John Thomas Shepherd Confirmed US District Judge Western District of Arkansas
The US Senate confirmed John Thomas Shepherd as a United States District Judge for the Western District of Arkansas. The confirmation received 53 affirmative votes and 46 negative votes with 1 senator not voting. The confirmation was confirmed on April 14, 2026.
Cloture Invoked, Christopher R. Wolfe District Judge
The United States Senate invoked cloture on the nomination of Christopher R. Wolfe to serve as U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Texas. The motion passed 53-45 with 2 not voting, advancing the nomination for a final confirmation vote. Cloture limits debate and requires 60 votes to invoke under Senate rules.
Christopher R. Wolfe Confirmed as U.S. District Judge for Western District of Texas
The U.S. Senate confirmed Christopher R. Wolfe as a United States District Judge for the Western District of Texas by a vote of 53-47. The confirmation took place on April 14, 2026, with a simple majority required for passage. Wolfe's appointment fills a federal judicial vacancy in the Western District of Texas.
EU Council Decisions 2026/858, 844, 845, 856 on Railway Supervisory Authority, Financial Assistance, and Avian Influenza
The EU Official Journal published four Council and Commission Decisions on 14 April 2026. Council Decision 2026/858 establishes the EU position for the third session of the Supervisory Authority under the Luxembourg Protocol on Railway Rolling Stock. Council Implementing Decisions 2026/844 and 2026/845 make financial assistance under Regulation (EU) 2025/1106 available to France and Czechia respectively. Commission Implementing Decision 2026/856 amends emergency measures concerning highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in certain Member States.
S. 601 Removes Land Restrictions, Paducah, Kentucky
The Congressional Budget Office published a cost estimate for S. 601, a bill to remove restrictions from a parcel of land in Paducah, Kentucky. The estimate was prepared as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on March 4, 2026. This document provides budgetary analysis only and does not enact or impose any regulatory requirements.
H.R. 1744 United States Commission on International Religious Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2025 Cost Estimate
The Congressional Budget Office published a $14 million cost estimate for H.R. 1744, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2025. The estimate was prepared as ordered reported by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on March 26, 2026. This represents the CBO's budgetary analysis of the proposed legislation reauthorizing the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.
H.R. 7613 ALERT Act Cost Estimate
The Congressional Budget Office released a cost estimate for H.R. 7613, the ALERT Act, as reported by the House Committee on Armed Services on April 9, 2026. The estimate provides projected costs of the legislation to federal agencies and other entities. CBO published the estimate on April 14, 2026.
H.R. 7266, Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act
The Congressional Budget Office published a cost estimate for H.R. 7266, the Rural and Municipal Utility Cybersecurity Act, as ordered reported by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce on March 5, 2026. The bill would authorize grants and other support for cybersecurity improvements at rural and municipal utilities. The CBO estimate provides projected costs for implementing the proposed program.
S.3383 Unlocking Native Lands Act of 2025 Cost Estimate
The Congressional Budget Office released a cost estimate for S.3383, the Unlocking Native Lands and Opportunities for Commerce and Key Economic Developments Act of 2025. The estimate analyzes the bill as ordered reported by the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs on December 17, 2025. CBO projects the legislation would cost $2.6 billion over the 2026-2031 period if enacted.
H.R. 6428 Cost Estimate - Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs Report
The Congressional Budget Office has published a cost estimate for H.R. 6428, a bill that would require the Secretary of State to submit a report on participation in educational and cultural exchange programs. The estimate was prepared as ordered reported by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on March 26, 2026. The document provides cost projections but does not itself create compliance obligations.
H.R. 7058 Foreign Adversary AI Risk Assessment and Diplomacy Act Cost Estimate
The Congressional Budget Office published a cost estimate for H.R. 7058, the Foreign Adversary AI Risk Assessment and Diplomacy Act, as ordered reported by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs on March 26, 2026. The estimate analyzes projected costs associated with the legislation addressing artificial intelligence risks from foreign adversaries. No specific compliance obligations, deadlines, or penalties are contained in this estimate document.
H.R. 7613 ALERT Act Cost Estimate - House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee
The Congressional Budget Office has published a cost estimate for H.R. 7613, the ALERT Act, as reported by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on April 9, 2026. The estimate was released on April 14, 2026. CBO provides independent, nonpartisan budgetary analysis of proposed legislation as part of the congressional budget process.
Small Business Lending Fraud Prevention Act Cost Estimate
CBO has published a cost estimate for H.R. 7401, the Small Business Lending Fraud Prevention Act, as reported by the House Committee on Small Business on February 20, 2026. The estimate assesses the budgetary impact of the proposed legislation aimed at preventing fraud in small business lending programs.
What Are the Differences Between Payment Stablecoins and Tokenized Bank Deposits?
Brookings Institution published an analysis by Senior Fellow Nellie Liang comparing payment stablecoins to tokenized bank deposits. The article examines differences in issuer type, reserve backing, regulation, and payment infrastructure between the two digital payment instruments. The commentary addresses implications for monetary policy, financial stability, and the regulatory framework applicable to each instrument.
SI 2026 No. 401 - Revocation of RAF Brize Norton Flying Restrictions
The UK Statutory Instrument 2026 No. 401 revokes flying restrictions at RAF Brize Norton, removing the prior operational limitations on aircraft movements at the Oxfordshire airbase. This deregulatory measure eliminates compliance obligations previously imposed on operators flying in the affected airspace.
