20, 2025 (Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness), it is the policy of my Administration to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the American people and the rich heritage of our ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- President Trump issued the following executive order on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * HONORING THE AMERICAN HISTORY OF THE GREAT LAKES AND RENAMING LAKE ONTARIO AS LAKE AMERICA By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered: Section 1. Purpose and Policy. As I announced in Executive Order 14172 of January 20, 2025 (Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness), it is the policy of my Administration to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the American people and the rich heritage of ourhistory by naming great natural landmarks for our shared achievements. The United States is the greatest protector of the Great Lakes, including the body of water currently known as Lake Ontario. Without the security and investment provided by the United States, this freshwater system would not be open for shipping, recreation, and responsible use to the same extent as it is today. The United States Coast Guard supplies 9 of the 11 ice breaking vessels on the Great Lakes, securing commercial shipping lanes free of charge. The United States has invested nearly $4 billion in protecting the Great Lakes freshwater ecosystem in the last decade, while Canada has invested far less in similar initiatives over the same period.
Sec. 2. Lake America. (a) The body of water currently known as Lake Ontario is a tremendous asset to the United States and part of our Nation's heritage. With the deepest parts of the Lake's waters lying within United States territory, the United States claims most of the Lake's volume. The Lake has long been an integral asset to American exploration, settlement, commerce, and defense. From the colonial period through the early republic, the Lake served as a critical artery for American trade, commerce, and military logistics, including the establishment in Oswego of a historic fort and the first United States port of call from the St. Lawrence Seaway, shipbuilding and naval operations during the War of 1812 at Sackets Harbor and other New York posts, and the movement of goods, settlers, and later industrial cargoes that linked the interior of the United States to eastern markets and the Atlantic. Maritime commerce on the broader Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway system -- of which the Lake is the easternmost and gateway segment -- continues to generate substantial economic activity for the United States, supporting hundreds of thousands of American jobs and billions of dollars in annual economic output, cargo value, and related business revenue, with our ports, carriers, and States deriving a significant share of the system's benefits in iron ore, limestone, coal, agricultural products, and other bulk commodities. Water from the Lake is used to supply nuclear, natural gas, and oil-fired power plants and to supply municipal drinking water to nearby communities. United States domestic and cross-border shipping activity on the Great Lakes system has historically underpinned regional manufacturing, steel production, agriculture, and energy supply chains in several States, reflecting the strategic and economic importance of these waters to the United States that continues to this day. The Lake will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping America's future and the global economy. In recognition of this flourishing economic resource and its critical importance to our Nation's economy and its people, I am directing that the Lake officially be renamed as Lake America.
(b) Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) shall, in coordination with the Board on Geographic Names and consistent with 43 U.S.C. 364 through 364f, take all appropriate actions to rename as "Lake America" the body of water currently named as Lake Ontario, bounded on the south and east by the State of New York, and on the north, west, and southwest by the Canadian province of Ontario. The Secretary, conjointly with the Board on Geographic Names, shall subsequently update the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) to reflect the renaming of the Lake and remove all references to Lake Ontario from the GNIS, consistent with applicable law. The Board on Geographic Names shall provide guidance to ensure all Federal Government references to Lake Ontario, including on executive department and agency maps, contracts, and other documents and communications, shall reflect its renaming.
Sec. 3. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
(d) The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of the Interior.
DONALD J. TRUMP
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Original text here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/honoring-the-american-history-of-the-great-lakes-and-renaming-lake-ontario-as-lake-america-3a36/
* * *
HONORING THE AMERICAN HISTORY OF THE GREAT LAKES AND RENAMING LAKE ONTARIO AS LAKE AMERICA
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose and Policy. As I announced in Executive Order 14172 of January 20, 2025 (Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness), it is the policy of my Administration to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the American people and the rich heritage of our ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- President Trump issued the following executive order on Aug. 27, 2026: * * * HONORING THE AMERICAN HISTORY OF THE GREAT LAKES AND RENAMING LAKE ONTARIO AS LAKE AMERICA By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered: Section 1. Purpose and Policy. As I announced in Executive Order 14172 of January 20, 2025 (Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness), it is the policy of my Administration to recognize the extraordinary contributions of the American people and the rich heritage of ourhistory by naming great natural landmarks for our shared achievements. The United States is the greatest protector of the Great Lakes, including the body of water currently known as Lake Ontario. Without the security and investment provided by the United States, this freshwater system would not be open for shipping, recreation, and responsible use to the same extent as it is today. The United States Coast Guard supplies 9 of the 11 ice breaking vessels on the Great Lakes, securing commercial shipping lanes free of charge. The United States has invested nearly $4 billion in protecting the Great Lakes freshwater ecosystem in the last decade, while Canada has invested far less in similar initiatives over the same period.
