A special thanks to Valley Water for their generous support of this Federal Spotlight. Your commitment helps drive our mission forward.

NWC members,

As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, it is worth remembering how essential our nation’s waterways were to the founding of the country. During the Revolutionary War, rivers moved supplies, connected communities, and supported early strategies for defense and survival. Waterways were the original lifelines of commerce, communication, and national identity. That legacy continues today as we work to ensure sound federal policies and strong investments that support navigation, flood protection, water supply, hydropower, ecosystem restoration, and recreation across the country.

On the policy front, Congress is in session this week and working quickly to reconcile key legislative priorities before the holiday. The Senate passed its version of the reconciliation measure this week, and the House is expected to take it up shortly in hopes of sending it to the president.

From the agency side, we want to acknowledge that Mr. Eddie Belk, Director of Civil Works at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will officially retire on July 31. His decades of leadership and service have made a lasting impact on the Corps and the broader water resources community. Also of note, USACE has opened two public comment periods on Procedures for Implementing the National Environmental Policy Act and Reissuance and Modifications of Nationwide Permits, marking an important development in the agency’s environmental review process.

A quick reminder to register for NWC’s Annual Meeting in Norfolk, Virginia, this September. General Jason Kelly has confirmed his participation, and we are awaiting final confirmation from USACE leadership. We are looking forward to a dynamic and meaningful gathering focused on the future of our nation’s water resources.

Interested in federal policy issues? Be sure to join our rescheduled Legislative Policy Committee meeting on Monday, July 14 at 4:00 PM Eastern. If you cannot make it this time, we normally meet the first Thursday of each month at 4:00 PM Eastern. Let Julie know and she will be happy to send you a calendar invite.

Whether you are celebrating with fireworks, family, quiet reflection, or your favorite dessert, we wish you a joyful and meaningful Fourth of July. May this holiday serve as a reminder of both how far we have come and how much we can still achieve together.

Best,

Julie, Cherise and Nicole

The NWC team

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

BLOG. PHMSA Requests Input on Regulatory Reform (Van Ness Feldman, June 28, 2025). In a recent blog post, Van Ness Feldman highlights two Advance Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRMs) issued by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) on June 4. These ANPRMs invite public comment on whether certain pipeline safety and hazardous materials regulations should be repealed or amended to eliminate unnecessary burdens and improve government efficiency. PHMSA is seeking input on specific provisions that may be outdated or cost-prohibitive, as well as data on safety outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and potential alternatives. The agency is also considering whether long-standing special permits with strong safety records should be incorporated into the broader regulatory framework. Comments are due by August 4, and future rulemaking could follow based on this input.

CONGRESSIONAL/ GOVERNMENTWIDE SPOTLIGHT

OVERVIEW. Congress was originally scheduled to be out this week for the July 4th recess, but members stayed in Washington due to fast‑approaching deadlines tied to President Trump’s reconciliation effort. The Senate passed its version last week, and the House is expected to take it up shortly while leadership works to finalize a package acceptable to both chambers and the White House. That compressed schedule has created rare summer floor urgency as negotiations continue behind the scenes.

RECONCILATION MOVES BACK TO HOUSE—House Poised To Pass Senate Bill. On July 1, the Senate passed its version of the budget reconciliation package, officially titled the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1), by a narrow vote of 51 to 50. Vice President J.D. Vance cast the tie breaking vote. Republican Senators Susan Collins of Maine, Rand Paul of Kentucky, and Thom Tillis of North Carolina voted against the bill. Reported reasons for their opposition included concerns about the impact on Medicaid recipients, the long-term fiscal outlook, and disagreement with specific policy provisions. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill could increase the federal deficit by approximately 3.3 to 3.9 trillion dollars over the next ten years.

Several provisions were removed from the bill prior to passage based on the Byrd Rule. The Byrd Rule is a Senate rule that limits what can be included in a reconciliation package. It prohibits provisions that are considered unrelated to federal spending or revenue. The rule is intended to keep the reconciliation process focused strictly on budgetary matters.

Following the vote, Senator Tillis announced that he will not seek reelection in 2026. The bill now returns to the House, where members are reviewing the Senate’s changes. While there was initial uncertainty about passage, the House is expected to pass the Senate language on July 3.

