FederalRegister.gov regulatory documents
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NMFS is soliciting public input to inform potential revisions to the implementing regulations pursuant to the import provisions of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). NMFS is initiating a comprehensive review of the import regulations to increase efficiency of the program while ensuring that the objectives of the statute are met.
NMFS announces an inseason action for the Pacific halibut recreational fishery in the International Pacific Halibut Commission's (IPHC) regulatory Area 2A. This action adds fishing dates in August and September in the Columbia River and Washington subareas. These actions are intended to provide additional fishing opportunity for anglers in 2026 and are necessary to achieve the overall recreational fishery allocations for Area 2A established in the Pacific Fishery Management Council's (Council) 2026 Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan and the 2026 IPHC regulations.
NMFS proposes to implement annual catch limits (ACL) and an accountability measure (AM) for the Hawaii deepwater shrimp and precious coral fisheries for each fishing year from 2026 to 2028. As a post-season AM, NMFS proposes to determine whether the average catch of any stock from the most recent 3 years exceeds an ACL and reduce the ACL for that stock for the subsequent fishing year by the amount of any overage. The proposed ACLs and AMs are unchanged from past measures implemented for the fisheries. This proposed rule supports the long- term sustainability of Hawaii deepwater shrimp and precious coral.
The Department of Commerce (Commerce), Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is revising the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the Commerce Control List (CCL) to appropriately control certain silencers, mufflers, and sound suppressors (sound suppressors) that will no longer be described on the International Traffic in Arms Regulations U.S. Munitions List (USML). This interim final rule (IFR) complements a Department of State interim final rule published elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register (International Traffic in Arms Regulations: USML Category I Firearm Suppressors (1400-AG11) (State IFR)). This transfer of jurisdiction will reduce the regulatory burden on exports of sound suppressors. This IFR also revises the EAR to allow firearms and related items to be temporarily exported and reexported under a license exception as tools of trade, thereby relieving exporters of the regulatory burden of applying for authorization. Finally, this IFR clarifies which items fall within the scope of the EAR's entry clearance requirements for a temporary import.
NMFS proposes to implement management measures described in Framework Amendment 14 under the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for the Coastal Migratory Pelagic (CMP) Resources in the Gulf and Atlantic Region, as prepared by the Gulf and South Atlantic Fishery Management Councils (Councils). If implemented, this proposed rule would modify the annual catch limit (ACL) for the Gulf migratory group of Spanish mackerel (Spanish mackerel) in the Gulf of America (Gulf) based on the results of the most recent stock assessment. Additionally, this proposed rule would modify the current accountability measure (AM) for Gulf Spanish mackerel from an in-season closure AM to a post-season AM. The purpose of these regulatory changes is to ensure the stock ACL and AM are based on the best scientific information available and to achieve optimum yield (OY).
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO or Office) is proposing to amend the rules of practice to require a third party request for ex parte reexamination to include a statement by the third party requester identifying all real parties in interest to the ex parte reexamination request. This statement would be kept confidential upon request. This proposed requirement would provide the Office with a mechanism to evaluate statutory estoppel provisions. It would also enhance the Office's ability to respond to false certifications, misrepresentations, and fraud.
NMFS announces that the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) submitted amendment 38 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan (Groundfish FMP) to the Secretary of Commerce for review. If approved, amendment 38 would revise the Groundfish FMP to reflect the rebuilt status of yelloweye rockfish and the California stock of quillback rockfish, removing all references to their respective rebuilding plans from the FMP. In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, NMFS also announces the availability of a draft EA that analyzes the potential effects of the action. NMFS requests public comment on the draft EA.
The North Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) submitted amendment 129 to the Fishery Management Plans for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (BSAI FMP) and amendment 58 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crabs (Crab FMP) to the Secretary of Commerce for review. If approved, amendments 129 and 58 would remove requirements for fishery participants to submit Economic Data Reports (EDRs) each year, reducing cost recovery fees and eliminating redundant reporting requirements. Amendments 129 and 58 are intended to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), the BSAI FMP, the Crab FMP, and other applicable laws.
NMFS seeks public comment on proposed regulations to implement Abbreviated Framework Amendment 5 (Abbreviated Framework 5) under the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region (FMP). If implemented by NMFS, this proposed rule would revise catch levels for blueline tilefish in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the South Atlantic. The purposes of these proposed regulatory changes are to ensure the catch levels for blueline tilefish are based on the best scientific information available (BSIA), to achieve and maintain optimum yield (OY), and to prevent overfishing while minimizing adverse social and economic effects to the extent practicable in accordance with NMFS' statutory mandates.
NMFS proposes to implement the Omnibus Management Flexibility Amendment to the New England Fishery Management Council (Council) Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) (Amendment), as prepared by the Council. This proposed rule would allow for changes to the specifications process, in-season adjustment authority, and preparation of Council reports and reviews. The purpose of this action is to address the need for increased management flexibility and consistency across all the Council's FMPs.
NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 4 to the Puerto Rico Fishery Management Plan (Puerto Rico FMP), as prepared and submitted by the Caribbean Fishery Management Council (Council). The proposed rule would reclassify rainbow runner from a reef fish to a pelagic fish under the Puerto Rico FMP. The proposed rule would implement management measures for rainbow runner based on the pelagic fish classification, including sector annual catch targets (ACTs) and accountability measures (AMs). The sector-specific annual catch limits (ACLs) would be retained after the reclassification. The purpose of this proposed rule and Amendment 4 is to ensure that rainbow runner is managed consistent with its life history characteristics, fishing patterns, and with the Council's management of other pelagic species.
NMFS is creating an exception to the prohibition on landing dogs on the Pribilof Islands to allow the Regional Administrator to authorize independently certified and trained rodent detection dogs to be deployed to detect and prevent the establishment of invasive rodents. Invasive rodents could have significant consequences for the wildlife species that live and breed on the Pribilof Islands and the health and food security of community members. Public comments received expressed broad support for the proposed rule with some minor clarifications. NMFS is publishing this interim final rule to allow public comment on the decision to authorize certified and trained rodent detection dogs to pre-emptively inspect vessels or cargo. This action supports Tribal, local, and Federal agency efforts intended to promote the goals and objectives of the Fur Seal Act (FSA), the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), and other applicable laws.