Sec. 2. Lake America. (a) The body of water currently known as Lake Ontario is a tremendous asset to the United States and part of our Nation's heritage. With the deepest parts of the Lake's waters lying within United States territory, the United States claims most of the Lake's volume. The Lake has long been an integral asset to American exploration, settlement, commerce, and defense. From the colonial period through the early republic, the Lake served as a critical artery for American trade, commerce, and military logistics, including the establishment in Oswego of a historic fort and the first United States port of call from the St. Lawrence Seaway, shipbuilding and naval operations during the War of 1812 at Sackets Harbor and other New York posts, and the movement of goods, settlers, and later industrial cargoes that linked the interior of the United States to eastern markets and the Atlantic. Maritime commerce on the broader Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway system -- of which the Lake is the easternmost and gateway segment -- continues to generate substantial economic activity for the United States, supporting hundreds of thousands of American jobs and billions of dollars in annual economic output, cargo value, and related business revenue, with our ports, carriers, and States deriving a significant share of the system's benefits in iron ore, limestone, coal, agricultural products, and other bulk commodities. Water from the Lake is used to supply nuclear, natural gas, and oil-fired power plants and to supply municipal drinking water to nearby communities. United States domestic and cross-border shipping activity on the Great Lakes system has historically underpinned regional manufacturing, steel production, agriculture, and energy supply chains in several States, reflecting the strategic and economic importance of these waters to the United States that continues to this day. The Lake will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping America's future and the global economy. In recognition of this flourishing economic resource and its critical importance to our Nation's economy and its people, I am directing that the Lake officially be renamed as Lake America.
(b) Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) shall, in coordination with the Board on Geographic Names and consistent with 43 U.S.C. 364 through 364f, take all appropriate actions to rename as "Lake America" the body of water currently named as Lake Ontario, bounded on the south and east by the State of New York, and on the north, west, and southwest by the Canadian province of Ontario. The Secretary, conjointly with the Board on Geographic Names, shall subsequently update the Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) to reflect the renaming of the Lake and remove all references to Lake Ontario from the GNIS, consistent with applicable law. The Board on Geographic Names shall provide guidance to ensure all Federal Government references to Lake Ontario, including on executive department and agency maps, contracts, and other documents and communications, shall reflect its renaming.
Sec. 3. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
(d) The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of the Interior.
DONALD J. TRUMP
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Original text here: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/honoring-the-american-history-of-the-great-lakes-and-renaming-lake-ontario-as-lake-america-3a36/
Justice Department Files a Statement of Interest in Support of the Primary Aluminum Smelter Project in Inola, Oklahoma
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026:
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Justice Department Files a Statement of Interest in Support of the Primary Aluminum Smelter Project in Inola, Oklahoma
Yesterday, the Justice Department's Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) filed a statement of interest in a lawsuit brought by the Oklahoma Attorney General, expressing support for the construction of a primary aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma.
ENRD's filing concerns a case where the Oklahoma Attorney General has sued Century Aluminum Company and Aluminum ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026: * * * Justice Department Files a Statement of Interest in Support of the Primary Aluminum Smelter Project in Inola, Oklahoma Yesterday, the Justice Department's Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) filed a statement of interest in a lawsuit brought by the Oklahoma Attorney General, expressing support for the construction of a primary aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma. ENRD's filing concerns a case where the Oklahoma Attorney General has sued Century Aluminum Company and AluminumOklahoma, alleging environmental violations under state nuisance laws. Plaintiff's allegations concern the federal Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, which require environmental permits for the construction and operation of the primary aluminum smelter. Instead of allowing review of these environmental permits in the first instances, the Oklahoma Attorney General seeks to enjoin construction through this premature lawsuit, threatening vital materials critical to our nation's defense.
"This project advances national and economic security by reducing the country's reliance on foreign sources of materials critical to the national defense," said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. "The Department of Justice is committed to supporting military readiness and opposing litigation that subverts environmental regulatory processes established by Congress."
President Donald J. Trump's recently issued executive order Further Strengthening Actions Taken to Adjust Imports of Aluminum into the United States, recognizing that the quantities of aluminum imported into the United States threaten to impair our national security. Domestic production and supply of primary aluminum is imperative in producing an irreplaceable strategic material that is indispensable to our modern defense manufacturing. The Department of War requires primary aluminum for aerospace and air dominance, ground combat vehicles, naval systems, missiles, and space programs. However, the United States now represents less than 1 percent of the global primary aluminum production. As a result, China, the leading global producer of primary aluminum, has sought to leverage its position in primary aluminum production to gain advantage over the United States.