Contract (Formation and Remedies) (Scotland) Act 2026
The Scottish Parliament passed and Royal Assent was granted on 14 April 2026 for the Contract (Formation and Remedies) (Scotland) Act 2026 (2026 asp 10). This Act establishes a comprehensive statutory framework for contract formation and remedies for breach of contract under Scots law. The legislation covers party autonomy, requirements for contract formation, offers, acceptance, revocation, rejection, counter-offers, uncertainty, contracts formed by unnotified acts, and remedies for breach.
Birmingham East Mayoral Development Corporation (Establishment) Order 2026
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has made The Birmingham East Mayoral Development Corporation (Establishment) Order 2026 (SI 2026/405), establishing the Birmingham East Mayoral Development Corporation for a designated Mayoral development area in Birmingham. The Order, made on 14th April 2026 and laid before Parliament the same day, comes into force on 11th May 2026. The development area is defined by boundaries shown on a map deposited with the Ministry and the West Midlands Combined Authority.
Local Government (Structural Changes) (Finance) (Amendment) Regulations 2026
The Secretary of State has made SI 2026 No. 406, amending the Local Government (Structural Changes) (Finance) Regulations 2008. The amendment modifies Regulation 9 to clarify how council tax determinations under section 11C of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 apply when local government areas are reorganised. The new provisions address situations where some predecessor billing authorities made relevant determinations before reorganisation but others did not, establishing how the one-year rule in section 11C(3) applies to successor councils making determinations for subsequent determination areas.
Sentencing Act 2026 (Commencement No. 3) Regulations 2026
The Secretary of State has made SI 2026/402, bringing into force specified sections of the Sentencing Act 2026 on two dates. Sections 21, 34, 36, 38, 39 and Schedule 5 take effect on 11 May 2026, covering prison capacity reporting, supervision order termination, and unpaid work requirements. Section 42, allowing IPP and DPP prisoners to request parole board referral for licence termination, takes effect on 1 June 2026.
Wireless Telegraphy (Exemption) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2026
OFCOM has made SI 2026 No. 396, amending the Wireless Telegraphy (Exemption) Regulations 2021. The instrument adds new definitions including 'autonomous maritime radio device' and 'ETSI EN 302 502', updates interface requirement references (IR 2030 and IR 2066) to April 2026 editions, and inserts two new exemption regulations (Regulations 11 and 12) covering autonomous maritime radio devices operating at 160.9 MHz and coastal station radio training schools.
Public Buildings Service Reorganization Missed Leading Practices, Staff Cut 45%
The GAO reviewed the Public Buildings Service's (within GSA) 2025 reorganization, which cut staff by 45% and found it did not fully follow four leading practices for agency reform. The bureau failed to establish performance measures, had primarily one-way communication without feedback plans, did not monitor reorganization progress, and did not conduct strategic workforce planning before the cuts. Tenant agencies reported service delays including delays in disposing of unneeded space due to fewer cost estimators. GAO recommended the agency fully follow leading practices to improve consistency, customer service, and streamline decision-making.
Eight Federal Judges Nominated and Sent to the Senate
The President transmitted nominations of eight individuals to serve as federal judges to the Senate for confirmation. Six nominees are designated for Associate Judge positions on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia (15-year terms), while two nominees are designated for U.S. District Judge positions in Ohio and Florida. All nominations require Senate confirmation before appointment.
Eleven Nominations Sent to Senate, One Withdrawal
The White House transmitted 11 presidential nominations to the Senate for confirmation, including positions at the Treasury Department, Department of Homeland Security, State Department, National Labor Relations Board, Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Marshals Service, and diplomatic posts to South Korea and Albania. One nomination for Troy Edgar as Ambassador to El Salvador was withdrawn from Senate consideration.
President Grants Professor Title, Decision 115.2.2026, 18th Feb
The President of the Republic of Poland issued Decision No. 115.2.2026 on February 18, 2026, granting the title of professor to an individual. The decision was published in Monitor Polski 2026, position 380. This presidential decree is an administrative action conferring an academic professional title and has no regulatory or compliance implications for businesses or the public.
President Grants Professor Title
The President of the Republic of Poland issued Decision No. 115.1.2026 on February 18, 2026, granting the title of professor to an individual. The decision was published in Monitor Polski (the Polish Official Journal) under position 379 of 2026, with the announcement date of April 14, 2026. This presidential decision recognizes professional academic achievement in accordance with Polish law on professional titles.
Grants R&D Center Status to Entrepreneur
The Ministry of Finance and Economy of Poland issued a decision on April 3, 2026, granting R&D Center (Centrum Badawczo-Rozwojowe) status to a specific entrepreneur. The decision was published in Monitor Polski (official gazette) on April 14, 2026, under position 378. This status typically qualifies the entity for government support programs, tax incentives, and R&D funding opportunities available under Polish law.
EU Approves Poland CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027 Changes
Poland's Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development announced on April 14, 2026, that the European Commission has approved changes to Poland's Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plan for 2023-2027. The approval was communicated via Monitor Polski position 377. Agricultural stakeholders in Poland should monitor for implementation details of the revised plan.
Minister of Energy Sets Maximum Liquid Fuel Prices at Fuel Stations
The Minister of Energy issued an announcement on April 14, 2026 establishing maximum prices for liquid fuels (liquid fuels) at fuel stations. This price control measure applies to fuel stations operating in Poland. The announcement, published in Monitor Polski 2026, position 376, sets binding price ceilings for petroleum-based liquid fuels sold to consumers.
