The Federal Register notice from the Department of the Army announces a 60-day public comment period for a proposed information collection regarding the Exchange Credit Program (OMB Control Number 0702–0137). This program determines credit eligibility for Exchange patrons, enhances their shopping experience, assesses suitability for check cashing, and collects government debts. It offers personal credit accounts for military clothing and a Military Star credit card for retail purchases to authorized patrons including uniformed service members, retirees, veterans, and their dependents. The notice details how to submit comments by October 28, 2025, via the Federal eRulemaking Portal or mail. The Department of Education also published revised common instructions for applicants seeking discretionary grant funds, superseding a previous version. These instructions streamline the application process by centralizing information on submission, review, and award administration, and include new guidance on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in applications. Applicants must use the Department's website or Grants.gov, ensure proper formatting, obtain a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and register with SAM.gov. Applications must be submitted electronically via Grants.gov by the deadline, with all narrative sections and attachments in PDF format. The Department will consider past performance, conduct risk assessments, and require open licensing for grant deliverables, alongside various reporting requirements.

The Federal Register notice details two key government initiatives: the Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) recordkeeping and audit burdens for third-party conformity assessment bodies, and the Department of Education's Education Innovation and Research (EIR) Program Mid-Phase Grants. The CPSC section outlines annual burdens for subcontracted tests (11,725 hours), discontinuing participation (10 hours), and audits (87.5 hours), totaling approximately 11,977 hours and an estimated cost of $565,314. The Department of Education announces the availability of Mid-Phase Grants for FY 2025, inviting applications by October 14, 2025. This program, under the ESEA, funds evidence-based innovations to improve student achievement, particularly for high-need students, with an emphasis on promoting evidence-based literacy, state-led efforts, and high-impact tutoring. Up to $253 million is available for 8-15 awards, with a maximum of $10 million per project for up to 60 months. Eligibility includes LEAs, SEAs, nonprofit organizations, and consortia, with a 10% matching requirement that can be waived under exceptional circumstances. Grantees must conduct independent evaluations and meet specific performance measures.