As outlined in ENRD's statement of interest, the primary aluminum smelter in Inola is the nearest-term solution in combating this national security risk. Once completed, the smelter would be the first constructed in the United States in over 40 years and would rank as the largest primary aluminum production facility in the United States, more than doubling the nation's output. The Department of Energy recently awarded $500 million in support of this project, recognizing its importance in increasing domestic production of primary aluminum while avoiding an estimated 75 percent of emissions from a traditional smelter. A delay in construction would place the United States at risk of foreign reliance and severely limits our ability to produce the armor, aircraft, and munitions required for national defense.
The Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act provide the appropriate mechanism to address environmental concerns raised by the Oklahoma Attorney General. In its filing, ENRD asked the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma to dismiss the lawsuit, which would otherwise stop construction of the primary aluminum smelter and threaten America's security by denying access to this critical material necessary for military readiness.
Attorneys with ENRD's Environmental Defense Section are handling this matter.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-files-statement-interest-support-primary-aluminum-smelter-project-inola
* * *
Justice Department Files a Statement of Interest in Support of the Primary Aluminum Smelter Project in Inola, Oklahoma
Yesterday, the Justice Department's Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) filed a statement of interest in a lawsuit brought by the Oklahoma Attorney General, expressing support for the construction of a primary aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma.
ENRD's filing concerns a case where the Oklahoma Attorney General has sued Century Aluminum Company and Aluminum ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of Justice issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026: * * * Justice Department Files a Statement of Interest in Support of the Primary Aluminum Smelter Project in Inola, Oklahoma Yesterday, the Justice Department's Energy and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) filed a statement of interest in a lawsuit brought by the Oklahoma Attorney General, expressing support for the construction of a primary aluminum smelter in Inola, Oklahoma. ENRD's filing concerns a case where the Oklahoma Attorney General has sued Century Aluminum Company and AluminumOklahoma, alleging environmental violations under state nuisance laws. Plaintiff's allegations concern the federal Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act, which require environmental permits for the construction and operation of the primary aluminum smelter. Instead of allowing review of these environmental permits in the first instances, the Oklahoma Attorney General seeks to enjoin construction through this premature lawsuit, threatening vital materials critical to our nation's defense.
"This project advances national and economic security by reducing the country's reliance on foreign sources of materials critical to the national defense," said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of ENRD. "The Department of Justice is committed to supporting military readiness and opposing litigation that subverts environmental regulatory processes established by Congress."
President Donald J. Trump's recently issued executive order Further Strengthening Actions Taken to Adjust Imports of Aluminum into the United States, recognizing that the quantities of aluminum imported into the United States threaten to impair our national security. Domestic production and supply of primary aluminum is imperative in producing an irreplaceable strategic material that is indispensable to our modern defense manufacturing. The Department of War requires primary aluminum for aerospace and air dominance, ground combat vehicles, naval systems, missiles, and space programs. However, the United States now represents less than 1 percent of the global primary aluminum production. As a result, China, the leading global producer of primary aluminum, has sought to leverage its position in primary aluminum production to gain advantage over the United States.
As outlined in ENRD's statement of interest, the primary aluminum smelter in Inola is the nearest-term solution in combating this national security risk. Once completed, the smelter would be the first constructed in the United States in over 40 years and would rank as the largest primary aluminum production facility in the United States, more than doubling the nation's output. The Department of Energy recently awarded $500 million in support of this project, recognizing its importance in increasing domestic production of primary aluminum while avoiding an estimated 75 percent of emissions from a traditional smelter. A delay in construction would place the United States at risk of foreign reliance and severely limits our ability to produce the armor, aircraft, and munitions required for national defense.
The Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act provide the appropriate mechanism to address environmental concerns raised by the Oklahoma Attorney General. In its filing, ENRD asked the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma to dismiss the lawsuit, which would otherwise stop construction of the primary aluminum smelter and threaten America's security by denying access to this critical material necessary for military readiness.
Attorneys with ENRD's Environmental Defense Section are handling this matter.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-files-statement-interest-support-primary-aluminum-smelter-project-inola
HUD Increases Flexibility and Lowers Barriers for Public Housing Repositioning
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026:
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HUD Increases Flexibility and Lowers Barriers for Public Housing Repositioning
Updated guidance provides more tools to keep housing safe, modern, and affordable
-
HUD today announced updates to its public housing demolition and disposition program to make it easier for public housing authorities (PHAs) to address distressed public housing and maintain affordable housing in their communities through redevelopment.
"Public housing should not be synonymous with ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026: * * * HUD Increases Flexibility and Lowers Barriers for Public Housing Repositioning Updated guidance provides more tools to keep housing safe, modern, and affordable - HUD today announced updates to its public housing demolition and disposition program to make it easier for public housing authorities (PHAs) to address distressed public housing and maintain affordable housing in their communities through redevelopment. "Public housing should not be synonymous withblighted or derelict buildings," said Secretary Turner. "With today's announcement, HUD is enhancing local housing authorities' ability to rehabilitate failing projects and breathe new life into their communities. Under President Trump's leadership, HUD is making public housing safe, serviceable, and better positioned to help residents transition to self-sufficiency."