NMFS proposes to implement management measures described in Amendment 62 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf (FMP) (Amendment 62), as prepared and submitted by the Gulf Council (Council). This proposed rule and Amendment 62 would revise the catch limits and sector allocations for Gulf of America (Gulf) red grouper, based on the best scientific information available. Additionally, this proposed rule would remove the shallow-water grouper (SWG) recreational seasonal closure, from February 1 through March 31, in Gulf Federal waters seaward of the 20-fathom boundary.
We, NMFS, announce a 12-month finding on a petition to revise the critical habitat designation under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for the Southern California steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) distinct population segment (DPS). The petition from the United Water Conservation District (UWCD) requests the removal of an approximately 9-mile (14.5-kilometer (km)) stream reach from the confluence of Hopper Creek and the Santa Clara River to the face of Santa Felicia Dam. Based on our review of the best scientific and commercial data available, we find that the petitioned action to remove this reach from the critical habitat designation is warranted. Consequently, we are proposing to remove this reach from the critical habitat designation for Southern California steelhead.
The Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) has submitted Amendment 22 to the Coastal Pelagic Species (CPS) Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for review by the Secretary of Commerce. This notification announces that the proposed Amendment 22 to the CPS FMP is available for public review and comment and is currently being reviewed by NMFS for approval, disapproval, or partial approval. If approved, Amendment 22 would update essential fish habitat (EFH) provisions for stocks managed under the CPS FMP based on a recent review of available information. There are no management measures proposed as part of this action, and no regulations are necessary to implement the proposed updates. The Council has proposed this amendment with the intention to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), the CPS FMP, and other applicable laws. NMFS will consider public comments in deciding whether to approve, disapprove, or partially approve Amendment 22.
NMFS seeks public comment on the management measures proposed in Amendment 19 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf (Shrimp FMP). The Gulf Council (Council) has submitted Amendment 19 for review, approval, and implementation by NMFS. If approved, Amendment 19 would extend the moratorium on the issuance of new commercial shrimp permits in the Gulf of America (Gulf) that is set to expire after October 26, 2026. NMFS implemented the permit moratorium to create stability and prevent overcapacity in the Gulf shrimp fishery. Amendment 19 would extend the permit moratorium for an additional 10 years and maintain historical limits on shrimp fishing effort.
NMFS proposes to implement annual harvest specifications and management measures for the northern subpopulation of Pacific sardine (hereafter, Pacific sardine), for the fishing year from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. This proposed rule would prohibit most directed commercial fishing for Pacific sardine off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California. Pacific sardine harvest would be allowed for use only as live bait, in minor directed fisheries, as incidental catch in other fisheries, or as authorized under exempted fishing permits. The proposed harvest specifications for 2026-2027 include an overfishing limit of 4,645 metric tons (mt), an acceptable biological catch (ABC) of 3,613 mt, an annual catch limit (ACL) of 2,200 mt, and an annual catch target (ACT) of 2,100 mt. This proposed rule is intended to conserve, manage, and rebuild the Pacific sardine stock off the coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California.
NMFS announces an inseason action for the Pacific halibut recreational fishery in the International Pacific Halibut Commission's (IPHC) regulatory Area 2A. This action adds fishing dates (June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23) in the Columbia River subarea. These additional fishing dates are intended to provide additional opportunity for anglers to achieve the overall recreational fishery allocations in the Pacific Fishery Management Council's (Council) 2026 Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan and to promote full utilization of the 2026 Area 2A Pacific halibut catch limits.
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) proposes to revise the Guidance for Federal Financial Assistance to improve government- wide policies and requirements related to the management of grants, cooperative agreements, and other forms of assistance. OMB is proposing revisions that would improve transparency, accountability, and oversight for Federal awards across the Federal Government. This includes ensuring that American tax dollars are not wasted or misused, activities performed under Federal awards are consistent with law and policy, and recipients are held accountable when they fail to meet relevant standards. The revisions also aim to ensure that basic American principles of equality and equal opportunity are upheld throughout all stages of the award making process and that unlawful discrimination is no longer permitted. Proposed changes also include providing further clarification on the regulatory status of the OMB requirements and on the process for future updates to the government- wide requirements. Finally, OMB also proposes changes to reduce recipient burden. The listed Federal grant-making agencies propose conforming changes to their respective adopting regulations, or, in the case of some agencies and other entities, establishing new adopting regulations or policies. The proposed changes reflect the administration's commitment to transparency, accountability, and proper oversight for the Federal grantmaking process. The proposed regulations seek to ensure that American tax dollars are ultimately used to serve the needs of the American public.
NMFS seeks public comment on proposed regulations to implement management measures described in amendments to four fishery management plans (FMPs) in the Gulf of America (Gulf), South Atlantic, and Atlantic, referenced here as the Commercial Electronic Logbook Amendments. If the Commercial Electronic Logbook Amendments are implemented by NMFS through this proposed rule, submission of certain commercial fishing logbooks would be required in an electronic format rather than the current paper format. NMFS is also proposing minor changes to some of the required data fields in the logbooks determined to be necessary to successfully transition from paper to electronic reporting. The purpose of this proposed rule is to increase the accuracy and efficiency of fisheries data that NMFS receives from federally permitted fishermen participating in the applicable commercial fisheries that occur in the Gulf, South Atlantic, and Atlantic.
The Caribbean Fishery Management Council (Council) submitted Amendment 4 to the Puerto Rico Fishery Management Plan (Puerto Rico FMP) for review, approval, and implementation by NMFS. If approved, Amendment 4 would reclassify rainbow runner from a reef fish to a pelagic fish under the Puerto Rico FMP. Amendment 4 would result in revised management measures for rainbow runner based on the pelagic fish classification, including sector annual catch targets (ACTs) and accountability measures (AMs). The sector-specific annual catch limits (ACLs) would be retained after the reclassification. The purpose of Amendment 4 is to ensure that rainbow runner is managed consistent with its life history characteristics, fishing patterns, and the Council's management of other pelagic species.
NMFS announces that the New England Fishery Management Council (Council) has transmitted the Omnibus Management Flexibility Amendment to the New England Fishery Management Council Fishery Management Plans (FMP) to the Secretary of Commerce for review. If approved, the Amendment would allow for increased management flexibility and consistency across all the Council's FMPs. The intended effect of the Amendment is to modify certain administrative measures across all the Council's FMPs. This notice is intended to alert the public to this action and provide an opportunity for comment.
