Bureau of Industry and Security

Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230

202-482-2721
http://www.bis.doc.gov

Industry and Security

Industry and Security

UNDER SECRETARY	Jeremy Pelter, Acting
Deputy Under Secretary	Jeremy Pelter
Chief Counsel	Opher Shweiki, Acting

https://www.commerce.gov/about/leadership

Export

Export

ASSISTANT SECRETARIES
Administration	Matthew S. Borman, Acting
Enforcement	Kevin J. Kurland, Acting

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/about-bis/organization/senior-management-team

The above list of key personnel was updated 9–2021.

The Bureau of Industry and Security ensures an effective export control and treaty compliance system and promotes the Nation's strategic leadership in technology to strengthen national security, advance U.S. foreign policy, and achieve economic objectives.

ESTABLISHMENT AND ORGANIZATION

The Bureau of Export Administration, which was later renamed the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), was established within the Department of Commerce on October 1, 1987.

On March 10, 1988, the Department of Commerce issued Department Organization Order 10–16. It set forth the scope of authority and the functions of the new Under Secretary for Export Administration. A copy of the order was published in the Federal Register on June 7, 1988 (53 FR 20881).

https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-1988-06-07/pdf/FR-1988-06-07.pdf

The Department of Commerce used an internal organization order to change the name of the Bureau of Export Administration to the BIS on April 18, 2002. The nomenclature change was published as a final rule in the Federal Register on April 26, 2002 (67 FR 20630).

https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2002-04-26/pdf/02-10166.pdf

The BIS posts an organization chart on its website.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/about-bis/organization

ACTIVITIES

The BIS advances U.S. national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives. The Bureau ensures an effective export control and treaty compliance system and promotes U.S. leadership in strategic technologies. The BIS maintains and strengthens adaptable, efficient, and effective export controls and treaty compliance systems. It also is involved with international export control regimes, often playing a lead role.

https://www.commerce.gov/bureaus-and-offices/bis

Export Administration

The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Export Administration is responsible for export licenses, treaty compliance, treaty obligations relating to weapons of mass destruction, and the defense industrial and technology base. The Office regulates the export of dual-use items requiring licenses for national security, nonproliferation, foreign policy, and short supply; ensures that approval or denial of license applications is consistent with economic and security concerns; promotes an understanding of export control regulations within the business community; represents the Department in interagency and international forums relating to export controls, particularly in multilateral regimes; monitors the availability of industrial resources of national defense; analyzes the impact of export controls on strategic industries; and assesses the security consequences of certain foreign investments.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/regulations/export-administration-regulations-ear

Export Enforcement

The Office of the Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement enforces dual-use export controls. This enables exporters to take advantage of legal export opportunities while ensuring that illegal exports will be detected and either prevented or investigated and sanctioned. The Office also ensures prompt, aggressive action against restrictive trade practices; and conducts cooperative enforcement activities on an international basis. Export Enforcement also enforces U.S. antiboycott laws and regulations by advising U.S. exporters on potential prohibited requests contained in foreign contracts; investigating violations such as the furnishing of boycott-related information, refusing to deal with blacklisted businesses; and pursuing criminal and administrative sanctions for violations.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/enforcement

Sources of Information

Additional Programs

The "Add'l Programs" web page provides convenient access to information on technology evaluation, strategic industries and economic security, chemical weapons, and nuclear fuel cycle-related activities.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/other-areas

Archived Records

The "Guide to Federal Records in the National Archives of the United States" indicates that records of the Bureau of Export Administration have been assigned to record group 476. The Administration was renamed the BIS in 2002. Record group 476 does not have a description that currently is associated with it.

https://www.archives.gov/research/guide-fed-records/index-numeric/401-to-500.html

Boycott Requests

The Office of Antiboycott Compliance posts recent examples of boycott requests that have been reported. The list of prohibited conditions is illustrative and not exhaustive.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/all-articles/7-enforcement/1755-examples-of-recent-boycott-related-requests

Career Opportunities

BIS career opportunities are posted on USAJobs, which is a free web-based job board that serves as the Federal Government's official source of Federal job listings and employment opportunity information.

https://www.usajobs.gov

In 2020, the BIS ranked 136th among 411 agency subcomponents in the Partnership for Public Service's Best Places To Work Agency Rankings.

https://bestplacestowork.org/rankings/detail/?c=CM67

Commerce Control List

Export control classification numbers are helpful for determining whether or not a Department of Commerce-issued export license is needed for exporting a particular export item.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/regulations/commerce-control-list-ccl

Commerce Country Chart

The BIS has posted an overview of the commerce control list and the commerce country chart.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/documents/regulations-docs/federal-register-notices/federal-register-2014/1033-738-supp-1/file

Contact Information

Forms and telephone numbers are available on the "Contact Us" web page.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/about-bis/contact-bis

Descriptions of BIS activities and contact information for its program offices are available online.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/program-offices

Data

The "BIS Data Portal" web page allows access to datasets that are relevant for analyzing exports and licensing.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/data-portal

Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (e-CFR)

Title 15 of the e-CFR is dedicated to rules and regulations on commerce and foreign trade.

https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=713f591c01d176fc38d7d3cc23a07ffd&mc=true&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title15/15tab_02.tpl

Enforcement Resources

Descriptions of the sentinel program and outreach program, as well as links to enforcement resources, are available online.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/compliance-a-training/export-management-a-compliance/enforcement-resources

