NOAA Grants Permit to Study Rare Atlantic and Shortnose Sturgeon

2026-14204, Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary; Delay of Effective Date

NOAA is giving everyone more time before the rule that bans grappling or anchoring on Lake Ontario shipwrecks kicks in. Instead of starting in July 2026, this rule is now delayed until September 2028 to let NOAA set up mooring buoys and work with divers and boaters. This means boaters and commercial vessels can keep anchoring safely while NOAA gets everything ready without rushing.

2026-14195, Rescinding the Definition of “Harm” Under the Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are wiping away the official definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act starting September 14, 2026. This change affects anyone involved in protecting endangered plants and animals by shifting how “harm” is understood and enforced. It’s a big move that could change how projects and protections are handled, but no new costs or deadlines are added right now.

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.

2026-17247, Western Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings

The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding important meetings from September 8 to 17, 2026, to discuss and decide on fishing rules in the Western Pacific. These meetings affect fishermen, local communities, and businesses by shaping how fish are managed and protected. Public comments are welcome by September 10, and the meetings will be both in-person and online, making it easy to join and stay informed.

2026-17248, Pacific Fishery Management Council; Public Meetings

The Pacific Fishery Management Council is holding public meetings from September 16-21, 2026, in Vancouver, Washington, and online. These meetings affect fishermen, environmental groups, and coastal communities by discussing fishery rules, budgets, and habitat protection. You can join live, comment remotely, and stay updated on important fishery decisions that might impact fishing seasons and local economies.

Previous: 2025-06227, Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

The Department of Commerce is creating a new system to keep track of public affairs records, like media contacts and important info about storms and history. This helps them share news and updates with the right people based on their interests. The new system will digitize old records and improve how they manage data, all while following privacy laws—no extra costs or deadlines announced yet.

Next: 2025-06248, Evenflo Company, Inc., Receipt of Petition for Decision of Inconsequential Noncompliance

Evenflo found a small problem with some All4One car seats that don’t fully meet safety rules. They told the government and asked for a pass, saying the issue won’t hurt kids’ safety. The agency got their request in February 2025 and is now reviewing it—no money or recalls yet!