Commerce Ditches Extra Grant Rules for Clarity

2026-05229 — Streamlining the Requirements for Approved Projects for Public Works and Economic Development Investments

The Economic Development Administration is making its rules simpler for public works and economic development projects by cutting out confusing and unnecessary language. This change affects anyone applying for or managing these projects and takes effect on March 17, 2026, without changing any funding rights or responsibilities. It’s all about making the process smoother and easier to understand, with no extra costs or delays.

2025-20307 — Update of Public Works and Economic Adjustment Act Grant Rate Regulations

Starting November 19, 2025, the Economic Development Administration (EDA) is updating its grant rules to match new laws passed in 2024. Now, EDA can offer bigger federal grants—up to 60% base funding, with chances to boost that even higher for special cases. This change helps communities get more money for public works and economic projects, making it easier to build and grow.

2026-05953 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request; Regional Economic Development Data Collection Instrument

The Department of Commerce is asking 21 regional coalitions to keep sharing info every quarter about their progress in the Build Back Better Regional Challenge. This helps track how their projects boost local economies and innovation. The data collection is extended with a small time commitment, and the public has 30 more days to share their thoughts.

2026-05227 — Streamlining the Regulations Establishing General Terms and Conditions for the Economic Development Administration's Investment Assistance

The Economic Development Administration (EDA) is cleaning up its rulebook by removing three outdated and repetitive sections from its investment assistance regulations. This makes the rules simpler and easier to follow without changing any benefits or responsibilities for those who get EDA funding. The new streamlined rules take effect on March 17, 2026, helping projects move forward more smoothly and efficiently.

2026-05228 — Removing Certain Redundant Language From Regulations Governing Planning Investments and Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies

The Economic Development Administration is cleaning up its rules by removing repeated language about what expenses are allowed for planning projects. This change affects organizations involved in economic development planning but won’t change what costs they can cover or how much money they get. The new, simpler rule takes effect on March 17, 2026, making things clearer and easier to follow.

2026-02590 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Review and Approval; Comment Request; Requirements for Approved Construction and Non-Construction Investments

The Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration is asking for public feedback on how it collects information about approved construction and non-construction investments. This helps make sure the process is clear and not too much work for communities receiving federal support. Comments are due by April 13, 2026, and this review could affect how quickly and easily funds are managed for local projects.

Previous: 2025-12311 — Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 213a; Child Restraint Systems-Side Impact Protection; Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 213; Child Restraint Systems, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 213b; Child Restraint Systems

NHTSA is giving car seat makers a break and won’t enforce the new side-impact protection rules (FMVSS 213a) until after they finalize the rule, expected around May 30, 2025. This means manufacturers have more time to meet the updated safety standards without penalties. Families can look forward to safer child car seats soon, with no immediate cost changes or deadlines to worry about.

Next: 2025-12319 — Allocation of Assets in Single-Employer Plans; Interest Assumptions for Valuing Benefits

If you manage a single-employer pension plan, listen up! This new rule updates how we calculate interest rates for valuing benefits between July 31 and October 30, 2025. It helps make sure the money set aside matches what’s needed to pay out pensions accurately and on time.