Federal Register

Significant documents and documents that the BIS recently published in the Federal Register are accessible online.

https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/industry-and-security-bureau

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

The FOIA is a Federal freedom of information law. It allows a person the right to request access to Federal agency records that are maintained by agencies within the Government's executive branch. After receiving a written request, an agency must disclose the requested information; however, some records may be shielded from disclosure by one or more of nine FOIA exemptions or by one of three special law enforcement record exclusions.

https://efoia.bis.doc.gov

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The BIS posts answers to a lot of questions on its "FAQs" web page.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/policy-guidance/faqs

Links to Resources

The "Resource Links" web page has contact information for and links to other Government departments and agencies whose activities include export control. The web page also has links to Federal agencies that offer trade promotion information and other related services.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/about-bis/resource-links

Newsroom

The newsroom has information on the Bureau's current activities, as well as historical records and speeches by and testimony from senior managers.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/about-bis/newsroom

Press Releases

The BIS posts press releases.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/about-bis/newsroom/press-releases

Publications

Publications that are available online include the BIS's Annual Report to Congress, the guidance on the Commerce Department’s Reexport Controls, and the Exporter User Manual and Licensing FAQ.

http://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/about-bis/newsroom/publications

Regulations

Subscribers to the "Export Administration Regulations" can stay informed of the latest rules. Phone, 301-208-0700 (ext. 112).

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/regulations/order-a-hard-copy-of-the-ear | Email: pubs@ocr-inc.com

The "Recently Published Regulations" web page contains helpful links to regulatory publications that are electronic.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/regulations

Social Media

The BIS tweets announcements and other newsworthy items on Twitter.

https://twitter.com/BISgov

Statistical Reports

The BIS posts statistical reports on its website.

https://www.bis.doc.gov/index.php/statistical-reports

Economic Development Administration

Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230

202-482-5081
http://www.eda.gov

ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF COMMERCE FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT	Alejandra Y. Castillo
Deputy Assistant Secretary	Dennis Alvord
Chief Operating Officer	Dennis Alvord

https://eda.gov/about/leadership

The above list of key personnel was updated 9–2021.

The Economic Development Administration (EDA) was created in 1965 under the Public Works and Economic Development Act (42 U.S.C. 3121) as part of an effort to target Federal resources to economically distressed areas and to help develop local economies in the United States. It was mandated to assist rural and urban communities that were outside the mainstream economy and that lagged in economic development, industrial growth, and personal income.

EDA provides grants to States, regions, and communities nationwide to generate wealth and minimize poverty by promoting an attractive business environment for private capital investment and higher skill, higher wage jobs through capacity building, planning, infrastructure, research grants, and strategic initiatives. Through its grant program, EDA uses public sector resources to cultivate an environment where the private sector risks capital and job opportunities are created.

https://www.eda.gov/about

Sources of Information

Annual Reports

The EDA posts annual reports on its website.

https://eda.gov/annual-reports

Archived Records

The "Guide to Federal Records in the National Archives of the United States" indicates that EDA records have been assigned to record group 378.

https://www.archives.gov/research/guide-fed-records/groups/378.html

Career Opportunities

The EDA posts information on permanent career and term job opportunities on its website.

https://eda.gov/careers/opportunities

In 2020, the EDA ranked 114th among 411 agency subcomponents in the Partnership for Public Service's Best Places To Work Agency Rankings.

https://bestplacestowork.org/rankings/detail/?c=CM52

Contact Information

Phone numbers for EDA headquarters and its six regional offices are posted online. The Office of Public Affairs handles media inquiries. Phone, 202-482-4085.

http://www.eda.gov/contact

Disaster Recovery Support

The EDA supports disaster recovery and resiliency efforts. Media posts highlight EDA assistance to communities that are recovering from years of disasters and EDA efforts to increase the resiliency of those communities.

https://eda.gov/disaster-recovery/clips

Federal Register

Significant documents and documents that the EDA recently published in the Federal Register are accessible online.

https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/economic-development-administration

Newsroom

The "Newsroom" web page provides convenient access to blog posts, newsletters, press releases, success stories, Twitter tweets, and the latest news.

https://www.eda.gov/news

Programs / Initiatives

The EDA administrates programs that support the economic development of communities. It also leads initiatives involving multiple agencies.

https://eda.gov/programs

Resources

The EDA maintains a resources directory on its "Resources" web page.

https://eda.gov/resources

Social Media

The EDA has a Facebook account.

https://www.facebook.com/eda.commerce

The EDA tweets announcements and other newsworthy items on Twitter.

https://twitter.com/US_EDA

The EDA posts videos on its YouTube channel.

https://www.youtube.com/user/EDACommerce

Economics and Statistics Administration

Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230

202-482-3727
http://www.esa.doc.gov

UNDER SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC AFFAIRS	(vacancy)

https://www.commerce.gov/about/leadership

Bureau Directors

Bureau Directors

Economic Analysis	Mary Bohman, Acting

https://www.commerce.gov/bureaus-and-offices/bea

U.S. Census	Ronald S. Jarmin, Acting
	[Robert Santos—confirmed by Senate; swearing-in forthcoming]

https://www.commerce.gov/bureaus-and-offices/census

The above list of key personnel was updated 11–2021.