New Postal Products Notice, Public Comment Invited
The Postal Regulatory Commission published a notice on April 14, 2026, inviting public comments on new postal products. The document seeks stakeholder input but provides no specific details about the proposed products, pricing, or regulatory changes. The comment period closes on April 17, 2026.
Competitive Postal Products Notice with Comment Period
The Postal Regulatory Commission published a Notice regarding Competitive Postal Products on April 14, 2026. The Notice announces a public comment period that closes on April 16, 2026. Interested parties may submit comments via Regulations.gov or the Federal Register portal.
Market Dominant Price Adjustment
The Postal Regulatory Commission has published notice of a market dominant price adjustment scheduled to take effect April 14, 2026. The notice pertains to rate changes for First-Class Mail, Marketing Mail, and other market dominant postal services under the Commission's regulatory oversight. A public comment period is open through May 11, 2026, allowing 27 days for stakeholder input on the proposed rate changes.
SBIR-STTR Reauthorized Through 2031, Adds Security Reforms
President Trump signed S. 3971, the Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act, reauthorizing SBIR and STTR programs through September 30, 2031. The legislation adds reforms to strengthen national security, protect against foreign adversaries, and enhance accountability. Since 1982, these programs have invested over $81 billion into more than 34,000 small businesses. SBA administers the programs across multiple federal agencies including Department of Defense, Department of Energy, HHS, NASA, and USDA.
T-Mobile Returns as Gold Cosponsor for National Small Business Week 2026
The U.S. Small Business Administration announced that T-Mobile has returned as a Gold Cosponsor for National Small Business Week 2026. T-Mobile will participate in events from May 3-9, 2026, including the National Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. and a nationwide tour to Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia.
Google Returns as Gold Cosponsor for National Small Business Week 2026
The U.S. Small Business Administration announced Google's return as Gold Cosponsor for National Small Business Week 2026. Google will participate in events from May 3-9, 2026, including the National Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C., the Virtual Summit, and stops in Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler highlighted technology and innovation supporting small business growth.
Missouri Small Businesses Reminded of May 13 Deadline for Disaster Loans Following July 2025 Storms
The U.S. Small Business Administration is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Missouri of the May 13, 2026 deadline to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans following severe storms, flooding, and flash flooding that occurred July 26-27, 2025. The disaster declaration covers Lincoln, Montgomery, Pike, St. Charles, and Warren counties in Missouri and Calhoun County in Illinois. Loans of up to $2 million are available at interest rates as low as 4% for businesses and 3.625% for nonprofits, with repayment terms up to 30 years.
SBA Announces Low Interest Disaster Loans for Washington Winter Storm Recovery
The SBA announced low interest federal disaster loans available to Washington businesses, private nonprofit organizations, and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides, and mudslides occurring December 5–19, 2025. The loans are offered in response to a Presidential disaster declaration issued April 7, 2026. Interest rates can be as low as 4% for businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.875% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years.
SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center Relocates to Pali Hub in Pacific Palisades
The SBA announced the relocation of its Pacific Palisades Disaster Loan Outreach Center from Ronald Reagan Post 283 to the Pali Hub. The old location at 15247 La Cruz Dr. will permanently close Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. The new location at 15239 La Cruz Dr. opens Wednesday, April 15, 2026, operating Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Federal Register Volume 91 Number 71 April 14 2026
The Government Publishing Office published Federal Register Volume 91 Number 71 dated April 14, 2026. This document serves as an index and table of contents for the Federal Register issue containing multiple regulatory announcements, proposed rules, final rules, and notices from various federal agencies. No specific regulatory actions are detailed in this index entry.
Justice Minister Amends Regulation on Notary Apprenticeship Exam Test Printing
The Polish Justice Minister published an amendment to the regulation governing contracts for printing and delivering test question sets for the notary apprenticeship entrance examination. The amendment modifies the procurement procedures for examination materials. Legal professionals seeking notary admission and examination administrators should monitor for updated procurement requirements.
Ministry of Justice Amends Legal Exam Test Printing Regulation
The Ministry of Justice has amended the regulation governing public procurement procedures for printing and delivering legal bar examination test question sets. The amendment affects contracts for the entrance exams to the advocate (adwokacka) and attorney (radcowska) legal professions. The regulation is published in Dziennik Ustaw 2026, position 513.
Amendment to Regulation on Procurement for Printing and Delivering Bailiff Exam Test Sets
The Minister of Justice of Poland has issued an amendment to the regulation governing procurement procedures for printing and delivering test question sets for the entry examination to the judicial enforcement officer apprenticeship. The amendment modifies the existing framework for awarding contracts related to examination materials. This affects public procurement processes for official government examination documentation in Poland.
Announcement of Consolidated Text of Housing Finance Support Law
The Marshal of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland published an official announcement in the Polish Official Journal (Dziennik Ustaw 2026, item 511) on April 14, 2026, announcing the consolidated text of the Law on Financial Support for Certain Housing Projects. This announcement makes publicly available the current unified version of the legislation governing state financial assistance for eligible housing developments in Poland.
Regulation on Free Telecommunication Devices During Crisis
Poland's Council of Ministers issued Regulation No. 510 (2026) establishing detailed procedures for the gratuitous provision of telecommunications devices and radio broadcasting/transceiver equipment during situations of special threat. The regulation covers the manner of providing these devices to affected parties and specifies detailed procedures for their return after the crisis situation ends. This regulation implements provisions related to emergency communications support during national crises.