Across the country, PHAs manage public housing properties with an estimated $170 billion capital-needs backlog and physical deficiencies. Families living in these projects are three times more likely to live in higher crime neighborhoods and four times more likely to live in higher concentrations of poverty.
HUD's updated guidance provides PHAs with more tools to keep their buildings safe, modern, and affordable through public-private partnerships that help demolish, sell, or reposition public housing. These tools will reposition public housing to the Section 8 platform where agencies can more readily leverage private capital to achieve affordable housing goals and reduce reliance on federal funds.
The updated guidelines focus on three main areas:
* Expanding the definition of obsolete buildings: Agencies can now redevelop, modernize, demolish, or sell buildings that have outdated design features.
* Fewer barriers for small agencies: PHAs with 75 or fewer units can now reposition all their properties at once and exit the public housing program with far less administrative paperwork and the option to consolidate with larger, nearby housing agencies.
* Relief for financially struggling properties: HUD has expanded which properties qualify for demolition and disposition, giving relief to agencies and owners managing "mixed-finance" properties and expanding the definition of scattered sites.
To learn more about these updates, visit www.hud.gov.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.hud.gov/news/hud-no-26-061
* * *
HUD Increases Flexibility and Lowers Barriers for Public Housing Repositioning
Updated guidance provides more tools to keep housing safe, modern, and affordable
-
HUD today announced updates to its public housing demolition and disposition program to make it easier for public housing authorities (PHAs) to address distressed public housing and maintain affordable housing in their communities through redevelopment.
"Public housing should not be synonymous with ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 -- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development issued the following news release on Aug. 28, 2026: * * * HUD Increases Flexibility and Lowers Barriers for Public Housing Repositioning Updated guidance provides more tools to keep housing safe, modern, and affordable - HUD today announced updates to its public housing demolition and disposition program to make it easier for public housing authorities (PHAs) to address distressed public housing and maintain affordable housing in their communities through redevelopment. "Public housing should not be synonymous withblighted or derelict buildings," said Secretary Turner. "With today's announcement, HUD is enhancing local housing authorities' ability to rehabilitate failing projects and breathe new life into their communities. Under President Trump's leadership, HUD is making public housing safe, serviceable, and better positioned to help residents transition to self-sufficiency."
Across the country, PHAs manage public housing properties with an estimated $170 billion capital-needs backlog and physical deficiencies. Families living in these projects are three times more likely to live in higher crime neighborhoods and four times more likely to live in higher concentrations of poverty.
HUD's updated guidance provides PHAs with more tools to keep their buildings safe, modern, and affordable through public-private partnerships that help demolish, sell, or reposition public housing. These tools will reposition public housing to the Section 8 platform where agencies can more readily leverage private capital to achieve affordable housing goals and reduce reliance on federal funds.
The updated guidelines focus on three main areas:
* Expanding the definition of obsolete buildings: Agencies can now redevelop, modernize, demolish, or sell buildings that have outdated design features.
* Fewer barriers for small agencies: PHAs with 75 or fewer units can now reposition all their properties at once and exit the public housing program with far less administrative paperwork and the option to consolidate with larger, nearby housing agencies.
* Relief for financially struggling properties: HUD has expanded which properties qualify for demolition and disposition, giving relief to agencies and owners managing "mixed-finance" properties and expanding the definition of scattered sites.
To learn more about these updates, visit www.hud.gov.
* * *
Original text here: https://www.hud.gov/news/hud-no-26-061
Education Dept. Issues Letter to Chief State School Officers, Superintendents on Compliance to Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 (TNSletter)-- The U.S. Department of Education issued the following letter to the chief state school officers and superintendents on the compliance to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act:
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Here is the text of the letter:
August 26, 2026
Dear Chief State School Officers and Superintendents:
We are writing you to provide the notification required by 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1232h(c)(5)(C). The U.S. Department of Education (Department) through its Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) is required to inform State educational agencies (SEAs) and local educational agencies ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 (TNSletter)-- The U.S. Department of Education issued the following letter to the chief state school officers and superintendents on the compliance to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act: * * * Here is the text of the letter: August 26, 2026 Dear Chief State School Officers and Superintendents: We are writing you to provide the notification required by 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1232h(c)(5)(C). The U.S. Department of Education (Department) through its Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) is required to inform State educational agencies (SEAs) and local educational agencies(LEAs), as recipients of funds under programs administered by the Department, of their obligations under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)1 and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA).2 Failure to comply with FERPA or PPRA can result in loss of Federal financial assistance.