The Economics and Statistics Administration (ESA), headed by the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs, has three principal components: the Office of the Chief Economist, the Bureau of the Census, and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. ESA develops policy options, analyzes economic developments, manages economic data systems, and produces a major share of U.S. economic and demographic statistics, including the national economic indicators. The Under Secretary is the chief economic adviser to the Secretary and provides leadership and executive management for the Office of the Chief Economist and the Bureaus of Economic Analysis and of the Census.

http://www.esa.gov/content/about-economics-statistics-administration

Bureau of Economic Analysis

[For the Bureau of Economic Analysis statement of organization, see the Federal Register of Dec. 29, 1980, 45 FR 85496]

The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) provides the most accurate, relevant, and timely economic accounts data in an objective and cost-effective manner. BEA's economic statistics offer a comprehensive picture of the U.S. economy. BEA prepares national, regional, industry, and international accounts that present essential information on such issues in the world economy.

BEA's national economic statistics provide a comprehensive look at U.S. production, consumption, investment, exports and imports, and income and saving. The international transactions accounts provide information on trade in goods and services (including the balance of payments and trade), investment income, and government and private finances. In addition, the accounts measure the value of U.S. international assets and liabilities and direct investment by multinational companies.

The regional accounts provide data on total and per capita personal income by region, State, metropolitan area, and county, and on gross State product. The industry economic account provides a detailed view of the interrelationships between U.S. producers and users and the contribution to production across industries.

http://www.bea.gov | Email: customerservice@bea.gov

For further information, contact the Public Information Office, Bureau of Economic Analysis, Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230. Phone, 202-606-9900. Fax, 202-606-5310.

Bureau of the Census

[For the Bureau of the Census statement of organization, see the Federal Register of Sept. 16, 1975, 40 FR 42765]

The Bureau of the Census was established as a permanent office by act of March 6, 1902 (32 Stat. 51). The major functions of the Census Bureau are authorized by the Constitution, which provides that a census of population shall be taken every 10 years, and by laws codified as title 13 of the United States Code. The law also provides that the information collected by the Census Bureau from individual persons, households, or establishments be kept strictly confidential and be used only for statistical purposes.

The Census Bureau is responsible for the decennial censuses of population and housing; the quinquennial censuses of State and local governments, manufacturers, mineral industries, distributive trades, construction industries, and transportation; current surveys that provide information on many of the subjects covered in the censuses at monthly, quarterly, annual, or other intervals; compilation of current statistics on U.S. foreign trade, including data on imports, exports, and shipping; special censuses at the request and expense of State and local government units; publication of estimates and projections of the population; publication of current data on population and housing characteristics; and current reports on manufacturing, retail and wholesale trade, services, construction, imports and exports, State and local government finances and employment, and other subjects.

The Census Bureau makes available statistical results of its censuses, surveys, and other programs to the public through the Internet, mobile applications, and other media. The Bureau also prepares special tabulations sponsored and paid for by data users. It also produces statistical compendia, catalogs, guides, and directories that are useful in locating information on specific subjects. Upon request, the Bureau makes searches of decennial census records and furnishes certificates to individuals for use as evidence of age, relationship, or place of birth. A fee is charged for searches.

http://www.census.gov | Email: PIO@census.gov

For further information, contact the Public Information Office, Bureau of the Census, Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20233. Phone, 301-763-3030. Fax, 301-763-3762.

Office of the Chief Economist

The economists and analysts of the Office of the Chief Economist analyze domestic and international economic developments and produce in-depth reports, factsheets, briefings, and social media postings. These tools cover policy issues and current economic events, as well as economic and demographic trends. Department of Commerce and White House policymakers, American businessmen, State and local governments, and news organizations worldwide rely on these tools.

http://www.esa.gov/content/chief-economist

Sources of Information

Archived Records

The "Guide to Federal Records in the National Archives of the United States" indicates that BEA records have been assigned to record group 375.

https://www.archives.gov/research/guide-fed-records/groups/375.html?_ga=2.203325393.1312685709.1634330345-1378874314.1634330345

The "Guide to Federal Records in the National Archives of the United States" indicates that Census Bureau records have been assigned to record group 029.

https://www.archives.gov/research/guide-fed-records/groups/029.html?_ga=2.256758347.1312685709.1634330345-1378874314.1634330345

Career Opportunities

Visit the "Working at BEA" web page to learn about a career that involves economic analysis for measuring and better understanding the U.S. economy.

https://www.bea.gov/about/working-at-bea

Visit the "Census Careers" web page to explore a career with one of the most important statistical organizations in the world.

http://www.census.gov/about/census-careers.html

Learning Center

The BEA maintains an online learning center.

https://www.bea.gov/resources/learning-center

Library

The Census Bureau collection formats include audio, images, mobile apps, video, and publications.

https://www.census.gov/library.html

International Trade Administration

Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230

202-482-3917
http://www.trade.gov

UNDER SECRETARY FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE	Diane Farrell, Acting
ASSISTANT SECRETARIES
Enforcement and Compliance	Christian Marsh, Acting
Global Markets	Dale N. Tasharski, Acting
Industry and Analysis	Anne Driscoll, Acting
DIRECTOR GENERAL
U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service	Dale N. Tasharski, Acting

The above list of key personnel was updated 10–2021.

https://www.trade.gov/ita-senior-staff

The International Trade Administration (ITA) was established on January 2, 1980, by the Secretary of Commerce to promote world trade and to strengthen the international trade and investment position of the United States.

