WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- A coalition 102 House Democrats has sent a public comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) urging the agency to withdraw its proposal to eliminate federal standards limiting greenhouse gas pollution from various vehicles. The letter expresses concern over the agency's potential departure from its core mission of protecting human health and the environment, citing the ramifications of rescinding long-standing vehicle pollution standards. The coalit  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Twenty researchers from The Ohio State University's Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science (TCORS) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing robust support for the agency's proposed tobacco product standard aimed at regulating nicotine yield in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The researchers assert that finalizing the rule could bring enormous public health benefits, including lives saved and chronic disease  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- A coalition of 33 mayors and local government leaders has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing their strong opposition to new proposed rules regarding the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The letter argues that the proposed changes would effectively weaponize the PSLF program as a tool of political retribution against local and state governments as well as nonprofit organizations. The coalition, which includes ma  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- A coalition of 36 public health law academics and practitioners has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expressing serious concerns regarding irregularities in the preparation for the upcoming Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meetings. The group asserts that procedural shortcomings could undermine the integrity of the committee's decision-making process. In their letter, the coalition emphasizes the ne  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- A coalition of 64 civil and human rights organizations has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) regarding the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. Published on August 18, 2025, the NPRM seeks to introduce changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program that the coalition argues could unjustly target organizations based on their viewpoints. The org  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- A coalition of 67 tobacco control and public health organizations submitted a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the proposed rulemaking on a Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products. The organizations are advocating for stringent regulations aimed at decreasing nicotine levels in cigarettes, which they argue is essential to combat the severe health risks posed by nicotine  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Seventy-three legal services organizations have expressed strong opposition to a proposed rule by the U.S. Department of Education that would impose new restrictions on the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. This public comment letter, submitted to Secretary Linda McMahon, contends that the changes threaten to undermine the program's foundational goals and jeopardize legal support for low-income individuals. The proposed rule seeks to redefine qualifying emp  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Eight scientists and experts in nicotine science, policy, and regulation submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding its Proposed Rule titled "Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products." The commenters cautioned that the FDA must take a careful approach in implementing the proposed standard to ensure its success in reducing sm  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- A coalition of nine law school deans has sent a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to proposed regulations that would modify the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The deans argue that these changes could hinder indebted students from pursuing careers in public service, potentially depriving the nation of dedicated professionals in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and government. The PSLF pro  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) advocating for advancements in payment policies for nutrition services under Medicare, specifically addressing the 2026 Physician Fee Schedule and related reforms. The Academy, which represents over 112,000 registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), emphasizes the critical role of nutrition in manag  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- AIR Distribution USA Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration concerning its proposed rule titled "Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products" (Docket No. FDA-2024-N-5471). The established manufacturer of waterpipe tobacco, known as shisha or hookah, is advocating for the exclusion of waterpipe tobacco from the scope of this proposed regulation. In the letter, AIR argue  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs expressing support for the rescission of Executive Order 11246 Implementing Regulations. This letter reflects ADF's advocacy for the rights of individuals to express their beliefs, particularly in the context of federal regulations that may conflict with religious convictions. In its letter submitted via regulations.gov,   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Alzheimer's Association and its advocacy affiliate, the Alzheimer's Impact Movement (AIM) have submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) urging the agency to adopt new policies regarding the care and management of Alzheimer's disease in light of an alarming increase in cases among older Americans. In their letter, the organizations highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive changes to the Calendar Year 2026 Physician   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The America First Legal Foundation (AFL), a nonprofit organization focused on promoting the rule of law, has submitted a public comment letter to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) at the U.S. Department of Labor. The letter expresses support for the proposed rule titled "Rescission of Executive Order 11246 Implementing Regulations." AFL contends that existing regulations foster systemic discrimination by allowing race- and sex-based employment pra  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American Academy of Pediatrics, American Lung Association, and American Thoracic Society have submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding its proposed rule aimed at reducing nicotine levels in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. The organizations expressed their support for the initiative but strongly recommend that the FDA broaden its scope to include all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and nicoti  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing support for a proposed tobacco product standard aimed at reducing the nicotine yield in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. This initiative targets the significant public health issues associated with nicotine addiction and tobacco use, which is linked to numerous types of cancer and recognized as the lead  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American Association for Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the agency's proposed rule aimed at establishing a tobacco product standard for nicotine yield in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The comments highlight concerns related to laboratory testing requirements crucial for regulatory enforcement and public health. A2LA, a nonprofit organization recognized for   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American Association of University Women (AAUW) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education advocating for the withdrawal of a proposed rule that could dramatically alter the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. AAUW highlights serious concerns about the impact of these changes on gender and racial equity, particularly for women and communities of color who are disproportionately affected by student debt. In its letter, AAUW asse  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing strong support for Docket