Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy Recommends FDA Prioritize Human-Supervised AI Applications in Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy, Alexandria, Virginia, has provided comprehensive feedback to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding the agency's AI-Enabled Optimization of Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot Program.
The AMCP letter, written by Geni Tunstall, Associate Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, emphasized the importance of thoughtful and responsible application of artificial intelligence in clinical trial processes, advocating for the pilot program more
Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities Opposes DOJ Extension of Compliance Dates for Web Accessibility Rule
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- A group of 68 disability advocacy organizations operating as Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities has voiced opposition in a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice's interim final rule that extends compliance deadlines for the 2024 regulation on nondiscrimination concerning web content and mobile applications accessibility. The rule impacts recipients of Departmental financial assistance and was designed to ensure equitable access for people with d more
Exponential Technologies Calls for Broad Food and Drug Administration Pilot on AI in Early-Phase Clinical Trials
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Exponential Technologies Corp., Boston, Massachusetts, has communicated support for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's proposal to initiate a pilot program evaluating artificial intelligence-enabled technologies in early-phase clinical trials.
The letter, written by Octavian Boca, Founder & CEO, emphasized the importance of thoughtfully designed AI tools that enhance protocol quality, improve decision-making efficiency, and boost patient safety while maintaining stri more
McKesson Suggests Risk-Based AI Governance for Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot Program
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- McKesson Corp., Irving, Texas, a healthcare distribution and technology company, provided detailed recommendations to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding its proposed AI-Enabled Optimization of Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot Program. The public comment letter emphasized the importance of trustworthy, scalable artificial intelligence paired with high-quality data as foundational to improving early clinical trial efficien more
Noetik Proposes FDA Pilot Priorities for Early-Phase Clinical Trials
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Noetik, an AI-native clinical-stage oncology company in Boston, Massachusetts, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding its pilot program for AI-enabled optimization of early-phase clinical trials. The company urged the agency to prioritize first-in-human and early-phase biomarker-driven oncology trials, emphasizing AI's potential to improve patient selection and trial efficiency in cancer t more
Wave Life Sciences Urges Clarification on FDA AI Clinical Trials Pilot Program
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Wave Life Sciences, a biotechnology company in Cambridge, Massachusetts, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding the Request for Information on the AI-Enabled Optimization of Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot Program.
The letter, signed by Victoria Hayes, Vice President Regulatory and Policy, focused on advancing RNA medicine therapeutics across rare and chronic diseases, expressed overall support for the program while emphasiz more
11 Environmental Groups Challenge EPA Plan to Relax Coal Plant Wastewater Rules
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- A coalition of 11 environmental organizations have submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency opposing the agency's proposed rule to weaken wastewater treatment standards for coal-fired power plants, particularly regarding "unmanaged" combustion residual leachate discharges.
The letter contends that the EPA's proposal to relax effluent limitations for unmanaged combustion residual leachate violates the Clean Water Act's requirement for th more
SEMI Projects 300mm Memory Equipment Investment to Surpass $50 Billion in 2026
MILPITAS, California, July 5 -- SEMI, an association serving the manufacturing supply chain for the electronics industry, issued the following news release:
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SEMI Projects 300mm Memory Equipment Investment to Surpass $50 Billion in 2026
AI-driven Demand for HBM, DDR5 and Data Storage Lifts Memory Investment Outlook, With Spending Projected to Approach $80 Billion by 2029
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Worldwide 300mm fab equipment investment in the memory sector is projected to surpass $50 billion for the first ti more
Remarks by John A. Squires for the USPTO America 250 Flagship Celebration!
WASHINGTON, July 4 -- The U.S. Department of Commerce Patent and Trademark Office issued the following news:
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Remarks by John A. Squires for the USPTO America 250 Flagship Celebration!
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Remarks as delivered
John A. Squires
60th Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO
USPTO America 250 Flagship Celebration!
July 1, 2026
Thank you for that warm introduction, Jason, and for all of your and your team's fantastic work-and good afternoon, everyone more
TEDCO and MBIA Announce Awardees for the Commercialization Innovation Grant
COLUMBIA, Maryland, July 4 -- TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corp., issued the following news release:
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TEDCO and MBIA Announce Awardees for the Commercialization Innovation Grant
The nine startups will receive $5,000 to further their efforts
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TEDCO, Maryland's economic engine for technology companies, and the Maryland Business Innovation Association (MBIA) announce the fiscal year 2026 (FY26) awardees of the MBIA Commercialization Innovation Grant (MCIG).
