[December 9, 2002 (Volume 67, Number 236)]
[Unified Agenda]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [frwais.access.gpo.gov]
[Page 74273-74362]
Department of Agriculture
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Part III
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
_______________________________________________________________________
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Office of the Secretary
7 CFR Subtitle A, Chs. I-VII, IX-XII, XIV-XVIII, XXI, XXIV-XXIX
9 CFR Chs. I-IV
36 CFR Ch. II
41 CFR Ch. 4
Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2002
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA.
ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.
_______________________________________________________________________
SUMMARY: This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and
not significant regulations being developed in agencies of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) in conformance with Executive Order
12866 ``Regulatory Planning and Review.'' The agenda also describes
regulations affecting small entities as required by section 602 of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act, Public Law 96-354. This agenda also
identifies regulatory actions that are being reviewed in compliance
with section 610(c) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We invite public
comment on those actions.
USDA has attempted to list all regulations and regulatory
reviews pending at the time of publication except for minor and
routine or repetitive actions, but some may have been inadvertently
missed. There is no legal significance to the omission of an item
from this listing. Also, the dates shown for the steps of each
action are estimated and are not commitments to act on or by the
date shown.
For this edition of the USDA regulatory agenda, the most
important significant regulatory actions are included in part II of
this issue of the Federal Register. The Regulatory Plan entries are
listed in the table of contents below and are denoted by a
bracketed bold reference, which directs the reader to the
appropriate sequence number in part II.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information on any
specific entry shown in this agenda, please contact the person listed
for that action. Requests for copies of the agenda should include a
self-addressed, stamped envelope and be directed to: Regulatory Agenda,
OBPA, Office of the Secretary, Room 118-E, Jamie Whitten Building, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-1272.
Dated: October 11, 2002.
Jacquelyn Y. Chandler,
Chief, Legislative and Regulatory and Automated Systems Staff.
Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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169 National Laboratory Accreditation Program........................................... 0581-AB42
170 Changes in Fees for Federal Grading and Certification of Livestock for Chicago 0581-AB66
Mercantile Exchange Futures Deliveries..............................................
171 Discontinue the Official Grading of Imported Beef, Lamb, Veal, and Calf Carcasses 0581-AB90
Under the Authority of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946.......................
172 Revision of Regulations Governing the Inspection and Grading Service of Manufactured 0581-AB93
or Processed Dairy Products (DA-00-08)..............................................
173 National Organic Program: Add Standards for Mushroom, Apiculture, Greenhouse, and 0581-AB96
Hydroponic Production Systems and the Handling of Honey (TM-01-09)..................
174 National Organic Program: Add Standards for the Organic Certification of Wild 0581-AB97
Captured Aquatic Animals (TM-01-08).................................................
175 Livestock Mandatory Reporting Program--Lamb Amendment (LS-01-08) (Reg Plan Seq No. 0581-AB98
1)..................................................................................
176 Establishing Fees for Voluntary Quality Systems Certification Services (LS-00-13)... 0581-AC08
177 Voluntary Federal Meat Grading and Certification Services (LS-02-06)................ 0581-AC13
178 Exemption of Organic Producers From Research and Promotion/Marketing Order 0581-AC15
Assessment (PY-02-002)..............................................................
179 National Dairy Promotion and Research Program (DA-02-03) (Reg Plan Seq No. 2)....... 0581-AC16
180 User fees for 2003 Crop Cotton Classification Services (CN-02-006).................. 0581-AC17
181 PACA: Coating or Battering Fruits and Vegetables Does Not Alter Their Character (FV- 0581-AC21
02-369).............................................................................
182 Plant Variety Protection Services (ST-02-02)........................................ 0581-AC22
183 USDA ``Produced From'' Grademark for Shell Eggs (PY-02-007)......................... 0581-AC24
184 Administrative Requirements for Voluntary Shell Egg, Poultry, and Rabbit Grading (PY- 0581-AC25
02-003).............................................................................
