DOE Pauses Plan to Scrap Anti-Discrimination Safeguards
Published Date: 7/14/2025
Rule
Summary
The Department of Energy is delaying a rule that would remove certain nondiscrimination protections in programs it supports because many people spoke up against it. This means the current rules stay in place a bit longer while DOE reviews the feedback. Anyone involved in DOE-funded programs should watch for updates, as changes could affect how these programs operate and their funding timelines.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Nondiscrimination Protections Stay In Place
If you participate in or receive benefits from DOE‑funded programs, the current nondiscrimination protections published on May 16, 2025, remain in effect while the Department of Energy reviews public comments. The rescission of those protections will not take effect immediately because DOE is extending the rule's effective date.
Watch for Changes to Program Operations and Funding
If you run, work in, or rely on DOE‑funded programs, watch for updates because DOE is reviewing comments and future changes could affect how these programs operate and their funding timelines. The Department announced the delay related to the rule it published on May 16, 2025, while it considers feedback.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-11057 — Rescinding Regulations for Loans for Minority Business Enterprises Seeking DOE Contracts and Assistance
The Department of Energy is delaying a rule that would stop loans for minority-owned businesses trying to get DOE contracts. This means minority businesses can keep applying for these loans a bit longer while the government reviews the rule carefully. The new delay pushes the rule’s start date to September 1, 2026, giving everyone more time to prepare and comment.
2026-10727 — Zero-Based Regulating
The Department of Energy is adding expiration dates to some of its rules to keep things fresh and efficient. If a rule isn’t renewed before its sunset date, it disappears—no more rule, no more hassle! This change starts July 13, 2026, and helps save time and money by cutting outdated regulations every five years or less.
2026-10729 — Zero-Based Regulating
The Department of Energy wants to add expiration dates to some of its rules to keep things fresh and efficient, following a new White House order. This means certain regulations will automatically end unless reviewed and renewed, helping save time and money. If you have thoughts, speak up by June 29, 2026, because your input could shape the future of energy rules!
2026-08201 — Energy Conservation Program: Exempt Power Supplies Under the EPS Service Parts Act of 2014
The Department of Energy is making it easier for companies by removing some reporting rules for certain power supplies used as service parts. This change mainly affects manufacturers and sellers of these exempt power supplies and starts on May 28, 2026. It cuts red tape without adding costs, helping businesses save time and focus on energy innovation.
2026-04454 — Rescinding Regulations for Loans for Minority Business Enterprises Seeking DOE Contracts and Assistance
The Department of Energy is delaying the cancellation of loan rules that help minority-owned businesses get DOE contracts. This means those businesses still have access to special loan support for a little longer, now until June 4, 2026. The delay gives DOE more time to review feedback and make sure everything’s fair and square before making any big changes.
2026-11878 — California Department of Water Resources; Notice of Availability and Adoption of Final Environmental Assessment
The California Department of Water Resources has shared its final environmental assessment, which looks at how a new water project might affect the environment. This update mainly impacts local communities and water users by ensuring the project is safe and eco-friendly. The assessment is now official, so the project can move forward without delays or extra costs.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-13137 — Application for Presidential Permit Authorizing the Construction, Connection, Operation, and Maintenance of Facilities for Transmission of Electric Energy at International Boundaries
The Department of Energy is pushing back the start date for a new rule about building and running electric power lines that cross U.S. borders because they got a lot of concerns from the public. This affects companies wanting to get permits to connect electricity across countries and might delay their projects. No extra costs are mentioned, but the wait means more time before new projects can begin.
Next: 2025-13193 — Amending the Administrative Procedures With Respect to the Import and Export of Natural Gas
The Department of Energy is pushing back the start date for new rules about how companies file paperwork to import and export natural gas. This change affects businesses dealing with natural gas trade and gives them more time to get ready. No new fees or costs are introduced, just a delay to make sure everything’s clear and fair.