FERPA protects the privacy interests and access rights of parents and students in education records maintained by educational agencies and institutions, or by parties acting for such agencies or institutions. PPRA affords parents and students with rights concerning specified marketing activities, the administration or distribution of certain surveys to students, the administration of certain physical examinations or screenings to students, and parental access to certain instructional materials, including ones used as part of a student's educational curriculum.
This letter serves as the cover letter to the Department's annual notification.3 In addition to notifying you of your legal obligations, we would also like to take this opportunity to point out several areas of concern identified over the last year. At Secretary McMahon's direction SPPO is taking proactive measures to address these issues, explained below.
Non-Compliance with PPRA. Based on the quantity of complaints filed with SPPO and various media reports we have reviewed, it appears that many LEAs are not in full, consistent compliance with PPRA. As explained in the Annual Notice to Superintendents,4 PPRA affords parents with specific notification and consent rights with regard to certain surveys or evaluations given to elementary and secondary students, as well as the administration of certain types of physical exams or screenings of students. PPRA also requires LEAs to work in collaboration with parents to develop and implement certain policies that address these matters. This includes affording parents the opportunity, upon request, to inspect instructional material, excluding academic tests or academic assessments, used by an LEA as part of the educational curriculum for a student.
Parental Consent. Under PPRA, parents must consent before students are required to submit to a survey, evaluation, or analysis that concerns one or more of the following eight protected areas if the survey is funded as part of a program administered by the Department:
1. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student's parent;
2. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family;
3. sex behavior or attitudes;
4. illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;
7. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student's parent; or,
8. income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program).
When an educator, counselor, or other school official administers a survey, evaluation, or analysis, students commonly feel obligated to participate. Because an authority figure is on the other side of the survey, evaluation, or analysis, students also rarely feel the need to ask a parent to review or approve it beforehand. As a result, administering such surveys, evaluations, or analyses effectively places students in the position of deciding on their own whether they feel compelled to participate. A student's decision can be shaped by peer pressure, fear of repercussions for not participating, a desire to please a favored teacher, or simply the authority a teacher or school official holds. Accordingly, any survey, evaluation, or analysis administered that addresses one or more of the eight protected areas listed above will be considered by this Office as "required," and therefore subject to PPRA's advance parental notification and written parental consent requirements.
Further, Federal law interprets "applicable program" as "any program for which the Secretary of Education has administrative responsibility."5 PPRA (and FERPA) are Spending Clause statutes enacted under the authority of Congress in Article I, Sec. 8 of the U.S. Constitution to spend funds to provide for the general welfare. With some limited exceptions, most public elementary and secondary schools receive Department funds, whether directly or through SEAs that distribute Department funds to LEAs. The PPRA parental consent requirements apply to surveys whether or not a specific survey is exclusively or directly administered with Department funds.
Therefore, in an effort to ensure parents are afforded their rights under PPRA, before administering a survey, evaluation, or analysis that solicits information relating to the eight protected areas listed in PPRA, a school must provide parents an opportunity to inspect and review the survey and provide written consent before their minor child participates in the survey. Please note the opt-out provisions in PPRA do not apply as a way of securing parental consent for student participation in such a survey.6
Inspection upon Parent Request. Under PPRA, LEAs are required to develop and adopt policies, in consultation with parents, to address the protection of student privacy and parents' rights under PPRA, including the opportunity to inspect surveys implicating the eight protected area before administration or distribution by an LEA of the surveys to a student; any instrument used by an LEA to collect personal information for the purpose of marketing or sale (or otherwise distributing such information for that purpose), before the instrument is administered or distributed to a student, with some exceptions; and instructional material, excluding academic tests or academic assessments, used by an LEA as part of the educational curriculum for a student. SPPO is concerned that many LEAs may be denying parents the opportunity to fully inspect requested curriculum.
Mental Health Screening. Because many mental health screening instruments, or professionals who utilize them require students to answer questions about their emotional wellbeing, internalized distress, social interactions, and other indicators of psychological or mental states or conditions, the Department considers these instruments to elicit information that falls within the "mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family," one of the categories protected under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA). As discussed above, under PPRA, any survey, analysis, or evaluation administered to students that seeks information in a protected category may not be administered without prior written parental consent. Accordingly, when educational agencies or institutions use behavioral health screeners that probe students' emotional or psychological states, they must ensure that written parental consent is obtained prior to administration, in alignment with Federal requirements and the Department's existing guidance.
