Public Comments on Proposed Federal Rules
Here's a look at public comments on proposed Federal Register rules
Featured Stories
Complete College America Endorses Educational Reforms to Enhance Student Success
Carter Struck
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Complete College America (CCA), Indianapolis, Indiana, has expressed support for the U.S. Department of Education's proposed supplemental priority and definitions on meaningful learning opportunities. The national nonprofit, dedicated to increasing college completion rates, addressed its public comment letter to Secretary Linda McMahon, emphasizing the importance of academic rigor and meaningful learning for all students, especially those historically underserved in postsecondary education.
In its communication, CCA highlighted the department's efforts to strengthen educational
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Complete College America (CCA), Indianapolis, Indiana, has expressed support for the U.S. Department of Education's proposed supplemental priority and definitions on meaningful learning opportunities. The national nonprofit, dedicated to increasing college completion rates, addressed its public comment letter to Secretary Linda McMahon, emphasizing the importance of academic rigor and meaningful learning for all students, especially those historically underserved in postsecondary education.
In its communication, CCA highlighted the department's efforts to strengthen educationalopportunities as essential for fostering student success and creating economic pathways through higher education. The organization, which comprises 53 members from 44 states and territories, draws on extensive collaborative experience to advocate for reforms that facilitate degree completion and workforce readiness.
CCA commended several key priorities outlined by the Department, particularly the focus on enhancing mathematics instruction. The organization shared insights from its research indicating that students perform better when enrolled in college-level courses supplemented with concurrent support, rather than facing lengthy prerequisite requirements. This evidence-based approach aligns with the department's aim to identify and support students struggling with foundational mathematics concepts.
In addition, CCA underscored the significance of structured educational pathways, referencing their own Guided Pathways to Success (GPS) framework. They pointed out successful implementations by institutions like Georgia State University and Florida State University, where clear learning outcomes and structured program maps have contributed to improved completion rates and reduced equity gaps. This structured approach, they argue, is essential for making meaningful learning attainable for all students.
The organization also endorsed leveraging innovative funding models, which tie financial support to student success outcomes rather than mere enrollment numbers. By doing so, institutions are incentivized to adopt effective practices that enhance student achievement.
Moreover, CCA elaborated on the integration of career-connected learning as a vital strategy in promoting student persistence and completion. They support initiatives that provide students with clear connections between their coursework and future career opportunities right from the start.
Completing their remarks, CCA reiterated its commitment to collaborating with educational institutions to implement high-quality interventions that will ultimately improve student outcomes. They asserted that meaningful learning is about equipping every student with the necessary structure, support, and guidance to successfully navigate their educational journeys.
Complete College America's advocacy and expertise position them as a valuable ally for the Department of Education as it seeks to enact reforms that advance educational equity and opportunity in higher education.
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The letter was signed by:
Yolanda Watson Spiva, Ph.D.
President
Complete College America
350 MASSACHUSETTS AVE, SUITE 300, INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46204
PHONE 317-829-0483
WWW.COMPLETECOLLEGE.ORG
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/ED-2025-OS-0680-0026
Chesapeake Bay Foundation Stresses Role of Parks in Connecting Public to Vital Natural Resources
Carter Struck
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), Annapolis, Maryland, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior National Park Service, advocating for enhanced visitor services across national parks, especially in the Chesapeake Bay area. With a mission to protect the ecological health of the Bay, the CBF emphasized the important role that these parks play in connecting residents and visitors to vital natural resources.
In their letter, the CBF underscored the need for increased accessibility and educational resources at National Park Service sites. Acknowledging
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), Annapolis, Maryland, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior National Park Service, advocating for enhanced visitor services across national parks, especially in the Chesapeake Bay area. With a mission to protect the ecological health of the Bay, the CBF emphasized the important role that these parks play in connecting residents and visitors to vital natural resources.
In their letter, the CBF underscored the need for increased accessibility and educational resources at National Park Service sites. Acknowledgingthat over 18 million individuals have personal ties to the Chesapeake Bay, the organization argued that the Service should recognize the historical significance of indigenous groups and other underrepresented communities through the creation of accessible exhibits that leverage assistive technologies. Strengthening partnerships with local non-profit organizations, such as Friends of Anacostia Park, was urged as a strategy to enhance visitor experiences.