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References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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185 Hass Avocado Promotion, Research, and Information Order (FV-01-705)................. 0581-AB92
186 Mango Promotion, Research, and Information Order (FV-01-707)........................ 0581-AC05
187 Flue-Cured Tobacco Advisory Committee: Amendment to Regulations (TB-02-14).......... 0581-AC11
188 Quality Systems Verification Program (LS-02-10)..................................... 0581-AC12
[[Page 74275]]
189 National Organic Program, Amendment to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited 0581-AC19
Substances..........................................................................
190 Tobacco Inspection: Mandatory Grading (TB-02-11).................................... 0581-AC20
191 Establishment of Minimum Quality and Handling Standards for Domestic and Imported 0581-AC23
Peanuts Marketed in the U.S. and Termination of the Peanut Marketing Agreement and
Associated Rules and Regulations....................................................
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Agricultural Marketing Service--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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192 Cotton Futures Act: Changing the Destination of Spot Markets (CN-01-004)............ 0581-AC00
193 Voluntary Egg, Poultry, and Rabbit Grading, Increase in Fees and Charges (PY-02-002) 0581-AC10
194 Removal of Cottonseed Chemist Licensing Program and Fees (ST-02-03)................. 0581-AC18
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Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
195 General Specifications for Dairy Plants Approved for USDA Inspection and Grading.... 0581-AB59
196 Revision of User Fees for 2002 Crop Cotton Classification Services.................. 0581-AC04
197 Establishing a Lamb Promotion, Research, and Information Order (LS-01-12)........... 0581-AC06
198 Fluid Milk Promotion Program (DA-02-02)............................................. 0581-AC14
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Agricultural Marketing Service--Discontinued Entries
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Regulation
Identification Title Date Comments
Number
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0581-AC09 California Prune/Plum (Tree Removal) Program, Extension of Program 08/08/2002 Withdrawn
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Farm Service Agency--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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199 Regulatory Streamlining of the Farm Service Agency's Direct Farm Loan Programs...... 0560-AF60
200 Producer Disqualification for Crop Insurance Fraud.................................. 0560-AG70
201 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Loan Eligibility With Prior Debt Forgiveness............ 0560-AG81
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Farm Service Agency--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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202 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Conservation Reserve Program............................ 0560-AG74
203 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--General Credit Provisions............................... 0560-AG78
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[[Page 74276]]
Farm Service Agency--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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204 Amendments to the Standards for Approval of Warehouse for Commodity Credit 0560-AE50
Corporation Storage Contracts.......................................................
205 Deletion of FSA Regulations Regarding Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program. 0560-AE54
206 Amendments to the Debt Settlement Policies and Procedures To Conform to the Debt 0560-AF22
Collection Improvement Act of 1996..................................................
207 Amendments to the Conservation Reserve Program Regulations Regarding Land 0560-AF77
Eligibility.........................................................................
208 Emergency Conservation Program...................................................... 0560-AG26
209 Interest Assistance Program......................................................... 0560-AG46
210 Ocean Freight Claims Administrative Appeal Process.................................. 0560-AG49
211 Elimination of 30-Day Past-Due Period for Farm Loan Program Borrowers............... 0560-AG50
212 Tobacco Marketing Quotas, Cards, Penalty Provisions, Recordkeeping and Reporting.... 0560-AG52
213 Rescheduling Guaranteed Loans With Balloon Payments, Clarification of Annual 0560-AG53
Analysis Requirements for Guaranteed Lenders, and Subordination Requirements........
214 Amendment to the Regulations for Determining Acreage for Skip-Row Cotton............ 0560-AG55
215 Prompt Disaster Set-Aside Consideration and Primary Loan Servicing.................. 0560-AG56
216 2002-Crop Marketing Quotas and Price Support Levels for Five Kinds of Tobacco....... 0560-AG58
217 2002-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Burley Tobacco................ 0560-AG59
218 2002-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Flue-Cured Tobacco............ 0560-AG60
219 Servicing Minor Farm Loan Program Loans............................................. 0560-AG67
220 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Direct and Counter-Cyclical Payments.................... 0560-AG71
221 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Assistance for Livestock Producers...................... 0560-AG76
222 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Acreage Reporting and Common Provisions................. 0560-AG79
223 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Equitable Relief........................................ 0560-AG80
224 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Tree Assistance Program................................. 0560-AG83
225 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Bioenergy Program....................................... 0560-AG84
226 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Income Limits........................................... 0560-AG86
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Farm Service Agency--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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227 Mediation; Agricultural Loan Mediation Program...................................... 0560-AE26
228 Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program Regulations for the 2001 and Succeeding 0560-AG20
Crop Years..........................................................................