Annual Notifications of Rights. Many LEAs are not effectively notifying parents,7 and where applicable, eligible students of their rights under PPRA and FERPA. While a school is not required to provide notice to parents individually, it is required to provide the notice by such means that are reasonably likely to inform parents of their rights. This could include publication in the school activities calendar, newsletter, student handbook, or prominently displayed on the school's website. A point of emphasis during our enforcement work this year will be ensuring that schools communicate these annual notifications clearly and effectively to parents. Please visit our Student Privacy website for more information, including sample notices and opt-out forms.8
Parental Right to Inspect and Review Education Records. Many LEAs may have policies and practices that conflict with the "inspect and review" provisions afforded to parents under FERPA. It appears that some of these practices occur at the direction, or at a minimum, with the tacit approval of their SEAs. After recent investigations revealed SEAs and LEAs engaging in such activities, we continue to be concerned about this matter. Many schools create "gender plans" for students and assert these plans are not "education records" under FERPA and therefore must be inaccessible to the parent.9 This Office has investigated policies instructing schools to keep "gender" related records in a separate file, distinct from a student's "official record," or otherwise not classified as education records under FERPA. As clarified in this Office's 2025 Dear Colleague Letter, FERPA requires that schools provide parents with the opportunity to "inspect and review" all education records of their child upon request. Additionally, under the current statutory and regulatory framework, FERPA does not distinguish between a student's "official record," "cumulative file," or "unofficial records." Rather, all information, with certain limited statutory exceptions, that is directly related to a student and maintained by an educational agency or institution is considered part of the student's education records which parents have the right to inspect and review.
Outsourcing Institutional Services or Functions. Most schools find it necessary to outsource institutional services or functions. This may involve disclosing personally identifiable information from students' education records to contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other third parties. School administrators should be aware of the "outsourcing" provisions in FERPA that stipulate the requirements for such arrangements. First, the third party to which information from student records is being provided must be performing an institutional service or function which the LEA would otherwise use employees. Second, the LEA must maintain "direct control" over the third party's use and maintenance of the education records.
And third, the LEA should make clear to the third party that they are subject to FERPA's requirements governing the use and redisclosure of personally identifiable information from education records.10 Otherwise, the LEA may only disclose to the third party properly designated "directory information" on those students whose parents have not opted out, unless parents and eligible students provide prior written consent for the disclosure.11
Use of Personal Devices and Online Educational Services/Mobile Apps in the Classroom. SPPO also regularly receives inquiries and complaints regarding the use of personal devices by teachers in the classroom and the use of web-based tools provided by a third-party to a school or school district that students (and/or their parents) access via the Internet and use as part of a school activity. FERPA does not currently address the issue of school officials or other individuals using personal devices, such as cell phones, to take pictures or videos of students, some of which are posted on social media. This is because FERPA does not protect the confidentiality of information in general but rather prohibits the improper disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in or derived from education records. However, school administrators may want to consult with their attorney to determine if there is a state law that addresses personal devices and to develop relevant policies to protect students consistent with (or in the absence of) applicable State laws.
Regarding the use of online educational services in the classroom, school officials should refer to SPPO's guidance on our website, "Protecting Student Privacy While Using Online Educational Services: Requirements and Best Practices."12 In general, student information may only be disclosed to an online educational service company in compliance with FERPA, specifically under the outsourcing provisions discussed above. If the disclosure of education records to the third party does not meet the requirements for outsourcing services, then the LEA may only disclose properly designated "directory information" to the third party, unless parents and eligible students provide prior written consent for the disclosure.
Military Recruiters. SPPO also administers the military recruiter provisions of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA),13 which contains certain requirements for LEAs that are the recipients of ESEA funds. These provisions, as well as the Department of War companion law,14 give military recruiters the same access to secondary students as provided to postsecondary institutions or to prospective employers and require that schools provide student information to military recruiters, when requested, unless the parent has opted out of providing such information. The information schools are required to provide to military recruiters includes student names, addresses, electronic mailing addresses, and telephone listings.
Should you have any questions or need assistance regarding these matters, SPPO is available to assist you. We encourage you to submit your questions directly to our student privacy help desk or sign up for our monthly student privacy electronic newsletter by visiting the "Contact" tab.15
Thank you for the vital work you do every day to safeguard student privacy, empower parents, and create safe and effective learning environments for our students nationwide.
Sincerely,
Frank E. Miller Jr., Director, Student Privacy Policy Office Director, Office of Educational Technology
* * *
Original text and footnotes here: https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/sites/default/files/resource_document/file/SPPO%20Back%20to%20School%20DCL_August2026_Final508.pdf
News Release here: https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-reminds-schools-of-their-obligation-comply-parental-rights-law
* * *
Here is the text of the letter:
August 26, 2026
Dear Chief State School Officers and Superintendents:
We are writing you to provide the notification required by 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1232h(c)(5)(C). The U.S. Department of Education (Department) through its Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) is required to inform State educational agencies (SEAs) and local educational agencies ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 (TNSletter)-- The U.S. Department of Education issued the following letter to the chief state school officers and superintendents on the compliance to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act: * * * Here is the text of the letter: August 26, 2026 Dear Chief State School Officers and Superintendents: We are writing you to provide the notification required by 20 U.S.C. Sec. 1232h(c)(5)(C). The U.S. Department of Education (Department) through its Student Privacy Policy Office (SPPO) is required to inform State educational agencies (SEAs) and local educational agencies(LEAs), as recipients of funds under programs administered by the Department, of their obligations under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)1 and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA).2 Failure to comply with FERPA or PPRA can result in loss of Federal financial assistance.