NMFS is proposing to implement recent binding recommendations of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) on quotas for North Atlantic swordfish, South Atlantic swordfish, North Atlantic albacore tuna (northern albacore), and Atlantic bluefin tuna. While this action does not propose to change the existing baseline quotas for North Atlantic swordfish, South Atlantic swordfish, and northern albacore, this action proposes to implement the management procedure for North Atlantic swordfish, describes the existing management procedure for northern albacore, and considers the possibility of future quota changes for swordfish and northern albacore consistent with their respective management procedures and ICCAT recommendations. For bluefin tuna, this action also proposes to implement the increased U.S. baseline quota adopted by ICCAT in 2025, divide it among the established regulatory domestic subquota categories, and implement changes to the bluefin tuna quota associated with longline bycatch adopted by ICCAT in 2025. This proposed rule also describes the annual quota adjustment procedures for North Atlantic swordfish, South Atlantic swordfish, northern albacore, and bluefin tuna and requests public comment on them. This action is required by the Atlantic Tunas Convention Act (ATCA) and to achieve domestic management objectives under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).
NMFS proposes to implement management measures described in Amendment 58B to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf (FMP) (Amendment 58B). For the deep-water grouper (DWG) complex, this proposed rule would revise the catch limits, set a recreational annual catch limit (ACL), and revise the recreational accountability measure (AM). Amendment 58B would also revise the status determination criteria and sector allocations for the DWG complex. The purpose of this proposed rule and Amendment 58B is to update catch levels, management measures, and sector allocations for the DWG complex consistent with the best scientific information available.
NMFS proposes regulatory and administrative changes to implement improvements to the Greater Atlantic Region's Catch Share Cost Recovery Programs. These updates are intended to simplify regulations and reduce costs for the Scallop Individual Fishing Quota, Tilefish Individual Fishing Quota, and Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Individual Transferable Quota fisheries. This action would result in improved administration and management of the scallop, tilefish, and surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries.
NMFS proposes a framework to determine catch limits for all U.S. fisheries and retention limits by U.S. longline fisheries under a Hawaii longline limited entry permit for Western and Central North Pacific Ocean (WCNPO) striped marlin (Kajikia audax), consistent with Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) Conservation and Management Measure (CMM) 2024-06. If the retention limit is reached, NMFS proposes to prohibit longline retention of WCNPO striped marlin by longline fishing vessels until the end of the year to prevent the U.S. catch limit from being exceeded. Because the U.S. limit under the framework can change each year, NMFS proposes to specify the updated catch and longline retention limits by notice in the Federal Register early each calendar year. For fishing year 2026, NMFS proposes to specify a U.S. WCNPO striped marlin limit of 393.4 metric tons (mt) (867,300 pounds (lb)) and a U.S. longline retention limit of 381.6 mt (841,300 lb) using the framework.
NMFS approves and implements Federal management measures for the 2026 and 2027 summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass recreational fisheries. This action implements management measures intended to allow these recreational fisheries to achieve, but not exceed, the recreational harvest target and thereby prevent overfishing.
NMFS is implementing Framework Adjustment 19 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and Framework Adjustment 7 to the Bluefish FMP (together the "Recreational Measures Setting Process Framework") that make limited revisions to the process for setting recreational management measures and recreational accountability measures for summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, and bluefish.
NMFS approves and implements Framework Adjustment 17 to the Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). This action revises the Atlantic mackerel rebuilding plan, sets final 2026 and projects 2027 specifications, implements additional management measures for the mackerel fishery, and makes administrative revisions and corrections to existing regulations. This action is necessary to respond to updated scientific information from a September 2025 management track stock assessment. The management measures in this action are intended to help prevent overfishing, rebuild the overfished mackerel stock, provide additional opportunity to the fishing industry and achieve optimum yield, and ensure that management measures are based on the best scientific information available.
NMFS proposes to modify the annual catch limit (ACL) and accountability measures (AM) for Mariana bottomfish management unit species (MUS) in Guam. The proposed rule would increase the ACL from 31,000 pounds (lb) (14,061 kilograms (kg)) to 34,500 lb (15,649 kg), replace the in-season AM with a post-season overage adjustment if average catch from the most recent 3 years exceeds the ACL, and remove the higher performance standard that closes the fishery in Federal waters for any overage. The proposed rule considers the best available scientific, commercial, and other information about the fishery, and supports rebuilding of the fishery.
NMFS is proposing regulations to implement specifications and management measures in Framework Adjustment 17 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP). This action would set monkfish specifications for fishing year 2026, project specifications for fishing years 2027 and 2028, streamline the Annual Catch Limit (ACL) Overage Accountability Measure (AM) trigger, and add default specifications for the monkfish fishery. This action is necessary to respond to updated scientific information and achieve the goals and objectives of the FMP. The proposed measures are intended to help prevent overfishing and ensure that management measures are based on the best scientific information available.
NMFS seeks public comment on proposed regulations to implement Regulatory Amendment 36 under the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic (Snapper-Grouper FMP). This proposed rule would revise the recreational vessel limits for gag and black grouper. Additionally, this proposed rule would revise the transit storage requirements for commercial on-demand, also known as ropeless, black sea bass pots. The purpose of these regulatory changes is to increase biological benefits to the gag and black grouper stocks, and to allow more practical transit of vessels through certain gear restricted areas with on-demand black sea bass pots on board consistent with mandates in the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).
NMFS issues these proposed regulations to implement amendment 36 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan (Groundfish FMP). The proposed regulations include management measures that would apply to vessels registered to limited entry fixed gear (LEFG) endorsed permits and LEFG permit owners in the Pacific Coast groundfish fishery. Specifically, NMFS proposes to add flexibility to the LEFG permits' gear endorsements, remove the base permit designation of LEFG permits, remove the start and end times (i.e., hours of the day) for the open dates of the primary sablefish season, and develop a cost recovery program for the LEFG primary sablefish fishery. The purpose of this action is to provide increased flexibility to LEFG participants while reducing administrative burdens and to develop a cost recovery program to meet the requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).
NMFS is proposing changes to regulations regarding pelagic and demersal indicator species in the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) pelagic and bottom longline fisheries. Specifically, NMFS is proposing to remove the regulations regarding pelagic and demersal indicator species and the list of pelagic and demersal indicator species from the HMS regulations. These proposed changes would directly impact pelagic and bottom longline fishermen who hold Atlantic HMS fishing permits. The purpose of this action is to increase fishing flexibilities, remove regulatory inefficiencies, and optimize the ability of pelagic and bottom longline fisheries to harvest available quotas to the extent practicable while still achieving fishery management and conservation goals.