This competitiv more
Joint Statement of the U.S. and Japan on Cybersecurity Cooperation
WASHINGTON, July 2 -- The U.S. State Department issued the following joint statement with Japan on cybersecurity cooperation:
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Joint Statement of the United States and Japan on Cybersecurity Cooperation
The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Japan at the 11th United States-Japan Cyber Dialogue.
The United States hosted Japan for the 11th meeting of the U.S.-Japan Cyber Dialogue in Washington, D.C., on June 30 and July 1, 2 more
N.M. Economic Development Dept.: $12 Million Approved to Support More Than 440 Jobs This Quarter
SANTA FE, New Mexico, July 1 -- The New Mexico Department of Economic Development issued the following news release:
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$12 million approved to support more than 440 jobs this quarter
Job training program supported 70 companies, 1,460 workers in FY26
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The state's Job Training Incentive Program (JTIP) rounded out the fiscal year by approving funds to hire, train and upskill over 440 New Mexicans.
From April through June 2026, the JTIP board approved 31 applications from 27 companies see more
Congressional Research Service Reports (Weekly)
Benefit Reductions to Participants in Delphi Pension Plans Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12171) on June 30, 2026, by income security specialist John J. Topoleski:
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Benefit Reductions to Participants in Delphi Pension Plans
Introduction
Delphi Technologies is a parts and components supplier to automakers that was spun off from General Motors (GM) in 1999. In May 2009, Delphi's pension plans were terminated, and responsibility for the payment of plan participant more
Cambodia - Background & U.S. Relations Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10238) by foreign affairs analyst William Piekos.
Here are excerpts:
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Cambodia: Background and U.S. Relations
Cambodia, with a population of 17 million, is one of the younger and poorer countries in Southeast Asia. U.S.-Cambodia relations have been complicated since the Vietnam War, during which the United States extensively bombed the country. Following a civil war and th more
Deduction for Overtime Compensation Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13263) by public finance analyst Brendan McDermott:
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The Deduction for Overtime Compensation
Introduction
Federal law generally requires workers to pay individual income taxes and payroll taxes on their earned income. The 2025 reconciliation law (P.L. 119-21) created a new income tax deduction of up to $12,500 ($25,000 for those married filing jointly) for certain overtim more
Fair Labor Standards Act Child Labor Provisions Topic of White Paper From CRS (Part 1 of 2)
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R44548) entitled "The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Child Labor Provisions" by labor policy specialist Sarah A. Donovan and legislative attorney Jon O. Shimabukuro.
Here are excerpts:
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SUMMARY
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938 prohibits the employment of "oppressive child labor" in the United States, which the act defines - with some exceptions - as the employment of youth und more
Fair Labor Standards Act Child Labor Provisions Topic of White Paper From CRS (Part 2 of 2)
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R44548) entitled "The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Child Labor Provisions:"
(Continued from Part 1 of 2)
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Employment of Children in Agriculture
Three exemptions to the FLSA child labor provisions create separate minimum age thresholds and hazardous occupations rules for children employed in agriculture./45
Minimum Age for Employment in Agriculture
With some exceptions, the minimum a more
FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure & Communities - Recent Developments Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12609) on June 30, 2026, by Diane P. Horn, flood insurance and emergency management specialist.
Here are excerpts:
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FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC): Recent Developments
This Insight provides a brief summary of developments related to the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program in 2025 and 2026. BRIC funding repr more
Mullin V. Al Otro Lado - Supreme Court Determines That "Metering" Policy Is Lawful Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11443) on June 30, 2026, by legislative attorney Hillel R. Smith:
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Mullin v. Al Otro Lado: Supreme Court Determines That "Metering" Policy Is Lawful
On June 25, 2026, the Supreme Court in Mullin v. Al Otro Lado ruled that an alien seeking to enter the United States at a port of entry but stopped on the Mexican side of the U.S.-Mexico border by a U.S. immigration offic more
National Park Service - FY2027 Appropriations Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13262) by natural resources policy specialist Laura B. Comay.
Here are excerpts:
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National Park Service: FY2027 Appropriations
The National Park Service (NPS) administers the National Park System, which includes 433 units valued for their natural, cultural, and recreational importance. System lands cover 81 million federal acres and 4 million nonfederal acres. As part of t more
Personal Responsibility & Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13261) on June 30, 2026, by social policy specialist Gene Falk.