Want to know more about Senate-Passed Reconciliation Bill? Check out some of these articles:

PROPOSED PRESIDENTIAL RESCISSION PACKAGE PASSES HOUSE, GOES TO SENATE. On June 3, the White House submitted a formal rescission request to Congress through the Rescissions Act of 2025. The $9.4 billion rescissions package aims to cut funding for National Public Radio, foreign aid, international assistance programs, and other discretionary accounts, passed in the House on June 12 by a vote of 214-212. The proposal, the ‘Rescissions Act of 2025,’ is now pending in the Senate, which must act by July 18 for the rescissions to take effect. If the Senate does not pass the measure by that date, the targeted funds must be released and spent as originally appropriated. Debate in the Senate has focused on the potential impact of these cuts, including reductions to global health programs such as President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the loss of funding for rural public media.

A rescission package is a formal proposal by the President (or Congress) to cancel previously approved but unspent federal funds. It is a budgetary tool used to reduce discretionary spending that has already been enacted into law. Until Congress approves the rescission, it remains a proposal.

The rescissions package faces a challenging path forward, as it has received criticism by both Democrats and Republicans, who raised concerns surrounding the potential implications of cuts towards public radio and media.

FY2026 APPROPRIATIONS PROGRESS. Congress is actively working on the twelve regular appropriations bills, with both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees conducting markups through July. House Committee Chair Tom Cole recently scheduled the Energy and Water Development bill markup for the week of July 7 and the THUD (Transportation, Housing and Urban Development) bill for the week of July 14. In parallel, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water has begun receiving agency budget submissions and will soon start internal hearings and markups.

The President’s fiscal year 2026 budget request includes significant changes for key water infrastructure agencies. The budget proposes 7.2 billion dollars for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works program, a reduction of more than 24 percent from the fiscal year 2024 enacted level of 9.6 billion dollars. The proposal prioritizes operation and maintenance of existing projects but scales back funding for new construction and investigations.

The Bureau of Reclamation would receive approximately 1.3 billion dollars, which is roughly flat compared to the prior year. However, there are notable decreases in funding for rural water projects and Title XVI water recycling programs.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s budget would decline from 9.14 billion dollars in fiscal year 2025 to 4.16 billion dollars. This represents a 54 percent cut. The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds would fall to 155 million dollars and 150 million dollars respectively, reductions of more than 1.4 billion dollars and 976 million dollars compared to current levels. The Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act program would be reduced to just 8 million dollars. These proposed cuts reflect a shift in strategy that places greater funding responsibility on states and local governments.

While congressional leaders have stated a goal of completing appropriations before the start of the fiscal year on October 1, the limited number of legislative days remaining before the fall make that outcome increasingly unlikely. A continuing resolution appears probable as Congress balances spending negotiations with other legislative priorities.

Past Committee Markups:

PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATION DEVELOPMENTS. Status of nominations. On Monday, June 16, Trump sent 26 nominations to the U.S. Senate for discussion and approval. On the list of nominations were Ted Cooke for the Commissioner for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, and Katherine Scarlett to serve as Chair for the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). Cooke’s nomination has been sent to the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, while Scarlett’s nomination was sent to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. Hearing dates for both nominees have not been set yet.

As the President, Trump has the ability to fill around 4,000 appointed positions within the executive branch and independent federal agencies. Out of the 4,000, 1,300 of these positions require confirmation by the U.S. Senate. The nomination process involves vetting potential candidates through the FBI, IRS, and other offices, depending on the position. If the position requires approval, the President sends a list of nominations to the Senate and their respective committees, where Senate Committees host hearings on the nominations, and will report out on the nomination favorably, unfavorable, or without recommendation, before moving to the Senate floor for a vote. If confirmed by the Senate, the President will sign a commission, and the appointee will be sworn into the role.