FERPA protects the privacy interests and access rights of parents and students in education records maintained by educational agencies and institutions, or by parties acting for such agencies or institutions. PPRA affords parents and students with rights concerning specified marketing activities, the administration or distribution of certain surveys to students, the administration of certain physical examinations or screenings to students, and parental access to certain instructional materials, including ones used as part of a student's educational curriculum.
This letter serves as the cover letter to the Department's annual notification.3 In addition to notifying you of your legal obligations, we would also like to take this opportunity to point out several areas of concern identified over the last year. At Secretary McMahon's direction SPPO is taking proactive measures to address these issues, explained below.
Non-Compliance with PPRA. Based on the quantity of complaints filed with SPPO and various media reports we have reviewed, it appears that many LEAs are not in full, consistent compliance with PPRA. As explained in the Annual Notice to Superintendents,4 PPRA affords parents with specific notification and consent rights with regard to certain surveys or evaluations given to elementary and secondary students, as well as the administration of certain types of physical exams or screenings of students. PPRA also requires LEAs to work in collaboration with parents to develop and implement certain policies that address these matters. This includes affording parents the opportunity, upon request, to inspect instructional material, excluding academic tests or academic assessments, used by an LEA as part of the educational curriculum for a student.
Parental Consent. Under PPRA, parents must consent before students are required to submit to a survey, evaluation, or analysis that concerns one or more of the following eight protected areas if the survey is funded as part of a program administered by the Department:
1. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student's parent;
2. mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family;
3. sex behavior or attitudes;
4. illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;
7. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student's parent; or,
8. income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program).
When an educator, counselor, or other school official administers a survey, evaluation, or analysis, students commonly feel obligated to participate. Because an authority figure is on the other side of the survey, evaluation, or analysis, students also rarely feel the need to ask a parent to review or approve it beforehand. As a result, administering such surveys, evaluations, or analyses effectively places students in the position of deciding on their own whether they feel compelled to participate. A student's decision can be shaped by peer pressure, fear of repercussions for not participating, a desire to please a favored teacher, or simply the authority a teacher or school official holds. Accordingly, any survey, evaluation, or analysis administered that addresses one or more of the eight protected areas listed above will be considered by this Office as "required," and therefore subject to PPRA's advance parental notification and written parental consent requirements.
Further, Federal law interprets "applicable program" as "any program for which the Secretary of Education has administrative responsibility."5 PPRA (and FERPA) are Spending Clause statutes enacted under the authority of Congress in Article I, Sec. 8 of the U.S. Constitution to spend funds to provide for the general welfare. With some limited exceptions, most public elementary and secondary schools receive Department funds, whether directly or through SEAs that distribute Department funds to LEAs. The PPRA parental consent requirements apply to surveys whether or not a specific survey is exclusively or directly administered with Department funds.
Therefore, in an effort to ensure parents are afforded their rights under PPRA, before administering a survey, evaluation, or analysis that solicits information relating to the eight protected areas listed in PPRA, a school must provide parents an opportunity to inspect and review the survey and provide written consent before their minor child participates in the survey. Please note the opt-out provisions in PPRA do not apply as a way of securing parental consent for student participation in such a survey.6
Inspection upon Parent Request. Under PPRA, LEAs are required to develop and adopt policies, in consultation with parents, to address the protection of student privacy and parents' rights under PPRA, including the opportunity to inspect surveys implicating the eight protected area before administration or distribution by an LEA of the surveys to a student; any instrument used by an LEA to collect personal information for the purpose of marketing or sale (or otherwise distributing such information for that purpose), before the instrument is administered or distributed to a student, with some exceptions; and instructional material, excluding academic tests or academic assessments, used by an LEA as part of the educational curriculum for a student. SPPO is concerned that many LEAs may be denying parents the opportunity to fully inspect requested curriculum.
Mental Health Screening. Because many mental health screening instruments, or professionals who utilize them require students to answer questions about their emotional wellbeing, internalized distress, social interactions, and other indicators of psychological or mental states or conditions, the Department considers these instruments to elicit information that falls within the "mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family," one of the categories protected under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA). As discussed above, under PPRA, any survey, analysis, or evaluation administered to students that seeks information in a protected category may not be administered without prior written parental consent. Accordingly, when educational agencies or institutions use behavioral health screeners that probe students' emotional or psychological states, they must ensure that written parental consent is obtained prior to administration, in alignment with Federal requirements and the Department's existing guidance.
