Interior Dept Begs: Review Our Access Forms One More Time

2026-14629, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Regulations for Designating Critical Habitat

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service updated rules about how they decide which lands become critical habitats for endangered plants and animals. Now, they’ll clearly weigh economic, security, and other impacts before protecting an area, making the process more open and predictable. These changes start August 20, 2026, helping communities and businesses understand when lands might be excluded from protection.

2026-14633, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Regulations Pertaining to Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is updating how it protects threatened plants and animals. Starting August 20, 2026, they’re ending the automatic 'blanket rule' that used to apply to all newly listed threatened species, meaning protections will be more tailored. This change affects landowners, businesses, and conservation groups, aiming for smarter, clearer rules without extra costs or delays.

2026-14299, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Revised Designation of Critical Habitat for the Contiguous U.S. Distinct Population Segment of the Canada Lynx

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service updated the protected areas for the Canada lynx in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, and Washington, covering about 14,030 square miles. This change fixes past legal issues and helps keep the lynx’s home safe. The new rule starts on August 17, 2026, and may affect land use and conservation efforts in these states.

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.

2026-14052, Natural Resource Damages for Hazardous Substances

The Department of the Interior is updating rules for handling natural resource damage claims caused by hazardous substances. These changes simplify procedures, fix confusing language, and remove outdated parts to make the process clearer and smoother. The new rules take effect on August 12, 2026, and there’s a chance to comment on info collection until then.

2026-12955, Process for Authorizing Seasonal Migratory Game Bird Hunting

The Fish and Wildlife Service is changing how it approves seasonal migratory game bird hunting. Instead of making new rules every year, they’ll issue a hunting plan every three years, updating it sooner if needed. This will save time and money, help States, Tribes, and hunters, and keep bird populations safe.

Previous: 2026-00185, Certain Oil Country Tubular Goods From India and the Republic of Türkiye: Final Results of the Expedited Second Sunset Reviews of the Countervailing Duty Orders

The U.S. Department of Commerce decided to keep extra taxes on certain oil pipes from India and Türkiye because removing them could let unfair government help continue. This affects companies importing these pipes and helps U.S. manufacturers stay competitive. These rules are effective starting January 8, 2026, so importers should be ready for the ongoing costs.

Next: 2026-00187, Meeting of the Religious Liberty Commission

The Religious Liberty Commission is holding its fifth public meeting on February 9, 2026, in Washington, DC, to talk about protecting religious freedom in America. This meeting affects everyone who cares about religious rights and will cover important topics like fighting anti-Semitism and keeping religious liberty strong for the future. You can join in person or watch online, but spots are limited and registration is required.