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Public Comments on Proposed Federal Rules Newsletter for 2025-05-15 ( 74 items )  
Advocacy Group Urges DOT to Repeal Discriminatory Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The Southeastern Legal Foundation (SLF), Roswell, Georgia, a nonprofit dedicated to defending constitutional liberties, has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to eliminate two programs it deems unconstitutional: the Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) and the Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) programs. In a detailed letter submitted on May 5, 2025, to DOT Secretary Sean Duffy, SLF argues these regulations promote race and  more ST

Advocacy Group Urges HUD to Reinstate Fair Housing Protections for Survivors of Violence (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A national advocacy organization dedicated to ending gender-based violence is calling on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to reverse recent revisions to fair housing rules, arguing that the changes will decrease critical protections for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. In a letter submitted to HUD Secretary Scott Turner, The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence expressed deep concern over the 2025 Interim Final Rule titled, Affir more ST

Air Canada Calls for Review of Airline Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Air Canada, Quebec, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, urging a review of existing airline regulations. The company emphasizes its significant presence in the U.S. market, with "up to 430 daily flights between our two countries." In its submission, Air Canada expresses strong support for the arguments made by the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) and Airlines for America (A4A) regarding deregulation. Martine De Serres, Assist more ST

Airlines Push for Deregulation to Boost Competition & Lower Fares (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Airlines for America (A4A), a trade group representing major U.S. airlines, has called for a sweeping rollback of federal regulations, arguing that excessive oversight stifles innovation and raises consumer prices. In a detailed 54-page letter submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) on May 5, 2025, A4A outlined its case for aligning with President Trump's deregulatory agenda, emphasizing that competition, not regulation, should drive the airline industry. T more ST

Airport Board Calls for Deregulation, Cites FAA Overreach (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Kenton County Airport Board, Erlanger, Kentucky, which owns and operates the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), urging the agency to pursue deregulation. The Board argues that current regulations hinder airport development and increase costs. In a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the Board expressed its support for the administration's efforts to reduce regulator more ST

American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials Urges DOT to Streamline Regulations, Citing Burdens on State Transportation Projects (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to overhaul federal regulations that it says hinder the efficient delivery of transportation projects. In a detailed letter dated May 5, 2025, AASHTO responded to DOT's Request for Information on reducing regulatory costs, highlighting excessive requirements that burden state departments of transportation (DOTs). AASHTO, representing sta more ST

Auto Group Urges NHTSA to Speed Up Safety Ratings Updates (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Alliance for Automotive Innovation (Auto Innovators) is calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to expedite the process of updating its 5-Star Safety Ratings. In a letter to the agency, the group expressed support for NHTSA's efforts to improve the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), but also voiced concerns about delays. The letter, addressed to Ms. Juliette Marie Vallese, Associate Administrator, Office of Communications and Consumer Info more ST

Auto Industry Calls for Regulatory Reform to Boost Innovation (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, representing major automakers, suppliers, and technology firms, has urged the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to overhaul regulations it claims stifle innovation and increase costs without clear safety benefits. In a detailed submission to the DOT's "Regulatory Reform RFI" on May 5, 2025, the group outlined a series of recommendations to streamline federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) and reduce regulatory burdens, a more ST

Aviation Data Access Crucial for Safety and Operations, Industry Warns FAA (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A leading aviation data analysis firm, Airport Monitoring Systems, has voiced strong concerns to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regarding a proposed rule to withhold certain aircraft registration information from public dissemination. In a letter submitted to the DOT, the company emphasized the critical role this data plays in ensuring safety, compliance, and efficient operations within the general aviation sector. Airport Monitoring Systems, which collects and  more ST

Aviation Group Urges DOT to Streamline Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) is calling on the Department of Transportation (DOT) to reduce regulatory burdens on the aviation industry, particularly for small businesses. In a formal response to the DOT's request for information on regulatory reform, NATA emphasized the need for efficiency and relevance in current regulations. NATA, which represents nearly 3,700 aviation businesses, including on-demand air charter carriers, maintenance facilities, an more ST

Canadian Whale Watch Operators Voice Strong Concerns Over Proposed Grey Whale Hunt (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A coalition of Canadian whale watching companies has voiced significant opposition to a proposed waiver of the U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act that would permit the Makah Tribe to hunt grey whales. In a letter submitted to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), the Pacific Rim Association of Tour Operators (PRATO), representing ten businesses operating out of Tofino and Ucluelet on Vancouver Island, detailed the profound economic and educational impact the "summer- more ST