Cooke is from Arizona, one of the 7 states who depend on the Colorado River for its water supply. Cooke has spent the majority of his career working with the Central Arizona Project, where he served as the general manager from 2015 to 2023. Cooke is considered a qualified technical expert in the Colorado River Basin. Cookie is well respected with John Entsminger, Nevada’s top water negotiator stating that Cooke’s appointment is “a great choice.” The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee also received a nomination for Katherine Scarlett, who is currently serving as chief of staff at CEQ and has previously served as a staffer for Senator Shelley Moore Capito. If appointed, Scarlett will serve as the lead advisor on the administration’s environmental policies.

Last month, the President submitted a slate of nominations to the Senate, including Adam Telle for Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, Sean McMaster for Administrator of the Federal Highway Administration, and John Busterud for Administrator of the Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response at the EPA. On June 11, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works voted to advance all three nominations to the full Senate. As of now, the Senate has not scheduled any floor votes for their confirmation.

DEBT CEILING BACK IN PLAY. As Congress heads into the summer stretch, one issue looms large and unavoidable. The debt ceiling. While it often gets caught in political messaging and budget disputes, the reality is straightforward. The debt ceiling is the legal limit set by Congress on how much money the federal government can borrow to pay for things it has already committed to. This includes Social Security benefits, military salaries, interest on the national debt, disaster relief, and infrastructure investments.

Because the United States spends more than it collects in revenue, borrowing fills the gap. That makes the debt ceiling a recurring issue. Congress must address it by either raising the limit, suspending it, or eliminating it entirely. If lawmakers fail to act in time, the government could default on its obligations. That would rattle markets, delay payments, and potentially trigger a broader financial crisis.

The Bipartisan Policy Center has projected that the X Date, which is the point when the U.S. Treasury can no longer fully pay the nation’s bills, will fall between August 15 and October 3. Some private analysts estimate that it could come as early as September 2. This timing is especially concerning because Congress is scheduled to be out of session for much of that period. The exact date will depend on several unpredictable factors, including tariff revenue, emergency spending for natural disasters, global conflict, and the possibility of a government shutdown during appropriations negotiations.

Whatever the final date turns out to be, the takeaway is clear. Congress must act in the next several months. Until it does, the debt ceiling will remain a major point of concern across the federal landscape. It could influence everything from agency operations to infrastructure spending to long-term economic stability.

CALL FOR ACTION TO END FEMA’s NIFP’S RISK RATING 2.0. A group of 9 senators have written to FEMA’s Acting Administrator, David Richardson, urging for the end of the Risk Rating 2.0 methodology. The letter detailed concern around the lack of transparency for Risk Rating 2.0, which makes it difficult for communities to plan for disasters, which can lead to inaccurate premium pricing and rising financial costs. The Senators called for more transparency, and the need for NFIP to be low-cost and accessible to all. FEMA’s NFIP has been met with criticism, as it faces concerns surrounding its subsidized rates, equity, rate increases, lengthy claims processing, and using outdated flood risk assessments and flood maps. Updating and revising the operations of NFIP have been discussed as part of the President’s ongoing FEMA Review Council.

Congressional Bills of Interest

  • House T&I Leaders Introduce Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025. On July 2, 2025, According to a July 2 press release, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee leaders introduced H.R. 4275, the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025. The bipartisan bill, introduced by Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA), Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (R-MS), and Subcommittee Ranking Member Salud Carbajal (D-CA), would authorize funding for the U.S. Coast Guard through fiscal year 2029. The legislation aims to support the Coast Guard’s operational readiness, enhance its aging infrastructure and IT systems, and modernize its acquisition process. It also includes provisions to advance parity with other armed services by establishing a Secretary of the Coast Guard and implementing reforms to address sexual assault and harassment in the ranks. In addition to recapitalization of cutter and aviation fleets, the bill works to strengthen maritime safety laws, updates merchant mariner credentialing requirements, supports domestic shipbuilding through U.S.-Build requirements, and enables adoption of emerging autonomous technologies.
  • New Bipartisan Bill Introduced to Codify PFAS Drinking Water Standards. On June 26, 2025, Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) and Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) introduced the PFAS National Drinking Water Standard Act of 2025 (H.R. 4168). The bill aims to codify the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) existing drinking water standards for certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of persistent industrial chemicals that have raised growing health and environmental concerns. PFAS, commonly called “forever chemicals,” are known for their durability and widespread use in products ranging from firefighting foam and nonstick cookware to food packaging and industrial discharge. These chemicals have been linked to serious health issues, including cancer, liver damage, immune system disruption, and developmental effects. In April 2024, the EPA finalized a National Primary Drinking Water Regulation setting enforceable limits on six PFAS compounds, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), with maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) set at 4 parts per trillion. The new bill would write those standards into statute, preventing future administrations from weakening or rescinding them without additional congressional action.

