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EU Legislation and Notices - February 23, 2026

The EU published several legislative acts and decisions on February 23, 2026. These include implementing regulations concerning restrictive measures in Russia, amendments to active substance approvals for biocidal products, and a decision on Iceland's participation in the Union Space Programme.

NY Executive Order Declares Disaster Emergency

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a state disaster emergency effective February 22, 2026, due to an expected nor'easter. The order applies to numerous counties and contiguous areas, suspending certain regulations to facilitate emergency response and relief efforts.

Temporary 10% Import Duty Imposed

President Trump has imposed a temporary 10% ad valorem import duty on articles imported into the United States for 150 days, effective February 24, 2026. This action aims to address international payment problems and rebalance trade relationships, with specific exemptions for certain critical goods and trade partners.

GAO Report: Improve Disability Access to DOL Job Programs

The GAO released a report highlighting issues with disability access to Department of Labor (DOL) job programs. The report found that job seekers with disabilities may not receive necessary accommodations and that DOL does not routinely analyze its monitoring results or evaluate the use of its guidance. The GAO recommended DOL address these systemic issues.

GAO Report on Interior Department Oil and Gas Data Sharing

The GAO released a report highlighting significant inefficiencies in the Department of the Interior's oil and gas data sharing processes. The report found that despite efforts to modernize systems, manual data entry and a lack of automated sharing persist, hindering oversight of energy development on federal and Tribal lands. The GAO recommends setting specific time frames and measurable goals to address these issues.

Ending Certain Tariff Actions

President Biden has issued an executive order ending certain tariff actions previously imposed under various executive orders related to national emergencies. These tariffs, primarily *ad valorem* duties, will be removed as soon as practicable. The national emergencies themselves remain in effect.

President Continues Suspension of Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment

The President has issued an Executive Order continuing the suspension of duty-free de minimis treatment for all countries. This action impacts shipments entering the United States through the international postal network and is based on national security and economic concerns.

Presidential Proclamation: 10% Import Surcharge

The President has issued a proclamation imposing a temporary 10% import surcharge to address fundamental international payments problems, including large balance-of-payments deficits. This action, authorized by the Trade Act of 1974, aims to protect the U.S. economy and national security. Specific product exceptions may apply.

First Lady Donates Inaugural Gown to Smithsonian

First Lady Melania Trump donated her 2025 inaugural gown to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History's First Ladies Collection. The donation adds to the museum's extensive collection of historical artifacts and is now on public display.

Florida Tornado Emergency Declaration Renewal

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has renewed the state of emergency for North Florida due to tornado damage. Executive Order 26-34 extends Executive Order 24-94 for sixty days, continuing state support for recovery efforts in affected counties.