Chemical Distributors Seek Regulatory Flexibility (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Alliance for Chemical Distribution, Arlington, Virginia, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), urging the agency to reduce regulatory burdens on the chemical distribution industry. The organization which represents over 400 chemical distribution companies, argues that certain regulations, while well-intentioned, could be streamlined to improve efficiency without compromising safety. In its comments, the ACD highlighted the importance of more ST

Chlorine Institute Urges DOT to Revise Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Chlorine Institute, Arlington, Virginia, a trade association representing chlor-alkali producers, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), urging the agency to modify or repeal certain regulations to reduce burdens on the industry. In a letter to the DOT, the Chlorine Institute emphasized its commitment to the safe transportation of chemicals. The Institute's members produce approximately 90% of the chlorine in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico more ST

Commuter Rail Group Calls for Regulatory Reform (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Commuter Rail Coalition (CRC) has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), urging the agency to modify or repeal several existing regulations. In a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, CRC Chief Executive Officer KellyAnne Gallagher outlined concerns about current rules, arguing they hinder the industry's ability to operate safely and efficiently. The CRC, an association of public and private entities involved in commuter rail o more ST

Conservation Group Urges Federal Action on Flawed Atlantic Cod Management (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) has expressed deep concern over the continued delays in implementing updated management plans for Atlantic cod, urging federal regulators to swiftly adopt measures that reflect the best available science on the species' stock structure. In a strongly worded letter to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), CLF outlined a series of critical actions needed to ensure the recovery of the iconic fish. The letter, dated May 5, 2025, an more ST

Conservative Group Urges DOT to Slash Discriminatory, Costly Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The American Conservative Union Foundation's Center for Regulatory Freedom (CRF) has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to overhaul or repeal a slew of regulations deemed discriminatory, outdated, or overly burdensome, aligning with President Trump's deregulatory agenda. In comments submitted on April 2, 2025, to the DOT's request for information on "Ensuring Lawful Regulation; Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs," CRF Director Andrew Lan more ST

Daimler Truck Calls for Regulatory Overhaul to Boost Innovation, Safety (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), Portland, Oregon, the nation's leading manufacturer of medium and heavy-duty vehicles, has urged the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to streamline regulations to foster innovation while maintaining safety standards. In a detailed letter submitted on May 5, 2025, to the DOT, DTNA outlined a series of recommendations aimed at reducing regulatory burdens and accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies in the commercial vehicle more ST

Deaf Equality Calls for End to CDL Hearing Requirement (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Deaf Equality, a nonprofit disability rights organization, is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to eliminate a rule that prevents deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals from obtaining Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDLs). In a letter to the DOT, the organization argues that the hearing requirement, codified at 49 CFR Sec. 391.41(b)(11), is "outdated" and "no longer supported by modern data, safety research, or advancements in modern communication technologies more ST

Decommissioning Group Urges NRC to Revise Regulations After Enforcement Discretion (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Decommissioning Plant Coalition (DPC) has voiced its support for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) staff's interim enforcement policy regarding general licensees adopting changes from Certificate of Compliance (C of C) holders. However, the coalition is urging the agency to go further and revise the underlying regulations. In a letter to the NRC, Wayne A. Norton, CEO of Maine Yankee and Executive Spokesperson for the DPC, stated, "It is imperative that the staff  more ST

Des Moines Transit Agency Urges Federal DOT to Streamline Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART), Iowa, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), advocating for significant reforms to several federal regulations they deem overly burdensome and misaligned with statutory authority. In a letter addressed to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, DART outlined numerous concerns, ranging from the triennial review process to technology procurement rules. One key area of contention is the Fed more ST

Disability Advocates Decry Revised Fair Housing Rule as a Step Backwards (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A coalition of disability rights organizations is strongly opposing a new federal rule regarding fair housing, arguing that it significantly weakens protections for people with disabilities. In a letter submitted to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Housing Task Force voiced its strong opposition to the "Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Revisions" Interim Final Rule (2025 AFFH IFR). The  more ST

Disability Advocates Urge Stronger Federal Oversight for Accessible Air Travel (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- A coalition of veterans service organizations, disability advocates, and aviation stakeholders has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to strengthen regulations and enforcement to ensure safe and dignified air travel for passengers with disabilities. In a letter to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, the groups emphasized the need for the DOT to uphold its statutory obligations under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and related federal laws. The lett more ST