Here are excerpts:
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The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996
Introduction
The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA, P.L. 104-193), also known as the 1996 welfare reform law, was enacted 30 years ago. Leading up to its passage, debat more
Private Investment Markets - Overview & Retail Investor Access Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13260) on June 30, 2026, by financial economics specialist Eva Su.
Here are excerpts:
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Private Investment Markets: Overview and Retail Investor Access
Private investments - also referred to as alternative investments or private capital - are investments generally available only to accredited investors. Such investments include private securities offerings in non-publicly t more
Seabed Mining on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf - Background & Recent Developments Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13226) by natural resources policy specialists Caitlin Keating-Bitonti and Laura B. Comay.
Here are excerpts:
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Seabed Mining on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf: Background and Recent Developments
As part of a national effort to secure reliable supplies of critical minerals, President Trump issued Executive Order (E.O.) 14285 of April 24, 2025, "Unleashing America's Offsho more
Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13006) by international trade and finance specialist Kyla H. Kitamura.
Here are excerpts:
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Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962
Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. Sec.1862), allows the President to impose restrictions on goods imports or enter into negotiations with trading partners if the U.S. Secretary of Commerce determines, more
U.S.-Japan Relations Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 2 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF10199) on June 30, 2026.
The report is written by Asian affairs specialist Mark E. Manyin, foreign affairs analyst Daniel J. Longo and international trade and finance specialists Cathleen D. Cimino-Isaacs and Kyla H. Kitamura.
Here are excerpts:
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U.S.-Japan Relations
Overview
Japan, a U.S. treaty ally since 1952, is an important U.S. security and trade partner. Shared bi more
Congressional District Geography Workbook, 119th Congress - An Interactive Tool for Congressional Users Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 1 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Insight white paper (No. IN12489) by Senior Research Librarian Ben Leubsdorf:
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Congressional District Geography Workbook (119th Congress): An Interactive Tool for Congressional Users
This Insight accompanies the Congressional District Geography Workbook, a Microsoft Excel file that congressional users can download from CRS.gov. The workbook provides information about U.S. House districts as configured more
Geofence Warrants & the Fourth Amendment - The Supreme Court Weighs In Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 1 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following Legal Sidebar white paper (No. LSB11274) by legislative attorney Clay Wild:
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Geofence Warrants and the Fourth Amendment: The Supreme Court Weighs In
Introduction
From thermal imaging and wiretaps to GPS tracking and various forms of electronic eavesdropping, the emergence of new technologies and their investigative use have sometimes created legal tension with constitutional privacy protections. Over more
Hydrofluorocarbon Phasedown - Background & Issues Facing Congress Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 1 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11779) by environmental policy analyst Kathryn G. Kynett and legislative attorney Kristen Hite.
Here are excerpts:
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Hydrofluorocarbon Phasedown: Background and Issues Facing Congress
The United States is phasing down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020 (AIM; P.L. 116-260, Division S, Sec.103; codified at 42 U.S.C. Sec.7675) more
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Authorities & Rulemaking Process Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, July 1 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13178) by transportation policy analyst Naseeb A. Souweidane.
Here are excerpts:
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NHTSA's Authorities and Rulemaking Process
NHTSA Background and Authorities
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), part of the Department of Transportation (DOT), is primarily responsible for motor vehicle and highway safety. Congress established highway safety regulator more
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, June 30 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12241) by health policy specialist Kavya Sekar:
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
During public health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, and recent measles, hantavirus, and Ebola outbreaks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has served as a face of the federal government's public health response. As of 2025, CDC describes its core mis more
Connecting Faith-Based & Religious Organizations With Federal Grants & Other Assistance Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, June 30 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13259) by senior research librarian Maria Kreiser:
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Connecting Faith-Based and Religious Organizations with Federal Grants and Other Assistance
Faith-based or religious organizations and houses of worship (e.g., churches, synagogues, mosques) frequently seek out federal and other assistance for various community services and projects. This In Focus provides congressional o more
Defense Primer - Military Service Academies Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, June 30 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF11788) by military personnel specialist Kristy N. Kamarck.
Here are excerpts:
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Defense Primer: Military Service Academies
Overview
The U.S. military service academies are tuition-free, four-year degree-granting institutions operated by the military departments. The academies are one of three primary commissioning sources for officers, along with the Senior Reserve Office more
Rental Housing Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, June 30 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12887) by housing policy analyst Henry G. Watson.