We, NMFS, have completed a comprehensive status review of the tope shark (Galeorhinus galeus) in response to a petition to list the species as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973. After reviewing the best scientific and commercial data available, we have determined that this species is comprised of six distinct population segments (DPSs) and that two, the Southern (So.) Africa and Southwest (SW) Atlantic DPSs, are likely to become in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their ranges in the foreseeable future. Therefore, we propose to list the So. Africa and SW Atlantic DPSs as threatened species under the ESA. We have also determined that the remaining four DPSs--the Northeast (NE) Atlantic, NE Pacific, SW Pacific, and Southeast (SE) Pacific DPSs--do not meet the definition of a threatened or endangered species under section 4(a) of the ESA and therefore do not warrant listing under the ESA. We solicit information to inform the final listing determinations.
NMFS proposes 2026 harvest specifications for the salmon fishery of the Cook Inlet exclusive economic zone (EEZ) Area. This action is necessary to establish harvest limits for salmon during the 2026 fishing year and to accomplish the goals and objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for Salmon Fisheries in the EEZ off Alaska (Salmon FMP). The intended effect of this action is to conserve and manage the salmon resources in Cook Inlet EEZ Area in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson- Stevens Act).
This document corrects an error in the ADDRESSES section of a proposed rule published on March 18, 2026.
The Gulf Council (Council) has submitted Amendment 62 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf (FMP) (Amendment 62) for review, approval, and implementation by NMFS. If approved, Amendment 62 would, for Gulf of America (Gulf) red grouper, revise the catch limits and sector allocations. Additionally, Amendment 62 would remove the February 1 through March 31 shallow-water grouper (SWG) recreational seasonal closure in Gulf Federal waters seaward of the 20-fathom boundary. The purpose of Amendment 62 is to modify the catch limits and sector allocations of Gulf red grouper based on the best scientific information available, and to remove the recreational closed season for SWG seaward of the 20-fathom boundary.
In this action, NMFS proposes specifications for the 2026 fishing year for the golden tilefish and blueline tilefish fisheries north of the North Carolina/Virginia border. The proposed action is necessary to establish allowable harvest levels and other management measures to prevent overfishing while allowing optimum yield, consistent with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act) and the Tilefish Fishery Management Plan (FMP).
NMFS approves and implements Framework Adjustment 40 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan (FMP) that establishes specifications for fishing years 2026 and 2027, including days-at-sea, limited access general category allocations, and modified area designations to optimize yield and to protect juvenile scallops. This action is necessary to prevent overfishing and improve resource yield- per-recruit and management of the fishery.
NMFS proposes 2026 through 2028 specifications for the Northeast skate fishery. This action would set skate catch limits for fishing year 2026, project catch limits for fishing years 2027 through 2028, and increase per trip possession limits for the wing and bait fisheries. This proposed action is necessary to establish skate specifications consistent with the most recent scientific information. The intent of this action is to establish appropriate catch limits for the skate fishery while providing additional operational flexibility to fishery participants.
NMFS proposes to approve changes to the Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan (CSP) for the International Pacific Halibut Commission's (IPHC) regulatory Area 2A off Washington, Oregon, and California. In addition, NMFS proposes to implement management measures for the 2026 recreational fisheries in Area 2A that are not implemented through IPHC regulations. These measures include the recreational fishery seasons and subarea allocations for Area 2A. These actions are intended to conserve Pacific halibut and provide angler opportunity where available.
NMFS is proposing annual management measures for the 2026 non- Tribal directed commercial Pacific halibut fishery that operates south of Point Chehalis, WA, (lat. 46[deg]53.30' N) in the International Pacific Halibut Commission's (IPHC) Regulatory Area 2A off Washington, Oregon, and California. Annual management measures include fishing periods and fishing period limits. This action is intended to conserve Pacific halibut and provide fishing opportunity where available.
NMFS proposes to implement management measures described in a framework action under the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf (FMP), as prepared by the Gulf Council (Council). If implemented, this proposed rule would modify the Gulf of America (Gulf) Other Shallow-Water Grouper (SWG) complex catch limits, and would set a recreational fixed-closed season for Gulf Other SWG. The purpose of this proposed rule is to reduce harvest of Gulf scamp and yellowmouth grouper while the Council develops Amendment 58A to the FMP, which considers additional Other SWG management measures.
NMFS has received a request from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) for authorization to take marine mammals incidental to fisheries research in the coastal bays of Texas, over the course of 5 years from the issuance of a final rule and Letter of Authorization (LOA). Pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS proposes regulations setting forth permissible methods of taking, other means of effecting the least practicable adverse impact on such marine mammal stocks (i.e., mitigation measures), and requirements pertaining to monitoring and reporting such takes, and requests comments on the proposed regulations. NMFS will consider public comments prior to making any final decision on the promulgation of the requested MMPA regulations, and NMFS' responses to public comments will be summarized in the final rule announcing our decision.
NMFS proposes to incorporate revised Atlantic cod stock units into the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP), and set status determination criteria (SDCs), specifications, and commercial and recreational management measures, for the four new cod stocks, as recommended by the New England Fishery Management Council (Council). This action also proposes other recreational groundfish measures necessary for the fishery. The purpose of this proposed action is to prevent overfishing, ensure rebuilding, and help achieve optimum yield in the groundfish fisheries consistent with the status of the stocks and requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).
NMFS proposes specifications for the Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan (FMP), as recommended by the Mid- Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council). This action proposes new 2026 and projected 2027-2028 specifications for the chub mackerel and Illex squid fisheries and reaffirms previously-projected 2026 specifications for the longfin squid and butterfish fisheries. These specifications are intended to establish allowable harvest levels that will prevent overfishing, consistent with the most recent scientific information.
NMFS has received a request from the U.S. Department of the Navy (Navy) for Incidental Take Regulations (ITR) and an associated Letter of Authorization (LOA) pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). The requested regulations would govern the authorization of take of marine mammals incidental to training and testing activities using Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System (SURTASS) Low Frequency Active (LFA) sonar systems in the western and central North Pacific and eastern Indian oceans over the course of 7 years from August 2026 through August 2033. NMFS requests comments on this proposed rule. NMFS will consider public comments prior to making any final decision on the promulgation of the requested ITR and issuance of the LOA; agency responses to public comments will be summarized in the final rule, if issued. The Navy's activities are considered military readiness activities pursuant to the MMPA, as amended by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004 (2004 NDAA) and the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2019 (2019 NDAA).