Disability Advocates Urge Transportation Department to Maintain Accessibility Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The CCD Transportation Task Force is urging the Department of Transportation (DOT) to maintain existing regulations that ensure accessible transportation for people with disabilities. In a letter submitted electronically to Secretary Sean Duffy, the co-chairs of the Consortium for Constituents with Disabilities (CCD) Transportation Task Force expressed concerns over the potential reduction or elimination of these crucial safeguards. The CCD Transportation Task Force, repre more ST

Drone Industry Urges Regulatory Overhaul to Boost Innovation (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Commercial Drone Alliance (CDA) has called for sweeping changes to federal regulations to unlock the potential of the commercial drone industry. In a letter submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) on May 5, 2025, the CDA highlighted how outdated aviation rules, restrictive hazardous materials (hazmat) policies, and lengthy environmental reviews are stifling innovation and hindering the scalability of drone operations in the United States. The CDA, a no more ST

EFF Urges USCIS to Withdraw Proposed Social Media Collection on Immigration Forms, Citing Free Speech and Privacy Concerns (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), San Francisco, California, a leading nonprofit organization defending civil liberties in the digital world, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) urging the withdrawal of a proposed rule that would drastically expand the collection of social media identifiers on routine immigration applications. In a strongly worded letter submitted on May 5, 20 more ST

Electrical Contractors Call for Revocation of EV Charging Rule (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC), Nashville, Tennessee, a national trade association, is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation to revoke a federal regulation concerning the training of technicians working on electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. In a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Jason E. Todd, Vice President of Government Affairs for the IEC, stated the regulation "imposes unnecessary requirements for qualified technicians invo more ST

Environmental Group Challenges DOT Regulatory Review (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) has raised concerns about the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) review of existing regulations, arguing the process is flawed and could lead to the unlawful elimination of important rules. In a letter submitted to the DOT, the EDF expressed its worries regarding the DOT's Request for Information (RFI) and related Executive Orders. The EDF, which states it has over 3 million members and supporters globally, focuses on environment more ST

Fishing Groups Urge Federal Agency to Rework Groundfish Management Plan (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Two fishing industry groups are calling on the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to send a proposed amendment to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan back for further development. In a letter filed electronically, the Northeast Seafood Coalition (NSC) and the Gloucester Fishing Community Preservation Fund, Inc. (GFCPF) argue that Amendment 25, concerning the management of groundfish, requires more comprehensive consideration. According to David E. Frul more ST

Freight Coalition Urges Streamlined Grant Process for Infrastructure Projects (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A coalition dedicated to improving America's freight infrastructure has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) to simplify and accelerate its grant application and delivery processes. In a letter to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, the Coalition for America's Gateways and Trade Corridors (CAGTC) outlined several recommendations aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of federal infrastructure investments. Elaine Nessle, Executive Directo more ST

Global Key Solutions Offers Feedback on FDA AI Guidance (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Global Key Solutions Corp. (GKS), New York, has submitted comments to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the agency's draft guidance on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in regulatory decision-making for drug and biological products. The company's feedback addresses several aspects of the guidance, offering suggestions for clarity and improvement. In a letter to the FDA's Division of Dockets Management, GKS CEO George Kwiecinski stated, "On behalf of Gl more ST

Grand Rapids Transit Agency Urges Federal DOT to Ease Regulatory Burdens (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Interurban Transit Partnership (The Rapid), Grand Rapids, Michigan, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) expressing concerns over several federal regulations they believe hinder their ability to efficiently and effectively deliver public transportation services. In a letter addressed to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, The Rapid outlined multiple issues and proposed specific changes aimed at reducing regulatory burdens and control more ST

HUD Faces Backlash Over Weakened Fair Housing Rule (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund (LDF) has called for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to rescind its 2025 Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Interim Final Rule, arguing it undermines the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and perpetuates racial segregation. In a detailed letter to HUD's Regulations Division, LDF asserts that the rule fails to address systemic housing discrimination and deprives local governments of critical tools to comb more ST

Immigrant Advocates Voice Concerns Over Proposed Social Media Data Collection (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A non-profit legal services organization, Social Justice Collaborative (SJC), Berkeley, California, has strongly opposed a proposed rule by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that would require immigrants to disclose their social media identifiers on immigration forms. In a public comment submitted to the federal agency, SJC argues that the collection raises serious privacy and First Amendment concerns and could disproportionately impact adolescent immigrants. The p more ST