229 Conservation of Farmable Wetlands................................................... 0560-AG38
230 Tobacco Loss Assistance Program and Amendments to the Tobacco Marketing Quota 0560-AG40
Regulations.........................................................................
231 Collecting Guaranteed Loss Payments From FSA Farm Loan Program Borrowers............ 0560-AG44
232 Implementation of the U.S. Warehouse Act of 2000.................................... 0560-AG45
233 Horse Breeder Loans................................................................. 0560-AG62
234 Apple Market Loss Payment Program II................................................ 0560-AG63
235 Limitations on Amount of Guaranteed Farm Ownership and Operating Loans.............. 0560-AG64
236 Sale and Purchase of Flue-Cured Tobacco Across County Lines (Florida and Georgia)... 0560-AG68
237 Boll Weevil Eradication Loan Program................................................ 0560-AG69
238 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Marketing Assistance Loans and Loan Deficiency Payments; 0560-AG72
Milk Price Support and Dairy Market Loss; Apple Market Loss.........................
239 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Sugar Program........................................... 0560-AG73
240 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Termination of Peanut Market Quota Program and Revised 0560-AG75
Flue-Cured Tobacco Reserve Stock Level..............................................
241 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Payment Limits.......................................... 0560-AG77
242 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Sea Grass and Sea Oats Eligibility for the Non-Insured 0560-AG82
Disaster Assistance Program.........................................................
243 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Apple Market Loss Assistance Payment Program III........ 0560-AG85
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Farm Service Agency--Discontinued Entries
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Regulation
Identification Title Date Comments
Number
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0560-AF36 Amendment to the Farm Reconstitution Regulations 05/20/2002 Withdrawn
[[Page 74277]]
0560-AF71 Low Documentation Loan 04/01/2002 Merged With 0560-AG60
0560-AG07 Designation of Non-Auction Tobacco 06/05/2002 Withdrawn
0560-AG14 Agricultural Disaster and Market Assistance 05/20/2002 Merged With 0560-AG72
0560-AG42 Collection of Appraisal Fees for Farm Loan Programs, Insured Loans 06/03/2002 Withdrawn
0560-AG47 Non-Recourse Cotton Loan and Loan Deficiency Payment Programs; Upland Cotton First Handler 08/19/2002 Withdrawn
Marketing Certificate Program; and Seed Cotton Recourse Loan Program
0560-AG54 General Regulations Governing Commodity Loans for 1998 and Subsequent Crops 09/01/2002 Withdrawn
0560-AG57 2002-Crop Peanuts National Poundage Quota for Quota Peanuts 05/20/2002 Withdrawn
0560-AG65 Clarification of Guaranteed Farm Ownership and Operating Loan Requirements 06/03/2002 Merged With 0560-AG53
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Prerule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
244 Potential Pathways for the Spread of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy in U.S. 0579-AB43
Livestock...........................................................................
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
245 Importation of Fuji Variety Apples From the Republic of Korea....................... 0579-AA93
246 Blood and Tissue Collection at Livestock Slaughtering Establishments................ 0579-AB13
247 Plum Pox Compensation............................................................... 0579-AB19
248 Bees, Beekeeping Byproducts, and Beekeeping Equipment (Section 610 Review).......... 0579-AB20
249 Veterinary Diagnostic User Fees--5-Year Plan for Fees (Section 610 Review).......... 0579-AB22
250 Salmonella Enteritidis Phage-Type 4; Remove Import Restrictions..................... 0579-AB31
251 Chronic Wasting Disease in Elk and Deer; Interstate Movement Restrictions and 0579-AB35
Payment of Indemnity (Reg Plan Seq No. 3)...........................................