No. FDA-2024-N-5471, which aims to establish a tobacco product standard for nicotine yield in cigarettes and certain combusted tobacco products. This initiative is seen as a pivotal move toward reducing tobacco addiction and its adverse effects on public health. C  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) submitted a public comment letter to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), voicing strong opposition to proposed changes to the General Duty Clause. The organization, which represents over 3,000 occupational medicine professionals, cautions that these changes could create serious loopholes and undermine safety standards across various industries. In its communication, ACOEM expres  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American College of Osteopathic Internists (ACOI) has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services regarding the proposed changes to the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule for 2026 (CMS-1832-P). The ACOI warned that the suggestions could undermine access to care for Medicare beneficiaries by penalizing practices already facing financial strain. The organization representing osteopathic internists raised concerns about a myriad of propos  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American Farm Bureau Federation (Farm Bureau) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) expressing strong support for the agency's proposal to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule. The organization, representing the interests of farmers and ranchers across the nation, emphasized the need for revising forest management practices as part of the agency's environmental impact statement (EIS) for the rule's revision.   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American Pharmacists Association Foundation has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services advocating for improved support for the prevention and management of chronic diseases in Medicare and Medicaid programs. The foundation, a nonprofit organization based in D.C., emphasizes the crucial role that pharmacists play in enhancing health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs for patients suffering from chronic conditions. Chron  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), addressing crucial issues related to vaccine access for patients during the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting scheduled for September 18-19, 2025. APhA represents over 340,000 pharmacists and is keen on ensuring that the vaccination needs of Americans are met throu  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The American Psychological Association (APA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing concerns over the proposed changes to the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program, particularly regarding the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. The letter, which was delivered as a response to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) published in the Federal Register, articulates apprehensions about how these changes could hin  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- American Public Health Association Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug (ATOD) Policy Committee has submitted a public comment letter supporting the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's proposed rule (FDA-2024-N-5471) aimed at reducing nicotine levels in combustible tobacco products, particularly cigarettes, to minimally or non-addictive levels. This evidence-based approach is viewed as a major public health intervention to tackle nicotine addiction. The ATOD Policy Committee  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Anchor Packaging, a privately held food contact packaging manufacturer based in St. Louis, has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice expressing concerns over recent state-level legislation that they argue will strain out-of-state economic dynamics. The company, which focuses on sustainable packaging solutions, has identified three areas of legislation affecting their operations: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs, Post-Consumer Recy  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Arizona Farm Bureau Federation has delivered a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service (USFS) expressing substantial input regarding the management of roadless areas on National Forest System lands. The organization represents farmers and ranchers across Arizona and emphasizes the importance of land management decisions being guided by local communities. In the letter, the Arizona Farm Bureau Federation noted the economic contributi  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Arizona State University Associate Professor Christos A. Makridis submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor urging the agency to rescind the regulations tied to Executive Order 11246. The letter argues that current labor market disparities are largely driven by differences in skills, experience, and individual choices rather than overt discrimination. The letter highlights the consensus in labor economics that variations in wage gaps and labor for  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Arkansas Advocates for Children & Families Education Policy Director Nicole Carey submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to a proposed rule that would amend the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, arguing it would impose limitations on which employers would be able to qualify. The writer stated that the PSLF program has enabled the organization to serve communities by employing public servants who ha  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Arnold Ventures has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expressing full support for the Administration's initiatives aimed at advancing site-neutral payment reform and enhancing hospital price transparency. The organization emphasizes these measures are vital for reducing healthcare costs and improving access for patients. Arnold Ventures, a philanthropy dedicated to investin  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing concerns over proposed amendments regarding employer eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The AAMC opposes changes that could negatively impact medical residents and physicians, asserting that these alterations may undermine trust in PSLF's long-term viability and contradict the original Congressional intent be  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Association of Clinical Research Organizations (ACRO) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing strong support for the new guidelines addressing the inclusion of pregnant and breastfeeding individuals in clinical trials. This initiative is part of the International Council for Harmonisation directive E21 and aims to generate more robust clinical data to inform treatment options for these often-overlooked population  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Autistic Self Advocacy Network has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing serious concerns regarding proposed changes to the regulations governing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. This program is vital for many public service workers and plays a significant role in ensuring that qualified professionals can contribute to essential services in governmental and nonprofit sectors. In the letter, the organizatio  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education opposing proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The Center argues that these amendments exceed the Department's authority, threaten the foundational principles of the program, and may destabilize the already fragile nonprofit workforce. The PSLF program, established by Congress in 2007, is designed to provide financial reli  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- BayCare Health System Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing concerns regarding the proposed changes to the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program, particularly how these changes may affect the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The healthcare organization, which operates as the largest not-for-profit health system in West Central Florida, emphasizes that modifications could severely impact its capacity   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Benton County Health Department has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urging