The CBF pointed out that Friends of Anacostia Park exemplifies effective collaboration with the National Park Service. Active programs and summer initiatives led by the Friends Corps not only improve park maintenance but also enrich visitor engagement with intergenerational events. The CBF stated these partnerships should be leveraged to ensure the national parks align more closely with community needs.
Additionally, the CBF discussed the Chesapeake National Recreation Area Act, which has been presented in Congress. This legislation aims to designate both existing and new sites along the Bay to improve public access and preserve natural resources. Advocacy for this act is seen as crucial for bolstering ecotourism opportunities and enhancing visitor services throughout the region.
The CBF also highlighted the importance of outdoor education in fostering environmental stewardship among both adults and students. They noted the National Park Service's significant role in implementing outdoor learning programs that build critical skills in young people while promoting environmental awareness and engagement. The letter pointed out that since the 1987 Chesapeake Bay Agreement, educational initiatives have gained momentum, leading to increased exposure for hundreds of thousands of students and teachers to vital conservation messages.
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The letter was signed by:
Annabelle Harvey
Federal Policy Coordinator
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/NPS-2025-0037-3057
Center for Disability Inclusion Urges OFCCP to Maintain Disability Self-Identification, Utilization Goals Under Rehabilitation Act
Carter Struck
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Center for Disability Inclusion Inc., Boystown, Nebraska, has submitted a public comment letter to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) expressing concern over the proposed revisions to information collection requests related to the self-identification of disability and utilization goals under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The letter, submitted in response to a request published in the Federal Register, urges the agency to maintain these essential requirements.
CDI, an organization dedicated to fostering inclusive workplaces for
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Center for Disability Inclusion Inc., Boystown, Nebraska, has submitted a public comment letter to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) expressing concern over the proposed revisions to information collection requests related to the self-identification of disability and utilization goals under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The letter, submitted in response to a request published in the Federal Register, urges the agency to maintain these essential requirements.
CDI, an organization dedicated to fostering inclusive workplaces forindividuals with disabilities, highlights its 16-year history of partnership with businesses to enhance disability inclusion practices. The organization has evolved from serving a local audience to representing a global network, indicating a significant increase in the need for effective disability inclusion strategies in the workforce. The non-profit thus argues that maintaining the self-identification form is crucial for evaluating outreach and ensuring compliance with the law.
The organization asserted that the proposed revisions could increase burdens on contractors and lessen opportunities for individuals with disabilities, particularly as the unemployment rate for this demographic remains disproportionately high. CDI points to the positive impact that self-identification and utilization goals have had on employment rates, emphasizing that rescinding these measures could hinder progress toward equal opportunities.
CDI's letter cites past bipartisan support for the self-identification form, noting its role in facilitating increased reporting and transparency regarding the employment of individuals with disabilities. The organization underscores that this necessary data is vital for both businesses striving to improve inclusivity and for the federal government to measure the success of outreach efforts.
Moreover, the organization criticizes the OFCCP for not providing substantial justification for the proposed changes, which CDI claims could significantly harm both businesses and workers by introducing uncertainty and ambiguity into compliance processes. The advocacy group calls for maintaining existing frameworks, arguing that the self-identification process and utilization goals are crucial for ensuring accountability and benchmarking success in disability hiring practices.
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The letter was signed by:
Meaghan Walls
Chief Executive Officer
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/OFCCP-2025-0067-0015
BlueRibbon Coalition Urges National Park Service to Enhance Recreation Access
Carter Struck
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC), Pocatello, Idaho, has submitted a public comment letter to the National Park Service (NPS) addressing various opportunities for improving services on NPS lands and waters. The BRC emphasizes the need for increased recreational access while maintaining ecological balance across federally managed public lands.
In the letter, BRC advocates for the reopening of Rincon Road, which is highlighted as a historical route that has been closed for decades yet continues to be used informally by visitors. The organization argues that reopening this road would
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC), Pocatello, Idaho, has submitted a public comment letter to the National Park Service (NPS) addressing various opportunities for improving services on NPS lands and waters. The BRC emphasizes the need for increased recreational access while maintaining ecological balance across federally managed public lands.
In the letter, BRC advocates for the reopening of Rincon Road, which is highlighted as a historical route that has been closed for decades yet continues to be used informally by visitors. The organization argues that reopening this road wouldnot only improve access for recreational activities but also alleviate congestion at other access points to the lake's shoreline. BRC requests that the management plan for Glen Canyon National Recreation Area be amended to officially restore this important access corridor.