Regulation Amending Procedure for Preparing Elderly Persons Situation Information
The Chairman of the Council of Ministers issued Regulation of April 10, 2026, amending the existing regulation on the procedure for preparing information about the situation of elderly persons. The amendment modifies the administrative procedure for government reporting on elderly persons. The regulation was published in the Dziennik Ustaw on April 14, 2026, under position 509.
Teacher's Charter Consolidated Text Announcement
The Marshal of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland has announced the publication of a consolidated text of the Teacher's Charter (Karta Nauczyciela), Dziennik Ustaw 2026 r. poz. 515. This consolidated text incorporates all amendments made to the original law since its enactment, presenting it as a single, updated document. The announcement enables affected parties to access the current version of legislation governing teachers' employment conditions, professional development, and salaries in Poland.
Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements Under OMB Review
The Small Business Administration published a notice in the Federal Register announcing reporting and recordkeeping requirements under Office of Management and Budget review. The document opens a 30-day public comment period. Interested parties may submit comments regarding these reporting requirements for SBA consideration.
Pelion Ventures VIII Fund Seeks Small Business Investment Act Exemption
The Small Business Administration published a notice that Pelion Ventures VIII Financial Institutions Fund, L.P. (License No. 40000143) is seeking an exemption under Section 312 of the Small Business Investment Act regarding conflicts of interest. The notice is published in the Federal Register for informational purposes. The SBA invites public comment on the exemption request.
Illinois SBA Disaster Declaration, Severe Storms, April 2026
The SBA declared an Economic Injury Disaster Area in Illinois following severe storms in April 2026. Disaster Declarations #21493 and #21494 have been issued with Illinois Disaster Number IL-20024. This action enables eligible businesses and nonprofits in the designated areas to apply for SBA disaster loans to recover from economic injuries caused by the disaster.
Sunshine Act Meeting Notice
The National Science Foundation published a Sunshine Act meeting notice announcing a meeting scheduled for April 16, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Eastern. The notice includes standard Sunshine Act elements: time, date, place, status, matters to be considered, and contact person information. This is a procedural announcement meeting notice under the Federal Advisory Committee Act implementing regulations.
Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe Gaming Compact Approved
The Bureau of Indian Affairs published a notice approving the gaming compact between the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe and the State of Washington. The amendment took effect on April 14, 2026. This is a routine administrative notice announcing the federal approval of an intergovernmental tribal gaming agreement.
Information Collection Renewal: Standards, Assessments, and Accountability System Waiver
The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) published a notice in the Federal Register seeking public comments on the renewal of an information collection related to Standards, Assessments, and Accountability System Waiver requests. The notice advises that all submitted comments are considered public and will be posted online following review by the Department of the Interior. This information collection supports the waiver process for BIE-funded schools under applicable educational accountability requirements.
USGS Production Estimate OMB Review Information Collection Request
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has submitted an information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and approval under the Paperwork Reduction Act. The collection concerns mineral production estimate data reported by government agencies. Public comments are being accepted for 30 days following publication in the Federal Register.
Presidential Message on Days of Remembrance of Victims of the Holocaust
The White House issued a presidential message commemorating the Days of Remembrance of Victims of the Holocaust, honoring the memory of over 6 million Jewish lives lost and other victims of Nazi persecution. The message references the establishment of a Federal Task Force to Combat Antisemitism and directs the Department of Justice to prosecute those who threaten or harm Jewish Americans.
Presidential Message on the Birthday of Thomas Jefferson
The White House issued a presidential message commemorating the 283rd birthday of Thomas Jefferson, recognizing him as principal author of the Declaration of Independence, champion of religious freedom, and third President of the United States. The message highlights Jefferson's contributions including the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, the Louisiana Purchase, and founding the University of Virginia. No regulatory obligations or compliance requirements are established by this statement.
President Signs S. 1884 Holocaust Art Recovery Act and S. 3971 Small Business Innovation Act
On April 13, 2026, the President signed two bills into law. S. 1884 permanently extends and expands judicial authority under the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act of 2016, facilitating recovery of Holocaust-era art. S. 3971 reauthorizes through Fiscal Year 2031 and amends the Small Business Innovation Research program, Small Business Technology Transfer program, and related pilot programs.
Supreme Court Appointment Process Steps, 1975-2022
The Congressional Research Service published a report providing historical data on Supreme Court appointment process timelines from 1975 to 2022. The report covers 14 vacancies and shows approximately 20 days elapsed on average between a vacancy becoming publicly known and the President's public nomination announcement. For the most recent 2022 vacancy, President Biden nominated Ketanji Brown Jackson 29 days after Justice Breyer announced his intention to vacate his seat.
Department of Workforce Development Temporarily Closes for Relocation to Bermuda College
The Bermuda Ministry of Economy and Labour has announced that the Department of Workforce Development will temporarily close from Monday, April 13 through Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to facilitate its relocation to the Bermuda College campus. The Department is scheduled to reopen on Thursday, April 16, 2026, from its new location. The closure is for physical relocation of equipment, office setup, and installation of IT and telephone systems. Bermuda Job Connect inquiries will continue to be monitored during this period.
Ministry of Education Addresses Teacher and Student Support Needs
The Bermuda Ministry of Education issued a statement responding to educator concerns about increasing complexity of student needs in public schools. The Ministry announced increased 2026/27 Budget funding for support staff, essential services, and school infrastructure modernization. The statement emphasizes timely deployment of resources and ongoing engagement with educators including the Bermuda Union of Teachers.
