Federal Fish Managers Shift 200 Tons of Bering Sea Cod

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: 2026-22962, Imposition of Special Measure Prohibiting the Transmittal of Funds Involving MEXC Global

Starting December 10, 2026, MEXC Global and all its branches worldwide are officially banned from sending or receiving certain funds because they helped shady Russian and other bad actors move money illegally. This move targets MEXC’s role in hiding dirty money linked to Russia, Iran, North Korea, and cybercriminals. Banks and financial institutions must stop dealing with MEXC to keep the money clean and safe.

Next: 2026-23003, Housing and Community Development Act of 1980: Verification of Eligible Status

Starting December 14, 2026, everyone applying for or getting HUD housing help must prove they’re U.S. citizens or have the right immigration status—no exceptions by age. If verification is pending, families might get less help temporarily instead of forever. This update makes HUD’s rules clearer and matches the current government’s focus on fairness and accuracy.