The International Trade Administration's statement of organization was published in the Federal Register on January 25, 1980 (45 FR 6148).

https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-1980-01-25/pdf/FR-1980-01-25.pdf

The Under Secretary for International Trade heads the ITA, coordinating all issues concerning trade promotion, international commercial policy, market access, and trade law enforcement. The Administration is responsible for U.S. Government nonagricultural trade operations, and it supports the U.S. Trade Representative's efforts to negotiate trade policy.

http://www.trade.gov/about.asp

Enforcement / Compliance

The Office of Enforcement and Compliance defends American industry against injurious and unfair trade practices by administering U.S. antidumping and countervailing duty trade laws. The Office also ensures the proper administration of foreign trade zones and advises the Secretary on establishment of new ones; oversees the administration of the Department's textiles program; and administers programs governing watch assemblies and other statutory import programs.

http://www.trade.gov/enforcement

Global Markets

The Global Markets unit assists and advocates for U.S. businesses in international markets. Relying on a network of trade promotion and policy professionals located in over 70 countries and 100 U.S. locations, the unit promotes U.S. exports, especially those of small and medium-sized enterprises; advances and protects U.S. commercial interests overseas; and attracts investment from abroad into the United States.

http://www.trade.gov/markets

Industry / Analysis

The Manufacturing and Services unit advises on domestic and international trade and investment policies affecting the competitiveness of U.S. industry. It also researches and analyzes manufacturing and services. Based on this analysis and interaction with U.S. industry, the unit Secretary develops strategies, policies, and programs to strengthen U.S. industry competitiveness domestically and globally. The unit manages an integrated program that includes industry and economic analysis, trade policy development and multilateral, regional, and bilateral trade agreements for manufactured goods and services; administers trade arrangements with foreign governments in product and service areas; and develops and provides business information and assistance to the United States on its rights and opportunities under multilateral and other agreements.

http://www.trade.gov/industry

Sources of Information

Data

Trade data and export and import statistics are available online.

http://www.trade.gov/data.asp

Employment

For information on career opportunities, visit the "Jobs" Web page.

http://www.trade.gov/jobs

Publications

The ITA has an online bookstore.

http://www.trade.gov/publications http://www.trade.gov/contact.asp

For further information, contact the International Trade Administration, Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230. Phone, 202-482-3917.

Minority Business Development Agency

Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230

202-482-2332
http://www.mbda.gov

NATIONAL DIRECTOR	Alejandra Y. Castillo
National Deputy Director	Albert K. Shen

[For the Minority Business Development Agency statement of organization, see the Federal Register of Mar. 17, 1972, 37 FR 5650, as amended]

The Minority Business Development Agency was established by Executive order in 1969. The Agency develops and coordinates a national program for minority business enterprise.

The Agency was created to help minority businesses achieve effective and equitable participation in the American free enterprise system and overcome social and economic disadvantages that limited past participation. The Agency provides policies and leadership supporting a partnership of business, industry, and government with the Nation's minority businesses.

Business development services are provided to the minority business community through three vehicles: the minority business opportunity committees, which disseminate information on business opportunities; the minority business development centers, which provide management and technical assistance and other business development services; and electronic commerce, which includes a Web site that shows how to start a business and use the service to find contract opportunities.

The Agency promotes and coordinates the efforts of other Federal agencies in assisting or providing market opportunities for minority business. It coordinates opportunities for minority firms in the private sector. Through such public and private cooperative activities, the Agency promotes the participation of Federal, State, and local governments, and business and industry in directing resources for the development of strong minority businesses.

http://www.mbda.gov/main/who-mbda/about-minority-business-development-agency

Sources of Information

Internships

Information on student eligibility and how to apply is available online.

http://www.mbda.gov/main/intern-program

Library

An online research library serves as a repository for factsheets, reports, statistical data, and other publications.

http://www.mbda.gov/pressroom/research-library

Newsletter

A free, monthly newsletter is accessible online.

http://www.mbda.gov/newsletter

Speakers

For information on scheduling a speaker for an organized event, visit the "Speaker Request Form" Web page.

http://www.mbda.gov/main/mbda-speaker-request-form http://www.mbda.gov/contact

For further information, contact the Office of the National Director, Minority Business Development Agency, Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230. Phone, 202-482-2332.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230

202-482-2985
http://www.noaa.gov

ADMINISTRATOR	Richard W. Spinrad
Deputy Administrator	Janet L. Coit, Acting
ASSISTANT ADMINISTRATORS
National Marine Fisheries Service	Janet L. Coit
Oceanic and Atmospheric Research	(vacancy)
Satellite and Information Services	Stephen M. Volz
Chief Operating Officer	Benjamin P. Friedman
Chief Scientist	(vacancy)
General Counsel	Walker B. Smith
Chief of Staff	Karen H. Hyun
SENIOR ADVISORS	Perry F. Brody
	Letise LaFeir
Climate	Ko Barrett

https://www.noaa.gov/about-our-agency

The above list of key personnel was updated 6–2022.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration seeks to understand and predict changes in climate and weather and changes that affect coasts and oceans; shares its knowledge and information with others; and conserves and manages coastal and marine ecosystems and resources.

