Federal Register #2026-22083

FMCS Arbitration Procedures and Coast Guard Cumberland River Fireworks Safety Zone

This notice combines an FMCS arbitration-services rule with a Coast Guard fireworks safety-zone rule; neither is a procurement solicitation. - Government agencies and offices - Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS), Office of Arbitration. - Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Ohio Valley Waterways Management Division. - FMCS rule - Clarifies procedures for requests for arbitration lists, panels, direct appointments, and related services. - FMCS may make a limited legal-threshold inquiry into whether it can lawfully provide a requested service. If it declines or holds a request, it must explain the basis in writing and provide an opportunity to respond. - Requests held for further review retain their original receipt date; FMCS provides reconsideration and periodic review, and may refund or credit fees upon request. - Coast Guard rule - Establishes a temporary safety zone on the Cumberland River near Sanders Ferry Park in Hendersonville, Tennessee, during fireworks displays. - Vessel and personal entry is prohibited during enforcement periods unless authorized by the Captain of the Port, Ohio Valley, or a designated representative. - No products, quantities, OEMs, vendors, or contracted services are requested.

Description

The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service issued a final rule amending its arbitration services regulations. The rule clarifies when the Office of Arbitration may decline to issue an arbitration panel, make a direct appointment, or provide related services. It also clarifies the scope of the legal threshold inquiry and adds procedures for notice, written decisions, request dates, and fees. The final rule adopts the interim final rule, with the specified amendments effective since August 4, 2026, and the final rule effective October 29, 2026.

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