NMFS issues this proposed rule to establish the 2026 Tribal allocation of Pacific whiting and set-aside of Pacific whiting for research and incidental mortality in non-groundfish fisheries. The proposed measures are intended to help prevent overfishing, achieve optimum yield, ensure that management measures are based on the best scientific information available, and provide for the implementation of Tribal treaty fishing rights.
NMFS is considering possible deregulatory action to modify and modernize the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule. The goal of this initiative is to reduce unnecessary regulatory and economic burdens on the regulated community by replacing current seasonal speed restrictions with alternative management areas and advanced, technology-based, strike-avoidance measures that maintain or enhance conservation efficacy for the endangered North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis).
The Gulf Council (Council) has submitted Amendment 58B to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf (FMP) (Amendment 58B) for review, approval, and implementation by NMFS. If approved, Amendment 58 would, for the deep-water grouper (DWG) complex, revise the status determination criteria, sector allocations, and catch limits, set a recreational annual catch limit (ACL), and revise the recreational accountability measure (AM). The purpose of Amendment 58B is to update catch levels, management measures, and sector allocations for the DWG complex consistent with the best scientific information available.
On January 5, 2026, NMFS published the proposed rule to revise commercial blacknose shark and recreational Atlantic shark fisheries management measures in the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) shark fisheries. In the proposed rule, NMFS announced a 60-day comment period ending on March 6, 2026. During the comment period, the Gulf Fishery Management Council, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission requested an extension of the comment to provide additional opportunities for the public to consider and comment on the proposed measures and related analyses. NMFS is extending the comment period for this action through May 29, 2026. NMFS will consider comments received on the proposed rule in determining whether and how to implement final management measures.
NMFS has received a request for the reimplementation of incidental take regulations (ITR) governing the incidental taking of marine mammals during geophysical survey activity conducted in the Gulf of America (GOA). Pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS is requesting comments on its proposed rule and will consider public comments relevant to this proposed rule prior to issuing any final rule.
NMFS is adjusting the specifications for the 2026 Atlantic mackerel fishery to reflect the results of an updated mackerel management track stock assessment. This in-season action is intended to continue rebuilding the mackerel stock, help the mackerel fishery achieve optimum yield, and ensure that management measures are based on the best scientific information available.
The Census Bureau provides an Age Search service of confidential records from the 1910 to 2020 decennial censuses and can issue an official transcript of the results to authorized individuals. With this rule, the Census Bureau is proposing to increase the fee for conducting an Age Search from $65.00 to $155.00. The Census Bureau is also proposing to increase the additional charge for expedited requests requiring search results within one day from $20.00 per case to $50.00 per case. These changes are needed to reflect the actual operating costs associated with processing an Age Search request which were last revised in 2004.
This proposed rule would revise the regulations regarding the termination date for swordfish and shark limited access permits (LAPs). Currently, when a swordfish or shark LAP is not renewed within a year of the expiration date, the permit terminates and can no longer be renewed or used. This action would remove the termination date and allow permits to be renewed at any time. This action would stop the further loss of swordfish and shark LAPs and may benefit permit holders by providing them the ability to renew their LAPs more than one year past their expiration. This action would have no practical effect on harvest levels of swordfish and shark species and is administrative in nature.
NMFS proposes to approve and implement the rebuilding plan recommended by the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) for the overfished Queets River Spring/Summer Chinook salmon stock (Queets sp/ su Chinook salmon). NMFS determined in October 2023 that this stock was overfished. The rebuilding plan will be part of the framework that guides the development of annual management measures for ocean salmon fisheries until NMFS determines that the overfished stock is rebuilt.
NMFS is opening directed fishing for Pacific cod by vessels using pot gear in the Central Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). This action is necessary to prevent the underharvest of, and to achieve the full use of, the A season allowance of the 2026 total allowable catch (TAC) of Pacific cod allocated to vessels using pot gear in the Central Regulatory Area of the GOA.
This proposed rule would implement gear marking requirements and entanglement risk reduction measures for portions of the Pacific coast groundfish fishery. This rulemaking will consist of mandatory requirements and voluntary measures. These new requirements and voluntary measures will be established pursuant to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The intent of the gear marking requirements is to increase the likelihood of attributing entanglements to a specific fishery and gear type. The intent of the risk reduction measures is to reduce bycatch by decreasing the likelihood of marine animal entanglements with fishing line. NMFS requests public comment on these proposed requirements and voluntary measures.
NMFS announces that the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) has submitted amendment 37 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan (Groundfish FMP) to the Secretary of Commerce for review. If approved, amendment 37 would define stocks that are in need of conservation and management in the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), consistent with the provisions and guidelines of the Magnuson- Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act). Amendment 37 would define stocks for 27 species within the fishery management unit. Amendment 37 is necessary for NMFS to make stock status determinations, which in turn will help prevent overfishing, rebuild overfished stocks, and achieve optimum yield. Amendment 37 is administrative in nature and does not change harvest levels or timing and location of fishing, nor does it revise the goals and objectives or the management frameworks of the Groundfish FMP.
NMFS is opening directed fishing for Pacific cod by catcher vessels using trawl gear in the Central Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). This action is necessary to prevent the underharvest of, and to achieve the full use of, the A season allowance of the 2026 total allowable catch (TAC) of Pacific cod allocated to catcher vessels using trawl gear in the Central Regulatory Area of the GOA.
The North Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) submitted amendment 57 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/ Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crabs (Crab FMP), to the Secretary of Commerce for review. If approved, amendment 57 would make a number of non-substantive, administrative changes to the Crab FMP including updates to informational content on the status of crab stocks, fisheries, and communities, as well as reorganizing the structure for clarity and logical sequence. These "housekeeping" changes would not change the management of any fisheries. The proposed amendment is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), the Crab FMP, and other applicable laws. NMFS will consider public comments in deciding whether to approve, disapprove, or partially approve amendment 57.