Here are excerpts:
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Rental Housing
There are over 49 million rental housing units in the United States. About one-third of households in the United States rent their housing. Rental housing prices have increased faster than prices for non-shelter goods and services in recent years. To address persistent housing affordabili more
Role of U.S. In Situ Ocean Observation Networks - A Case Study of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, June 30 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF13257) on June 26, 2026, by natural resources policy specialist Caitlin Keating-Bitonti.
Here are excerpts:
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The Role of U.S. In Situ Ocean Observation Networks: A Case Study of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation
A climate tipping point generally refers to a "critical threshold" in an Earth system that when crossed can cause the system to shift into a new sta more
U.S. Interest in Seabed Mining in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction Topic of White Paper From CRS
WASHINGTON, June 30 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following In Focus white paper (No. IF12608) on June 26, 2026, by natural resources policy specialist Caitlin Keating-Bitonti:
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U.S. Interest in Seabed Mining in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction: Brief Background and Recent Developments
In 1980, Congress passed the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA; 30 U.S.C. Sec.Sec.1401 et seq.) as an interim measure to allow the United States to proceed with more
What Is Harassment - An Overview From Federal Employment Law Topic of CRS Report
WASHINGTON, June 30 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R49010) entitled "What Is Harassment? An Overview from Federal Employment Law" by legislative attorney April J. Anderson:
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SUMMARY
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 generally prohibits discrimination in the workplace, but it does not expressly prohibit harassment. The Supreme Court has interpreted the statute to prohibit certain forms of harassment, however, including sexual haras more
Tipoffs: Public Comments on Proposed Federal Rules
12 Advocacy Organizations Urge EPA to Withdraw Proposal Weakening Air Pollution Construction Permits
WASHINGTON, July 6 (TNScap) -- A coalition of 12 advocacy organizations submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency opposing the agency's proposed revision to the definition of "begin actual construction" and the addition of a new definition of "pollutant-emitting activities" under the nonattainment new source review and prevention of significant deterioration =programs.
The groups stress that these changes would undermine public health protections by allowing more
13 State Attorneys General Urge DOE to Withdraw Rule Adding Sunset Dates to Critical Energy Regulations
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Attorneys general in 13 states submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy expressing objections to the agency's notice of proposed rulemaking entitled "Zero-Based Regulating."
The letter challenges DOE's proposal to add conditional sunset dates to regulations across 28 parts of Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to Executive Order No. 14270, issued on April 9, 2025, which directs agencies to include expiration provisions in specif more
35 Healthcare Advocacy Groups Urge Improvements to CMS Prior Authorization Proposed Rule
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The Partnership to Protect Coverage, a coalition of 35 healthcare advocacy organizations, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services addressing the 2026 interoperability standards and prior authorization for drugs proposed rule. The letter reflects the collective interests of millions of patients living with serious, acute, and chronic health conditions, including individuals who rely on p more
6 Energy, Consumer Groups Urge DOE to Uphold Energy Conservation Standards
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Six energy and consumer advocacy organizations submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Energy regarding the agency's proposed rulemaking on zero-based regulating. The letter addresses the department's plan to introduce sunset provisions in its energy conservation regulations pursuant to Executive Order 14270.
The organizations assert that the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) prohibits the Department of Energy from rescinding or weakening existi more
Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy Recommends FDA Prioritize Human-Supervised AI Applications in Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy, Alexandria, Virginia, has provided comprehensive feedback to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding the agency's AI-Enabled Optimization of Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot Program.
The AMCP letter, written by Geni Tunstall, Associate Vice President, Regulatory Affairs, emphasized the importance of thoughtful and responsible application of artificial intelligence in clinical trial processes, advocating for the pilot program more
Association of Air Medical Services Urges FAA to Broaden Unmanned Aircraft Systems Restrictions Near Healthcare Facilities
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The Association of Air Medical Services has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration concerning a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on restricting unmanned aircraft systems operations near fixed site facilities. The proposed rule aims to reduce risks in low-altitude airspace, impacting helicopter air ambulance operations which frequently share these airspace layers with drones.
AAMS acknowledges the FAA's effort more
Birkinbine Logistical Support Services Urges FTA to Adopt USABahn Framework for Integration of Transit Systems
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Birkinbine Logistical Support Services Co. LLC, Columbia, Missouri, submitted a public comment letter to the Federal Transit Administration urging the agency to embrace the USABahn framework to enhance interoperability across national, regional, and local transit networks.