the implementation of a proposed rule to establish tobacco product standards that lower the nicotine yield in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. Serving nearly 100,000 residents, the department emphasized their commitment to reducing tobacco-related harms in Corvallis and its surrounding commu  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), a diversified global BioPharma company, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding the agency's draft guidance titled "Development of Cancer Drugs for Use in Novel Combination-Determining the Contribution of the Individual Drugs' Effects." The letter outlines several recommendations and requests for clarification regarding the guidance that aims to refine the   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advocating for the establishment of a maximum nicotine level for cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. The department expressed appreciation for the FDA's request for public comments on its proposed product standard to reduce nicotine levels, stating that such a policy could signif  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation has submitted a public comment letter to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, expressing deep concerns regarding an upcoming meeting scheduled for September 2025. The organization advocates for improved access to care for individuals living with HIV and viral hepatitis, emphasizing that unscientific decision-making during the meeting could adversely affect  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Center for the Assessment of Tobacco Regulations (CAsToR) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advocating for the immediate implementation of a nicotine product standard for cigarettes and certain combusted tobacco products. In its communication dated September 5, 2025, CAsToR presented research findings indicating that establishing a limit on nicotine content could lead to signifi  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Center for Workplace Compliance (CWC) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) regarding proposed modifications to regulations under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The comments focus on the agency's intention to eliminate certain disability self-identification requirements for federal contractors, which the CWC believes are crucial for effective affirmative action and no  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Center for Workplace Compliance (CWC) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) expressing concerns over the agency's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding the rescission of Executive Order 11246 implementing regulations. This letter follows the agency's announcement on July 1, 2025, to amend the existing regulations under the Executive Order. The CWC, a leading nonprofit associati  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Center of the American Experiment has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice highlighting several energy policies in Minnesota that could have detrimental effects on the national economy and interstate commerce. The nonprofit organization, which focuses on policy research and advocacy, emphasized that these state-level energy regulations are likely to create market fragmentation and legal uncertainty. The letter identifies four specific p  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Child Neurology Society (CNS) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), expressing urgent concerns over declining childhood vaccination rates and their impact on pediatric health. As an organization representing over 2,500 physicians focused on neurological and developmental disorders in children, the CNS emphasizes the critical nature of vaccinations in preventing sev  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education opposing proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. CWLA, a coalition representing hundreds of child welfare agencies, asserts that the revisions threaten vital support for professionals dedicated to public service, particularly in the field of child welfare. In its letter, CWLA expressed concerns over the potential negative im  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Cigar Association of America Inc. (CAA) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) opposing the proposed tobacco product standard for nicotine yield, citing multiple reasons for its objection. The proposed rule is aimed at regulating nicotine levels in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. In its letter, the CAA argues that the proposed nicotine yield standard (NYTPS) is not applicable to cigars due to distinc  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) has voiced strong opposition to the U.S. Department of Education's (ED) Notice of Proposed Rulemaking concerning the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In a public comment letter, the organization articulates concerns that the proposed rule could be misused as a political tool against local and state governments as well as nonprofit organizations that do not align with the current administration's views. CHI  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Coalition of Independent Tobacco Manufacturers of America (CITMA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing strong reservations about the agency's proposed nicotine product standard for cigarettes and certain combustible tobacco products. The coalition represents small tobacco manufacturers and other stakeholders in the industry and outlined several potential challenges with   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition (CCDC) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education voicing strong opposition to proposed modifications to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. With a mission to empower the disability community, CCDC serves over 7,000 members advocating for social justice and equal access for individuals with disabilities. The letter expresses concern over the potential restrictions the proposed changes   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Connections Health Solutions has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) advocating for significant improvements to reimbursement policies that affect emergency crisis stabilization services. The organization, which operates crisis stabilization facilities across several states, emphasizes the urgent need for Medicare to revise its payment structure to adequately cover critical services that support individuals facing behavi  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Conservative Political Action Coalition Foundation Center for Regulatory Freedom (CRF) submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor regarding proposed changes to regulations under Executive Order 11246. The proposed rule, which aims to rescind the regulations implementing the order, was published in the Federal Register on July 1, 2025. The CRF, a non-profit organization focused on promoting common-sense perspectives in regulatory processes, emph  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Conservative Political Action Coalition Foundation has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) regarding a proposed rule titled "Modifications to the Regulations Implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act." This proposed regulation aims to bring DOL's implementation of the Rehabilitation Act into alignment with recent executive orders aimed at reforming diversity and inclusion initiatives within the federal government. The CPAC  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Cooperation Centre for Scientific Research Relative to Tobacco (CORESTA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration expressing concerns regarding the proposed tobacco product standard aiming to lower nicotine yields in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The letter follows a comprehensive study conducted over four years, which aimed to assess the feasibility of achieving the suggested  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations, New York (CAIR-NY) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to its proposed amendments regarding the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The organization raised significant concerns over a particular provision that disqualifies nonprofit employers engaged in activities deemed to have a "substantial illegal purpose." CAIR-NY argues that this vague standard  