Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Review and Approval; Revision of Currently Approved Information Collection; Comment Request; Limited Access Death Master File Certification Program Forms

2026-01839 — Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for Review and Approval; Revision of Currently Approved Information Collection; Comment Request; Limited Access Death Master File Certification Program Forms

The Department of Commerce is updating forms for the Limited Access Death Master File program, which affects organizations that use this sensitive data. They’re asking for public comments by March 31, 2026, to make sure the forms are clear and not too much work. These changes aim to keep data safe without costing extra time or money for users.

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.

2026-06514 — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Pollock in Statistical Area 620 in the Gulf of Alaska

Starting April 1, 2026, fishing for pollock in Statistical Area 620 of the Gulf of Alaska is temporarily closed to keep the catch within safe limits. This affects fishermen targeting pollock, who must stop directed fishing until September 1, 2026, helping protect the fish population and support other fisheries. The closure ensures the 2026 pollock catch limit isn’t exceeded, balancing fishing opportunities and conservation.

2026-06566 — Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska; Reallocation of Pollock in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands

The government is shifting some pollock fishing quotas from the Aleutian Islands to the Bering Sea because the Aleutian Islands won’t use all their share this year. This change helps fishermen in the Bering Sea catch more pollock without going over limits. It starts April 3, 2026, and runs through the end of the year, making sure the fishery stays balanced and fair.

2026-06458 — Endangered Species Committee

The Endangered Species Committee just gave a big thumbs-up to let Gulf of America oil and gas activities skip some usual wildlife protection rules because of national security needs. This affects companies drilling and exploring offshore, speeding up their work but with careful oversight. The decision was made in March 2026 and could impact how energy projects move forward along the Gulf Coast, balancing nature and national safety.

Previous: 2026-06018 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) wants your thoughts on their plan to collect some new information from the public. This is part of a routine check to make sure the questions they ask are useful and not too much work. If you have ideas or concerns, you’ve got until May 26, 2026, to speak up—no money changes yet, just your chance to help shape the process!

Next: 2026-06020 — Advisory Committee on Former Prisoners of War, Notice of Meeting

The Advisory Committee on Former Prisoners of War is holding a virtual meeting on April 21, 2026, to discuss benefits and support for veterans who were POWs. Veterans, their families, and the public can join online and share their thoughts by April 6 or during a live comment session. This meeting helps shape how the VA improves care, compensation, and rehab for these heroes.