Amendments to Definitions and Related Provisions Under the Randolph-Sheppard Vending Facility Program
Published Date: 1/10/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Department of Education is updating rules for the Randolph-Sheppard Vending Facility Program to clear up confusing definitions and keep the program up-to-date with new technology and customer needs. This affects federal agencies, states, and vendors who run these vending facilities, helping them work better together. Comments on these changes are open until March 11, 2025, so get your thoughts in before then!
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
What counts as an “article”
The Department proposes to define “articles” as tangible personal property you can touch and move. This means items sold under the Randolph‑Sheppard program must be physical goods (for example, souvenirs, cosmetics, phone chargers), clarifying what can be sold at vending facilities and in vending machines.
Broader, clearer vending facility rules
The rule would amend the definition of “vending facility” to say blind licensees may operate vending facilities under a permit or contract and adds examples (snack bars, cart services, shelters, counters and similar modern models). This clarifies which business models SLAs and blind vendors may use under the program.
Vending machines limited to goods, not services
The Department proposes to amend the definition of “vending machine” so such machines can sell only tangible articles—not services. Blind vendors could still offer services, but those services would have to be provided through vending facilities that are not classified as vending machines.
Upfront costs for States and SLAs
The Department expects some SLAs and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies will face additional costs to buy or replace vending equipment, convert facilities to new business models, and buy initial stock and supplies. The NPRM notes States may use VR program funds and, for 21.3% of allowable costs paid with non‑Federal funds, may draw down 78.7% in Federal VR funds to cover the rest.
Expected earnings and selection gains
The Department states the proposed changes could increase blind vendors' earnings and expand product selection for customers to the extent products are not already available through existing vending facilities. The rule is intended to help vendors evolve with technology and customer demand.
Clarifying priority at NPS and NASA sites
The proposal would amend 34 CFR 395.30 to clarify the nature and scope of the Randolph‑Sheppard priority for blind vendors at National Park Service (NPS) and NASA properties. That change is intended to better implement the statutory priority for those Federal properties.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20735, Extensions of Credit to Insiders
The FDIC is giving banks and insiders more time to share their thoughts on new rules about loans to insiders by extending the comment deadline to November 4, 2026. These rules aim to keep lending fair and safe, especially when insiders like executives or board members borrow money. If you’re involved with banks or interested in fair lending, now’s your chance to speak up before the final rules are set!
2026-20790, Application of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 to the Refunded Portion of Certain Federal Refundable Tax Credits; Hearing Cancellation
The IRS canceled a public hearing set for October 14, 2026, about new rules on how certain refunded tax credits count as federal benefits under a 1996 law. This affects individuals who get refundable tax credits, clarifying how those refunds are treated but with no immediate money changes. Since no one signed up to speak, the hearing won’t happen, but the proposed rules are still out for public comment.
2026-20721, Requirements for Additional Traceability Records for Certain Foods: Enforcement Policy for Certain Retail Food Establishments and Restaurants; Draft Guidance for Industry; Availability
The FDA is sharing a draft plan about new food tracking rules that mostly won’t apply to certain stores and restaurants right now. If you run a retail food place or restaurant, you don’t have to worry about extra paperwork just yet, but the FDA wants your feedback by November 23, 2026. This helps them decide the final rules without causing extra costs or hassle for small businesses.
2026-20650, Low-Value Shipments
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proposing new rules to make importing low-value goods (under $2,500) easier and more electronic, especially for mail shipments. They want to add new data requirements for carriers and require bonds for some shipments to keep things safe and smooth. If you’re involved in shipping or receiving small packages, get ready to adapt by December 7, 2026, when comments on these changes close.
2026-20660, Optional Practical Training Fees
Starting soon, international students using Optional Practical Training (OPT) will face new fees: $70,000 for their first OPT and $30,000 for any extra OPT periods. This change aims to stop fraud and protect U.S. workers. If you want to share your thoughts, make sure to comment by November 9, 2026!
2026-20677, Airworthiness Directives; Various Helicopters
The FAA wants to update rules for helicopters with radio altimeters because 5G signals in Canada can mess with their readings. Pilots will need to follow new flight manual limits when flying in Canadian airspace to keep things safe. Comments on this change are open until November 23, 2026, and it mainly affects helicopter operators flying near Canada.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2024-31219, Federal Baseline Water Quality Standards for Indian Reservations; Withdrawal of Proposed Rule
The EPA is hitting pause and withdrawing its 2023 plan to set federal water quality rules for Indian reservations. Instead, they’re focusing on helping Tribes take charge of their own water rules under the Clean Water Act. This means no new federal rules now, but more support and teamwork with Tribes to protect their waters on their own terms.
Next: 2024-30621, Federal Acquisition Regulation: Disclosure of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate-Related Financial Risk
The government planned to make big suppliers share their greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks but is now hitting pause and withdrawing that rule. This affects major companies working with the federal government, who won’t have to report these details—at least for now. The decision comes after lots of feedback and changing rules elsewhere, with no new deadlines or costs for businesses right now.