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Council on Foundations has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education regarding proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). The Council, a nonprofit membership association representing over 1,000 organizations, aims to ensure that philanthropic entities can continue attracting skilled workers who play vital roles in communities across the country. The organization voiced concerns about the Department's proposal t  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The District of Columbia Access to Justice Commission has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to a proposed rulemaking that could significantly impact the recruitment of attorneys for civil legal services. The proposal, published in the Federal Register on August 18, is seen as detrimental to the organization's ability to attract talent, which is essential in addressing the civil justice needs of low- and mod  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Dance/NYC, a service organization supporting over 6,000 individual dance artists and 1,700 dance entities in the metropolitan area, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The organization highlights the vital role the PSLF plays in the sustainability of nonprofit dance organizations, particularly amid ongoing financial challenges for a  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- ECPI University Chief Regulatory Officer Jeff Arthur submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education urging the agency to refine how it identifies and reports closed schools. The letter stated that the current use of the term is often misapplied to facilities that have been consolidated or no longer offer a program, creating confusion and potentially triggering loan forgiveness improperly. According to the writer, the Department currently lists near  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Empire State Energy Association Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding its proposed "Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products." ESEA, a trade association representing independent energy marketers in New York, expressed strong opposition to the regulations that threaten to heavily impact the state's economy and sup  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Equal Rights Advocates, a national nonprofit organization focused on promoting economic and educational opportunities for women and girls, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The organization's concerns center on a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that seeks to alter the eligibility criteria for the PSLF program, potentially imp  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Ethics and Public Policy Center Fellow Rachel N. Morrison submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) expressing support for three proposed rules that would rescind regulations related to federal contractors, arguing that the regulations are based on a revoked executive order and lack legal authority. The writer, a fellow at the center, stated that the proposed rules were issued in respons  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education in response to a proposed rule regarding the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program, specifically concerning the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The proposed rule aims to revise eligibility requirements for employers involved in activities deemed to have a substantial illegal purpose, which could potentially affect various organiza  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States (FEMA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in response to the agency's proposal to revoke 23 standards of identity for foods, including critical standards governing vanilla flavorings. Based in D.C., FEMA represents a wide network of flavor manufacturers and suppliers who advocate for the integrity of food flavoring  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Florida Association of Wholesale Distributors (FAWD) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing serious concerns regarding the agency's proposed rule, "Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products." This proposed regulation, published shortly before a prior administration left office, has been criticized for its hastene  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Florida Citrus Mutual has submitted a robust public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding the proposed revocation of multiple standards of identity for citrus products, specifically emphasizing the critical nature of certain regulations. As Florida's largest trade association representing the citrus industry, the organization highlights that the state's citrus sector plays an essential role in the economy  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Florida Citrus Processors Association (FCPA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding a proposal to revoke multiple citrus standards of identity (SOI). In its correspondence, the association expresses strong support for retaining specific standards that are deemed crucial for both consumer protection and industry practices in the orange juice sector. Established in 1937 and   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Florida Petroleum Marketers Association (FPMA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing strong opposition to the agency's proposed "Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products." The regulation is designed to restrict nicotine levels in tobacco products, a move the FPMA argues could devastate the state's economic land  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Georgia Legal Services Program (GLSP), a nonprofit law firm dedicated to providing civil legal services to low-income individuals in Georgia, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education urging the Secretary to withdraw proposed regulations that could jeopardize access to the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The proposed regulations, published in the Federal Register on August 18, 2025, have raised significant conc  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Global Connections to Employment (GCE), a nonprofit organization based in Pensacola, Florida, has expressed serious concerns regarding proposed modifications to regulations implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 in a public comment letter submitted to the U.S. Department of Labor. GCE urged the withdrawal of the proposed rule aimed at updating these regulations emphasizing the adverse impacts such changes could have on employment opportunities for indi  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Hispanic Federation has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education opposing newly proposed rules modifying the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The letter, issued in response to the agency's open comment period, expresses concerns that the changes may disrupt eligibility definitions for nonprofit organizations, which play a crucial role in providing essential services in many communities nationwide. The letter articulated tha  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- ICE Futures U.S. Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration expressing concern over the agency's proposal to revoke 23 standards of identity for foods, specifically targeting the standard for concentrated orange juice used in futures contracts. The organization, which operates a regulated marketplace for derivatives contracts and financial instruments, argues that the revocation could lead to  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Illinois Association of Wholesale Distributors has submitted a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration urging the agency to reconsider its proposed rule titled "Tobacco Product Standard for Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products." The rule, which seeks to impose a maximum nicotine content level of 0.70 milligrams per gram of tobacco, is projected to drastically reduce nicotine levels in cigarettes and other tobacco products   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Immunization Alliance for Equity and Access (IAEA) is calling on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) to maintain its recommendation for a universal hepatitis B birth dose vaccination in the United States. In a public comment letter submitted for the September 2025 meeting, the IAEA emphasized the importance of science-based policies that protect infants and the broader community from preventable diseases, notably hepatitis B. The organization high  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Independent Women has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor urging the rescission of affirmative action mandates established under Executive Order 11246. The organization advocates for policies that enhance individual freedom and opportunities rather than those based solely on identity categories. In its statement, Independent Women emphasized the burdensome nature of the existing framework, which has enforced identity-based hiring and promoti  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to the proposed regulatory changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The IFPTE, which represents approximately 90,000 employees across federal, state, and local governments, along with healthcare and nonprofit sectors, is voicing concerns over the implications of these chang  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Iowa Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association has submitted a public comment letter to the Federal Trade Commission urging a reduction in the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority's proposed $3 million budget for litigation expenses in 2026. The letter, citing concerns over fiscal responsibility, highlights the financial burden on horsemen forced to cover these spiraling costs. Since the implementation of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act, both th  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- ITG Brands LLC, a manufacturer and distributor of tobacco products, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urging the agency to withdraw its Proposed Rule on a nicotine product standard for cigarettes and certain combusted tobacco products. The Proposed Rule aims to set a maximum nicotine level in these products, which ITG argues is technically unachievable and economically devastating.   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Jobs to Move America (JMA) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to proposed amendments regarding the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The organization's national program director raised concerns about the implications of allowing political ideology to influence funding eligibility for certain nonprofit organizations. JMA emphasizes that the PSLF program has been instrumental in attracting talen  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Juice Products Association (JPA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing concerns regarding the agency's proposed rule to revoke 23 standards of identity for foods, specifically targeting canned orange juice. This proposed rule aims to eliminate several established standards, as the agency believes they are no longer necessary for consumer protection. In the letter, the JP  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Kennedy Forum and Shatterproof, two organizations dedicated to mental health and substance use disorder initiatives, have submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) urging the development of innovative cost measures focused on prevention and chronic disease management. The groups advocate for significant reforms to the payment policies under the Physician Fee Schedule to enhance the efficacy of mental health and substance  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Kentucky Petroleum Marketers Association (KPMA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing strong opposition to its proposed "Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products." The KPMA, which represents over 2,300 retail facilities in Kentucky, warns that the proposed rules could have dire economic consequences across vari  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Korean American Grocers & Retailers Organization International (KAGRO) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urging the agency not to finalize its proposed rule that restricts nicotine content in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. KAGRO contends that the measure, as currently written, would effectively ban more than 99.99% of conventional cigarettes and machine-made cigar  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Lallemand Specialties Inc., a global producer of microorganisms and their derivatives, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice urging the agency to address the burdens created by the inconsistent state regulations affecting the animal feed industry. The organization's letter emphasizes that the current patchwork of state feed laws significantly hinders interstate commerce and raises costs, ultimately harming markets and consumers nationwide  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor opposing the proposed rescission of regulations associated with Executive Order 11246, which ensures equal employment opportunity for federal contractors. The organization, established in 1963 at the request of President John F. Kennedy, argues that the proposed rule undermines essential civil rights protections for millions of workers employed by federal c  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- LeadingAge, an organization representing over 5,400 nonprofit aging services providers, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing its concerns about proposed regulations affecting the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. The organization advocates for policies that support the workforce in the aging services sector, emphasizing the importance of the PSLF program for attracting and retaining essential personnel. The or  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Louisiana Association of Wholesalers submitted a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing strong opposition to a proposed rule that would set a maximum nicotine content level for cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The commenter stated that the proposed nicotine cap represents an average reduction of over 90 percent in nicotine levels. The letter noted that to date, the FDA has only authorized two cigarette brands that m  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) has voiced concerns in a public comment letter to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, an agency of the U.S. Department of Labor, regarding proposed modifications to the regulations implementing Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. The council argues that these changes could negatively impact the employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities across the nation. The MDDC  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- MASSCreative has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing strong opposition to proposed amendments to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. These changes, as outlined in the recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, could have detrimental effects on the nonprofit workforce in Massachusetts and beyond. Founded in 2013, MASSCreative has worked tirelessly to engage artists and creatives in civic matters, advocating for a rob  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- METAvivor, a volunteer-led nonprofit organization, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) regarding the urgent need for enhanced availability of COVID-19 vaccines and other essential immunizations for vulnerable populations. The letter underscores the critical health concerns faced by individuals battling metastatic breast cancer (MBC) and the implications of declini  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education regarding proposed amendments to the regulations governing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The commission, which has been recognized by the Secretary of Education since 1952, represents over 500 accredited institutions and plays a crucial role in institutional accountability and consumer protection. In the letter addressed  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Mississippi Petroleum Marketers & Convenience Stores Association (MPMCSA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in response to the proposed "Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products." The organization, which advocates for businesses across multiple states involved in the manufacture, sale, and distribution of consumer goo  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Missouri Petroleum & Convenience Association (MPCA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing strong opposition to the agency's proposed rule regarding the nicotine yield of cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. The MPCA, a trade association representing various retailers and suppliers across Missouri, argues that the proposal, introduced without adequate c  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- MSPA Americas has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice urging federal intervention to address the burdens imposed by varying state definitions of "employee" for state unemployment tax (SUTA) purposes. The organization, representing the customer experience and merchandising industries, highlights that these discrepancies impose significant costs and challenges for businesses operating across state lines. The letter emphasizes that the regulator  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding the agency's proposed tobacco product standard aimed at regulating nicotine yield in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. The letter emphasizes the ongoing public health crisis posed by tobacco use, which claims an estimated 12,000 lives annually in New York City alone  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund Inc. (LDF) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education opposing a recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that seeks to introduce what they describe as unlawful changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The organization argues that the proposed rule, published on August 18, 2025, aims to significantly expand the Department's authority at the expense of borrowers and non-pro  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The National Animal Interest Alliance (NAIA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service regarding concerns over the management of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). NAIA, an organization engaged with CITES since 1997, argues that the treaty has strayed from its original purpose and requires urgent reform to ensure effective conservation. In its letter, NAIA highlighted that the   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing concerns regarding the proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The organization represents over 1,500 community health centers across the United States, which provide essential healthcare services to millions of Americans, particularly in underserved areas. NACHC's letter highlights the potential  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED), a trade association representing the $150 billion electrical distribution industry, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice regarding state laws on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). With over 600 members and more than 5,000 locations nationwide, NAED is calling attention to the potential adverse effects of these laws on the national economy and interstate commerce. The proli  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The National Association of Tobacco Outlets (NATO), a prominent retail trade association representing over 66,000 tobacco retailers across the country, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urging the withdrawal of a proposed rule intended to regulate nicotine levels in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The rule would introduce a maximum limit on nicotine yield, which NAT  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The National Disability Institute (NDI) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education opposing proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program under 34 CFR 685.219. The organization, which is dedicated to improving financial futures for individuals with disabilities, argues that the new rules will adversely affect disabled individuals working in the public service sector. In the letter, NDI highlighted that disabled indi  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA) has expressed deep concern over proposed revisions to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program issued by the U.S. Department of Education. The organization submitted a public comment letter detailing how the new language might restrict the qualifying employer status, particularly impacting legal services provided to low-income Americans. Established in 1911, NLADA is the largest nonprofit organization in the  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC), Sterling, Virginia, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meeting scheduled for September 18-19, 2025. The letter raises critical concerns about the universal recommendation for administering the hepatitis B vaccine to all newborns, regardless of maternal hepatitis B status, which it argues is not su  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- NATSO, representing America's Travel Plazas and Truckstops, and SIGMA: America's Leading Fuel Marketers have submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concerning the agency's proposed tobacco product standard aimed at limiting nicotine levels in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The associations are alarmed that the regulation could exacerbate the issue of illicit tobacco trade,   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Nebraska Grocery Industry Association has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration expressing strong opposition to a proposed rule that would set a maximum nicotine content level for various tobacco products. This rule, which aims to cap nicotine levels in cigarettes and certain combusted tobacco products at 0.70 milligrams per gram, would drastically reduce existing nicotine levels by approxima  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The New Civil Liberties Alliance (NCLA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) advocating for the rescission of regulations implementing Executive Order 11246. This proposed action, outlined in the letter dated September 17, emphasizes that these regulations have long placed burdensome compliance requirements on federal contractors without any statutory basis. NCLA's letter addresses   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The New England Convenience Store and Energy Marketers Association (NECSEMA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) addressing concerns over the agency's proposed tobacco product standard aimed at regulating nicotine yield of cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. With representation of more than 9,000 convenience stores across New England, NECSEMA argues that the new r  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The New York Legal Services Coalition (NYLSC), a statewide coalition representing 46 nonprofit civil legal service providers in New York, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education strongly opposing a proposed rule that could enact significant alterations to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The proposed changes, announced on August 18, 2025, have sparked concerns that they may contradict the program's intended purpose and   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Omeza LLC has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) addressing regulatory concerns surrounding its wound care product, OCM. The company emphasized the importance of clear guidelines that support the safe and effective use of its hydrolyzed fish peptide-based wound care matrix among healthcare professionals. In the letter, Omeza highlighted the product's benefits in managing various types of w  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease (PFID) has voiced serious concerns about the recent decisions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that they believe threaten the integrity and credibility of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). In a public comment letter submitted to the agency, PFID criticized the abrupt dismissal of CDC Director Susan Monarez, alongside the removal of ACIP me  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association (PFMA) has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) opposing the proposed rule titled "Tobacco Product Standard for Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products." This proposal seeks to impose a maximum nicotine level of 0.70 milligrams per gram of tobacco in various products, which the PFMA argues would lead to a dramatic reduction   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Pennsylvania Petroleum