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The page says that the software uses a patented oracle-free testing method, but that it doesn't apply to the public domain (Java?) programs that you can request by email. Although I hope the Department of Commerce wouldn't sue me, I'm not clear on the purpose or status of this patent.

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I believe "oracle" refers to a "test oracle" and not the company.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Test_oracle

Yes, that's correct. Apart from the fact that the programs are apparently written in Java, Oracle Corporation has nothing to do with this.

There's a section of the web site on licensing NIST technologies, and links to patent license applications. Without a specific license for this patent, it's not clear how I'm allowed to use it. May I use the programs commercially? May I modify them?

You apply for a license: https://www.nist.gov/tpo/licensing-nist-technologies

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