California's Transition to a Carbon-Free Electric Grid

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) issued a notice detailing its role in the state's transition to a carbon-free electric grid by 2045. The CPUC oversees the Renewables Portfolio Standard and Integrated Resource Planning to ensure clean energy procurement and grid modernization while managing costs for consumers.

Bill to Prohibit Lead Ammunition/Tackle Ban on Federal Land

H.R. 556, introduced in the US House of Representatives, aims to prohibit the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Agriculture from banning lead ammunition or tackle on certain federal lands and waters. The bill, titled the 'Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act', seeks to maintain current practices for hunters and anglers.

H.R. 556 Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act Hearing

The U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources announced a hearing for H.R. 556, the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act, scheduled for March 16, 2026. The hearing will discuss the bill text and accompanying report.

ICO Open Letter to Tech Firms on Age Checks and Child Data Protection

The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has issued an open letter to social media and video-sharing platforms, urging them to strengthen age assurance measures to prevent underage children from accessing services. The ICO expects platforms to move beyond self-declaration and utilize available technology to enforce minimum age requirements.

California AG Issues Advisory on Landlord Well Testing Compliance

California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued an enforcement advisory to landlords regarding compliance with Assembly Bill 2454, which mandates participation in free domestic well testing and treatment programs. The advisory aims to ensure landlords provide safe drinking water to tenants in areas with vulnerable water supplies.

Competition Bureau Reaches Agreement with Chartwell

The Competition Bureau has reached a consent agreement with Chartwell Master Care LP to address competition concerns regarding its proposed acquisition of six retirement homes. Chartwell has agreed to sell one retirement home to preserve competition in the Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario area.

HMRC Call for Evidence on Business Systems Integration

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has opened a call for evidence to gather views on how business systems integration can simplify record-keeping for businesses. The consultation closes on June 4, 2026, and aims to identify practical steps for government and industry.

Consultation on Extending Uncertain Tax Treatment Regime

HM Revenue & Customs has launched a consultation proposing to extend the Uncertain Tax Treatment (UTT) regime. The proposal aims to capture more legal interpretation uncertainties across various taxes and apply to wealthy individuals and trusts with tax advantages over £5 million. The consultation closes on June 4, 2026.

VAT Import One Stop Shop Scheme: Screening Equality Impact Assessment

HM Revenue & Customs has published a Screening Equality Impact Assessment for the VAT Import One Stop Shop scheme for intermediaries. This assessment, published on March 12, 2026, details the consideration of equality impacts on groups with protected characteristics.

HMRC Directions on Electronic Communications for Tax

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has published directions regarding the use of electronic communications for tax regulations, specifically for returns made via the Self Assessment Online service. These directions clarify the methods and requirements for submitting tax information electronically.