Government Speeds Up Sunshine: Meetings Now on Fast-Track Notice

2026-17823, Unsafe or Unsound Practices, Matters Requiring Attention

The OCC and FDIC are rolling out a new rule starting November 2, 2026, that clearly defines what counts as 'unsafe or unsound practices' for banks and savings institutions. This update helps banks focus on big financial risks instead of small paperwork issues, making supervision smarter and fairer. Banks will need to adjust how they handle these risks, which could affect their operations and how they communicate with regulators.

2026-08298, Regulatory Capital Rule: Community Bank Leverage Ratio Framework

Starting July 1, 2026, community banks get a break! The minimum leverage ratio drops from 9% to 8%, making it easier for smaller banks to meet rules. Plus, banks can now stay in this easier framework longer—up to four straight quarters instead of two—helping them manage their money better without rushing.

2026-05960, Regulatory Capital Rules: Regulatory Capital and Standardized Approach for Risk-Weighted Assets

Big banks and community banks are getting new rules to better measure the risks in their loans and investments. The changes update how banks count certain assets and income when figuring out their safety net money, called regulatory capital. These updates aim to make banks safer and smarter with their money, with some rules kicking in soon and affecting how much capital banks need to hold.

2025-21626, Regulatory Capital Rule: Modifications to the Enhanced Supplementary Leverage Ratio Standards for U.S. Global Systemically Important Bank Holding Companies and Their Subsidiary Depository Institutions; Total Loss-Absorbing Capacity and Long-Term Debt Requirements for U.S. Global Systemically Important Bank Holding Companies

Big U.S. banks that are super important to the economy are getting new rules to keep them safer and stronger. These changes tweak how much money they must keep on hand and how they handle long-term debt, helping prevent financial trouble. The new rules kick in soon and could affect how these banks manage billions in assets and debt.

2025-21625, Regulatory Capital Rule: Revisions to the Community Bank Leverage Ratio Framework

The government wants to make it easier for small banks to stay in a special low-risk capital program by lowering the required leverage ratio from 9% to 8%. They’re also giving banks more time—up to four quarters instead of two—to fix any issues without losing their spot. Banks and bank holding companies should weigh in by January 30, 2026, as these changes could save them money and reduce red tape.

2026-20433, Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

The FDIC is getting rid of two old record systems used for hiring because they’re now covered by a bigger government system. This change affects job applicants and makes record-keeping simpler and more efficient. It takes effect on October 6, 2026, with no extra costs involved.

Previous: 2025-22932, Pesticide Product Registration; Receipt of Applications for New Uses (October 2025)

The EPA just announced it’s reviewing new requests to use existing pesticides in new ways. If you’re a farmer, gardener, or pesticide maker, this could affect you! You’ve got until January 15, 2026, to share your thoughts before decisions are made—so don’t miss out on having your say.

Next: 2025-22934, Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Requirements for Establishing U.S. Citizenship-46 CFR 355 and 356

The Maritime Administration wants to keep collecting info to check if people qualify as U.S. citizens for certain benefits. If you’re involved in maritime programs, this affects you! They’re asking for your thoughts by February 17, 2026, to make sure the process is clear and not too much work. No big changes or extra costs are planned—just a smooth renewal of the current rules.