Pay Transparency and Fair Pay Initiative
The Bermuda Government has announced a policy proposal to introduce pay transparency legislation requiring all employers to develop written pay equity policies, disclose salary ranges in job advertisements, prohibit salary history inquiries during recruitment, and provide employees access to pay information. The proposal, aligned with International Labour Organisation principles, aims to shift from reactive discrimination complaints to proactive prevention of pay inequities based on race, gender, and nationality.
VA Behavioral Health Referrals: 600K Community Care Referrals, $4.29B Spending, FY2021-2024
GAO report GAO-26-108799 examines VA behavioral health referrals to community providers for fiscal years 2021 through 2024. Veterans received over 600,000 referrals, with more than half for outpatient psychotherapy. VA spent $4.29 billion on community care through these referrals, with over two-thirds of spending on inpatient care including residential treatment. About 4 percent of referrals (over 25,000) and 43 percent of spending ($1.9 billion) were for residential substance use treatment.
Navy Financial Management Systems Modernization Audit Assessment
The Government Accountability Office assessed the Department of the Navy's financial management systems modernization initiative. The Navy has terminated at least 11 legacy systems, saved over $100 million, and completed migration to its Navy Enterprise Resource Planning system. However, GAO found the Navy only partially implemented leading practices for strategic and performance measurement, and partially met three of four leading practices for migration planning.
COFFA Addresses Federal Grants Management Challenges Across Agencies
GAO issued a report examining the Council on Federal Financial Assistance (COFFA), established by OMB in August 2023 to improve coordination in federal grants management. In fiscal year 2024, COFFA represented 38 of 40 federal grantmaking agencies and coordinated over $1.2 trillion in federal grant funding. The report describes how member agencies communicate and collaborate through designated Senior Financial Assistance Officers to improve consistency in interpreting and implementing grant guidance.
Navy Sea Systems Command Labor Cost Management
GAO reviewed how the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) manages labor costs for professional support services acquired through its SeaPort contract, which totaled approximately $21 billion over fiscal years 2019 through 2024. GAO found that NAVSEA uses a "best value tradeoff" process for awarding task orders and has established a "tripwire" threshold that triggers enhanced oversight when actual labor rates exceed estimated rates by 15 percent. More than a quarter of ongoing task orders reviewed (106 of 389) triggered this tripwire review. Across 10 task orders reviewed in detail, actual labor costs increased by approximately $152 million (about 60 percent above estimates), driven by requirement changes and the need for higher-priced labor categories.
FAA Should Improve Airport Financial Data Quality and Tracking
GAO reviewed FAA's Certification Activity Tracking System (CATS), the centralized database for airport financial data. Most of the approximately 500 required airports submitted fiscal year 2023 data, but FAA lacks sufficient data controls to verify timeliness and accuracy. CATS has anomalies and potential errors, and the system makes it difficult to track reporting deadlines. GAO made three recommendations to FAA to improve data quality controls, consistently identify newly required airports, and communicate data limitations to users.
Medicare and Medicaid Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs
CMS and ONC propose extending existing interoperability requirements for prior authorization from non-drug items and services to include prescription drugs. Impacted payers including Medicare Advantage organizations, Medicaid managed care plans, CHIP managed care entities, and Qualified Health Plan issuers on FFEs would be required to implement electronic prior authorization APIs for drugs, report API endpoints to CMS, and adopt HL7 FHIR implementation guides as HIPAA standards for referral certification, authorization, and eligibility transactions.
Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking - Ex Parte Communications
The Surface Transportation Board has issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in Docket No. EP 782, seeking public comment on potential revisions to its ex parte communications regulations under 49 CFR part 1102. The Board received a petition from the Association of American Railroads to revise and streamline these rules and is now soliciting input on the changes being considered as well as additional modifications. Comments are due by May 29, 2026.
Proposed Hazardous Duty Pay and Environmental Differential Pay for Prescribed Wildland Fire Activities
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) proposes to add prescribed (planned) wildland fire duties as covered activities triggering Hazardous Duty Pay (HDP) for General Schedule (GS) employees and Environmental Differential Pay (EDP) for Federal Wage System (FWS) employees. The proposed new differentials would apply to federal employees participating as members of firefighting crews engaged in fireline activities directly involving the implementation and control of prescribed wildland fires. The proposed differential rate is 25 percent.
Lead Air Pollution Proposed Rule Under NAAQS
EPA Region 5 has published a proposed rule addressing lead air pollution under the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) framework. The document is available for download and public review on Regulations.gov. Regulated entities should monitor for the comment deadline and review how the proposed requirements may affect their operations.
EPA Proposes Canton Ohio Lead Attainment Plan Approval
The EPA is proposing to approve Ohio's attainment plan for the Canton Nonattainment Area under the 2008 Lead (Pb) National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The EPA is also proposing to determine that the Canton area has attained the 2008 Pb NAAQS, approve Ohio's maintenance plan for continued attainment, and approve Ohio's comprehensive Pb emissions inventory. The EPA is acting on Ohio EPA's request to redesignate the Canton Nonattainment Area from nonattainment to attainment status.
PTIN User Fee Hearing Cancellation - April 2026
PTIN User Fee Hearing Cancellation, $11 to $1
Top Civil Servants Honoured at 2025 Employee of the Year Awards Ceremony
The Cayman Islands Government will hold its 2025 Employee of the Year Awards ceremony on April 16 at the Kimpton Seafire Resort. Twelve Employee of the Month awardees representing various ministries will be recognized for exceptional performance and dedication to public service. The event marks the final Employee of the Year ceremony under Deputy Governor Franz Manderson before his retirement in July.