Upcoming Hearings and Markups of Interest

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SPOTLIGHT

ADMINISTRATION

ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT UNDER REVIEW. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA Fisheries have submitted a regulatory package to the Office of Management and Budget that would reverse several Trump-era Endangered Species Act regulations. The proposed changes are expected to address five key rules, including those related to critical habitat designation, the definition of harm, species listing and delisting procedures, and the scope of Section 4(d) protections. The package follows an earlier action this spring in which the Fish and Wildlife Service rescinded the prior definition of habitat. That rule had limited protections by narrowing what qualifies as habitat under the law. The pending package is also expected to revisit the narrowed definition of harm, which previously excluded habitat modification unless direct injury to wildlife could be proven. The regulatory package is currently under review at OMB. Once the review is complete, the proposed rules will be published in the Federal Register and opened for public comment. While no official release date has been announced, publication is anticipated later this summer or early fall.

UPDATE ON REDUCTIONS IN FORCE (RIFs)/OFFICE SPACE CLOSURES. Multiple federal agencies continue to implement significant workforce reductions and office consolidations. Legal reviews and agency deadlines this month may determine how many positions are ultimately affected.

As of May, the federal civilian workforce stood at approximately 2.39 million, excluding the U.S. Postal Service, reflecting a net loss of about 20,800 jobs this year. Across agencies, more than 58,000 positions have been formally eliminated, over 76,000 employees have accepted buyouts, and around 149,000 positions are affected via attrition or deferred hiring. These changes represent approximately 12 percent of the federal workforce.

EPA RIFs. Prior to restructuring, EPA had approximately 15,130 fulltime equivalent staff in fiscal year 2024, down from about 17,000 before the Trump administration. With the new FY 2026 President’s budget, FTEs are projected to fall to 12,856, a decrease of 1,274 positions. That would mark the agency’s lowest staffing level since the 1980s. Additionally, EPA is currently planning to eliminate approximately 388 positions within the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights, with those terminations scheduled by July 31 unless a court intervenes. Finally, EPA’s Office of Research and Development could see realignment or job reductions affecting roughly 1,155 staffers.

US Army Corps of Engineers RIFs. The Corps has offered early retirement and separation to about 1,068 employees, translating to a projected workforce reduction in the range of six to eight percent.

Legal Proceedings on RIFs. On June 27, 2025, the Supreme Court issued a decision in Trump v. CASA, Inc. that limits the use of nationwide injunctions. The Court ruled that lower courts do not have the authority to block federal policies for the entire country unless those directly involved in the case are affected. This means courts must tailor their relief to specific plaintiffs, not to all potential parties. This ruling does not automatically cancel existing preliminary injunctions related to federal workforce reductions. For example, court orders blocking RIFs at the State Department and the Department of Health and Human Services remain in effect. However, those courts are now required to revisit the scope of their injunctions. They may choose to narrow them to apply only to those organizations and employees named in the lawsuits. Both the State Department and HHS are expected to submit updated status reports to the courts in July. These filings will clarify how each agency plans to move forward with their proposed reductions, and whether the injunctions will be adjusted or remain in place. At EPA, the planned workforce reductions in the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights are still scheduled to take effect on July 31. Unless a new legal challenge is filed or a court intervenes, those layoffs are expected to proceed. Legal challenges involving broader agency restructuring efforts are also ongoing. Additional rulings or court actions could emerge later this summer, depending on how other lawsuits progress and whether new complaints are filed.