Immigrant Rights Groups Unite Against Proposed USCIS Information Collection Expansion (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A coalition of 115 national, state, and local organizations has opposed the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' (USCIS) proposed expansion of information collection on various immigration benefit application forms. In a strongly worded letter addressed to Ms. Samantha Deshommes, Chief of the Regulatory Coordination Division at USCIS, the groups argue that the proposed changes represent a "significant overreach" by the government and will create formidable barriers fo more ST

Immigration Advocates Oppose New Naturalization Form Questions, Citing Burden and Inefficiency (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A coalition of 175 immigration advocacy organizations and experts, led by the Naturalization Working Group (NWG), has voiced strong opposition to proposed changes to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services' (USCIS) Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. In a detailed letter to Samantha Deshommes, Chief of the Regulatory Coordination Division at USCIS, the group argues that the proposed additional questions are unnecessary, burdensome, and likely to hinder the more ST

Indianapolis Transit Authority Calls for Sweeping Reforms to Federal Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Indianapolis Public Transit Corporation (IndyGo), Indiana, has submitted a comprehensive set of comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), urging significant reforms to several federal regulations they deem burdensome and misaligned with statutory authority. Gregory D. Cote, Acting General Counsel for IndyGo, outlined numerous concerns, stating that the current regulatory landscape imposes unnecessary costs and hinders the efficient delivery of public tran more ST

Labor Federation Voices Strong Opposition to Proposed Visa Information Collection (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The American Federation of Labor & Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), representing over 15 million working people, has voiced strong opposition to proposed new information collections by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In a letter to the Department of Homeland Security, the AFL-CIO expressed "serious concerns and unresolved questions" about the collection of social media and family data from visa applicants. The labor federation is urging th more ST

Legal Aid Groups Criticize New Federal Housing Rule, Citing Lack of Enforcement and Planning (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Three Ohio legal aid organizations have jointly submitted a scathing critique of the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Revisions Interim Final Rule (IFR), arguing that the new regulations are inconsistent with the Fair Housing Act and lack crucial mechanisms for enforcement and community engagement. In a letter addressed to Secretary Scott Turner, Advocates for Basic Legal Equality (ABLE), Community Legal Aid Se more ST

Legal Group Warns New Immigration Data Collection is "Overly Burdensome" and Threatens Access to Protections (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A Berkeley-based legal services organization, Social Justice Collaborative (SJC), has strongly criticized a proposed new information collection by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), arguing it will create "insurmountable barriers" for vulnerable immigrant populations. In a public comment submitted to the federal agency, SJC outlined significant concerns regarding the 24 new data elements proposed for collection on immigration forms. The proposed changes, published  more ST

LGBTQ+ Health Center Urges Federal Agency to Maintain Fair Housing Protections (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Howard Brown Health, Chicago, Illinois, the nation's largest LGBTQ+ health center, has called on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to withdraw its 2025 Interim Final Rule, which the organization argues will weaken crucial fair housing regulations. In a letter to Secretary Scott Turner, Howard Brown expressed deep concern over the proposed revisions to the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) provision of the Fair Housing Act. The AFFH provi more ST

Marine Mammal Commission Reviews Makah Tribe's Whale Hunt Application, Raises Key Issues (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Marine Mammal Commission (MMC) is carefully reviewing the application from the Makah Indian Tribe to hunt Eastern North Pacific (ENP) gray whales, according to a letter sent to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). The application, submitted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), has prompted the Commission to focus on two key areas: the "humaneness" of the proposed hunting methods and the consistency of the proposed permit with existing regulations. In more ST

Minneapolis Airports Commission Urges Federal Government to Streamline Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), Minnesota, which owns and operates the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and six general aviation airports in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, has requested the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens and streamline approval processes. In a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the MAC outlined nine specific areas where it believes reforms could accelerate infrastructure more ST

Motorcycle Industry Seeks Regulatory Changes (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Motorcycle Industry Council (MIC), Irvine, California, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), urging the agency to consider several regulatory reforms. The MIC represents original equipment manufacturers of on-highway motorcycles and aftermarket parts. In its submission, the MIC responded to the DOT's request for information related to reducing regulation and controlling regulatory costs. The request followed Presidential Executive Order more ST

