Commerce Names the People Who Will Rate Its Top Executives

2026-14204, Lake Ontario National Marine Sanctuary; Delay of Effective Date

NOAA is giving everyone more time before the rule that bans grappling or anchoring on Lake Ontario shipwrecks kicks in. Instead of starting in July 2026, this rule is now delayed until September 2028 to let NOAA set up mooring buoys and work with divers and boaters. This means boaters and commercial vessels can keep anchoring safely while NOAA gets everything ready without rushing.

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.

2026-07536, Taking and Importing Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Geophysical Surveys in the Gulf of America

Starting April 20, 2026, NOAA is setting new rules for companies doing geophysical surveys in the Gulf of America to protect marine mammals. These rules let companies get permission to accidentally disturb marine mammals but require them to minimize harm and report what they find. This plan lasts five years and helps balance ocean research with saving sea life.

2026-05599, Deep Seabed Mining: Notice of Receipt of Applications for Deep Seabed Mining Exploration Licenses and Announcement of Public Comment Period and Virtual Public Hearings

NOAA got two applications from companies wanting to explore mining deep under the ocean floor. They’re holding virtual public meetings in April and want your thoughts by May 22, 2026. This affects anyone interested in ocean mining and how we protect our seas while exploring new resources.

2026-04256, Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Spatial Fisheries Management; Amendment 15 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan

Starting April 3, 2026, new rules change shark fishing zones and times in the Atlantic to better protect sharks and manage fishing risks. Fishermen using bottom and pelagic longline gear will see updated area boundaries and must pay for electronic monitoring if fishing in certain safer zones. These changes help keep shark populations healthy while supporting responsible fishing.

2025-12513, Deep Seabed Mining: Revisions to Regulations for Exploration License and Commercial Recovery Permit Applications

NOAA is updating the rules for deep seabed mining licenses and permits to keep up with new technology and info since the 1980s. These changes affect companies wanting to explore or mine valuable minerals from the ocean floor beyond national borders. Comments on the proposed updates are open until September 5, 2025, so get ready to weigh in!

Previous: 2026-22932, Minor Modification Approval

The Susquehanna River Basin Commission approved small changes to some projects during October 2026. One key update lets Seneca Resources Company adjust how they monitor their Marsh Creek project in Pennsylvania. These tweaks keep projects running smoothly without extra costs or delays.

Next: 2026-22934, Amtrak's Request To Amend Its Positive Train Control Safety Plan and Positive Train Control System

Amtrak wants to update its Positive Train Control (PTC) safety plan and system to keep trains running safely and smoothly. This change affects Amtrak’s train operations and needs approval from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). The public can share their thoughts by November 30, 2026, before the updates roll out—no extra costs or delays expected!