Establishment and Organization

On October 3, 1970, Reorganization Plan No. 4 of 1970 (5 U.S.C. app.) formed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

NOAA posts an organizational chart at the bottom of its "Organization" web page, in Portable Document Format (PDF), for viewing and downloading.

https://www.noaa.gov/about/organization

NOAA published its statement of functions, organization, and delegation of authority in the Federal Register on February 13, 1978 (43 FR 6128).

https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-1978-02-13/pdf/FR-1978-02-13.pdf

ACTIVITIES

Science, service, and stewardship characterize NOAA's mission. Its researchers, scientists, and technicians study the atmosphere, the ocean, and the ecosystems associated with them; they integrate research and analysis; they observe and monitor; and they use modeling to predict the future state of complex systems. NOAA serves academic institutions, businesses, communities, and ordinary people by communicating and sharing its data, information, knowledge, and research. NOAA also applies its institutional know-how and science assets to the conservation and management of coastal and marine ecosystems and resources. The agency regulates and sustains marine fisheries and ecosystems, protects endangered species, restores habitats and ecosystems, conserves marine sanctuaries, responds to environmental emergencies, and assists with disaster recovery.

https://www.noaa.gov/about-our-agency

Marine and Aviation Operations

The Office of Marine and Aviation Operations manages the aviation safety, the small boat, and the NOAA diving programs. It also operates a fleet of specialized ships and aircraft that collect data and carry out research to support NOAA's mission, the Global Earth Observation System, and the Integrated Ocean Observing System—including flying "hurricane hunter" aircraft into the most turbulent storms to collect data critical for research.

http://www.omao.noaa.gov/about.html

For further information, contact Office of Marine and Aviation Operations, Suite 500, 8403 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20910. Phone, 301-713-7600. Fax, 301-713-1541.

National Coastal Resources

The National Ocean Service helps balance the Nation's use of coastal resources through research, management, and policy. The Service monitors the health of U.S. coasts by examining how human use and natural events affect coastal ecosystems. Coastal communities rely on the Service for information on natural hazards so they can reduce or eliminate destructive effects of coastal hazards. The Service assesses the damage caused by hazardous material spills and tries to restore or replace the affected coastal resources. The Service also protects beaches, water quality, wetlands, and wildlife. It provides a wide range of navigational products and data that help vessels move safely through U.S. waters, and it supplies the basic information for establishing the latitude, longitude, and elevation framework necessary for the Nation's mapping, navigation, positioning, and surveying activities.

https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/

For further information, contact the National Ocean Service, Room 13231, SSMC 4, 1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Phone, 301-713-3074. Fax, 301-713-4307.

National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information

The National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service operates the Nation's civilian geostationary and polar-orbiting environmental satellites. It also manages the largest collection of atmospheric, climatic, geophysical, and oceanographic data in the world. The Service develops and provides, through various media, environmental data for forecasts, national security, and weather warnings to protect life and property. These data are also used for energy distribution, global food supplies development, natural resources management, and rescuing downed pilots and mariners in distress.

https://www.nesdis.noaa.gov/

For further information, contact the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service, 1335 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3283. Phone, 301-713-3578. Fax, 301-713-1249.

National Marine Fisheries

The National Marine Fisheries Service supports the management, conservation, and sustainable development of domestic and international living marine resources and the protection and restoration of ecosystems. The Service helps assess the stock of the Nation's multi-billion-dollar marine fisheries, protect marine mammals and threatened species, conserve habitats, assist trade and industry, and conduct fishery enforcement activities.

http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov

For further information, contact the National Marine Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Phone, 301-713-2239. Fax, 301-713-1940.

National Weather

The National Weather Service (NWS) provides weather, water, and climate warnings and forecasts and data for the United States, its territories, and adjacent waters and ocean areas. Government agencies, the private sector, the general public, and the global community rely on NWS data and products to protect life and property. Working with partners in Government, academic and research institutions, and private industry, the Service responds to the needs of the American public through its products and services. NWS data and information support aviation, maritime activities, and other sectors of the economy, as well as wildfire suppression. The Service also helps national security efforts with long- and short-range forecasts, air quality and cloud dispersion forecasts, and broadcasts of warnings and critical information over the 800-station NOAA Weather Radio network.

http://www.weather.gov

For further information, contact the National Weather Service–Executive Affairs, 1325 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910-3283. Phone, 301-713-0675. Fax, 301-713-0049.

Oceanic and Atmospheric Research

The Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research conducts research on air quality and composition, climate variability and change, weather, and coastal, marine, and Great Lakes ecosystems. The Office uses its own laboratories and offices to run research programs in atmospheric, coastal, marine, and space sciences, as well as relying on networks of university-based programs across the country.

http://www.oar.noaa.gov

For further information, contact the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, Room 11458, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Phone, 301-713-2458. Fax, 301-713-0163.

Sources of Information

Archived Records

The "Guide to Federal Records in the National Archives of the United States" indicates that NOAA records have been assigned to record group 370.

https://www.archives.gov/research/guide-fed-records/groups/370.html

Arctic Report Cards

Every year, NOAA publishes an Arctic Report Card as part of its efforts to track recent environmental changes relative to historical records. In December of 2021, NOAA released its most up-to-date version of the Arctic Report Card.