252 Importation of Milk and Milk Products From FMD Countries............................ 0579-AB38
253 Importation of Solid Wood Packing Material; Adoption of International Standards..... 0579-AB48
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References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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254 Animal Welfare; Inspection, Licensing, and Procurement of Animals (Section 610 0579-AA94
Review).............................................................................
255 Phytosanitary Treatment by Irradiation of Imported Fresh Fruits and Vegetables...... 0579-AA97
256 Importation of Unmanufactured Wood Articles From Mexico............................. 0579-AB02
257 Establishment of Regions in the European Union for Classical Swine Fever, Foot-and- 0579-AB03
Mouth Disease, and Swine Vesicular Disease..........................................
258 Nursery Stock Regulations (Section 610 Review)...................................... 0579-AB23
259 Foot-and-Mouth Disease; Payment of Indemnity (Reg Plan Seq No. 4)................... 0579-AB34
260 Infectious Salmon Anemia; Payment of Indemnity...................................... 0579-AB37
261 Animal Welfare; Policy on Training and Handling of Potentially Dangerous Animals.... 0579-AB39
262 Additional Restrictions on the Importation of Certain Ruminant Meat, Meat Products, 0579-AB41
and Edible Products Other Than Meat From BSE Regions................................
263 Brucellosis in Sheep, Goats, and Horses; Payment of Indemnity (Section 610 Review).. 0579-AB42
264 Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza; Payment of Indemnity................................ 0579-AB46
[[Page 74278]]
265 Biological Agents and Toxins (Reg Plan Seq No. 5)................................... 0579-AB47
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References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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266 Importation of Certain Embryos and Animal Semen (Section 610 Review)................ 0579-AA63
267 Plant Pest Regulations; Update of Current Provisions (Section 610 Review)........... 0579-AA80
268 Importation of Solid Wood Packing Material.......................................... 0579-AA99
269 Horse Protection; Horse Industry Organizations...................................... 0579-AB04
270 Pseudorabies in Swine; Payment of Indemnity......................................... 0579-AB10
271 Phytosanitary Certificates for Imported Fruits and Vegetables....................... 0579-AB18
272 Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and Interactive Programs...... 0579-AB24
273 Importation Prohibitions Because of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy................ 0579-AB26
274 Animals Destroyed Because of Tuberculosis; Payment of Indemnity..................... 0579-AB29
275 Draft Action Plan for the Noxious Weeds Program..................................... 0579-AB30
276 Tuberculosis; Indemnity for Dairy Cattle............................................ 0579-AB36
277 Amend Regulations To Harmonize Our Import Requirements With Proposed National 0579-AB44
Tuberculosis Eradication Program....................................................
278 Karnal Bunt Compensation............................................................ 0579-AB45
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
279 Importation of Clementines From Spain............................................... 0579-AB40
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Discontinued Entries
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Regulation
Identification Title Date Comments
Number
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0579-AB21 Exportation of Livestock 08/20/2002 Withdrawn
0579-AB25 Animal Welfare; Policy on Environment Enhancement for Nonhuman Primates 04/29/2002 Withdrawn
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Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280 Matching Requirements for Formula Funds for Agricultural Research and Extension 0524-AA25
Activities at the 1890 Land-Grant Institutions and at the 1862 Land-Grant
Institutions in Insular Areas.......................................................
281 CSREES Agricultural Extension Formula Programs--Administrative Provisions........... 0524-AA26
282 CSREES Agricultural Research Formula Programs--Administrative Provisions............ 0524-AA27
283 CSREES Non-Formula Grant Programs--Administrative Provisions........................ 0524-AA28
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[[Page 74279]]
Rural Housing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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284 Civil Rights Compliance Requirements--1901-E to 1940-D.............................. 0575-AA83
285 National Flood Insurance Regulations................................................ 0575-AC07
286 Servicing Community Programs Loans and Grants....................................... 0575-AC12
287 Multi-Family Housing (MFH) (Reg Plan Seq No. 6)..................................... 0575-AC13
288 Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants............................................... 0575-AC20
289 Community Facilities Direct Loan Program--Consolidate, Simplify, and Update 0575-AC27
Regulations.........................................................................
