The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) made significant announcements this past week, focusing on energy permitting reforms and food safety guidance in anticipation of the Super Bowl. On January 27, 2026, the USDA introduced updates to federal oil and gas regulations that will affect both the management of National Forest System lands and the sale of ethanol fuel.
In a joint statement, USDA officials, including Brooke L. Rollins and Doug Burgum, announced the finalization of revisions to the regulations governing federal oil and gas resources. This overhaul is part of the broader initiative under the Donald J. Trump administration to streamline energy development processes. Rollins emphasized that “unleashing American energy requires a government that works at the speed of the American people, not one slowed by bureaucratic red tape.”
The updated rule, known as 36 CFR 228 Subpart E, simplifies leasing procedures and aims to reduce delays in the permitting process. The USDA highlighted that there are currently 5,154 federal oil and gas leases covering approximately 3.8 million acres of National Forest System lands. This reform is expected to enhance coordination between the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, thereby allowing for quicker responses to industry requests and accelerating lease issuance.
In a related announcement, Rollins praised President Trump’s support for year-round sales of E-15 ethanol fuel, made during an event in Iowa. She argued that this initiative could lead to the domestic consumption of “up to 2 billion more bushels of corn,” underscoring the growing demand for biofuels. This proposal is part of what Rollins termed the highest Renewable Volume Obligation in U.S. history and includes extending the 45Z biofuel tax credit through 2029.
Food Safety Guidance for Super Bowl Celebrations
As the Super Bowl approaches, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a warning on January 28, 2026, advising Americans to be mindful of food safety during game-day gatherings. Under Secretary for Food Safety Mindy Brashears stressed the importance of keeping food at safe temperatures to prevent foodborne illnesses.
The USDA cautioned that popular party dishes, such as pizza, chicken wings, and chili, should not remain at room temperature for longer than two hours. This time frame is critical as bacteria can grow rapidly in what the agency identifies as the “Danger Zone,” which ranges from 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
To ensure food safety, the USDA recommended that hosts transport takeout in insulated bags if the journey exceeds one hour. Additionally, food should be served promptly or refrigerated until it is ready to be reheated. The agency advised that hot foods must be maintained at temperatures of 140 degrees Fahrenheit or above and that meat and poultry should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
For those uncertain about food preparation or safety practices, the USDA encourages consumers to reach out to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-674-6854 or via email at [email protected], available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.
With these announcements, the USDA aims to enhance energy efficiency and ensure public safety during one of the year’s most anticipated sporting events.