500 Liberation Day Hampers for Guernsey War Generation
The States of Guernsey has opened registrations for 500 Liberation Day hampers to be gifted to islanders who remained in Guernsey during the Occupation, or who were evacuated or deported during the Second World War. Eligible recipients are islanders aged 80 and over living in private accommodation or with family. Hampers include scones, orange cake, Guernsey Gâche, tea, jam, dairy products, and fruit, accompanied by a traditional ration card.
Extension of Information Collection for Payment to Deceased Persons
FSA Notice on Payment to Deceased Persons
Cboe BZX Exchange Proposes Twelve Price Levels for Depth Data Feeds
The SEC has published a notice that Cboe BZX Exchange filed a proposed rule change to amend Exchange Rule 11.22. The proposal would increase aggregated depth-of-book price levels in the Summary Depth data feed from five (5) to twelve (12) price levels per side and similarly increase Cboe One Premium from five (5) to twelve (12) levels. The Exchange would sunset the five-level Cboe One Premium feed by December 31, 2026.
Tin Mill Products From China, Taiwan, and Turkey: Preliminary Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Investigations
The ITC has instituted preliminary antidumping and countervailing duty investigations Nos. 701-TA-792 and 731-TA-1786-1788 regarding imports of tin mill products from China, Taiwan, and Turkey. The investigations respond to a petition filed by United States Steel Corporation and the United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union alleging sales at less than fair value and subsidies by the Government of China. The Commission must reach a preliminary determination by May 26, 2026, with views transmitted to Commerce by June 2, 2026.
EPA Seeks Comment on HHCB, Phthalic Anhydride TSCA Risk Evaluations
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public comment on draft risk evaluations for two chemical substances—1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta[g]-2-benzopyran (HHCB) and phthalic anhydride—under TSCA Section 6. Comments must be received on or before June 15, 2026. The risk evaluations will determine whether these chemical substances present unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment under their conditions of use.
Softwood Lumber from Canada: Preliminary Results of Antidumping Duty Administrative Review
The U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) has issued preliminary results of its antidumping duty administrative review for softwood lumber from Canada, covering the period of review from January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024. Commerce preliminarily determined that certain softwood lumber was made at less than normal value (NV). Commerce also announced its intent to rescind the review with respect to 21 companies. Interested parties are invited to comment on these preliminary results within 30 days of publication.
SRBC Approves Consumptive Water Use Projects
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission published a notice listing 17 consumptive water use approvals by rule issued in March 2026. Approvals were granted to oil and gas operators including Expand Operating LLC, Diversified Production LLC, Repsol Oil & Gas USA, and Seneca Resources Company LLC for water withdrawal renewals ranging from 4.0 to 7.5 million gallons per day at various Pennsylvania drilling pads.
Frozen Fish Fillets from Vietnam - Expedited Five-Year Antidumping Duty Review
The U.S. International Trade Commission has scheduled an expedited five-year review of the antidumping duty order on frozen fish fillets from Vietnam. The review will determine whether revocation of the duty would likely lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury to the domestic industry within a reasonably foreseeable time. Comments on the Commission's determination are due April 23, 2026.
Open Public Hearing Notice: China's Expanding Strategy for Data Dominance
The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission has issued notice of a public hearing scheduled for April 30, 2026 in Washington, DC, examining China's expanding strategy for data dominance and its implications for U.S. national security, economic security, and cybersecurity. The hearing will assess how China acquires data through legal, illegal, and extralegal means across strategic sectors including space, biotechnology, AI, and critical digital infrastructure. Interested parties may file written statements by April 30, 2026.
HUD MBS Information Collection, Comment Deadline May 14
HUD MBS Information Collection, Comment Deadline May 14
Charter School Involvement in Local Ballot Questions (SB26-145)
Colorado SB26-145 proposes to require school districts considering ballot questions to solicit capital construction proposals from charter schools. The bill would mandate that district boards notify charter schools whether their construction needs will be included in ballot questions, and encourage inclusion of institute charter schools within district boundaries. The legislation applies to both traditional and institute charter schools seeking capital funding through local mill levies or bonded indebtedness.
Constitutional Amendment Requiring Age Verification for Pornographic Material Distributors
Colorado House Concurrent Resolution HCR26-1002 proposes amending the Colorado constitution to mandate that the General Assembly pass legislation requiring distributors of pornographic material to verify recipients are at least 18 years old. The resolution was introduced on April 6, 2026, by Rep. Matt Soper and Sen. Janice Rich. On April 13, 2026, the House Committee on State, Civic, Military, and Veterans Affairs voted 7-4 to postpone the resolution indefinitely, effectively halting its progress.
SB26-150 Reforms RTD for Accountability, Disability Services
Colorado SB26-150 proposes reforms to the Regional Transportation District (RTD). Section 3 requires RTD to contract with a third party by December 31, 2027, for a comprehensive analysis of services for riders with disabilities, including paratransit assessment and fiscal sustainability planning. Sections 4 and 9 change RTD board composition from 15 elected members to 9 members (5 elected + 4 governor-appointed), adjust elections, and modify quorums.
Colorado SR26-006 Recognizes April 2026 Donate Life Month
Colorado Senate Resolution SR26-006 proposes to recognize April 2026 as National Donate Life Month to promote organ and tissue donation awareness. The resolution was introduced by Senator Chris Kolker on April 13, 2026, and is currently under consideration in the Colorado Senate. No compliance obligations or regulatory requirements are imposed by this resolution.