Office Closures and Realignments. Agencies submitted reorganization and office closure plans in April. Some EPA regional locations are under review for consolidation or removal. Additionally, federal reorganizations are impacting U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office space. Leases for several USACE division and district offices, including Jacksonville, Charleston, Chicago, the Risk Management Center in Lakewood, Colorado, and the Hydrologic Engineering Center in Davis, California, have been terminated by the General Services Administration (GSA), which oversees federal buildings. The effective date for the closures is set for August or September 2025. These closures apply to office space only, and individuals at those locations have not yet been reassigned. According to USACE sources, no final guidance has been issued on where staff will be relocated. Notably, the Jacksonville regional headquarters lease was initially included in the DOGE reduction list but has since been withdrawn from closure consideration. Division and district office adjustments are coming alongside program-level workforce downsizing. These changes could shift operations and service availability in key regions, especially where multi-property relocations occur.

UPDATES ON TRUMP’S FEMA ELIMINATION PLANS. On June 10, President Trump announced during a news briefing about the future for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, where the president commented on reducing the federal agency down to the state level, and begin its phase out after 2025 hurricane season. This notion was backed by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, who remarked that the FEMA Review Council will be working on reforms for the agency, and how it will focus more on empowering governors and local officials to respond to emergencies. The president has suggested that FEMA could be eliminated by December 2025. Currently, the president has appointed the FEMA Review Council, a group of cabinet members, governors, and emergency management experts, tasked with making recommending changes to the agency. The FEMA Review Council’s work is expected to conclude in May 2026. Potential changes to FEMA could reflect less disaster-related aid being provided to states, along with a simplified payment system for larger disaster recovery grants, rather than tailored reimbursements. However, much is still unknown how these recommendations will impact disaster response and recovery time in the future.

PROCLAMATION. 250th Anniversary of the Founding of the United States Army. The President signed a proclamation on June 13, 2025, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States Military. In the proclamation, Trump commended the work done and sacrifices made by the U.S. military to keep the United States free and safe from all threats. The President also proclaimed Saturday, June 14, 2025, as a day of commemoration of the founding of the U.S. Army.

EXECUTIVE ORDER. Empowering Commonsense Wildfire Prevention and Response. President Trump signed an executive order on June 12, 2025, regarding the devastation from the Los Angeles wildfires, where he remarked on the slow response and need for changes to emergency response for wildfire response and mitigation. Within 90 days of the EO being issued, the Secretary of the Interior and Agriculture to consolidate wildland fire programs for the most efficient usage, along with expanding and strengthening partnerships with local, state, and tribal governments to reduce wildfire risk. The order also calls for the removal of regulatory barriers for access to preventative measures for fighting fires. It also mandates a technology roadmap leveraging AI, data-sharing, and declassified satellite imagery to boost detection and response, calls for utility-focused safeguards to reduce ignition risk, and instructs the Pentagon to surplus aircraft and promote performance metrics, intended to modernize wildfire prevention and minimize response time within 90 to 210 days.

EXECUTIVE ORDER. Further Extending The TikTok Enforcement Delay. On June 19, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order which extends Executive Order 14258, Extending the TikTok Enforcement Delay, which is now further extended until September 17, 2025.

EXECUTIVE ORDER. Regarding The Proposed Acquisition of United States Steel Corporation By Nippon Steel Corporation. On June 13, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order allowing Nippon Steel’s proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel to proceed, reversing a previous prohibition by President Biden. The order permits the deal only if a binding National Security Agreement (NSA) is signed before closing, addressing national security concerns identified by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. (CFIUS). Until the NSA is finalized or the deal is abandoned, CFIUS retains enforcement authority. The President also reserves the right to take further action if necessary to protect national security.

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BUREAU OF RECLAMATION

COMMENT PERIOD. Seeking feedback on Draft Facilities, Instructions, Standards, and Techniques (FIST) Manual (Comments due July 7, 2025). The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking feedback on sections of the FIST manual, specifically regarding the practice, operation, and maintenance of electrical equipment. This would include input on Reclamation activities for hydroelectrical powerplants, pumping plants, and water delivery equipment across facilities throughout the 17 U.S. states that the Bureau of Reclamation services. The Bureau is seeking comments on FIST 2-6 Maintenance of Auxiliary Mechanical Equipment, FIST 3-14 Excitation Systems for Hydroelectric Units, FIST 4-1 Maintenance Scheduling for Mechanical Equipment, and FIST 4-1B Maintenance Scheduling for Electrical Equipment. All comments must be submitted dmarsh@usbr.gov by July 7, 2025.