290 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program--Secondary Mortgage Market Participation.... 0575-AC28
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References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
Rural Housing Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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291 Environmental Program............................................................... 0575-AB98
292 Direct Section 502 and 504 Single-Family Housing Program............................ 0575-AB99
293 Guaranteed Single-Family Housing.................................................... 0575-AC18
294 Operating Assistance for Migrant Farmworker Projects................................ 0575-AC24
295 Technical Assistance To Encourage the Development of Domestic and Migrant Farm Labor 0575-AC25
Housing.............................................................................
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Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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296 General Administrative Regulations; Subpart D; Application for Crop Insurance....... 0563-AB00
297 General Administrative Regulations; Movement of Business Among Insurance Providers.. 0563-AB71
298 General Administrative Regulations; Sanctions....................................... 0563-AB73
299 Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Blueberry Crop Insurance Provisions.............. 0563-AB76
300 Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Nursery Crop Insurance Provisions................ 0563-AB80
301 General Administrative Regulations; Actual Production History....................... 0563-AB83
302 Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Basic Provisions and General Administrative 0563-AB85
Regulations, Subpart T, Regulations for Implementation..............................
303 General Administrative Regulations; Subpart L--Reinsurance Agreement--Standards for 0563-AB86
Approval; Regulations for the 1997 and Subsequent Reinsurance Years.................
304 General Administrative Regulations; Quality Assurance and Performance Measurement 0563-AB88
System for the Federal Crop Insurance Program.......................................
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Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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305 Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Small Grains Crop Insurance Provisions and Wheat 0563-AB63
Winter Coverage Endorsement.........................................................
306 General Administrative Regulations; Nonstandard Underwriting Classification System.. 0563-AB66
307 General Administrative Regulations; Premium Reductions; Payments of Rebates, 0563-AB70
Dividends, and Patronage Refunds; and Payments to Insured-Owned and Record-
Controlling Entities................................................................
308 Catastrophic Risk Protection Endorsement; Group Risk Plan of Insurance Regulations; 0563-AB81
Basic Provisions....................................................................
309 General Administrative Regulations; Submission of Policies and Provisions of 0563-AB84
Policies and Rates of Premiums......................................................
310 Common Crop Insurance Regulations................................................... 0563-AB87
311 Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Sunflower, Coarse Grains, Safflower, Dry Pea, 0563-AB89
Rice, and Dry Bean Crop Insurance Provisions........................................
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[[Page 74280]]
Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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312 Livestock Purchase or Sale: Prohibit Non-Reporting of Price......................... 0580-AA65
313 Prohibition on Disguising Grain Quality............................................. 0580-AA77
314 Fees for Official Inspection and Official Weighing Services......................... 0580-AA80
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Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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315 Tolerances for Dividers............................................................. 0580-AA57
316 Review Inspection Requirements...................................................... 0580-AA58
317 Swine Packer Marketing Contracts.................................................... 0580-AA71
318 Exceptions to Geographic Areas for Official Agencies Under the USGSA................ 0580-AA76
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Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Discontinued Entries
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Regulation
Identification Title Date Comments
Number
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0580-AA78 Laboratory Proficiency Program 07/01/2002 Withdrawn
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Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
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319 Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): 0584-AB10
Miscellaneous Provisions............................................................
320 Intentional Program Violation Reporting and Computer Matching Requirements That 0584-AB51
Affect the Food Stamp Program.......................................................
321 FSP: Civil Rights Data Collections.................................................. 0584-AC75
322 Commodity Supplemental Food Program: Plain Language, Program Accountability, and 0584-AC84
Program Flexibility.................................................................
323 Food Stamp Program: Administrative Cost Reimbursement............................... 0584-AC86
324 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): 0584-AC90
Revisions in the WIC Food Packages (Reg Plan Seq No. 7).............................
325 Improving Access to the Food Stamp Program for Persons With Limited English 0584-AD06
Proficiency.........................................................................