Additionally, BRC expresses concerns about the current ban on drone usage at Lake Powell. The organization contends that allowing responsible drone use could enhance visitor experiences for activities such as photography and mapping. They propose that regulations surrounding drone operation should be adjusted to include reasonable, site-specific limitations instead of an outright prohibition.
In their communication, BRC also raises issues at Valles Caldera National Preserve, where they criticize existing access policies that favor select user groups while limiting general public access. They call for an immediate revision of the management framework to restore equitable access for all visitors.
At Redwood National Park, the organization points out that certain "administrative use only" roads remain closed despite being suitable for public travel. BRC believes that opening these roads would provide additional recreational opportunities and lessen overcrowding in popular areas.
BRC practices broad advocacy as it also calls for updates to snowmobile management policies at Yellowstone National Park. They argue the need for re-evaluation, citing advancements in snowmobile technology that make current regulations outdated and restrictive. This call for change aims to align NPS policies with modern advancements and visitor demand.
Furthermore, BRC urges NPS to reconsider regulations limiting larger vessels at Lake Mead National Recreation Area and to facilitate local economic growth through enhanced boating opportunities. They assert that recreation access, including motorized routes, should be prioritized to generate economic benefits for surrounding communities.
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The letter was signed by:
Ben Burr
Executive Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
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Simone Griffin
Policy Director
BlueRibbon Coalition
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/NPS-2025-0037-6828
Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine Calls for New Regulatory Approach for AI Medical Devices
Carter Struck
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Association for Diagnostics and Laboratory Medicine (ADLM) has issued a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advocating for a robust regulatory framework aimed at managing medical devices that incorporate artificial intelligence (AI). The organization's communication emphasizes the importance of aligning quality assurance mechanisms in clinical laboratory testing with the evolving landscape of AI technologies.
ADLM highlighted that U.S. clinical laboratories provide billions of test results crucial for patient diagnosis and treatment each year.
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The Association for Diagnostics and Laboratory Medicine (ADLM) has issued a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advocating for a robust regulatory framework aimed at managing medical devices that incorporate artificial intelligence (AI). The organization's communication emphasizes the importance of aligning quality assurance mechanisms in clinical laboratory testing with the evolving landscape of AI technologies.
ADLM highlighted that U.S. clinical laboratories provide billions of test results crucial for patient diagnosis and treatment each year.The association expressed that these laboratories have established effective quality management systems ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results. Drawing parallels between the rigorous oversight of laboratory tests and potential frameworks for AI, ADLM suggested that valuable lessons could be drawn as the FDA develops its regulatory approach.
The letter elaborated on the necessity for AI tools that integrate with laboratory tests and potentially impact results to undergo stringent evaluations, akin to those currently mandated for laboratory tests under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). ADLM stressed that validation processes should focus on accuracy, reproducibility, and the establishment of clear reference intervals for AI technologies used in clinical settings.
In discussing the ongoing performance monitoring of laboratory tests, ADLM pointed out the importance of maintaining high standards through regular evaluations of quality control specimens. The organization proposed that AI tools also require monitoring to address shifts in performance over time and to mitigate risks to patient safety.
A specific recommendation was made regarding external quality assessments, where independent evaluation could be beneficial for AI tools that adapt and evolve, making traditional monitoring challenging. This systematic approach would ensure ongoing accuracy, paralleling the existing proficiency testing programs for laboratory performance.
The ADLM further called for the development of validation protocols for AI algorithms utilized within laboratory testing, emphasizing that all AI systems must adhere to established quality oversight frameworks. They noted that the complexity of AI presents challenges that must be addressed through defined guidelines and collaborations among clinical laboratorians and informatics professionals.
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The letter was signed by:
Paul J. Jannetto, Ph.D., DABCC, FAACC
President, ADLM
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FDA-2025-N-4203-0023
American Bus Association Calls for Improvements to Visitor Services in National Parks
Carter Struck
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Brandon Buchanan, director of regulatory affairs at the American Bus Association (ABA), has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior addressing potential improvements to visitor services within the National Park Service (NPS). The ABA, a national trade association representing the bus and tourism industries, emphasized the importance of enhancing access and visitor enjoyment in America's national parks, which are significant destinations for both domestic and international tourists.