NMFS has received a request from Hilcorp Alaska, LLC (Hilcorp) for promulgation of incidental take regulations (ITR) and issuance of an associated Letter of Authorization (LOA) that would authorize continued take of marine mammals over 5 years (2026-2031) incidental to the construction, maintenance and use of sea ice roads, trails and adjacent ice pads after the expiration of the existing ITR and LOA. Pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS is proposing regulations setting forth permissible methods of taking, other means of effecting the least practicable adverse impact on such marine mammal stocks (i.e., mitigation measures), and requirements pertaining to monitoring and reporting takes and requests comments on the proposed rule. NMFS will consider public comments prior to making any final decision on the promulgation of the requested ITR and issuance of the LOA; agency responses to public comments will be summarized in the final rule, if promulgated.
NMFS issues these proposed regulations to remove the Cordell Bank Groundfish Conservation Area off central California for all groundfish fisheries and implement a new Groundfish Exclusion Area for all groundfish fisheries to protect sensitive habitat. The purpose of this proposed rule is to simplify regulatory complexity associated with overlapping fishery closures in the Cordell Bank area, and to increase fishing opportunity, while still protecting the Cordell Bank ecosystem. NMFS also announces the availability of a draft environmental assessment that analyzes the potential effects of the proposed rule.
This emergency rule temporarily increases 2026 harvest specifications and sector allocations for shortspine thornyhead, canary rockfish, and petrale sole in the Pacific Coast groundfish fishery. This increase in harvest specifications is based on new, recently discovered information from the latest catch-only projections, which show a higher biomass of these species available for harvest than determined by stock assessments used to set the 2025-26 harvest specifications and management measures. This action is necessary to alleviate significant direct economic loss caused by restrictive annual catch limits for these species.
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is easing export controls on certain civil Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and related technologies, which currently need a license to be exported to most countries. In particular, this interim final rule (IFR): a) allows less sensitive UAVs--namely, commercial UAVs with a maximum endurance of less than one hour, for which there is broad foreign availability--to be exported to most Wassenaar Arrangement Participating States (Country Group A:1) without a license; and b) allows more capable non-military UAVs--namely, certain long-range cargo delivery and agricultural spraying drones--to be exported to certain U.S. partners and allies (Country Group A:5) under License Exception Strategic Trade Authorization (STA). Exports pursuant to License Exception STA are subject to notification and reporting requirements to ensure the security of the exports. BIS is making these changes pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14307, "Unleashing American Drone Dominance."
The Department of Commerce ("Commerce") is proposing to amend its regulations governing restrictions on lobbying. Specifically, Commerce is proposing to remove two redundant and unnecessary compliance provisions and remove two reporting requirements that are obsolete and unwarranted. This action is necessary to reduce regulatory complexity and streamline the regulations governing restrictions on lobbying. The intended effects of this action are to eliminate redundancy, promote administrative efficiency, and update Commerce's lobbying regulations to properly reflect and implement the underlying statutory authority in its current form.
NMFS announces that the New England Fishery Management Council (Council) has transmitted Amendment 25 (Revised) to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP) to the Secretary of Commerce for review. If approved, Amendment 25 would revise the stocks of Atlantic cod managed in the FMP and include measures in the FMP necessary to manage four stocks of Atlantic cod in U.S. waters. The Council has deemed this action necessary to incorporate the best scientific information available from the most recent Research Track Assessment of Atlantic Cod and establish associated management measures under the FMP. This notice is intended to alert the public to this action and provide an opportunity for comment.
NMFS is proposing several changes for commercial and recreational Atlantic shark fisheries. Specifically, NMFS is considering options to remove the blacknose shark management boundary in the Atlantic region, modify the commercial retention limit for blacknose sharks in the Atlantic region, revise the recreational minimum size limits for Atlantic shark species, and revise the recreational retention limits for Atlantic shark species. In this action, NMFS would also remove commercial management group quota linkages, consistent with Amendment 14 to the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Fishery Management Plan (FMP), and make technical changes to clarify certain HMS regulations. This action is responsive to the framework for implementing management measures established in Amendment 14, findings from the Atlantic Shark Fishery Review (SHARE) document, public comments from scoping for Amendment 16 to the HMS FMP, and recent domestic laws and international agreements that are having direct and indirect impacts on shark fisheries. The goal of this action is to increase management flexibility to react to changes in the Atlantic shark fisheries and optimize the ability of the commercial and recreational shark fisheries to harvest quota to the extent practicable.
NMFS is taking a deregulatory action to revise the regulations implementing the Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan (HPTRP) to ensure the HPTRP is consistent with a gillnet gear requirement previously put in place under the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan to reduce bycatch of Atlantic sturgeon. This action is necessary to inform the public about an amendment to the Harbor Porpoise Take Reduction Plan altering the minimum twine size requirement to ensure that fishermen may use the low-profile gillnet gear required by the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan and also be in compliance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act while fishing in the New Jersey Atlantic Sturgeon Bycatch Reduction Area.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO or Office) is proposing to amend the Rules of Practice in Patent Cases to require patent applicants and patent owners whose domicile is not located within the United States (U.S.) or its territories (hereinafter foreign applicants/inventors and patent owners) to be represented by a registered patent practitioner. A requirement that foreign applicants/ inventors and patent owners be represented by a registered patent practitioner would bring the United States in line with most other countries that require that such parties be represented by a licensed or registered person of that country. Additionally, this requirement would increase efficiency and enable the USPTO to more effectively use available mechanisms to enforce compliance by all foreign applicants/ inventors and patent owners with U.S. statutory and regulatory requirements in patent matters, and enhance the USPTO's ability to respond to false certifications, misrepresentations, and fraud.
NMFS announces that the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council has submitted Amendment 21 to the Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery Management Plan for review and approval by the Secretary of Commerce. We are requesting comments from the public on the amendment. Amendment 21, also known as the Species Separation Requirements Amendment, would allow both surfclams and ocean quahogs to be landed on the same fishing trip. To ensure accurate accounting for the catch, the amendment would also implement additional monitoring and reporting requirements, both at sea and at the dealer where the mixed catch would be sorted.
NMFS apportions amounts of the nonspecified reserves to the total allowable catch (TAC) of "other flatfish" and octopuses. This action is necessary to allow the fisheries to continue operating. It is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the fishery management plan for the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management (BSAI) management area.
NMFS is adjusting the 2026 total allowable catch (TAC) amount for Aleutian Islands (AI) Pacific cod and the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) Pacific cod sector allocations and seasonal apportionments. NMFS has determined the AI Pacific cod TAC is incorrectly specified and these adjustments will address the underharvest of BSAI Pacific cod TACs that would result if the TACs were not adjusted. This action is consistent with the goals and objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the BSAI Management Area (FMP).
