Feds Ration Spearmint Oil: Uncle Sam Plays Mint Market Cop

2026-20095, United States Grain Standards Act Award of Designations

The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service just gave official thumbs-up to seven grain inspection groups across the U.S. These groups will keep making sure grain quality meets standards in their areas starting now, helping farmers and buyers trust their grain’s grade. If you’re in North Dakota, Omaha, Fremont, Champaign, Maryland, Enid, or Eastern Iowa, this news means smooth grain inspections ahead with no extra costs announced.

2026-19887, Almonds Grown in California; Extension of Inedible Disposition Obligation Deadline

California almond growers and handlers now have two extra months to handle inedible almonds, extending the deadline from September 30 to November 30 every year. This change helps them manage almond quality and market supply better without rushing. The new rule kicks in on October 29, 2026, giving the industry more flexibility and smoother operations.

2026-19623, National Organic Program: Notice of Intent To Extend and Revise a Previously Approved Information Collection (2027)

The USDA’s National Organic Program is planning to extend and update its paperwork rules for organic farmers and businesses through 2030. This means folks involved in organic farming will see some changes in how they report info, helping keep organic standards strong and clear. Comments on these updates are open until November 24, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up!

2026-19420, Fruit Crops; Notice of Request for Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection

The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service wants to keep collecting info about fruit crops and make some updates to how they do it. This affects fruit growers and businesses involved in federal marketing orders. They’re asking for your thoughts by November 23, 2026, and this helps keep fruit marketing smooth without extra costs.

2026-19389, Softwood Lumber Board Assessment Rate Clarification and Changes to Membership

Starting October 22, 2026, the Softwood Lumber Board is updating how it charges fees on imported softwood lumber and changing who gets to be on the Board. If you import softwood lumber or are involved with the Board, these changes could affect your costs and membership rules. This update keeps the lumber industry running smoothly and fairly.

2026-19177, Milk in the Northeast and Other Marketing Areas; Uniform Pricing Formula Provisions

The USDA fixed a pricing mistake for milk in Morgan County, Ohio, lowering the Class I differential from $3.90 to $3.80. They also removed Shannon County, South Dakota, from the pricing table. These changes affect dairy farmers and milk buyers in these areas and take effect on September 18, 2026.

Previous: 2025-18473, Weighted Selection Process for Registrants and Petitioners Seeking To File Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions

The government is changing how it picks who gets to file H-1B visa petitions by using a weighted system that favors higher-skilled and better-paid workers. This means employers hiring for top jobs have a better shot, but workers at all pay levels still have a chance. These changes will affect anyone applying for H-1B visas and could impact how quickly and easily employers get their petitions accepted.

Next: 2025-18567, Passports; Procedures for Passport Couriers

The Department of State is updating rules for companies that hand-deliver passport applications and passports. These courier companies must now register with the Department and follow clear delivery steps to keep passport handling safe and smooth. This affects courier businesses and passport applicants, with no extra fees but a focus on security and proper timing.