Annual Notifications of Rights. Many LEAs are not effectively notifying parents,7 and where applicable, eligible students of their rights under PPRA and FERPA. While a school is not required to provide notice to parents individually, it is required to provide the notice by such means that are reasonably likely to inform parents of their rights. This could include publication in the school activities calendar, newsletter, student handbook, or prominently displayed on the school's website. A point of emphasis during our enforcement work this year will be ensuring that schools communicate these annual notifications clearly and effectively to parents. Please visit our Student Privacy website for more information, including sample notices and opt-out forms.8
Parental Right to Inspect and Review Education Records. Many LEAs may have policies and practices that conflict with the "inspect and review" provisions afforded to parents under FERPA. It appears that some of these practices occur at the direction, or at a minimum, with the tacit approval of their SEAs. After recent investigations revealed SEAs and LEAs engaging in such activities, we continue to be concerned about this matter. Many schools create "gender plans" for students and assert these plans are not "education records" under FERPA and therefore must be inaccessible to the parent.9 This Office has investigated policies instructing schools to keep "gender" related records in a separate file, distinct from a student's "official record," or otherwise not classified as education records under FERPA. As clarified in this Office's 2025 Dear Colleague Letter, FERPA requires that schools provide parents with the opportunity to "inspect and review" all education records of their child upon request. Additionally, under the current statutory and regulatory framework, FERPA does not distinguish between a student's "official record," "cumulative file," or "unofficial records." Rather, all information, with certain limited statutory exceptions, that is directly related to a student and maintained by an educational agency or institution is considered part of the student's education records which parents have the right to inspect and review.
Outsourcing Institutional Services or Functions. Most schools find it necessary to outsource institutional services or functions. This may involve disclosing personally identifiable information from students' education records to contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other third parties. School administrators should be aware of the "outsourcing" provisions in FERPA that stipulate the requirements for such arrangements. First, the third party to which information from student records is being provided must be performing an institutional service or function which the LEA would otherwise use employees. Second, the LEA must maintain "direct control" over the third party's use and maintenance of the education records.
And third, the LEA should make clear to the third party that they are subject to FERPA's requirements governing the use and redisclosure of personally identifiable information from education records.10 Otherwise, the LEA may only disclose to the third party properly designated "directory information" on those students whose parents have not opted out, unless parents and eligible students provide prior written consent for the disclosure.11
Use of Personal Devices and Online Educational Services/Mobile Apps in the Classroom. SPPO also regularly receives inquiries and complaints regarding the use of personal devices by teachers in the classroom and the use of web-based tools provided by a third-party to a school or school district that students (and/or their parents) access via the Internet and use as part of a school activity. FERPA does not currently address the issue of school officials or other individuals using personal devices, such as cell phones, to take pictures or videos of students, some of which are posted on social media. This is because FERPA does not protect the confidentiality of information in general but rather prohibits the improper disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in or derived from education records. However, school administrators may want to consult with their attorney to determine if there is a state law that addresses personal devices and to develop relevant policies to protect students consistent with (or in the absence of) applicable State laws.
Regarding the use of online educational services in the classroom, school officials should refer to SPPO's guidance on our website, "Protecting Student Privacy While Using Online Educational Services: Requirements and Best Practices."12 In general, student information may only be disclosed to an online educational service company in compliance with FERPA, specifically under the outsourcing provisions discussed above. If the disclosure of education records to the third party does not meet the requirements for outsourcing services, then the LEA may only disclose properly designated "directory information" to the third party, unless parents and eligible students provide prior written consent for the disclosure.
Military Recruiters. SPPO also administers the military recruiter provisions of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA),13 which contains certain requirements for LEAs that are the recipients of ESEA funds. These provisions, as well as the Department of War companion law,14 give military recruiters the same access to secondary students as provided to postsecondary institutions or to prospective employers and require that schools provide student information to military recruiters, when requested, unless the parent has opted out of providing such information. The information schools are required to provide to military recruiters includes student names, addresses, electronic mailing addresses, and telephone listings.
Should you have any questions or need assistance regarding these matters, SPPO is available to assist you. We encourage you to submit your questions directly to our student privacy help desk or sign up for our monthly student privacy electronic newsletter by visiting the "Contact" tab.15
Thank you for the vital work you do every day to safeguard student privacy, empower parents, and create safe and effective learning environments for our students nationwide.
Sincerely,
Frank E. Miller Jr., Director, Student Privacy Policy Office Director, Office of Educational Technology
* * *
Original text and footnotes here: https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/sites/default/files/resource_document/file/SPPO%20Back%20to%20School%20DCL_August2026_Final508.pdf
News Release here: https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-reminds-schools-of-their-obligation-comply-parental-rights-law