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COAST GUARD

MEETING. Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee. (Wednesday, July 23, 2025). The Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee is meeting in Port Huron, Michigan, on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 9 AM to 5:30 PM ET, and will be held in the conference room at the DoubleTree Hotel, 800 Harker Street, Port Huron, MI, 48060. Registration is not required for the meeting. The meeting will discuss national transportation safety board maritime Safety Overviews, mandatory change points and recuperative rest, ratemaking methodology, project updates, staffing reports, and public comments. Those interested in submitting a comment can do so by going to regulations.gov under the docket number USCG-2025-0145. Comments must be submitted by July 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET to be reviewed by a committee member.

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ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

PROPOSAL TO REVISE THE 2023 WOTUS DEFINITION. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) announced that it plans to issue a proposed rule on the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) definition in the Clean Water Act (CWA) in the upcoming months. Earlier in the year, the agencies had undertaken listening sessions and accepted public comments on the scope of the yet-to-be written rule. Many of the comments voiced frustrations over shifting definitions, especially regarding jurisdiction over ditches, wetlands, and ephemeral streams. Many called for a more stable, legally sound clarity aligned with the Supreme Court’s Sackett decision and also emphasized regional hydrologic differences and state-federal balance. The agencies state their intent to release a final rule by the end of 2025.

In April 2025, NWC submitted detailed comments to the agencies outlining its perspective on the appropriate scope of federal jurisdiction under CWA. NWC’s comments emphasized the need for regulatory clarity, predictability, and consistency across Corps districts. NWC also recommended that any future WOTUS rule explicitly exclude features with only ephemeral flow, better distinguish between federal and state waters, and avoid regulatory interpretations that exceed statutory or judicial authority, including recent Supreme Court rulings. The letter urged the agencies to maintain flexibility for agricultural and flood control infrastructure, and to uphold the foundational principle of cooperative federalism in water management.

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FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT. Meeting of the FEMA Review Council. (Meeting Registration due July 8, 2025, meeting on July 9, 2025 at 3:00 PM ET). The second meeting of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Review Council is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET. The meeting will discuss updates from the Council’s leadership, along with an open-panel discussion. The FEMA Review Council Was established through Executive Order 14180, “Council to Assess the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” with the goal of advising the President through the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security, and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on FEMA’s ability address disasters throughout the United States, and on recommended changes on how FEMA can best serve national interest. Those interested in attending must email FEMAreviewcouncil@hq.dhs.gov by July 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET with their full legal name and email address. A recording was made available for the first meeting on May 20, 2025.

DOCUMENT UPDATE. Updates to the National Flood Insurance Program Guidance Documents. FEMA published updates to their Flood Insurance Manual, Claims Manual, and the Standard Flood Insurance Policy Commentary. The changes were made to ensure clarity with existing instructions, provide new information, and to make sure that information is accessible and easy to understand for all. The updated Flood Insurance Manual will apply to new flood insurance policies issued on October 1, 2025. The updates to the claims manual and the Standard Flood Insurance Policy Commentary were in effect on June 1 and will apply for 2025 hurricane flood insurance claims.

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FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION (FERC)

FINAL RULE. FERC Finalizes Cybersecurity Monitoring Rule for Bulk Electric System Operators (Federal Register, July 2, 2025). The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has finalized a new reliability standard, CIP-007-8, which imposes internal network security monitoring requirements on operators of the Bulk Electric System. Published in the Federal Register on July 2, the rule amends FERC regulations at 18 CFR Part 40 and takes effect on October 1, 2025.

This action builds on FERC’s existing Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards by addressing cyber risks that originate within a utility’s own networks. Under the new rule, covered entities must implement continuous monitoring of internal network communications and establish protocols for detecting, logging, and alerting on abnormal activity. The intent is to detect internal threats faster and strengthen resilience against cyber intrusions that bypass perimeter defenses. The rule applies to entities operating high- and medium-impact Bulk Electric System Cyber Systems. It will require utilities to document compliance and provide evidence upon request during audits or inquiries. FERC stated that the new standard reflects recommendations from industry experts and past reliability assessments, balancing the need for enhanced security with the burden of implementation.