In its letter, the ABA highlighted the substantial economic
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Brandon Buchanan, director of regulatory affairs at the American Bus Association (ABA), has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior addressing potential improvements to visitor services within the National Park Service (NPS). The ABA, a national trade association representing the bus and tourism industries, emphasized the importance of enhancing access and visitor enjoyment in America's national parks, which are significant destinations for both domestic and international tourists.
In its letter, the ABA highlighted the substantial economicimpact of the industry, citing that it generates over $100 billion annually and supports more than 500,000 jobs. The organization advocates for increased funding to maintain the national parks, as well as strategies to improve visitor services amidst growing demand and pressures on public lands. The letter calls for innovative solutions to the challenges posed by rising visitor numbers, infrastructure needs, and the impacts of extreme weather events.
One key recommendation from the ABA involves streamlining entry processes for group travel. The organization suggests removing barriers that hinder international visitors and making access more efficient for group tours. The ABA also expressed concerns over potential surcharges targeting foreign visitors, arguing that such measures could detract from the overall visitor experience and economically burden local communities that benefit from tourism.
The ABA notes that in 2023, visitors to U.S. national parks contributed over $26.4 billion to local economies, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs. The association contends that many international travelers consider national parks integral to their itineraries, and their spending is vital for the sustainability of small businesses in those areas.
Additionally, the organization pointed out the environmental advantages of motorcoach travel, which reduces congestion by minimizing the number of vehicles on the road. With each motorcoach potentially taking up to 50 cars off the streets, the ABA asserts that promoting group travel through increased bus parking and "bus-only" entrances could help alleviate congestion within national parks.
Furthermore, the ABA urged the NPS to streamline access points by consolidating various online portals for park entry and activity, thereby enhancing visitor experiences and ensuring easier access for all travelers. Simplifying these processes could prove beneficial, particularly for mobility-challenged visitors.
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, the ABA stresses the importance of showcasing the nation's public lands. By focusing on group travel incentives and improving infrastructure, the organization believes that national parks can continue to serve as vital natural destinations while enhancing the overall visitor experience.
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/NPS-2025-0037-6827
American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology Offers Feedback on Non-Opioid Analgesics Guidance
Carter Struck
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA), Rosemont, Illinois, has submitted a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the draft guidance on the "Development of Non-Opioid Analgesics for Chronic Pain." This letter highlights important considerations that the AANA believes should be addressed in the guidance to ensure effective chronic pain management.
The AANA, representing over 69,000 members who are Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs), emphasizes the crucial role
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA), Rosemont, Illinois, has submitted a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the draft guidance on the "Development of Non-Opioid Analgesics for Chronic Pain." This letter highlights important considerations that the AANA believes should be addressed in the guidance to ensure effective chronic pain management.
The AANA, representing over 69,000 members who are Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs), emphasizes the crucial rolethat CRNAs play in chronic pain management. The association asserts that CRNAs are highly trained and educated professionals who are well-equipped to integrate innovative non-opioid techniques and medications into patient treatment plans. Acknowledging the significant impact of chronic pain on millions of individuals, the AANA stresses the necessity of developing precise and effective treatment options as an alternative to opioid prescribing.
Amid concerns regarding the ongoing opioid crisis, the AANA notes a shift in pain management strategies toward non-opioid therapies. With the opioid crisis continuing to pose a pressing public health concern, the association believes the development of effective non-opioid analgesics is critical. The letter indicates that despite a decline in opioid prescriptions as a trend in healthcare, these drugs still remain prevalent for treating chronic pain. Therefore, it is vital for the FDA to prioritize the advancement of non-opioid alternatives.
The AANA proposes that studies evaluating non-opioid analgesics should focus on chronic pain, particularly advocating for a timeline that extends beyond 12 weeks to authentically represent long-term treatment experiences for patients. The association calls upon the agency to explore pragmatic clinical trial designs or methodologies in data collection that adequately capture adherence and patient outcomes over longer periods.
In addition to providing feedback on the guidance, the AANA expresses its commitment to serve as a resource for the FDA in future initiatives related to chronic pain management and non-opioid therapies. The organization asserts its readiness to collaborate, leveraging the expertise of the CRNA community in research, patient safety, and innovative pain management approaches.