https://www.arctic.noaa.gov/Report-Card/Report-Card-2021

NOAA released a 4-minute video synopsis of the updated report card. The video's narration opens and closes with these words: "The Arctic, an ancient ecosystem, is disappearing before our eyes. . . . All these disruptions are the direct result of a climate straining under the heat-trapping burden of greenhouse gas pollution. The time to face this monumental challenge is now." The 2021 report notes the melting of frozen habitat that supports iconic animals like the polar bear and the arrival of new species like beavers, whose engineering activities create wetlands. The report also notes the nearly complete loss of old Arctic sea ice. Without the barricading presence of thick sea ice, ships and the industrial activities that they support are becoming more common in the Arctic. The effects include more garbage adrift and more pollution on shore, as well as higher levels of marine noise. Plastics and toxic chemicals are lethal threats to marine mammals such as seals, walrus, and whales. Undermining the food security of native communities, marine noise drives these magnificent mammals from their preferred habitats, which also are traditional hunting areas for indigenous hunters.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WbWjLUTvZM

Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide

Adding to the data record that C. David Keeling of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography started in 1958, NOAA continues to measure atmospheric carbon at the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii.

https://gml.noaa.gov/ccgg/trends

The Earth System Research Laboratory's Global Monitoring Division has posted a 4-minute video showing 800,000 years of atmospheric carbon dioxide history.

https://www.esrl.noaa.gov/gmd/ccgg/trends/history.html

Atmospheric Methane

The Earth System Research Laboratory's Global Monitoring Division has been measuring methane since 1983 at a globally distributed network of air sampling sites.

https://esrl.noaa.gov/gmd/ccgg/trends_ch4

On April 7, 2022, the Global Monitoring Laboratory posted the news item "Increase in Atmospheric Methane Set Another Record During 2021—Carbon Dioxide Levels Also Record a Big Jump." According to the news item, "For the second year in a row, NOAA scientists observed a record annual increase in atmospheric levels of methane, a powerful, heat-trapping greenhouse gas that’s the second biggest contributor to human-caused global warming after carbon dioxide." It also addressed increases in atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide: "Levels of carbon dioxide also continue to increase at historically high rates. The global surface average for carbon dioxide during 2021 was 414.7 parts per million (ppm), which is an increase of 2.66 ppm over the 2020 average. This marks the 10th consecutive year that carbon dioxide increased by more than 2 parts per million, which represents the fastest sustained rate of increase in the 63 years since monitoring began." Summing up the recent research data, NOAA Administrator Richard W. Spinrad commented: “Our data show that global emissions continue to move in the wrong direction at a rapid pace. The evidence is consistent, alarming and undeniable. We need to build a Climate Ready Nation to adapt for what’s already here and prepare for what’s to come. At the same time, we can no longer afford to delay urgent and effective action needed to address the cause of the problem—greenhouse gas pollution.

https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/increase-in-atmospheric-methane-set-another-record-during-2021#:~:text=NOAA's%20preliminary%20analysis%20showed%20the,during%202020%20was%2015.3%20ppb.

Career Opportunities

A career at NOAA is a mission-oriented experience that centers on protecting natural resources, safeguarding the public, and strengthening the economy.

https://www.noaa.gov/work-with-us

In 2020, NOAA ranked 111th among 411 agency subcomponents in the Partnership for Public Service's Best Places To Work Agency Rankings.

https://bestplacestowork.org/rankings/detail/CM54

Climate Change

The Carbon Cycle Greenhouse Gases research area operates the global greenhouse gas reference network. Researchers measure the atmospheric distribution and trends of the main causes of climate change: carbon dioxide (CO2); methane (CH4); nitrous oxide (N2O); and carbon monoxide (CO) because it is an indicator of air pollution.

https://gml.noaa.gov/ccgg/

"The Power of Greenhouse Gases" web page presents examples of the excess heat that the Earth system is retaining. The amount of excess heat is sufficiently large to force climate change on a regional and global scale.

https://www.esrl.noaa.gov/gmd/ccgg/ghgpower

Contact Information

The "Contact Us" web page has contact information and other frequently requested resources.

https://www.noaa.gov/contact-us

Federal Register

Significant documents and documents that NOAA recently published in the Federal Register are accessible online.

https://www.federalregister.gov/agencies/national-oceanic-and-atmospheric-administration

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

Any person has a right to obtain access to Federal agency records; however, some records, or portions of them, may be shielded from disclosure by one of nine FOIA exemptions or by one of three special law enforcement exclusions.

https://www.noaa.gov/information-technology/foia

Before submitting a FOIA request, an information seeker should search the electronic reading room to determine if the desired information is in the public domain.

https://www.noaa.gov/organization/information-technology/foia-reading-room

Maritime Archaeology

Visit the "Maritime Archaeology" web page to learn about discovering shipwrecks and safeguarding them.

https://www.noaa.gov/topic-tags/maritime-archaeology

Monthly Climate Report

The report of August 13, 2021, carried the headline "It's official: July was Earth's hottest month on record."

https://www.noaa.gov/topic-tags/monthly-climate-report

Nautical Charts

NOAA has posted the entire suite of U.S. coastal and Great Lakes charts on its "Charting" page for download.

https://www.noaa.gov/charting

News

The Global Monitoring Laboratory (GML) conducts research that addresses three important areas of concern: greenhouse gas and carbon cycle feedbacks; changes in aerosols, clouds, and surface radiation; and recovery of stratospheric ozone. The GML posts news items that cover recent developments in these areas.

https://gml.noaa.gov/news

NOAA Nationwide

NOAA facilities—as well as personnel and the activities and programs they manage—are located throughout the Nation in various States and Territories.

https://www.noaa.gov/legislative-and-intergovernmental-affairs/noaa-in-your-state-territory