The letter states: "The proposed metrics currently evaluate transit agencies as isolated data silos. A transit system cannot be truly safe, reliable, or accessible if it treats passengers like cargo that more
California Fresh Fruit Association Highlights Regional Concerns in EPA Fungicide Strategy Comments
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The California Fresh Fruit Association, Fresno, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regarding the agency's Draft Endangered Species Act Fungicide Strategy. As a representative of California fresh fruit growers and shippers, including significant table grape producers, the association expressed support for EPA's goal of creating a transparent and workable ESA compliance framework while emphasizing the need for regional and crop-speci more
California Strawberry Commission Urges EPA to Balance Fungicide Strategy With Agricultural Needs
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The California Strawberry Commission, Watsonville, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regarding the agency's draft Fungicide Strategy to Protect Endangered Species from Fungicides. The CSC represents all strawberry growers, shippers, and processors in California, whose production constitutes about 90 percent of the strawberries consumed in the United States.
The letter, signed by Amrith Gunasekara, Director of Regulatory Affairs, more
Chicago Department of Water Management Supports FAA Proposal to Restrict Drone Operations Near Water Facilities
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The Chicago Department of Water Management, Illinois, issued a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration regarding a proposed rulemaking on restricting unmanned aircraft system operations near fixed-site facilities.
The letter, written by Ralph Chiczewski, Assistant Commissioner/Security and Safety, said the agency is responsible for supplying safe drinking water to most of Northeast Illinois. He emphasized the critical more
Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities Opposes DOJ Extension of Compliance Dates for Web Accessibility Rule
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- A group of 68 disability advocacy organizations operating as Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities has voiced opposition in a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice's interim final rule that extends compliance deadlines for the 2024 regulation on nondiscrimination concerning web content and mobile applications accessibility. The rule impacts recipients of Departmental financial assistance and was designed to ensure equitable access for people with d more
Defenders of Wildlife Raises Concerns Over Expansion of Hunting and Fishing on National Wildlife Refuges
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Defenders of Wildlife has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding the 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations. The organization expressed concern that the proposed expansion of hunting and fishing access on National Wildlife Refuges could undermine wildlife conservation goals due to chronic staffing shortages.
The letter, signed by Nathan Marcy, Senior Federal Lands Policy Analyst, highlights that staffing more
Delta Waterfowl Supports U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Hunting and Fishing Regulations
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Delta Waterfowl, a conservation organization in Bismarck, North Dakota, expressed support for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations in a public comment letter. The organization, representing waterfowl hunters and conservationists, emphasized the importance of the rule in expanding hunting access on National Wildlife Refuge System lands.
The Delta Waterfowl letter, written by Cyrus Hunter Baird, Vice President more
Exponential Technologies Calls for Broad Food and Drug Administration Pilot on AI in Early-Phase Clinical Trials
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Exponential Technologies Corp., Boston, Massachusetts, has communicated support for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's proposal to initiate a pilot program evaluating artificial intelligence-enabled technologies in early-phase clinical trials.
The letter, written by Octavian Boca, Founder & CEO, emphasized the importance of thoughtfully designed AI tools that enhance protocol quality, improve decision-making efficiency, and boost patient safety while maintaining stri more
FLINT Network Calls for Inclusion of Verifiable Credentials in Stablecoin Customer Identification Rules
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- KillChain Inc., San Francisco, California, operating as FLINT Network, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Crimes Enforcement Network regarding the joint proposed rulemaking on customer identification programs for permitted payment stablecoin issuers under the GENIUS Act.
The letter, written by Joseph Taylor, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, addresses related inputs requested by the Office of the Comptroller of the Cu more
Friends of Animals Urges Reevaluation of Hunting and Lead Ammunition Policies on National Wildlife Refuges
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Friends of Animals, a non-profit international advocacy organization based in New York, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service opposing a proposed rule to expand hunting and sport fishing across 111 units of the National Wildlife Refuge System for 2026-2027. The organization warns that the proposal contradicts the conservation mission of the NWRS and could jeopardize numerous wildlife species and their habitats more
Humane World for Animals, Action Fund Oppose Expanded Hunting and Lead Ammunition on National Wildlife Refuges
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Humane World for Animals and Humane World Action Fund submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service expressing opposition to the proposed rule to open or expand more than 1,450 hunting opportunities across 107 units of the National Wildlife Refuge System and four units of the National Fish Hatchery System for the 2026-2027 season.
