June 28, 2026 to July 04, 2026

This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions and other government-related news concerning hotels, restaurants, casinos, gaming operations, event and sports venues, cruise lines, theme parks, ski resorts, outdoor spaces, RV and caravan parks, and all hospitality, travel and tourism professionals. Once a week, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

Want to track GR news in adjacent industries related? Don’t miss this week’s updates in Arts & Culture. Also consider subscribing to our Hospitality & Retail - Ottawa edition covering critical GR news north of the border.

📋 In This Week's Newsletter

• 🇺🇸 Federal Government News
• 📜 Legislative Updates
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week

Federal Government News

DOT Finalizes Hearing Procedures for Unfair or Deceptive Practices in Aviation

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has amended its hearing procedures governing discretionary aviation rulemakings related to unfair and deceptive practices. Effective July 31, 2026, the rule restores earlier due process standards, including the appointment of neutral hearing officers, formal findings of fact, and enhanced rights for industry participation at hearings. The 2022 procedures, which had reduced formality and limited cross-examination, are rescinded. The new rule consolidates relevant sections for administrative clarity and allows appeals of hearing denials to the Secretary. DOT also revoked previous guidance and clarifications not required by statute. No new information collection requirements are associated; regulatory burdens and delays were considered minimal relative to the benefits of robust stakeholder input. The rule is issued under 49 U.S.C. 41712 and 40113(a), covering consumer protection, rulemaking, and enforcement policies.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Interior Department Information Collection: Public Health Disease Reporting in National Parks

The National Park Service (NPS) seeks public comments on its ongoing information collection for disease reporting and surveillance among concession employees and tour vehicle passengers. Authorized by Subtitle I, Chapter 1007, Subchapter I of Title 54 and the Public Health Service Act, Forms 10-685 and 10-686 capture symptoms, duration of illness, and incident location. The system provides early warning of potential outbreaks and supports prompt public health responses. For the reporting year, 390 respondents are anticipated, resulting in an estimated 73 annual burden hours. Submissions are voluntary and can be made via mail or email; all responses will become public record. The notice renews existing approval under OMB Control Number 1024-0286.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Notice and Comment Period Opens for USDA Dairy Grading Information Collection Extension

The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has announced a request for extension and revision of the information collection supporting dairy product inspection and grading under 7 CFR Part 58. The data aids in processed dairy product certification, sanitary evaluation, and official packaging identification, using the voluntary AMS Dairy Grading and Inspection Program. An estimated 198 respondents will generate 8,633 responses annually, totaling 923 burden hours. Comments are invited until August 31, 2026, covering the necessity, burden, and electronic submission methods for the collection. Details on the process and respondent obligations are provided; responses and associated personal information will be posted publicly on regulations.gov.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

Interior Department Requests Comment on Class III Tribal-State Gaming Compact Process

The Bureau of Indian Affairs has opened a comment period for renewal of information collection regarding Class III gaming compacts. Tribal-state compacts or amendments submitted by tribes and state governments are reviewed per IGRA (25 U.S.C. 2710) and 25 CFR 293. The Secretary of the Interior determines approval status and publishes notices in the Federal Register. Forty annual respondents are expected, each with an estimated 200 hours to complete the process, totaling 8,000 burden hours. Submissions are required to obtain the benefit of gaming compact approval. No non-hour burden costs are anticipated, and the notice is issued under OMB Control Number 1076-0172.

Sources: www.federalregister.gov

White House Announces NEPA Reforms Aimed at Expedited Permitting and Infrastructure Growth

The White House reported substantial reforms to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), credited with reducing environmental review delays and permitting timelines across federal agencies. Led by the Council on Environmental Quality, these measures included implementation of categorical exclusions, rapid permitting for energy and housing projects, and expansion of affordable housing and infrastructure development. The Department of the Interior and USDA announced streamlined policies, while the Bureau of Land Management exceeded prior drilling permit approvals. Executive orders advanced commercial space innovation and nuclear reactor testing. Conservation actions encompassed tree harvesting and invasive species management, all within established environmental standards.

Sources: www.whitehouse.gov

Legislative Updates

Bill 9543: Permitting Taxation of Tourist Vessels

Bill 9543 proposes amendments to the Act of July 5, 1884, authorizing taxes on vessels operating as tourist accommodations. The bill has been referred to the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure for review.

Sources: www.congress.gov

Bill 9539: Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments for Web Accessibility

Bill 9539 seeks to amend the Americans with Disabilities Act to encompass consumer-facing websites and mobile apps operated by private entities. It establishes compliance standards for accessibility. The bill is currently before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Sources: www.congress.gov

Bill 9554: Accessible Housing Expense Tax Credit

Bill 9554 amends the Internal Revenue Code to provide tax credits for qualified accessible housing expenses. The bill was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means and the Committee on Financial Services.

Sources: www.congress.gov

Recreation Permitting Improvement Act

Bill 9248, titled Recreation Permitting Improvement Act, addresses public lands and natural resources policy. Subcommittee hearings have been held to examine the permitting process related to recreational use.

Sources: www.congress.gov

What We're Reading This Week

• No Doilies Here: In the Age of Airbnb, Bed-and-Breakfasts Are Coming Into Their Own: The shift toward unique bed-and-breakfast experiences as traditional hospitality adapts to competition from digital rental platforms.
• Trump’s Travel Crackdown Has a Winner: Mexican Tourism: Recent travel restrictions have increased U.S. tourist flows to Mexico, benefiting local hospitality and recreation providers.
• America's 250 state fair is getting roasted. How Virginia compares.: Virginia's state fair booths are reviewed in comparison to national standards and visitor experiences.

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