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FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION

COMMENTS REQUESTED. FMC Seeks Public Comment on Information Collection for Service Contracts and Carrier Schedules (Comments due July 31, 2025). The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has announced it is submitting several ongoing information collection requests to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and renewal under the Paperwork Reduction Act. These include data related to marine terminal operator schedules, service contracts, non-vessel-operating common carrier (NVOCC) arrangements, and negotiated rate agreements. Published on July 1, 2025, the notice opens a 30‑day public comment period, ending July 31, 2025. Stakeholders are invited to comment on the necessity of the data collection, accuracy of the estimated burden, clarity of the forms, and possible use of automated systems to reduce collection time. Public feedback will help FMC assess whether the collections remain justified and efficient. FMC regulates key elements of the maritime supply chain, overseeing how shipping lines, terminals, and service providers report rates and service arrangements. The agency typically submits these requests every three years. Comments may be submitted via Regulations.gov under the dockets FMC‑2024‑0018 through FMC‑2024‑0021, or directly to OMB through the public information collection portal.

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MARITIME ADMINISTRATION

DELETING OUTDATED REGULATIONS. MARAD Removes Obsolete Rules on Port Priorities and Vessel Allocation (Federal Register, July 1, 2025). The Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the Department of Transportation, has finalized a rule deleting outdated regulations in 46 CFR parts 340, 345, 346, and 347 related to Defense Production Act marine terminal priorities, vessel allocations, port utilization rules, and standard forms for port contracts. These regulations were rendered obsolete after DOT replaced them with its Transportation Priorities and Allocation System (TPAS) under 49 CFR part 33 in 2012. The rule took effect on July 1, 2025. MARAD used the “good cause” exemption under the Administrative Procedure Act to issue the rule without prior notice or a comment period. The agency certified that the change will not impose any economic impact, unfunded mandates, or paperwork burden. There are no anticipated effects on small entities, privacy, federalism, tribal governments, or reporting obligations.

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NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSHERIC ADMINSTRATION

MEETING. NOAA Schedules IOOS Advisory Committee Virtual Meeting (July 21 and July 23, 2025). NOAA’s National Ocean Service has announced a virtual meeting of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) Advisory Committee, scheduled for July 21 (1:00 to 3:00 p.m. EDT) and July 23 (3:00 to 5:00 p.m. EDT). The meeting is open to the public, and opportunities will be provided for oral and written comment. Written statements must be submitted by July 11 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. IOOS is a nationwide partnership led by NOAA that integrates and delivers ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes data in real time. It connects satellites, buoys, coastal radars, underwater gliders, and other tools to monitor and forecast environmental conditions. Through 11 regional associations, IOOS supports marine navigation, weather and climate forecasting, coastal resilience planning, and emergency response, providing critical information for federal agencies, researchers, industry, and communities. The advisory committee will review its proposed work plan and receive updates from NOAA and partner organizations. Stakeholders are encouraged to attend and contribute feedback to help guide IOOS’s strategic direction and coordination efforts.

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PIPELINE AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SAFETY ADMINISTRATION

REVERSAL OF POLICY. Recession of Advisory Bulletin on Section 114 of the Protecting our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety Act of 2020. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is rescinding a previously issued advisory bulletin and related policy statements concerning section 114 of the Protecting Our Infrastructure of Pipelines and Enhancing Safety Act of 2020 (PIPES Act). This section had amended inspection and maintenance provisions under 49 U.S.C. § 60108, which governs safety requirements for gas, hazardous liquid, carbon dioxide, and LNG pipeline facilities. PHMSA is withdrawing its earlier interpretations and guidance on this section, signaling a shift in how it will apply or enforce these provisions moving forward. For questions, stakeholders can contact Cameron Satterthwaite via email at cameron.satterwaite@dot.gov.