Motorcycle Riders Group Opposes Fuel Economy Standards (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) has voiced strong opposition to the Biden Administration's Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, stating they will have adverse effects on motorcyclists. In a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the MRF argues that the standards, which require automakers' new vehicle fleets to reach an average of 53.5 miles per gallon by model year 2032, represent a "dramatic escalation in federal regulatory pressure." The MRF  more ST

MTA Calls for Regulatory Reforms to Speed Infrastructure Projects (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The New York State Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has submitted a comprehensive set of recommendations to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) to streamline regulations and accelerate infrastructure projects. In a letter dated May 5, 2025, to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, the MTA outlined changes to reduce delays, cut costs, and boost economic benefits while maintaining safety and compliance. The recommendations, submitted under Docket Number more ST

Nev. Rural Electric Association Supports Deseret Power Plant Upgrades (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Nevada Rural Electric Association (NREA) has expressed its strong support for Deseret Generation and Transmission Cooperative's permit applications to upgrade its Bonanza Power Plant in Vernal, Utah. In a letter to the EPA, the NREA emphasizes the projects' importance in securing a reliable and sustainable energy future. The proposed upgrades include adding Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology to Bonanza Unit 1 and installing Gas Peaking Units at the site. NR more ST

Norfolk Southern Urges DOT to Modernize Rail Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Norfolk Southern Railway Company, based in Atlanta, Georgia, has submitted comments to the Department of Transportation (DOT), urging a comprehensive modernization of rail regulations. In a letter responding to DOT's request for information on regulatory reform, Norfolk Southern argues that current regulations are outdated, inflexible, and hinder the adoption of new technologies. The company applauds DOT's efforts to seek public input, stating, "DOT's commitment to engagin more ST

North American Transit Alliance Proposes Streamlined Federal Transit Administration Regulations to Boost Transit Efficiency (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The North American Transit Alliance (NATA), Queen Anne, Maryland, led by Chair Laura J. Hendricks, has submitted a comprehensive set of proposals to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) aimed at reforming Federal Transit Administration (FTA) regulations. The recommendations, detailed in a May 5, 2025, letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, seek to reduce administrative burdens, encourage private sector participation, and promote innovative contracting methods more ST

North Texas Transportation Agency Urges Federal Government to Streamline Regulations, Reduce Project Delays (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Dallas-Fort Worth area, has formally requested the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) to revise and remove existing policies that are causing unnecessary delays to critical transportation projects. In a letter addressed to Mr. Daniel Cohen of the USDOT's Office of General Counsel, NCTCOG outlined several key areas where current regulations and their interpretations more ST

NYS Flood Managers Urge Caution in FEMA Reforms (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The New York State Floodplain and Stormwater Managers Association (NYSFSMA) has cautioned federal officials to ensure any reforms to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are made deliberately and do not compromise public safety. In a letter addressed to the FEMA Review Council and key members of Congress, the association emphasized the vital role FEMA plays in disaster preparedness, loss prevention, and recovery. The NYSFSMA, a statewide organization with over 70 more ST

Oceana Urges Federal Agency to Reject Flawed Atlantic Cod Management Plan (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Ocean conservation organization Oceana has called on the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to disapprove a proposed amendment to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan concerning Atlantic cod stocks. In a strongly worded letter submitted to the agency, Oceana argues that the process used to develop Amendment 25 by the New England Fishery Management Council was "fundamentally flawed" and failed to comply with key environmental laws. The proposed amendment more ST

Oklahoma Transportation Authority Urges DOT to Revise Safety Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The Regional Transportation Authority of Central Oklahoma (RTA), Oklahoma City, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) expressing significant concerns regarding the Biden Administration's implementation of Public Transportation Safety Action Plans. In a letter to the federal agency, Gregory D. Cote, Acting General Counsel for the RTA, stated that certain regulations are "unsupported by the underlying statute." Specifically, the RTA takes is more ST

Orange County Transportation Authority Urges DOT to Reform "Onerous" Federal Transit Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), California, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), calling for significant reforms to several federal transit regulations they deem overly burdensome and not always aligned with statutory requirements. In a letter to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, OCTA's Acting General Counsel stated that while federal oversight can be helpful, "the current Triennial Review requires weeks of time co more ST

