Federal Register #2026-13281

USDA Forest Service Proposed Rule: Amendments to Directive System Regulations

This opportunity concerns a proposed regulatory amendment by the USDA Forest Service, not a procurement action. - Government Buyer: - United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Forest Service - Purpose: - Proposes amendments to regulations governing the Forest Service Directive System - Clarifies and expands public notice and comment requirements for standards, criteria, and guidelines - Distinguishes between mandatory direction (Forest Service Manual) and advisory guidance (Forest Service Handbooks) - Updates procedures for public participation, including electronic comment submission and broader public notice forums - Notable Requirements: - Requires consultation with Indian Tribal governments - Must adhere to federal regulatory standards - No OEMs, vendors, products, or services are being procured as this is a regulatory change, not a purchasing action.

Description

The United States Department of Agriculture is proposing to amend regulations governing the Directive System for the United States Forest Service. The amendments aim to enhance agency employees' discretion to allow innovation in program implementation, considering ecological conditions and socio-economic needs. The proposed rule modifies the scope of notice and comment requirements for standards, criteria, and guidelines applicable to Forest Service programs. It clarifies the distinction between mandatory direction in the Forest Service Manual and advisory guidance in the Forest Service Handbooks, and updates public notice procedures for formulation of standards and guidelines.

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