The proposal, announced on May 27, 2026, includes the first-time opening of hunting in fourteen National Wildlife Ref more
Mass. Union of Public Housing Tenants, Law Reform Institute Urge HUD to Withdraw Proposed Rule Harmful to LGBTQ+ Public Housing Residents
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The Massachusetts Union of Public Housing Tenants, Dorchester, and the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, Boston, have submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The letter expresses opposition to HUD's proposed revisions to the Equal Access to Housing in HUD Programs rule, raising concerns that these changes would harm LGBTQ+ families in federally funded public and subsidized housing.
Mass Union and MLRI assert that the pro more
McKesson Suggests Risk-Based AI Governance for Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot Program
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- McKesson Corp., Irving, Texas, a healthcare distribution and technology company, provided detailed recommendations to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding its proposed AI-Enabled Optimization of Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot Program. The public comment letter emphasized the importance of trustworthy, scalable artificial intelligence paired with high-quality data as foundational to improving early clinical trial efficien more
Noetik Proposes FDA Pilot Priorities for Early-Phase Clinical Trials
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Noetik, an AI-native clinical-stage oncology company in Boston, Massachusetts, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration regarding its pilot program for AI-enabled optimization of early-phase clinical trials. The company urged the agency to prioritize first-in-human and early-phase biomarker-driven oncology trials, emphasizing AI's potential to improve patient selection and trial efficiency in cancer t more
North American Fungicide Resistance Action Committee Raises Concern Over EPA's Draft Fungicide Strategy Impact on Resistance Management
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- The North American Fungicide Resistance Action Committee submitted a public comment letter to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding the Draft Fungicide Strategy to Reduce Exposure of Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Species and Designated Critical Habitats from the Use of Conventional Agricultural Fungicides. NA-FRAC expressed support for protecting threatened species but highlighted concerns that some mitigation measures in the draft could unintentionally more
Northern Indiana Public Service Advocates for Revisions to EPA's Coal Combustion Residuals Regulations
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Northern Indiana Public Service Co., Merrillville, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency concerning the agency's proposed amendments to the hazardous and solid waste management regulations governing disposal of coal combustion residuals. The comments address the April 13, 2026, proposed rule titled "Disposal of Coal Combustion Residuals From Electric Utilities; Legacy/CCRMU Amendments," published in the Federal Register at 91 Fed. more
Peace Ridge Sanctuary Urges U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to Protect Wildlife Refuges From Expanded Hunting and Lead Use
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Peace Ridge Sanctuary, a nonprofit animal advocacy and conservation organization in Brooks, Maine, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service opposing the proposed 2026-2027 station-specific hunting and sport fishing rule.
The letter, signed by Peter J. McKosky, Legal & Policy Administrator & Advocate, called for the withdrawal of provisions that would expand hunting and fishing opportunities within National Wildlife Refuges and National Fish more
Safari Club International Urges Expanded Hunting Opportunities in National Wildlife Refuges
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Safari Club International, a nonprofit organization representing over 100,000 hunters and advocates worldwide, has expressed support for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's 2026-2027 Station-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations.
The proposed rule seeks to open and expand hunting on 103 National Wildlife Refuges and four National Fish Hatcheries across 32 states, including opening hunting for the first time on ten refuges and three hatcheries. If finalized, the more
Teamsters California Advocates for Reversal of Commercial Driver's Licenses Ban Impacting DACA Recipients
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Teamsters California, Los Angeles, has submitted a public comment letter to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration challenging a new federal rule that prohibits most noncitizens, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals holders, from obtaining or renewing commercial driver's licenses. The organization represents 250,000 workers across multiple industries and asserts that the rule unfairly harms thousands of experienced drivers without improving road safety. more
Wave Life Sciences Urges Clarification on FDA AI Clinical Trials Pilot Program
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Wave Life Sciences, a biotechnology company in Cambridge, Massachusetts, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding the Request for Information on the AI-Enabled Optimization of Early-Phase Clinical Trials Pilot Program.
The letter, signed by Victoria Hayes, Vice President Regulatory and Policy, focused on advancing RNA medicine therapeutics across rare and chronic diseases, expressed overall support for the program while emphasiz more
11 Environmental Groups Challenge EPA Plan to Relax Coal Plant Wastewater Rules
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- A coalition of 11 environmental organizations have submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency opposing the agency's proposed rule to weaken wastewater treatment standards for coal-fired power plants, particularly regarding "unmanaged" combustion residual leachate discharges.