Orlando Aviation Authority Seeks Regulatory Reform, Cites FAA Overreach (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, Orlando, Florida, which operates Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), advocating for significant regulatory reforms. The Aviation Authority argues that current regulations, particularly those imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), hinder airport development and efficiency. In its submission, the Orlando-based Avia more ST

Pipeline Company Voices Concerns Over Regulatory Overlap (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 - Pipeline Compliance Specialist LLC, Waskom, Texas, has submitted a comment to the Department of Transportation (DOT) expressing concerns about potential regulatory overlap. The company's submission focuses on the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and its expanding regulatory authority. In the comment, Pipeline Compliance Specialist, LLC, argues that PHMSA's recent mandates are creating "jurisdictional confusion" and imposing "disproportionate bu more ST

Pipeline Consultant Calls for Regulatory Re-evaluation (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Pipeline Compliance Specialist LLC, Waskom, Texas, has submitted a comment to the Department of Transportation, urging a re-evaluation of pipeline regulations. The comment focuses on the regulatory burdens imposed by 49 CFR Sec.195.452, which deals with Pipeline Integrity Management in High Consequence Areas, and was filed regarding Docket No. DOT-OST-2024-0030. Jeff Davidson of Pipeline Compliance Specialist, LLC, argues that the current implementation of the regulation h more ST

Port of Portland Calls for Regulatory Reform (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The Port of Portland, Oregon, is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to streamline regulations, arguing that current rules hinder project delivery and increase costs. In a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, the Port outlined several areas where it believes reforms are needed. The Port of Portland, which operates multiple airports and marine terminals, submitted its comments in response to the DOT's "Request for Information" (RFI). The Port's lett more ST

Privacy Advocates Slam USCIS Plan to Collect Social Media Identifiers (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- A coalition of privacy and government transparency advocates has fiercely opposed a new proposal by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to collect social media identifiers from immigrants applying for residency or citizenship. The plan, outlined in a March 2025 federal notice, would require applicants to list all social media platforms and handles used over the past five years, raising alarms about constitutional violations and potential abuses of personal more ST

R6 Regional Council Supports Deseret Power Plant Upgrades (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- R6 Regional Council, located in Richfield, Utah, has voiced its strong support for Deseret Generation and Transmission Cooperative's permit applications to upgrade its Bonanza Power Plant in Vernal Utah. In a letter to the EPA, R6 Regional Council emphasizes the projects' importance in securing a reliable and sustainable energy future. The proposed upgrades include adding Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology to Bonanza Unit 1 and installing Gas Peaking Units at t more ST

Railroad Union Warns Against Deregulation in Letter to DOT (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS), Front Royal, Virginia, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), urging the agency to maintain current safety regulations. The union, which represents approximately 10,000 signal employees, argues that these regulations are crucial for the safety of workers and the public. In its letter, the BRS emphasizes the history of rail safety regulations, stating, "For nearly a century, signal regulations have more ST

Reason Foundation Criticizes Federal Regulations in Letter to Transportation Department (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The Reason Foundation has submitted comments to the Office of the Secretary of Transportation (OST), criticizing several federal regulations as being outdated, lacking evidence, and harming innovation. The comments, prepared by Marc Scribner, Senior Transportation Policy Analyst, address regulations related to the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and aviation consumer protection. In its comments, Reason Foundation argues that the FRA's train crew size rule is not supp more ST

Refugee Advocates Urge Withdrawal of Proposed Social Media Collection for Immigration Forms (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP), New York, has opposed a proposed U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) initiative to collect social media identifiers from individuals applying for immigration benefits. In a letter submitted to the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), IRAP outlined significant concerns regarding the potential impact on privacy, free speech, and the fairness of the vetting process. The proposed measure, detailed in a Fed more ST

Riverside Transit Agency Urges DOT to Streamline Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Riverside Transit Agency (RTA), California, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) advocating for significant reforms to several federal regulations it deems overly burdensome and not always aligned with statutory authority. In a letter to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, the RTA outlined specific concerns and proposed solutions aimed at reducing regulatory costs and improving efficiency. One key area of concern for the RTA is the  more ST

Safety Equipment Institute Urges Federal Review of Transportation Regulations (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Transportation Safety Equipment Institute, Sherwood, Oregon, has submitted comments to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT), advocating for updates and simplification of existing and future regulations impacting vehicle safety. In its submission, TSEI highlighted several key areas needing attention, drawing on its over five decades of experience promoting safety standards in the vehicle industry. The institu more ST