SJR26-023 Recognizes Young Americans Bank for Financial Literacy
Colorado legislators introduced Senate Joint Resolution SJR26-023 to recognize Young Americans Bank and Young Americans Center for Financial Education for their contributions to financial literacy education for Colorado students. The resolution is under consideration in the Senate.
Plastic Pollution Awareness Week, July 12-18
Colorado legislators have introduced SJR26-022, a joint resolution proposing to designate July 12 through 18, 2026, as Plastic Pollution Awareness Week. The resolution was introduced on April 13, 2026, and is currently under consideration in the Senate, with a scheduled floor vote on April 22, 2026. The resolution is sponsored by Senator Lisa Cutter and Representative Junie Joseph.
New Mailing Standards for Domestic Mailing Services Products
The United States Postal Service proposes revisions to the Mailing Standards of the United States Postal Service, Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) to implement price adjustments effective July 12, 2026. Key changes include eliminating ADC/AADC rates for First-Class Mail, USPS Marketing Mail, and Periodicals and replacing with 3-Digit rates; restructuring Periodicals Outside County Rates to eliminate bundle and container rates; increasing maximum weights for Marketing Mail flats (to 20 oz automation, 24 oz Carrier Route); and introducing Heavy Printed Matter for Marketing Mail parcels with a 15-pound limit.
International Priority Airmail, Commercial ePacket, Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International & First-Class Package International Service Agreements
The United States Postal Service gives notice that it filed three requests with the Postal Regulatory Commission to add International Priority Airmail, Commercial ePacket, Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International, and First-Class Package International Service agreements to the Competitive Product List. The filings (MC2026-191 through MC2026-193 and corresponding K dockets) were submitted between April 3-7, 2026. Documents are available at www.prc.gov.
Payment Systems (Regulation) Standards (Merchant Card Payment Costs and Surcharging) Variation 2026
The Australian Treasury has made the Payment Systems (Regulation) Standards (Merchant Card Payment Costs and Surcharging) Variation 2026 (F2026L00434), amending the existing merchant card payment costs and surcharging standards. The instrument is administered by the Department of the Treasury and came into force on 14 April 2026. The variation affects merchants, payment facilitators, and card issuers by modifying requirements related to merchant surcharging rights and cost transparency.
National Health (Listed Drugs on F1 or F2) Determination 2021
The Australian Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has issued the National Health (Listed Drugs on F1 or F2) Determination 2021 under the National Health Act 1953. This legislative instrument determines which drugs are listed on Formulary F1 and Formulary F2 for purposes of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Schedule 1 lists drugs on F1 and Schedule 2 lists drugs on F2. The instrument has been amended since its original making and the latest version is in force.
Health Insurance (Accredited Pathology Laboratories) Amendment Principles (No. 2) 2026
The Australian Department of Health, Disability and Ageing has amended the Health Insurance (Accredited Pathology Laboratories–Approval) Principles 2017 via the Health Insurance (Accredited Pathology Laboratories—Approval) Amendment (Relevant Standards) Principles (No. 2) 2026. This legislative instrument registered on 14 April 2026 modifies accreditation standards for pathology laboratories operating under Medicare. The amendment affects how pathology laboratories are approved and regulated for health insurance billing purposes.
Charter of the United Nations (Sanctions—Al-Shabaab) Regulations 2008
Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade maintains the Charter of the United Nations (Sanctions—Al-Shabaab) Regulations 2008 under the Charter of the United Nations Act 1945. The latest version (F2026C00310) was current to 26 March 2026. The regulations impose prohibitions on sanctioned supplies, services, and transactions related to Al-Shabaab, a designated entity under UN sanctions.
Telecommunications Interception Emergency Service Facilities Victoria Instrument 2020
The Australian Government has updated the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) (Emergency Service Facilities—Victoria) Instrument 2020 under the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Act 1979. This legislative instrument designates specific emergency service facilities in Victoria that are authorized for telecommunications interception and access purposes. The Department of Home Affairs administers this instrument, which supports law enforcement and emergency services capabilities in Victoria.
Italian Official Gazette Lists Decrees, Ordinances, AIFA Marketing Authorizations
The Italian Official Gazette published its general series n. 85 dated 13 April 2026, listing decrees, ordinances, and communications from the Ministry of Agriculture (confirming the Clementine di Calabria IGP consortium), Ministry of Economy and Finance (treasury bond buyback operations), and the Civil Protection Department (emergency measures for Catanzaro and Cosenza). The Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) published communications regarding marketing authorization revocations and lapses for multiple pharmaceutical products.
House of Commons Debates - Senate Message and Private Members' Business
The House of Commons Debates for April 13, 2026 record Senate passage of Bill S-230 (national strategy for soil health protection) and report stage consideration of Bill C-225 (Criminal Code amendment). The Senate has sent Bill S-230 to the House for concurrence. Bill C-225 proceeds to report stage without debate following committee amendments.
BOE Daily Index - 14 April 2026, Issue No. 91
The Agencia Estatal Boletín Oficial del Estado published its daily index for 14 April 2026 (Issue No. 91). The index covers standard BOE sections: general provisions, authorities and personnel, other dispositions, administration of justice, and public sector contracting. This is a table-of-contents and navigation page; no specific regulatory instruments, amendments, or enforcement actions are detailed in the index itself.
Open Competition EPSO/AD/428/26 - AD 7 Administrators in Audit - 448 Posts
The European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) published a notice of open competition EPSO/AD/428/26 for 448 Administrator (AD 7) positions in the field of audit within EU institutions. Candidates must apply by 19 May 2026. The competition is open to candidates meeting the general conditions for EU civil service employment.