The letter contends that the EPA's proposal to relax effluent limitations for unmanaged combustion residual leachate violates the Clean Water Act's requirement for th more
17 Osteopathic Organizations Urge CMS to Strengthen Prior Authorization Reforms for Medicare and Medicaid Drugs
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- A coalition of 17 osteopathic organizations submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The organizations expressed support for CMS's proposed 2026 interoperability standards and prior authorization for drugs rule but recommended enhancements to further reduce administrative burdens and improve patient care.
The group praised CMS for expanding prior authorization reforms to include drugs, n more
American Association of Nurse Practitioners Urges Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives to Update Controlled Substance Definition
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- The American Association of Nurse Practitioners, Austin, Texas, submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives advocating for a revision in the interim final rule concerning the definition of an unlawful user of or addicted to controlled substances.
The letter, from CEO Jon Fanning, recommends that the ATF replace terms like "licensed physician" and "prescribing physician" with "licensed practitione more
Bilak Security Solutions Backs Proposed Federal Acquisition Regulation Overhaul, Cites Benefits for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification and Cybersecurity Compliance
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- Bilak Security Solutions, Conyers, Georgia, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council concerning the proposed Federal Acquisition Regulation overhaul. The letter offers insights from the perspective of a cybersecurity risk and compliance professional working extensively with defense contractors and entities subject to Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification requirements. The comments primarily address provisions related to c more
Boston Red Sox Advocate for Flexible Drone Flight Restrictions at Sports Venues
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- The Boston Red Sox submitted a public comment letter to the Federal Aviation Administration regarding the agency's proposed rule on unmanned aircraft flight restrictions near fixed site facilities.
The comments, by David S. Friedman, Executive Vice President, Legal and Government Affairs, express support for the FAA's approach to restricting unauthorized drone flights while urging modifications to increase flexibility for sports and entertainment venues.
In their letter, more
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- Concept Solutions, Reston, Virginia, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration supporting the agency's proposed rulemaking to restrict unmanned aircraft system operations near fixed site facilities.
The proposal aims to implement Section 2209 of the FAA Extension, Safety, and Security Act of 2016 by establishing Unmanned Aircraft Flight Restrictions (14 CFR Part 74).
Concept Solutions detailed how its A more
Consumer Reports Highlights Dangers of Counterfeit Certification Marks on Consumer Products
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- Consumer Reports, Yonkers, New York, has submitted comments to the Consumer Product Safety Commission addressing the issue of counterfeit certification markings on consumer products.
The public comment letter, from Gabe Knight, Senior Safety Policy Analyst, responds to the commission's May 6, 2026, request for information aimed at understanding and combating misleading safety certification claims amidst a rising tide of counterfeit use especially prevalent in online marke more
DALS Credit Solutions Urges Oversight on Sole-Source Federal Contracts
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- Lynette T. Stevenson, owner of DALS Credit Solutions Co., submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. General Services Administration regarding proposed changes (FAR Case 2026-002). The letter addresses concerns about the Federal Acquisition Regulation revisions affecting part 6, which governs awards made without full and open competition, specifically focusing on sole-source and single-offer contracts. DALS Credit Solutions represents individually owned small businesses more
Environmental Justice Group Opposes EPA Plan to Ease Coal Ash Waste Rules
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- Young, Gifted & Green, a national civil rights and environmental justice organization based in Memphis, Tennessee, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency opposing the agency's proposed amendments to coal combustion residuals disposal regulations.
The group, in a letter signed by LaTricea D. Adams, Founder, CEO and President, urges the EPA to withdraw its proposal and maintain the May 8, 2024 Legacy Final Rule that sets stricter c more
Everytown for Gun Safety Raises Concerns Over Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Interim Final Rule on Drug Use and Firearm Purchases
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund, New York, has criticized the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for an interim final rule revising the definition of "unlawful user of or addicted to any controlled substance" under federal gun laws. The rule changes, released in January 2026, have sparked concern over public safety risks and procedural issues related to regulatory implementation.
The letter, from Justin Wagner, Senior Vice more
Giffords and Brady Criticize Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Interim Rule on Controlled Substance Users and Firearms
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence and Brady United Against Gun Violence submitted a public comment letter to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives criticizing the agency's interim final rule revising the definition of "unlawful user of or addicted to controlled substance."
The organizations expressed serious concerns regarding the rulemaking process and potential public safety impacts.
