Tech Committee Hides Secrets in Half-Closed Export Control Chat

2026-16628, Streamlining Export Controls for Drone Exports

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is easing export controls on certain Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs or drones) and related parts, components, accessories, attachments, technology, and software under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Specifically, this rule: eliminates wind gust tolerance as a parameter for determining UAV controls under the EAR; increases the threshold for national security controls on certain UAVs from an endurance of 30 minutes to an endurance of 3 hours; makes conforming changes to remove national security controls on software and technology associated with UAVs with an endurance less than 3 hours; maintains military end-use and end-user controls on those lower endurance drones and associated software and technology; clarifies Commerce Control List (CCL) controls for certain UAVs specially designed for military use; and removes national security controls on certain specially designed parts, components, accessories, and attachments for such UAVs as they do not provide any significant military or intelligence capabilities.

2026-16078, DPAS Directive Allocation Order and Additional Requirements for Recoverable Critical Minerals and Materials

The Bureau of Industry and Security ("BIS") is publishing this temporary final rule to restrict the exportation of black mass and tungsten waste and scrap without a license. Specifically, as of August 27, 2026, U.S. persons engaged in the sale of black mass and tungsten waste and scrap must allocate 100 percent of monthly sales to U.S. persons, unless an adjustment or exception is obtained in advance from BIS. This action is taken pursuant to section 101 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended ("DPA" or the "Act"), the Defense Priorities and Allocations System (15 CFR part 700) and Presidential Determination Pursuant to Section 101 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as Amended, on Recoverable Critical Minerals and Materials, dated July 30, 2026 ("DPA Determination on Recoverable CMMs"), in which the President authorized the Department of Commerce ("Commerce") to address the scarcity of recoverable critical minerals and materials ("CMMs"). BIS invites the public to submit comments on whether any additional sales requirements are necessary or appropriate to promote the national defense.

2026-15961, Request for Public Comments on the Proposed Implementation of Duties on Additional Aluminum, Steel, and Copper Derivative Articles Under Section 232

This notice requests public comments on a proposal to include 14 additional derivative articles within the scope of the Section 232 duties on steel, aluminum, and copper: aluminum powder; brass-wind musical instruments and their parts and accessories; parts of welding machines and apparatus; floor safes; certain electric conductor cables; fire extinguishers; parts of heat exchange units; parts of certain hydraulic engines and motors; certain self-propelled cranes, mobile lifting frames, and straddle carriers; tanker trailers and semi- trailers; self-loading or self-unloading trailers and semi-trailers for agricultural purposes; certain other trailers and semi-trailers; and certain filled steel containers.

2026-15799, Notice of Reduction of Tariffs on Patented Pharmaceuticals and Pharmaceutical Ingredients for Products of the United Kingdom Implemented by Presidential Proclamation 11020

This notice revises the tariff rate on patented pharmaceuticals and associated pharmaceutical ingredients that are products of the United Kingdom from 10 percent to zero percent in accordance with Proclamation 11020 "Adjusting Imports of Pharmaceuticals and Pharmaceutical Ingredients Into the United States."

2026-14942, Implementation of EAR Export Controls on Silencers, Mufflers, and Sound Suppressors; and Other Firearms Related Changes

Starting November 20, 2026, the government is changing the rules for exporting silencers, mufflers, and sound suppressors by moving them from strict military controls to easier commercial export rules. This means fewer hoops for businesses shipping these items overseas. Plus, temporary exports of firearms and related gear get simpler with new license exceptions, saving time and money for exporters.

2026-14132, Enhanced Favorable Treatment for the United Arab Emirates Under the Export Administration Regulations

The U.S. is giving the United Arab Emirates (UAE) better treatment for exporting and importing certain goods starting July 10, 2026. The UAE moves to a friendlier group, unlocking easier access to military gear, satellites, and advanced tech without extra licenses. This change boosts trade, supports defense teamwork, and helps U.S. businesses and the UAE work closer than ever.

Previous: 2025-02809, Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Advisory Committee Meeting

The FOIA Advisory Committee is meeting soon to talk about how to make government information easier to get for everyone. This affects anyone who wants to access public records and aims to improve transparency without extra costs or delays. Stay tuned for updates that could make your FOIA requests faster and clearer!

Next: 2025-02743, Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings and Hearings

The Pacific Fishery Management Council is gearing up to set the rules for the 2025 salmon fishing season along the West Coast. Fishermen, communities, and seafood lovers can share their thoughts through public meetings and written comments. Get ready to weigh in soon and help shape the future of ocean fishing!