NMFS proposes 2026 and 2027 harvest specifications, apportionments, and Pacific halibut prohibited species catch limits for the groundfish fishery of the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). This action is necessary to establish harvest limits for groundfish during the 2026 and 2027 fishing years and to accomplish the goals and objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska (FMP). The final 2026 harvest specifications will supersede those previously set in the final 2025 and 2026 harvest specifications, and the 2027 harvest specifications will be superseded in early 2027 when the final 2027 and 2028 harvest specifications are published. The final 2026 and 2027 harvest specifications will be effective for one year from the publication of the final rule implementing those specifications, which is anticipated to publish in March 2026. The intended effect of this action is to conserve and manage the groundfish resources in the GOA in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).
NMFS proposes 2026 and 2027 harvest specifications, apportionments, and prohibited species catch limits for the groundfish fisheries of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) management area. This action is necessary to establish harvest limits for groundfish during the 2026 and 2027 fishing years and to accomplish the goals and objectives of the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (FMP). The 2026 harvest specifications supersede those previously set in the final 2025 and 2026 harvest specifications, and the 2027 harvest specifications will be superseded in early 2027 when the final 2027 and 2028 harvest specifications are published. The intended effect of this action is to conserve and manage the groundfish resources in the BSAI in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).
NMFS announces that the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) submitted amendment 36 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan (Groundfish FMP) to the Secretary of Commerce for review. If approved, amendment 36 would add flexibility to gear endorsements for limited entry fixed gear (LEFG) permit owners and remove the base permit designation of LEFG permits. Amendment 36 would also update language regarding LEFG and open access (OA) allocations related to amendment 6 to the Groundfish FMP. Amendment 36 is part of a larger proposed rulemaking action for the LEFG fishery, which includes two additional action items, the removal of the start and end times (i.e., hours of the day) for the open dates of the primary tier season and the development of a cost recovery program for the LEFG fishery. Those action items do not require a plan amendment and, therefore, are not discussed in detail in this Notice of Availability (NOA).
NMFS proposes to revise regulations that prohibit dogs on the Pribilof Islands by creating an exception for NMFS to authorize certified and trained rodent detection dogs to respond to and prevent the establishment of invasive rodents on the Pribilof Islands. Invasive rodents could have significant consequences for the wildlife species that live and breed on the Pribilof Islands and the health and food security of community members. This action supports Tribal, local, and Federal agency efforts and is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the Fur Seal Act (FSA), the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), and other applicable laws.
NMFS proposes 2026 and projects 2027 specifications for the summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, and bluefish fisheries. The implementing regulations for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and the Bluefish FMP require us to publish specifications for the upcoming fishing year for each of these species and to provide an opportunity for public comment. The proposed specifications establish allowable harvest levels for these species that will prevent overfishing, consistent with the most recent scientific information.
NMFS proposes regulations to implement specifications and management measures in Framework Adjustment 69 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan, except for measures specific to Atlantic cod; approve Northeast multispecies (groundfish) sectors and allocations; establish recreational measures for several stocks; update common pool possession limits; and clarify and correct existing regulations. This action is necessary to respond to updated scientific information and achieve the goals and objectives of the fishery management plan. The proposed measures are intended to help prevent overfishing, rebuild overfished stocks, achieve optimum yield, and ensure that management measures are based on the best scientific information available.
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS; collectively, the "Services") propose to revise portions of our regulations for section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA or Act). The proposed revisions to the interagency cooperation regulations confirm the Services' application of statutory requirements for interagency cooperation, while continuing to provide for the conservation of listed species.
We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS; collectively, the "Services"), propose to revise portions of our regulations for section 4 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA or Act). The proposed revisions to the regulations clarify and interpret portions of the Act concerning the procedures and criteria used for listing, reclassifying, and delisting species on the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants and designating critical habitat.
Two regional fishery management councils have submitted to NMFS for review, and consideration of approval and implementation by NMFS, amendments to four fishery management plans (FMPs) in the Gulf of America (Gulf), South Atlantic, and Atlantic, referenced here as the Commercial Electronic Logbook Amendments. If approved by the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) and implemented by NMFS, the Commercial Electronic Logbook Amendments would require submission of certain commercial fishing logbooks in an electronic format rather than the current paper format. These FMP amendments also propose minor changes to some of the required data fields in the logbooks determined to be necessary to successfully transition from paper to electronic reporting. The purpose of the Commercial Electronic Logbook Amendments is to increase the accuracy and efficiency of fisheries data that NMFS receives from federally permitted fishermen participating in the applicable commercial fisheries that occur in the Gulf, South Atlantic, and Atlantic.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is extending the comment period for the proposed rule titled "Revision to Rules of Practice before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board" that was published in the Federal Register on October 17, 2025. The proposed rule's comment period is extended until December 2, 2025.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO or Office) proposes modifications to the rules of practice for inter partes review (IPR) before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB or Board) that the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of USPTO and, by delegation, the PTAB will use in instituting IPR.
NMFS proposes to revise regulations to standardize the time limit in which trawl catcher/processors (C/Ps) participating in the groundfish fisheries in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) and the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) management areas must assign a management program to each haul. This proposed rule is necessary to improve consistency for when trawl C/Ps are required to assign a specific management program to a haul. It would also allow additional time for vessel operators participating in the Western Alaska Community Development Quota (CDQ) and non-CDQ fisheries on the same trip to determine which management program to assign to a haul. This rule is intended to promote the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), the Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) for Groundfish of the GOA and BSAI Management Areas, and other applicable laws.
NMFS is opening directed fishing for Pacific cod by catcher vessels using trawl gear in the Central Regulatory Area of the Gulf of Alaska (GOA). This action is necessary to fully use the 2025 total allowable catch of Pacific cod allocated to catcher vessels using trawl gear in the Central Regulatory Area of the GOA.
NMFS proposes to implement management measures described in Framework Action 3 under both the St. Croix Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and the St. Thomas and St. John FMP (collectively Framework Action 3), as prepared by the Caribbean Fishery Management Council (Council). If implemented, this proposed rule would modify the annual catch limits (ACLs) for queen triggerfish in Federal waters around St. Croix and in Federal waters around St. Thomas and St. John. The purpose of this proposed rule and Framework Action 3 is to update management reference points for queen triggerfish under the St. Croix FMP and the St. Thomas and St. John FMP consistent with the most recent stock assessments to prevent overfishing and achieve optimum yield (OY).
