Archives Shares Record-Trashing Plans: Comment by November
Published Date: 10/14/2026
Notice
Summary
The National Archives is sharing new plans from federal agencies about which old records they want to toss because they’re no longer needed. They’re asking the public to check out these plans and share thoughts by November 30, 2026. This helps keep government record-keeping smart and efficient, with no extra costs for you!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
You can review and comment by Nov 30, 2026
You can view proposed agency records schedules and submit comments by November 30, 2026 using the regulations.gov docket NARA-26-0496 or by email as described in the notice. Each schedule in the docket has a 'comment' button and lists a control number you must cite if you comment.
Some federal records may be destroyed after approval
The schedules, if approved by the Archivist of the United States, authorize agencies to either preserve records in the National Archives or destroy records "after a specified period" when they lack continuing administrative, legal, research, or other value. Agencies may not destroy Federal records without the Archivist's approval and public comment is part of that approval process.
Listed agency schedules affect specific groups
The notice lists specific schedules open for comment (for example: Central Intelligence Agency—Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault Records; Financial Crimes Enforcement Network—Exempt Beneficial Ownership Information Reports; Internal Revenue Service—Examination Closing Agreements; Veterans Health Administration—Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service). Stakeholders connected to those agencies or subject areas can review the posted schedules and submit comments by November 30, 2026 using the docket number NARA-26-0496.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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