A USDA APHIS final rule removes chrysanthemum white rust restrictions on imported cut chrysanthemum flowers and moves cut-flower import requirements into an online database. The rule takes effect November 9, 2026.
USDA FSA is issuing about $1.8 billion in 2026 annual rental payments to producers enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program, including Grassland CRP.
The VA started a pilot with CLEAR identity-verification kiosks that help veterans set up VA.gov accounts at six VA medical centers, including the Brooklyn VA Medical Center. The service is free and optional.
USDA will spend $180 million over two years to sequence and characterize the National Plant Germplasm System collections and is expanding its agreement with the Justice Department on competition in seed and input markets.
The VA awarded $16 million to 91 community organizations that run adaptive sports programs for disabled veterans. New York recipients include groups in Windham, Buffalo, Ghent, and New York City.
EPA announced an American Farmer First policy that groups several actions, including a proposal to reallocate 100% of additional 2025 small refinery exemption volumes under the Renewable Fuel Standard. It also includes right-to-repair guidance and work to end engine derates caused by diesel exhaust fluid system failures.
Executive Order 14426 directs the Departments of War and Veterans Affairs to share service records on an ongoing basis and to deploy new digital tools within 180 days. It also directs updates to the Transition Assistance Program to connect departing service members with jobs, training, and VA benefits before they separate.
Ag and Markets issued a request for information seeking municipalities, public benefit corporations, local development corporations, or nonprofits to run Round 3 of its socially and economically disadvantaged farmers grant program. Letters of interest are due October 7, 2026.
VA awarded $855 million in Supportive Services for Veteran Families grants and $318 million in Grant and Per Diem grants to 680 organizations. The grants begin October 1, 2026.