On March 26, 2025, the President issued Proclamation 10908, "Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Automobile Parts into The United States" (Automobile Proclamation). The Automobile Proclamation required the Secretary of Commerce to establish a process for including additional automobile parts articles for passenger vehicles and light trucks within the scope of the tariffs imposed by the President in the Automobile Proclamation. This interim final rule (IFR) establishes the requisite process.
NMFS proposes regulations to implement Framework Adjustment 18 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan. This framework would modify exemptions to the minimum mesh size requirements in the commercial summer flounder fishery. The purpose of this action is to increase flexibility for the commercial fishing industry.
NMFS proposes to implement an annual catch limit (ACL) for Deep 7 bottomfish in the main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) for fishing years 2024-2025, 2025-2026, and 2026-2027. The fishing year for the fishery begins on September 1 and ends on August 31 of the following year. This rule does not revise, add, or remove the current accountability measures (AM). The proposed rule supports the long-term sustainability of the Deep 7 bottomfish fishery.
NMFS is opening directed fishing for Pacific cod by catcher vessels less than 60 feet (18.3 meters) length overall (LOA) using hook-and-line or pot gear in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (BSAI). This action is necessary to fully use the 2025 total allowable catch of Pacific cod allocated to catcher vessels less than 60 feet (18.3 meters) LOA using hook-and-line or pot gear in the BSAI.
NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 55 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic (FMP), as prepared and submitted by the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council). This proposed rule would remove yellowmouth grouper from the other South Atlantic shallow water grouper (other SASWG) complex and establish a new scamp and yellowmouth grouper complex. This proposed rule would establish catch levels, sector management measures, and accountability measures (AM) for the new scamp and yellowmouth grouper complex and establish catch levels for the revised other SASWG complex. In addition, Amendment 55 would establish a rebuilding plan, sector allocations, and status determination criteria (SDC) for the scamp and yellowmouth grouper complex. The purpose of this proposed rule and Amendment 55 is to rebuild the scamp and yellowmouth grouper stock, and achieve optimum yield (OY) while minimizing, to the extent practicable, adverse social and economic effects.
This advance notice of proposed rulemaking seeks comment on the benefits or disadvantages of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) potentially recommending future restrictions for the federally permitted recreational for-hire fisheries for summer flounder, scup, black sea bass, and bluefish. The Council requested NMFS establish a control date while managers consider if, and how, participation may be affected through the ongoing Recreational Sector Separation and Data Collection Amendment. NMFS is informing the public of the new control date to promote awareness of the potential changes to eligibility criteria for future access and to discourage speculative entry into the Federal for-hire fisheries.
NMFS proposes to implement annual harvest specifications and management measures for Pacific mackerel in the U.S. exclusive economic zone (EEZ) off the West Coast for the fishing year July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, and the fishing year July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. These specifications include overfishing limits (OFL), allowable biological catch (ABC), annual catch limits (ACL), harvest guidelines (HG), and annual catch targets (ACT) for each respective fishing year. If the fishery attains the ACT for either fishing year, 8,143 metric tons (mt) for 2025-2026 or 9,448 mt for 2026-2027, the directed fishery will close, reserving the 1,000-mt difference between the HG and ACT as a set-aside for incidental landings in other coastal pelagic species (CPS) fisheries and other sources of mortality. The HG is 9,143 mt for 2025-2026 and 10,448 mt for 2026-2027. This rulemaking is made pursuant to the CPS Fishery Management Plan (FMP), and is intended to conserve and manage the Pacific mackerel stock off the U.S. West Coast.
NMFS is proposing changes to regulations to implement the binding International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) Recommendation 24-12 on mobulid rays of the family Mobulidae, which was adopted in 2024. Specifically, NMFS is proposing to prohibit retention of mobulid rays in fisheries for Atlantic highly migratory species (HMS), to require mobulid rays to be released unharmed in HMS fisheries, and to implement mobulid ray handling practices for vessels fishing with pelagic longline gear.
Interstate Bridge Replacement Program (IBRP) applied for authorization to take small numbers of marine mammals incidental to the Interstate Bridge Replacement Project (IBR) on Interstate 5 (I-5) between Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington over the course of 5 years from the date of issuance. Pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), NMFS is proposing regulations setting forth permissible methods of taking, other means of effecting the least practicable adverse impact on such marine mammal stocks (i.e., mitigation measures), and requirements pertaining to monitoring and reporting such takes and requests comments on the proposed regulations. NMFS will consider public comments prior to making any final decision on the promulgation of the requested MMPA regulations, and NMFS's responses to public comments will be summarized in the final notice of our decision.
NMFS has received a request from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for incidental take regulations (ITR) and a Letter of Authorization (LOA) pursuant to the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The requested regulations would govern the authorization of take of small numbers of marine mammals over 5 years (2026-2031) incidental to the Duckabush Estuary Restoration Project (DERP) in Hood Canal, Washington. NMFS requests public comments and will consider them prior to making any final decision on the requested ITR and issuance of the LOA; agency responses to comments will be summarized in the final rule, if issued.
NMFS announces inseason action for the Pacific halibut recreational fishery in the International Pacific Halibut Commission's (IPHC) regulatory Area 2A. This action adds fishing dates in August and September in the Columbia River and Washington subareas and transfers allocation from the Oregon Central Coast subarea to the Columbia River subarea. These actions are intended to provide opportunity for anglers and are necessary to achieve the overall recreational fishery allocation in the Pacific Fishery Management Council's (Council) 2025 Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan.
NMFS proposes a rule to implement amendment 125 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area (BSAI FMP). Amendment 125 would add a small vessel provision to the current BSAI Pacific cod jig sector in the A season, January 1 to April 30. Under this small vessel provision, catch from catcher vessels (CV) using hook-and-line or pot gear that are less than or equal to 55 feet (ft) (16.8 meters (m)) length overall (LOA) harvesting Pacific cod in the BSAI during the jig gear A season would accrue to the jig sector allocation. This action would provide stability and additional opportunities for some fishery participants and potential new entrants. It also advances the goals and objectives of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act), the BSAI FMP, and other applicable laws.