Euro Exchange Rates 13 April 2026
The European Central Bank published official Euro exchange rates for 13 April 2026 in the Official Journal of the European Union (C/2026/1405). This routine reference data publication provides daily currency conversion rates for official use across EU member states and institutions.
Approved Standard Amendment to Geographical Indication Product Specification Under Regulation EU 2025/27
The European Commission published a communication in the Official Journal C-series announcing an approved standard amendment to a product specification of a geographical indication. The amendment was processed under Article 5(4) of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/27. Producers and traders relying on the affected geographical indication designation should review the updated product specification to ensure compliance with the modified requirements.
ArcelorMittal Acquires AMCLN - Case M.12299 Simplified Procedure
The European Commission published a prior notification of a concentration in Case M.12299 involving ArcelorMittal's proposed acquisition of AMCLN. The transaction is a candidate for the simplified procedure under the EU Merger Regulation (EC) No 139/2004. This publication informs market participants and allows third parties with a legitimate interest to submit observations to the Commission.
Anti-Dumping Expiry Review on Chinese Citric Acid Imports, Notice C/2026/2340
The European Commission has initiated an expiry review of anti-dumping measures applicable to imports of citric acid originating from the People's Republic of China (Notice C/2026/2340, OJ C/2026/2120). This review will determine whether the existing anti-dumping duties should be maintained, amended, or allowed to expire. The Commission publishes this notice to inform interested parties about the review initiation and invite relevant submissions.
Judicature (Court Annexed Mediation) Rules, 2026
The Judicature of Uganda has enacted Statutory Instrument 14 of 2026, establishing the Court Annexed Mediation Rules, 2026. The rules establish a formal framework for mediation within court proceedings, creating procedural requirements for referral, conduct, and completion of mediation in civil and commercial disputes. Legal practitioners and disputing parties must adhere to these new procedural requirements when courts refer cases to mediation.
Public Comment Submission Form for EAC-2026-0133
The Election Assistance Commission (EAC) provides a public comment submission form via Regulations.gov for docket EAC-2026-0133. Commenters may submit up to 5,000 characters of feedback and attach supporting files up to 10MB each. Comments may be submitted as an individual, organization, or anonymously.
EAC Board of Advisors Annual Meeting, Apr 28-29, 2026
The U.S. Election Assistance Commission announces its Board of Advisors 2026 Annual Meeting scheduled for April 28-29, 2026, in Washington, DC. The meeting will address regular business, agency updates, and election officer elections. Public registration closes April 24, 2026; written comments on regulations.gov must be received 24 hours before the meeting starts.
FCC Suspends John Comito from E-Rate Program and Initiates Debarment Proceedings
The FCC Enforcement Bureau has suspended John Comito from the schools and libraries universal service support mechanism (E-Rate Program) and all universal service support mechanisms. The Bureau is also commencing debarment proceedings against Mr. Comito. Any person with an existing contract or intent to contract with Mr. Comito to provide or receive services related to schools and libraries support may file an opposition request within 30 days or by May 13, 2026, whichever comes first.
SEC Extends Rule 607 Payment for Order Flow Disclosure PRA Collection Through May 2026
The SEC has submitted a request to OMB for extension of the previously approved collection of information under Rule 607 (17 CFR 242.607) pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act. Rule 607 requires broker-dealers to disclose policies regarding receipt of payment for order flow on each new account and annually thereafter. The SEC estimates approximately 3,342 respondents will make disclosures to 330,297,553 customer accounts each year, with an average annual burden of 77.918 hours per respondent.
FAA Allows Late Comments on Evolution AG LLC Aviation Decision
The Federal Aviation Administration issued a decision allowing late comments on an aviation-related matter involving Evolution AG LLC. The decision was posted on Regulations.gov with an attachment labeled 'Decision_FAA-2026-3169_EVOLUTION AG LLC'. This procedural action extends the opportunity for interested parties to submit comments beyond the original deadline.
In the Matter of Baker Farms LLC Decision
The FAA issued a Decision regarding Baker Farms LLC (FAA-2025-2651). The document, filed as a final administrative action on Regulations.gov, establishes FAA enforcement or compliance findings specific to the named agricultural entity. The Decision carries binding legal authority as a final FAA administrative determination.
Change in Bank Control Act - Spalj Family Control Group Acquisition of Deerwood Bancshares Inc
The Federal Reserve Board published a notice of applications under the Change in Bank Control Act for the Spalj Family Control Group to acquire voting shares of Deerwood Bancshares Inc, Baxter, Minnesota, and indirectly Deerwood Bank, Waite Park, Minnesota. The applications are available for public inspection at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, and comments must be submitted by April 28, 2026.
SEC Form ADV-H Hardship Exemption Collection OMB Review Comments Closed
The SEC published a notice announcing the closure of the public comment period for the information collection associated with Form ADV-H (OMB Control No. 3235-0655), the hardship exemption application for investment advisers under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Form ADV-H allows investment advisers to request temporary or continuing hardship exemptions from electronic filing requirements through the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD) system. The SEC estimates 22,495 respondents with an annual aggregate burden of two hours.
S2707 - DHCR Housing Development Funding Portal Bill
NY Senate Bill S2707, sponsored by Senator Rachel May, passed the Senate. The bill requires the Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) to develop a common application and web portal for housing development funding, tax credits, loans, and grants. The portal would be accessible to relevant state agencies and streamline the housing assistance application process.