FINAL RULE. PHMSA Embraces Remote Sensing for Pipeline Patrols (Effective Oct. 9, 2025). The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has finalized a direct final rule that officially allows pipeline operators to use remote sensing technologies, including unmanned aerial systems (drones), satellites, thermal imaging, lidar, and other sensors—to meet right-of-way patrol requirements under 49 CFR parts 192 and 195. The rule emphasizes that these technologies are considered equivalent to traditional walking, driving, or flying inspections. Published July 1, the rule becomes effective October 9, 2025, unless significant adverse comments are submitted by September 2, 2025, in which case PHMSA would respond before proceeding further. Operators are expected to deploy continuous monitoring systems or periodic surveillance that meet existing patrol intervals already required for gas and hazardous liquid pipelines.

FINAL RULE. PHMSA Adjusts Pipeline Incident Reporting Thresholds (Effective Oct. 9, 2025). The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has published a final rule revising the property damage thresholds that determine when pipeline incidents and hazardous liquid accidents must be reported. Effective October 9, 2025, the rule raises the minimum threshold from the current level to $149,700, based on an inflation-adjusted formula tied to the Consumer Price Index. Under the revised rule, PHMSA will use a published formula annually to update the threshold each July 1, with changes posted to its website and included in future Federal Register notices. The adjustment excludes costs related to lost product, permitting, removal of undamaged non-operator infrastructure, and cleanup. PHMSA says the amendment clarifies which damages count toward reporting requirements and updates outdated thresholds without adding new obligations. Because it refines existing definitions and responds to statutory inflation mandates, the rule was issued without prior notice and comment under the Administrative Procedure Act.

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U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS

INTERIM FINAL RULE. USACE Procedures for Implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). (Comments Due August 1, 2025). USACE has issued an interim final rule updating its agency-specific procedures for implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), as required by the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 and CEQ’s 2023 NEPA regulations. The updated procedures aim to ensure compliance with the new statutory timelines and page limits, promote efficiency and transparency in decision-making, and clarify the roles of USACE as a lead, cooperating, or joint lead agency. This rule includes provisions to streamline environmental review processes for certain categories of projects, such as maintenance dredging, levee work, and Section 408 permissions. It also revises definitions, categorical exclusions, and public involvement requirements to better align with modern environmental and administrative practices. USACE is accepting public comments through Friday, August 1, 2025. Comments should be submitted to regulations.gov under docket number COE-2024-0005 or emailed to nepa@usace.army.mil with the docket number in the subject line.

INTERIM FINAL RULE. USACE Removes Agency-Specific NEPA Regulations (in effect on July 3, 2025; comments must be received by Aug. 4, 2025). USACE has issued an interim final rule removing its Civil Works specific NEPA regulations – 33 CFR Part 230 and associated Engineering Regulation 20022 – with immediate effect as of July 3, 2025. This follows a Department of Defense directive directing all military services to repeal redundant agency NEPA rules, and is consistent with the removal of CEQ’s own NEPA procedures from the Code of Federal Regulations. USACE will now rely on the revised NEPA procedures under the Department-wide Defense guidance and the updated CEQ regulations, choosing flexibility and efficiency over formally codified procedures. The Corps has retained categorical exclusions formerly part of Part 230 to ensure continuity during the transition. Although the rule is effective now, USACE is requesting public input on whether rescinding Part 230 is appropriate, and on how it should shape future NEPA-related procedures or guidance. Public comments are accepted through August 4, 2025, via Regulations.gov under docket COE20250007, or by email to CEHQ NEPA@usace.army.mil

PROPOSED RULE. Reissuance and Modification of Nationwide Permits. (Comments Due July 18, 2025.) The Corps is proposing to reissue its existing Nationwide Permits (NWP) and associated general conditions and definitions with some modifications, providing more simplicity and clarity with an expedited permit, with the intent to reduce burdens on the public to ensure continued compliance with statutory requirements. The Corps is also proposing to issue a new nationwide permit that would authorize activities to improve the passage of fish and other organisms through dams. The permitting updates would streamline the permitting process for those applying for permits, which would expedite federal infrastructure grants and projects. USACE is opening a 30-day comment period on the proposed NWPs. Those interested in submitting comments must do so by Friday, July 18, 2025, at regulations.gov under the docket number COE-2025-0002, or can send an email to 2025nationwidepermits@usace.army.mil with the docket number in the subject line.