Association (PPA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing strong opposition to the agency's Proposed Rule concerning the nicotine yield of cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The PPA, which represents over 450 member companies involved in the sale and distribution of consumer packaged goods, including tobacco products across Pennsylvania,  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Physicians Foundation has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the proposed rule for the Calendar Year (CY) 2026 Physician Fee Schedule (PFS). Representing physicians across various specialties, the organization highlighted the importance of establishing effective payment policies that address the roots of chronic diseases and support whole-person care. In its correspondence, the Physicians Foundation expresse  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice emphasizing the detrimental impact of state laws on interstate commerce in the premium cigar industry. The PCA, which represents thousands of specialty tobacco retailers and manufacturers, is particularly troubled by California's proposed Unflavored Tobacco List (UTL) and the emerging "Generational Tobacco Ban" laws in Massachusetts and other states. The PCA highli  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) has formally urged the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to entirely exclude premium cigars from the proposed nicotine limits as outlined in its public comment letter. Representing over 3,000 retail members and approximately 300 associate cigar and pipe tobacco manufacturers, PCA argues that applying these standards to premium cigars ignores their unique consumption patterns and potential pu  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHAI), a legal research center specializing in public health law, has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) supporting the agency's proposed regulation that sets a maximum nicotine level for numerous combusted tobacco products. PHAI commends the measure as a promising initial step toward comprehensive nicotine regulation aimed at combating Tobacco Use Diso  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Public Health Institute (PHI) has expressed strong support for the proposed rule by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration concerning the Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products. The organization emphasizes the necessity of expanding this standard to cover e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and other recreational tobacco and nicotine products. In its public comment letter, PHI highlights the urgency of implem  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Public Health Law Center has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing support for a proposed rule that aims to limit the nicotine yield in combustible cigarettes and select other tobacco products. This rule is viewed as a vital measure to address nicotine addiction, a leading cause of preventable death in the United States. In its letter, the Center emphasizes the long-standing problem of nicotine dependence, noting   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Red Gold Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) addressing the need for a clear definition of "ultra-processed foods" (UPFs). The company, which sources tomatoes from family farms in Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan, emphasizes the importance of distinguishing its canned fruits and vegetables from products that may be inaccurately categorized as overly processed. In its letter, Red Gold  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Remote Monitoring Leadership Council has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) advocating for improvements in reimbursement policies concerning remote physiologic monitoring (RPM). The letter highlights RPM's potential in enhancing health outcomes and preventing costly hospitalizations, thus benefiting federal taxpayers. The Council, representing a group of innovative companies providing remote monitoring services acr  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education expressing grave concerns regarding a proposed rule that may adversely affect the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Founded in 1968, the organization aims to promote human rights and social justice while educating future leaders on these critical issues. The organization's letter emphasizes that the proposed rule could contradict the existing Higher Educ  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) supporting a proposed rule aimed at reducing nicotine levels in cigarettes and other combustible tobacco products. The RWJF urges the agency to further strengthen the proposed rule by including additional products like premium cigars, hookah, and heated tobacco products, while also emphasizing exemptions for  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Santa Fe Group has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing the proposed updates in the CY 2026 Physician Fee Schedule (PFS). This action-oriented think tank, dedicated to improving oral health and advocating for holistic healthcare, emphasized the importance of integrating oral health services within Medicare. In the letter, the Santa Fe Group lauded CMS for its historic advancements in Medical-Dental Integ  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Schlesinger Law Offices has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration advocating for a more rigorous nicotine yield standard in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The firm is requesting the FDA to lower the proposed limit of 0.7 milligrams of nicotine per gram of tobacco to 0.4 mg/g, emphasizing that this change would significantly benefit public health by reducing the risk of addiction  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Society of American Foresters (SAF) has articulated its concerns and recommendations regarding the recent proposed rule rescission related to the Roadless Rule in a public comment letter submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This letter highlights the organization's commitment to sustainable forest management and suggests a path forward for balancing conservation and access. In the letter delivered to the USDA, SAF, representing over 8,000 forestry   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Southeast Alaska Subsistence Regional Advisory Council has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service expressing serious reservations about the proposed Alaska Roadless Rule and its potential impacts on subsistence users in the region. The Council, which plays a crucial advisory role in matters related to the conservation and utilization of subsistence resources, outlined several issues it believes have been inadequately add  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Southern Tier Independence Center Inc. (STIC), a Binghamton, New York-based not-for-profit Center for Independent Living, has issued a public comment letter addressing proposed rule changes by the U.S. Department of Labor that would significantly alter existing regulations under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. STIC, which serves individuals with disabilities across a dozen counties in south-central New York and northeastern Pennsylvania, argues that the cha  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) advocating for the incorporation of exercise as a fundamental component of chronic disease prevention and management within Medicare and Medicaid programs. This initiative stems from recognition of the essential role that physical activity plays in improving health outcomes and reducing long-term healthcare costs. In its letter, SFI  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Susan G. Komen (Komen), a nonprofit breast cancer organization, has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing proposed changes in the calendar year 2026 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule. This letter comes as an initiative to advocate for improvements in breast cancer care and to ensure essential services are accessible without financial burdens. Komen represents millions diagnosed with breast cancer, focusing on   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Swisher International Inc. has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raising concerns about the agency's proposed rule regarding nicotine yield standards for cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. Swisher, a