SBA Demands Regulatory Relief From DOT (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy is pressing the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to reform regulations that small businesses argue hinder innovation and burden operations. In a detailed letter dated May 5, 2025, signed by Deputy Chief Counsel Chip W. Bishop III and Assistant Chief Counsel Bruce E. Lundegren, Advocacy responded to the DOT's Request for Information (RFI) on reducing regulatory costs, highlighting challenges faced by small enti more ST

Seeing Eye Urges DOT to Ease Burden on Guide Dog Users (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Seeing Eye, Inc., the world's oldest guide dog school, headquartered in Morristown, New Jersey, is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to modify its regulations regarding air travel with service animals. In a letter to the DOT, the organization argues that a current requirement places an undue burden on blind individuals traveling with guide dogs. The Seeing Eye's letter, signed by Senior Specialist, Advocacy & Government Relations, Melissa R. Allman, an more ST

Stoneridge Urges DOT to Update Vehicle Safety Standards (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- Stoneridge, Inc., a global supplier of safe and efficient electronics systems and technologies headquartered in Novi, Michigan, is urging the Department of Transportation (DOT) to update Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) to allow for the use of camera monitor systems (CMS) as replacements for traditional rearview mirrors in commercial vehicles. In a letter to the DOT, Stoneridge argues that current regulations, specifically FMVSS 111, are outdated and hinder t more ST

Taxpayers Group Urges DOT to Reject Heavier Truck Proposals, Citing Safety & Infrastructure Costs (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The Taxpayers Protection Alliance (TPA) has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to maintain the federal truck weight limit of 80,000 pounds, warning that proposed increases could lead to significant safety risks and infrastructure damage. In a letter to DOT Secretary Sean Duffy, TPA President David Williams outlined concerns about the potential consequences of allowing heavier trucks on the nation's highways, emphasizing the financial burden on taxpayers a more ST

Trailer Manufacturer Urges NHTSA to Modernize Brake Light Rules for Enhanced Safety (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- Wabash, Indianapolis, Indiana, has called on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to revise outdated federal regulations to allow strobing brake lights on trailers, citing significant safety benefits backed by extensive data. In a detailed petition submitted on May 5, 2025, to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Wabash argues that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 108, which mandates steady-burning rear lights, fails to reflect adv more ST

Transportation Labor Group Urges Caution on Safety Deregulation (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- The Transportation Trades Department (TTD), AFL-CIO, is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to proceed cautiously in its efforts to reduce regulation, particularly concerning safety. In a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, TTD President Greg Regan emphasized the critical importance of maintaining and strengthening existing safety regulations across all modes of transportation. The TTD, which represents 37 unions across the transportation sector,  more ST

TransPro Consulting Urges DOT to Revise Transit Data Collection (10)
WASHINGTON, May 15 -- TransPro Consulting, Spring Hill, Florida, has formally requested the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to withdraw and revise its proposed changes to the National Transit Database (NTD). In a letter submitted to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, the company argues that the current proposal fails to prioritize performance and value in transit systems. Mark Aesch, Founder and CEO of TransPro Consulting, stated in the letter, "Rather than gathering data that enab more ST

Union Warns Against Rail Deregulation, Cites Safety Risks (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The International Brotherhood of Teamsters Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division (BMWED) has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), strongly opposing any reduction in railroad safety regulations. The union, which represents thousands of railroad maintenance-of-way employees, argues that such measures would jeopardize worker safety, public health, and the nation's economic stability. In its submission, the BMWED emphasizes the criti more ST

United Airlines Urges Federal Agency to Roll Back Regulations, Citing Benefits of Deregulation (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- United Airlines, Chicago, Illinois, has submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), advocating for a significant reduction in current regulations. In its communication regarding the DOT's request for information on "Ensuring Lawful Regulation; Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs," the airline emphasized the pro-competitive advantages stemming from the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978. The airline's comments, which supplement those f more ST

Utah Transit Authority Urges Streamlined Federal Oversight for Transit Projects (10)
WASHINGTON, May 14 -- The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) has called on the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to reform several federal regulations to reduce burdens and expedite project delivery. In its comments to Acting General Counsel Gregory D. Cote, UTA highlighted concerns with safety plan implementation, pre-award authority, NEPA processes, and Department of Labor (DOL) grant reviews. UTA expressed strong concerns about the Biden Administration's safety plan requirements, stating tha more ST