New regs for Wednesday: Changes coming to lifejacket labels

{mosads}Removing a code on the labels would pave the way for new labeling standards, which would more effectively convey safety information and be developed with the industry’s consensus. Getting rid of the codes would also allow U.S. standards to more closely resemble those in Canada and other countries, the Coast Guard said.

The current label codes indicate the types of applications for different flotation devices, such as those that are worn like lifejackets versus those that are thrown like life preservers.

Defense education:

A new proposal from the Pentagon would change the policies and procedures for educational opportunities some members of the military choose to take part in.

The new rules are meant to make it easier for schools to access military bases, allow students to register complaints and establish eligibility criteria for tuition assistance. 

Renewable fuel:

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is denying attempts by the oil-and-gas industry to change a requirement on biofuel in diesel.

Last year, the agency set a standard for the amount of renewable fuel that had to be mixed with diesel. The American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers and the American Petroleum Institute, which represent oil companies, challenged that decision but have been denied by the EPA. 

The agency said they did not meet requirements for reconsideration under the Clean Air Act. 

Clothes dryers:

The Energy Department has finalized new test procedures to make sure clothing dryers are energy efficient. 

Communications:

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is increasing the maximum penalty it is able to charge to account for inflation.

The new penalties differ for various infractions, but if a television station airs “obscene, indecent, or profane material,” they can be charged up to $350,000 for each violation, or up to $3.3 million per act. 

The FCC is also asking the public whether or not it can update its rules on property records to reduce burdens for the industry. 

ObamaCare:

The Internal Revenue Service is finalizing its rules for disclosing taxpayer information as part of ObamaCare.

The agency will release information to state agencies to confirm whether or not people are eligible for tax credits to participate in new state-based health insurance marketplaces, called exchanges. 

Endangered species:

The Fish and Wildlife Service had determined that the rattlesnake-master borer moth is a “candidate species” to be added to the Endangered Species List.

However, the agency is preoccupied with “higher priority actions,” so it will wait until “priorities allow” to officially declare the moth endangered, according to its notice.

Transit:

The Transportation Department has new guidance for local transit projects that receive federal funding. 

Federal workers:

The Office of Personnel Management has new rules designed to improve oversight of incentives for retaining government workers. 

Rural housing:

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is proposing new regulations to implement a rural development voucher program.