prominent manufacturer of cigars, has expressed apprehension that the proposed regulations could have a detrimental impact on its business, which is largely reliant on  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Texas Society of Health-System Pharmacy (TSHP) has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) emphasizing vital changes that could enhance patient care and streamline healthcare delivery in the proposed rule concerning the Physician Fee Schedule for Calendar Year 2026. The organization applauds the agency's initiatives to expand telehealth services and seeks further refinements that address regulatory barriers to patient acces  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Tobacco Associates Inc. has issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration requesting the withdrawal of the proposed Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Yield of Cigarettes and Certain Other Combusted Tobacco Products. The organization argues that the regulation would have dire consequences for American farmers and communities reliant on tobacco cultivation. According to the organization, the proposed nic  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Treatment Action Group (TAG) has submitted a public comment letter to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) advocating for the maintenance of the universal hepatitis B birth dose vaccination in the United States. The organization is calling on the committee to continue this crucial public health measure that has played an essential role in protecting infants and children from hepatitis B, a potentially severe viral infection. In the letter, TAG emphasiz  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Trust for America's Health (TFAH), a non-profit public health policy organization, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding its proposed rule to set a maximum nicotine yield standard for cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. TFAH expressed strong support for establishing a nicotine limit of 0.7 mg/g, which it claims would effectively reduce the addictiveness of these products. In the letter directed to th  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Truth Initiative, a national nonprofit public health organization, has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) urging enhancements to tobacco cessation coverage policies under Medicare and Medicaid. This call comes during CMS's major proposed rule addressing payment policies for chronic disease prevention and management. In its letter, Truth Initiative emphasizes the critical role that tobacco use plays in chronic diseases,  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Truth Initiative, a public health organization, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urging the agency to take immediate regulatory action on nicotine analog products that are increasingly entering the market. These products, derived from compounds structurally similar to nicotine, are being marketed without appropriate oversight, raising significant public health concerns. The letter  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Tzedek DC, an independent public interest center located at the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law in D.C., has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education opposing recent proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program regulations. The organization argues that these amendments could negatively impact student loan borrowers, particularly those dedicated to public service employment. In its letter, Tzedek DC highlighted the   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) expressed firm opposition to proposed amendments to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program in a public comment letter submitted to the U.S. Department of Education. The UUA, a central religious organization representing over 1,000 member congregations across the United States and D.C., highlighted significant concerns regarding the potential impact on its staff and religious professionals. In the letter addressed t  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- United Pacific Senior Director of Retail Strategy Hamid Rezaeepour has submitted a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration, expressing strong opposition to the agency's proposed rule to mandate very low nicotine levels in cigarettes. The senior director's comments were made on behalf of United Pacific, which operates over 675 locations and employs approximately 5,000 team members. The senior director argues that mandating very low nicotine levels would   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Universal Corp., a leading global leaf tobacco supplier based in Richmond, Virginia, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding its proposed rule to set maximum nicotine levels in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products. The rule, announced in January 2025, suggests capping nicotine content at 0.70 milligrams per gram of tobacco. In its letter, Universal expressed concer  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- University of North Carolina School of Medicine Associate Professor Justin Byron submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sharing data on misperceptions regarding very low nicotine content (VLNC) cigarettes and presenting findings on how these misperceptions can be corrected. The commenter stated that some people perceive VLNC cigarettes to be less harmful. A 2018 study found that a large per  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Volcker Alliance, a nonprofit organization founded by former Federal Reserve Chair Paul A. Volcker, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education opposing a proposed rule related to the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program. The organization urges the Department to reconsider the implications of this rule, which they argue undermines the mission of public service and the core intent of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing proposed rule changes under the CY 2026 Payment Policies. These changes aim to revise the Physician Fee Schedule and other policies impacting Medicare's Shared Savings Program and Prescription Drug Inflation Rebate Program. In their comments, the DOH emphasized the importance of focusing on chronic disease prevention by ta  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Wellcoaches Corp. has issued a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) urging the agency to adopt a more comprehensive approach to managing chronic diseases in the Medicare program. In the letter, Wellcoaches emphasizes the importance of integrating Health and Well-being Coaching (HWC) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) into the Medicare Chronic Care Management (CCM) ecosystem, highlighting their potential to improve patient outcomes.   more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Wellspan Heart and Vascular Institute Cardiologist Andrew Ertel submitted a public comment letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) addressing the proposed rule for the Hospital Outpatient Prospective Payment System (HOPPS), arguing for fair reimbursement for a vital patient-saving exam. The writer stated that coronary CTA (CCTA) has become an essential tool for evaluating chest pain and identifying coronary artery disease. The cardiologist noted th  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Wisconsin Association of Distributors Executive Director Dan Leaman submitted a public comment letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expressing firm opposition to a proposed rule that would set a maximum nicotine content level for cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products. The association stated that the proposed nicotine cap represents a reduction of approximately 92 to 95 percent in nicotine levels, which would effectively ban the majority of tobacco p  more

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20 -- Young Invincibles, a national nonprofit organization focused on improving economic opportunities for young adults, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Education regarding the recent notice of proposed rulemaking aimed at altering the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. The letter, dated September 17, expressed deep concerns about the potential harm these changes may inflict on student borrowers across the country. According to Young In  more