Army Corps Tweaks Permits to Ease Building While Protecting Waters

2025-20402 — Updated Definition of “Waters of the United States”

The EPA and Army Corps are updating the rules that decide which waters are protected under the Clean Water Act, following a 2023 Supreme Court decision. This change helps everyone know exactly which waters are covered, making it easier to protect lakes, rivers, and wetlands while respecting state and tribal rights. People and businesses affected should share their thoughts by January 5, 2026, as this update could impact water projects and environmental protections.

2026-05328 — Notice of Mississippi River Commission Public Meetings for Spring 2026

The Mississippi River Commission is hosting public meetings in spring 2026 on a cool boat called the Motor Vessel MISSISSIPPI, stopping in Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Louisiana. These meetings let locals share their thoughts and hear updates on river projects that affect communities and the environment. If you live near the river or care about its future, mark your calendar for these free, open-to-all events!

2026-05051 — Notice of Solicitation of Input on Potential Future Changes to Nationwide Permits; Establishment of a Public Docket; Request for Input

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wants your ideas to make nationwide permits easier and faster to use. These permits affect anyone doing work that impacts U.S. waters, like construction or land changes near rivers and wetlands. Share your thoughts by May 15, 2026, to help shape future rules that could save time and money for businesses and communities.

2025-15110 — Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Adjustment Rule

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is raising fines for breaking water and fishing rules to keep up with inflation. This means anyone who violates laws about rivers, harbors, or fishing could face bigger penalties starting soon. It’s all about making sure the rules stay fair and the environment stays protected!

2025-13251 — Procedures for Implementing NEPA; Processing of Department of the Army Permits

The Army fixed a mistake in a rule about how it handles environmental reviews for permits. This update clears up confusion from a July 2025 rule and makes sure everyone knows the right steps. If you apply for Army permits, this correction helps keep things smooth and on track—no extra costs or delays expected.

2025-12360 — Procedures for Implementing NEPA; Processing of Department of the Army Permits

The Army is updating how it reviews permit applications by replacing old environmental rules with a fresh, simpler set that also covers waterway permits. This change affects anyone applying for Army permits and aims to speed up the process without extra costs. They’re also asking for public feedback to make sure the new rules work well.

Previous: 2026-00087 — Home Mortgage Disclosure (Regulation C) Adjustment to Asset-Size Exemption Threshold

Starting in 2026, banks, savings associations, and credit unions with $59 million or less in assets won’t have to collect mortgage data, up from $58 million last year. This change follows a 2.5% rise in the cost of living and helps smaller lenders skip some paperwork. If your institution’s assets are at or below $59 million as of December 31, 2025, you’re off the hook for 2026 data collection!

Next: 2026-00147 — Hazard Communication Standard; Corrections

OSHA fixed some small but important mistakes in its Hazard Communication Standard to keep things clear and safe for workers and businesses. These corrections, effective January 8, 2026, help avoid confusion on chemical labels and safety sheets without adding extra costs. If you handle or label hazardous chemicals, these updates make sure you’re following the right rules smoothly and on time.