CONGRESS

Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026

Senate bill S.2256, the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, for Fiscal Year 2026, has been introduced and placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar. The bill outlines proposed appropriations for various USDA programs, the FDA, and related agencies.

Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025

The Senate has passed the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 (S.524). This bill, introduced by Senator Ted Cruz, aims to authorize appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal year 2025. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 has become Public Law No: 119-60. This act establishes policies and authorities for the Department of Defense, Department of Energy national security programs, Department of State, Coast Guard, and the Intelligence Community for FY2026. It covers a wide range of areas including procurement, personnel, acquisitions, cyber operations, and international relations.

Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Act, 2026 Introduced

Senator Jerry Moran introduced the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026 (S.2354) on July 17, 2025. This bill outlines the proposed federal funding for fiscal year 2026 for various departments and agencies, including Commerce, Justice, NASA, and the NSF. The bill has been placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar.

US Budget for 2025-2034

The Senate agreed to Concurrent Resolution 7, establishing the US federal budget for fiscal year 2025 and setting budgetary levels through fiscal year 2034. The resolution includes reconciliation instructions for committees to report legislation affecting the deficit by specified amounts.

Companies House Low Value Contract Terms and Conditions

Companies House has published guidance on its low-value contract terms and conditions, applicable to contracts valued below £12,000 including VAT. This guidance outlines the standard terms for such agreements.

Guidance on Reporting Scams Pretending to be Companies House

Companies House has published guidance on how to report scams that impersonate the agency. The guidance details how to identify and report suspicious phone calls and emails, providing examples of known scam tactics.

Companies House Transition Plan for Economic Crime Act

Companies House has published an outline transition plan for the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023. The plan details the indicative timeline for commencing key provisions, with updates indicating potential postponements for certain measures to prioritize identity verification and stakeholder feedback.

Companies House Identity Verification Legal Requirement

Companies House has issued guidance stating that identity verification for directors and persons with significant control will become a legal requirement from November 18, 2025. This marks the start of a 12-month transition period for companies to comply.

Companies House Fees and Powers Update

Companies House will implement new fee structures effective February 1, 2026, with digital filing fees for incorporation, confirmation statements, and voluntary strike-offs increasing. These changes, alongside new powers granted by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act, aim to enhance the UK's corporate registers and combat economic crime.