The letter highlights that the ATF did not follow the req more
Healthy Aging Coalition Urges CMS to Improve Prior Authorization Transparency and Extend Drug Coverage Reporting
WASHINGTON, July 5 (TNScap) -- The Healthy Aging Coalition has submitted public comments to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services addressing the 2026 interoperability standards and prior authorization for drugs proposed rule.
The coalition represents a broad alliance of stakeholders, including researchers, clinicians, advocacy groups, and industry leaders, united in promoting policies that advance healthy aging and independence for older ad more
Insurance Watchdog Coalition Urges Stronger Enforcement in CMS Drug Prior Authorization Rule
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- The Insurance Watchdog Coalition has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services urging the federal agency to strengthen its proposed Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs rule.
The coalition letter, from Executive Director Mark Merritt, advocates for measures that would reduce insurance barriers delaying access to medications, emphasizing the need for firm timelines, more
LONGBOW Group Urges FAA to Establish Structured Airspace Protections for UAS Near Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- The LONGBOW Group, Hampton, Virginia, submitted a public comment letter to the Federal Aviation Administration concerning the agency's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (14 CFR Part 74). This proposed rule seeks to restrict the operation of unmanned aircraft systems in close proximity to fixed-site critical infrastructure through a framework of Unmanned Aircraft Flight Restrictions, said CEO Marco Sterk.
LONGBOW, with expertise in airspace operations platforms for UAS and expe more
National Shooting Sports Foundation Urges BATF to Remove Chief Law Enforcement Officer Notification Requirement Under National Firearms Act
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- The National Shooting Sports Foundation, a trade association based in Newtown, Connecticut, representing the firearms, ammunition, hunting, and shooting sports industry, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of Justice Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives regarding a proposed rulemaking to remove the Chief Law Enforcement Officer notification requirement under the National Firearms Act. The Bureau is part of the U.S. Department of Justi more
Virginia Maritime Association Urges Careful Review of Offshore Mineral Leasing Near Virginia Ports
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- The Virginia Maritime Association, Norfolk, has submitted a public comment letter to the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Ocean Energy Management regarding commercial leasing for Outer Continental Shelf minerals off the coast of Virginia.
The association letter, from Executive Director David White, highlighted concerns about potential impacts on maritime commerce and navigation safety due to proposed leasing areas overlapping key shipping routes.
Representing ne more
Tipoffs: Iran
Lujan Pushes Trump Administration to Release Affordable Housing Construction Funds
WASHINGTON, July 5 -- Sen. Ben Ray Lujan, D-New Mexico, issued the following news release:
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Lujan Pushes Trump Administration to Release Affordable Housing Construction Funds
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As President Trump continues to slow-walk a bipartisan housing affordability bill that already passed through Congress, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) is teaming up with U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and several colleagues in urging the president to unlock community development tools and promptly release $75 more
Democracy and Human Rights Promotion in the Trump Administration's Foreign Policy Topic of CRS Report
WASHINGTON, July 4 (TNSLrpt) -- The Congressional Research Service issued the following report (No. R49019) on July 2, 2026, entitled "Democracy and Human Rights Promotion in the Trump Administration's Foreign Policy: In Brief" by foreign affairs specialist Michael A. Weber:
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Contents
Background ... 1
Change in Prioritization of Democracy and Human Rights Promotion Abroad ... 2
Emphasis on Ideological and Political Priorities ... 6
Congressional Response ... 9
Options for Congress .. more
Lujan Pushes Trump Administration to Release Affordable Housing Construction Funds
WASHINGTON, July 4 -- Sen. Ben Ray Lujan, D-New Mexico, issued the following news release:
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Lujan Pushes Trump Administration to Release Affordable Housing Construction Funds
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Washington, D.C. - As President Trump continues to slow-walk a bipartisan housing affordability bill that already passed through Congress, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.) is teaming up with U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) and several colleagues in urging the president to unlock community development tools and p more
ADL's Task Force on Middle East Minorities Statement on the Islamic Republic of Iran's Assault on Protestant Churches
NEW YORK, July 1 -- The Anti-Defamation League, an anti-hate organization that aims to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment for all, posted the following news release:
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ADL's Task Force on Middle East Minorities Statement on the Islamic Republic of Iran's Assault on Protestant Churches
The Anti-Defamation League's (ADL) Task Force on Middle East Minorities issued the following statement condemning the Islamic Republic of Iran's escalating camp more