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The letter was signed by:
Jeffrey E. Molter, MBA, MSN, CRNA
AANA President
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FDA-2025-D-0610-0105
Alaska Department of Natural Resources Urge Bureau of Land Management to Rescind Conservation and Landscape Health Rule
By Lin Andre Vitin
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Catherine Heroy, federal program manager at Alaska Department of Natural Resources, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management urging the department to proceed with the rescission of the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule. The state commended the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for reconsidering the policy, stating the 2024 Rule was incompatible with Alaska's legal, cultural, and land management framework. The state said the Rule contradicted the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) by elevating conservation
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- Catherine Heroy, federal program manager at Alaska Department of Natural Resources, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management urging the department to proceed with the rescission of the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule. The state commended the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for reconsidering the policy, stating the 2024 Rule was incompatible with Alaska's legal, cultural, and land management framework. The state said the Rule contradicted the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) by elevating conservationto the same level as other statutorily authorized multiple use activities.
The state has consistently opposed the Rule and maintains that the BLM lacks the authority to modify the Congressional framework set out in FLPMA. The state concurred with the agency's finding that conservation is a non-use, which conflicts with FLPMA's mandate to manage for multiple use and sustained yield. Furthermore, the state asserted that the 2024 Rule conflicted with the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), which prohibits the administrative designation of conservation lands in Alaska without Congressional action. The state contended that mitigation leases and alterations to Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs) proposed in the Rule served as quasi-withdrawals done without Congressional approval.
The department said the 2024 Rule was not a good fit for Alaska because of its vast public lands already managed under the unique ANILCA framework. The state warned that the rule threatened to negatively affect economic interests in forestry/timber management, infrastructure, access development, and resource uses. The BLM was told that the Rule's provisions, such as restoration and mitigation leases, could preclude or delay the transfer of millions of acres of pending statehood land entitlements. The state also pointed out that the 2024 Rule disregarded ANILCA's Title VIII subsistence systems, inserting unauthorized officers into an already complicated management regime without requiring consultation with subsistence managers.
The state supported the agency's proposal to rescind the 2024 Rule, noting that the Rule was also substantially similar to the "Planning 2.0" Rule previously nullified by Congress under the Congressional Review Act (CRA). The department concluded that returning land use policies to those outlined under FLPMA would allow federal, state, and local managers greater flexibility to manage resources and develop critical infrastructure. The state thanked the BLM for the reconsideration, stressing that it looks forward to cooperating to manage public lands in a sensible manner.
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/BLM-2025-0001-59070
AAAED Urges Labor Dept. to Maintain Disability Data Collection Requirements
Carter Struck
WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The American Association for Access, Equity and Diversity (AAAED) recently submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), expressing strong opposition to proposed changes regarding agency information collection activities related to disability data. The letter highlights concerns that these changes could undermine essential job protections for individuals with disabilities.
Founded in 1974, AAAED is committed to advocating for equal opportunities within the workforce, particularly for individuals
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WASHINGTON, Nov. 15 -- The American Association for Access, Equity and Diversity (AAAED) recently submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), expressing strong opposition to proposed changes regarding agency information collection activities related to disability data. The letter highlights concerns that these changes could undermine essential job protections for individuals with disabilities.
Founded in 1974, AAAED is committed to advocating for equal opportunities within the workforce, particularly for individualswith disabilities. The organization emphasizes its long-standing role in promoting access, inclusion, and equity in employment, educational opportunities, and economic empowerment. With half of its membership representing institutions of higher education, AAAED underscores the importance of affirmative action and the protection of policies that ensure equitable opportunity.
AAAED argues that the proposed revisions would adversely affect the implementation of Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which mandates nondiscrimination and affirmative action in employment for individuals with disabilities. The organization contends that the ability of federal contractors to invite applicants to self-identify as individuals with disabilities is critical for collecting necessary data to assess workforce representation accurately and to evaluate the effectiveness of compliance efforts.
The association noted that the current regulation requiring self-identification is not merely bureaucratic. It plays a foundational role in facilitating informed self-evaluation and progressive compliance among federal contractors. AAAED pointed out that without this data, both contractors and the agency risk losing valuable insights into the effectiveness of their compliance measures and outreach efforts.
The letter also addressed concerns over the burden assessment related to data collection, stating that contractors have already integrated necessary systems for this purpose, and eliminating these requirements would create a greater burden by disrupting existing protocols. Furthermore, AAAED acknowledged challenges with response rates but suggested that additional resources for outreach could significantly enhance participation while preserving state privacy for employees.
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The letter was signed by:
AAAED Board of Directors
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Read full text of letter here: https://www.regulations.gov/comment/OFCCP-2025-0067-0026
