Oil Firm Allowed to Accidentally Harass Gulf Sea Mammals

2026-05599 — Deep Seabed Mining: Notice of Receipt of Applications for Deep Seabed Mining Exploration Licenses and Announcement of Public Comment Period and Virtual Public Hearings

NOAA got two applications from companies wanting to explore mining deep under the ocean floor. They’re holding virtual public meetings in April and want your thoughts by May 22, 2026. This affects anyone interested in ocean mining and how we protect our seas while exploring new resources.

2026-04256 — Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Spatial Fisheries Management; Amendment 15 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan

Starting April 3, 2026, new rules change shark fishing zones and times in the Atlantic to better protect sharks and manage fishing risks. Fishermen using bottom and pelagic longline gear will see updated area boundaries and must pay for electronic monitoring if fishing in certain safer zones. These changes help keep shark populations healthy while supporting responsible fishing.

2026-12303 — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone off Alaska; Cook Inlet; Final 2026 Harvest Specifications for Salmon

The 2026 salmon fishing rules for Cook Inlet, Alaska, are set and ready to go starting June 17, 2026. These new limits help protect salmon populations while supporting local fishermen and communities. If you fish or buy salmon from this area, expect smart management that balances nature and business through next year.

2026-12307 — Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Summer Flounder Fishery; Quota Transfer From North Carolina to Virginia

North Carolina is sharing part of its 2026 summer flounder fishing quota with Virginia to help both states meet their fishing goals. This change starts June 17, 2026, and lasts through the end of the year, making sure the fishery stays balanced and fair. Commercial fishers in both states will see updated limits, keeping the summer flounder fishery healthy and on track.

2026-12175 — Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of America; Shallow-Water Grouper Management Measures

Starting January 1, 2027, new rules will limit how much shallow-water grouper fish can be caught in the Gulf of America, especially scamp and yellowmouth grouper. These changes affect both commercial and recreational fishers by setting lower catch limits and a fixed closed season for recreational fishing to help protect these fish while more long-term plans are developed. The goal is to keep grouper populations healthy and fishing fun for years to come.

2026-12194 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Coastal Zone Management Program Administration

NOAA is asking for public feedback on their paperwork about managing U.S. coastal areas. This helps make sure the forms are clear and not too much work for states and others involved. Comments are open until August 17, 2026, and this update won’t cost extra money but keeps the program running smoothly.

Previous: 2025-02673 — Proposed Extension of Information Collection Request Submitted for Public Comment; Comment Request for Form 13768

The IRS wants to keep collecting info using Form 13768, which people use to apply for the Electronic Tax Administration Advisory Committee. They’re asking the public to share thoughts on how to make this process easier and less time-consuming. If you’re interested in helping shape tax tech, now’s the time to speak up before the deadline!

Next: 2025-02675 — Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Geophysical Surveys Related to Oil and Gas Activities in the Gulf of Mexico

The government just gave Murphy Exploration the green light to do underwater surveys for oil and gas in the Gulf of Mexico, even if it means accidentally disturbing some marine mammals. This permission follows strict rules to protect sea animals while letting Murphy explore safely. The new approval kicks in now and helps balance energy work with ocean life care.