Podcast

The NOAA Ocean podcast explores topics ranging from coastal science to coral reefs with ocean experts.

https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/podcast

Sea Level Rise

In February of 2022, the Sea Level Rise and Coastal Flood Hazard and Tools Interagency Task Force released its technical report "Global and Regional Sea Level Rise Scenarios for the United States." Twenty-three coauthors—experts and scientists from academic institutions and Government agencies—contributed to the report.

https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/hazards/sealevelrise/sealevelrise-tech-report.html

Social Media

NOAA relies on social media to share information and to promote understanding of its science, service, and stewardship-oriented mission.

https://www.noaa.gov/stay-connected

Staff Directory

The NOAA staff directory is available online.

https://nsd.rdc.noaa.gov

Weather

The NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards network broadcasts continuous weather information nationwide from the nearest National Weather Service office. The network broadcasts official Weather Service forecasts, warnings, watches, and other hazard information around the clock every day.

https://www.weather.gov/nwr

National Telecommunications and Information Administration

Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230

202-428-1840
http://www.ntia.doc.gov

ASSISTANT SECRETARY, COMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION / ADMINISTRATOR	Lawrence E. Strickling
Deputy Assistant Secretary, Communications and Information	Angela Simpson

[For the National Telecommunications and Information Administration statement of organization, see the Federal Register of June 5, 1978, 43 FR 24348]

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) was established in 1978 by Reorganization Plan No. 1 of 1977 (5 U.S.C. app.) and Executive Order 12046 of March 27, 1978 (3 CFR, 1978 Comp., p. 158), by combining the Office of Telecommunications Policy of the Executive Office of the President and the Office of Telecommunications of the Department of Commerce to form a new agency reporting to the Secretary of Commerce. NTIA operates under the authority of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act (47 U.S.C. 901).

NTIA serves as the principal executive branch adviser to the President on telecommunications and information policy; develops and presents U.S. plans and policies at international communications conferences and related meetings; prescribes policies for and manages Federal use of the radio frequency spectrum; serves as the principal Federal telecommunications research and engineering laboratory—NTIA's Institute for Telecommunication Sciences; promotes broadband deployment and adoption through BroadbandUSA (www2.ntia.doc.gov); and assists the First Responder Network Authority (www.firstnet.gov) develop and operate a nationwide broadband network dedicated to public safety.

https://www.ntia.doc.gov/about

Sources of Information

Employment

To see current NTIA career opportunities on USAJobs, click on the link below, scroll down, and select "NTIA Jobs."

https://www.ntia.doc.gov/about

Publications

Since 1954, NTIA and its predecessors have published several hundred technical reports and memoranda, special publications, contractor reports, and other information products. For more information, call the Office of Spectrum Management in Washington, DC, at 202-482-1850. Or, contact the publications officer at the Institute for Telecommunication Sciences–Department of Commerce, 325 Broadway, MC ITS.D, Boulder, CO 80305. Phone, 303-497-3572.

https://www.ntia.doc.gov/publications

Speakers

A speaker request form is available online.

https://www.ntia.doc.gov/webform/speaker-request

Telecommunications Research

For information on telecommunications research and engineering services, visit the "Institute for Telecommunication Sciences" Web page. Phone, 303-497-3571.

http://www.its.bldrdoc.gov | Email: info@its.bldrdoc.gov https://www.ntia.doc.gov/contact

For further information, contact the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230. Phone, 202-482-1551.

National Institute of Standards and Technology

100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20899

301-975-2000
http://www.nist.gov

UNDER SECRETARY, STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGY / DIRECTOR	Willie E. May

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) operates under the authority of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Act (15 U.S.C. 271), which amends the Organic Act of March 3, 1901 (ch. 872), which created the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) in 1901. In 1988, the Congress renamed NBS as NIST and expanded its activities and responsibilities.

http://www.nist.gov/timeline.cfm

NIST is a nonregulatory Federal agency within the Department of Commerce. To carry out its mission, NIST relies on research laboratories, user facilities, innovative manufacturing programs, and its participation in collaborative institutes and centers. NIST research laboratories conduct world-class research to advance the Nation's technological infrastructure and help U.S. companies improve products and services. The Baldrige Performance Excellence Program (www.nist.gov/baldrige) also helps them and other organizations increase operational performance and quality. NIST user facilities include the Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology (www.nist.gov/cnst) and NIST Center for Neutron Research (www.ncnr.nist.gov).

http://www.nist.gov/programs-projects.cfm

Sources of Information

Employment

For information on career opportunities, visit the "Careers at NIST" Web page.

http://www.nist.gov/ohrm/careers.cfm

Publications

The "Journal of Research of the National Institute of Standards and Technology" and other publications are available online.

http://www.nist.gov/nvl/nist_publications.cfm http://www.nist.gov/public_affairs/contact.cfm | Email: inquiries@nist.gov

For further information, contact the National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Mail Stop 1070, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-1070. Phone, 301-975-6478. Fax, 301-926-1630.

National Technical Information Service

5301 Shawnee Road, Alexandria, VA 22312

703-605-6050
888-584-8332
http://www.ntis.gov

DIRECTOR	Avi Bender

The National Technical Information Service (NTIS) is the largest central resource for business-related, engineering, Government-funded, scientific, and technical information available. For more than 60 years, the Service has assured businesses, Government, universities, and the public timely access to approximately 3 million publications covering over 350 subject areas. The Service supports the Department of Commerce's mission by providing access to information that stimulates innovation and discovery. The Service receives no appropriations and recovers its costs through fees charged for products and services.

The NTIS promotes economic growth, progress, and science and information. On behalf of the Secretary of Commerce, the Service operates a permanent clearinghouse of scientific and technical information and makes it readily available to industry, business, and the general public—codified as chapter 23 of Title 15 of the United States Code (15 U.S.C. 1151-1157). The Service collects scientific and technical information; catalogs, abstracts, indexes, and permanently archives the information; disseminates information through electronic and other media; and provides information processing services to other Federal agencies.

NTIS also provides information management services to other Federal agencies to help them interact with and better serve the information needs of their own constituents. It develops, plans, evaluates, and implements business strategies for information management and dissemination services and Internet-based service business opportunities for Federal agencies; uses new and existing technologies to ensure optimal access to Government online information services; and manages service projects using in-house capabilities and through joint public-private partnerships. NTIS provides eTraining and Knowledge Management, Web services and cloud computing, distribution and fulfillment, digitization and scanning services for Federal Government agencies.

http://www.ntis.gov/about

Sources of Information

Employment

Approximately 150 NTIS employees work in Northern Virginia. The Service hires professionals with skills in administration, information technology, and program management.

https://www.usajobs.gov

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

The Office of Director handles Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. The FOIA contact reviews, coordinates, and responds to requests within 20 days under the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act.

http://www.ntis.gov/about/FOIA

Products

For general information or to place a telephone order, call the Customer Contact Center, 8 a.m.–6 p.m., eastern standard time. Phone, 800-553-6847. TDD, 703-487-4639. Fax, 703-605-6900.

http://www.ntis.gov/products | Email: info@ntis.gov

Services

To learn more about NTIS information services for Federal agencies, call the Office of Federal Services at 703-605-6800.

http://www.ntis.gov/services | Email: obdinfo@ntis.gov http://www.ntis.gov/about/contact

For further information, contact the National Technical Information Service, 5301 Shawnee Road, Alexandria, VA 22312. Phone, 703-605-6000 or 800-553-6847.

United States Patent and Trademark Office

600 Dulany Street, Alexandria, VA 22314

571-272-8700
http://www.uspto.gov

UNDER SECRETARY, INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY / DIRECTOR	Michelle K. Lee
Deputy Under Secretary, Intellectual Property / Deputy Director	Russell D. Slifer

[For the Patent and Trademark Office statement of organization, see the Federal Register of Apr. 14, 1975, 40 FR 16707]

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) was established by the act of July 19, 1952 (35 U.S.C. 1) "to promote the progress of science and useful arts, by securing for limited times to authors and inventors the exclusive right to their respective writings and discoveries" (U.S. Constitution Art. I, sec. 8). The commerce clause provides the constitutional basis for the registration of trademarks.

USPTO examines and issues patents. There are three major patent categories: utility patents, design patents, and plant patents. USPTO also issues statutory invention registrations and processes international patent applications.

Through the registration of trademarks, USPTO assists businessmen and women in protecting their investments, promoting goods and services, and safeguarding consumers against confusion and deception in the marketplace. A trademark includes any distinctive word, name, symbol, device, or any combination thereof adopted and used or intended to be used by a manufacturer or merchant to identify his or her goods or services and distinguish them from those manufactured or sold by others. Trademarks are examined by the Office for compliance with various statutory requirements to prevent unfair competition and consumer deception.

In addition to the examination of patent and trademark applications, issuance of patents, and registration of trademarks, USPTO advises and assists government agencies and officials in matters involving all domestic and global aspects of intellectual property. USPTO also promotes an understanding of intellectual property protection.

USPTO provides public access to patent, trademark, and related scientific and technical information. Patents and trademarks may be reviewed and searched online or at designated Patent and Trademark Depository Libraries. There are 80 Patent and Trademark Depository Libraries located within the United States and Puerto Rico. Additionally, USPTO's Scientific and Technical Information Center in Alexandria, VA, houses over 120,000 volumes of scientific and technical books in various languages; 90,000 bound volumes of periodicals devoted to science and technology; the official journals of 77 foreign patent organizations; and over 40 million foreign patents on paper, microfilm, microfiche, and CD–ROM.

http://www.uspto.gov/about-us

Sources of Information

Data

Monthly summaries for patents data and quarterly summaries for trademark data are available online.

http://www.uspto.gov/learning-and-resources/statistics

Employment

Information on employment opportunities is available on the "Careers" Web page.

http://careers.uspto.gov

Patents

Information on getting started and applying for and maintaining a patent is available online.

http://www.uspto.gov/patent

Publications

The "Official Gazette" journal, "Inventors Eye" newsletter, and other publications are accessible online.

http://www.uspto.gov/learning-and-resources/official-gazette http://www.uspto.gov/learning-and-resources/newsletter-archives http://www.uspto.gov/about-us/news-updates

Speakers

A speaker request form is available online.

http://www.uspto.gov/about-us/organizational-offices/office-chief-communications-officer/speaker-request-form

Trademarks

Information on getting started and applying for and maintaining a trademark is available online.

http://www.uspto.gov/trademark http://www.uspto.gov/about-us/organizational-offices/office-chief-communications-officer

For further information, contact the Office of the Chief Communications Officer, United States Patent and Trademark Office, 600 Dulany Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Phone, 571-272-8400.