326 Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations: Resource Limits and Exclusions, 0584-AD12
Extended Certification Periods, and Transitional Benefits...........................
327 Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP): At-Risk Afterschool Suppers.............. 0584-AD15
328 Food Stamp Program: Administrative Sanctions Imposed Against Violating Electronic 0584-AD18
Benefits Transfer (EBT) Stores......................................................
329 Food Stamp Program: Simplification and State Flexibility (Reg Plan Seq No. 8)....... 0584-AD22
330 Food Stamp Program: Administrative Review Requirements--Food Retailers/Wholesalers.. 0584-AD23
331 Food Stamp Program: Clarifications and Corrections to Recipient Claim Establishment 0584-AD25
and Collection Standards............................................................
332 FSP: EBT and Retail Food Stores Provisions of the Farm Security and Rural Investment 0584-AD28
Act of 2002.........................................................................
333 FSP: High Performance Bonuses (Reg Plan Seq No. 9).................................. 0584-AD29
334 FSP: Eligibility and Certification Provisions of the Farm Security and Rural 0584-AD30
Investment Act of 2002 (Reg Plan Seq No. 10)........................................
335 FSP: Quality Control Provisions of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 0584-AD31
2002 (Reg Plan Seq No. 11)..........................................................
336 FSP: Employment and Training Program Provisions of the Farm Security and Rural 0584-AD32
Investment Act of 2002 (Reg Plan Seq No. 12)........................................
337 Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)--Allocation of Administrative Funds...... 0584-AD33
338 Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP).................................... 0584-AD35
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References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
[[Page 74281]]
Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
339 WIC: Requirements for and Evaluation of WIC Program Requests for Bids for Infant 0584-AB52
Formula Rebate Contracts............................................................
340 Food Stamp Program: Anticipating Income and Reporting Changes....................... 0584-AB57
341 Child and Adult Care Food Program: Improving Management and Program Integrity (Reg 0584-AC24
Plan Seq No. 13)....................................................................
342 Food Stamp Program Regulatory Review: FSP Standards for Approval and Operation of 0584-AC37
Food Stamp Electronic Benefit Transfer Systems......................................
343 National School Lunch Program: Reimbursement for Snacks in Afterschool Care Programs 0584-AC72
344 FSP: Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Systems Interoperability and Portability..... 0584-AC91
345 Special Nutrition Programs: Disclosure of Children's Eligibility Information Under 0584-AC95
the Child Nutrition Programs........................................................
346 Implementation of Poultry Substitution Pilot as Permanent and Modification of 0584-AD08
Commodity Recordkeeping Requirements................................................
347 Special Nutrition Programs: Uniform Federal Assistance Regulations; Nondiscretionary 0584-AD16
Technical Amendments................................................................
348 Expanded Verification of Eligibility Summary Requirements........................... 0584-AD20
349 Privacy Act: Revision of an Existing System of Records.............................. 0584-AD24
350 Afterschool Snacks Under the Child and Adult Care Food Program...................... 0584-AD27
351 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): 0584-AD34
Exclusion of Military Housing Payments..............................................
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References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
Food and Nutrition Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
352 Child and Adult Care Food Program: Implementing Legislative Reforms To Strengthen 0584-AC94
Program Integrity...................................................................
353 State Administrative Expense Funds: Plain Language Rewrite.......................... 0584-AC96
354 Special Milk Program for Children: Plain Language Revision and Reorganization....... 0584-AC97
355 Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 250, Donation of 0584-AC98
Foods for Use in the United States, Its Territories and Possessions, and Areas Under
Its Jurisdiction....................................................................
356 Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 251, The Emergency 0584-AC99
Food Assistance Program (TEFAP).....................................................
357 Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 252, The National 0584-AD00
Commodity Processing Program (NCP)..................................................
358 Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 253, the Food 0584-AD01
Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).................................
359 Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 254, the Food 0584-AD02
Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) in Oklahoma.....................
360 Nutrition Education and Training Program: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 227.. 0584-AD03
361 State Agency Liabilities and Federal Sanctions...................................... 0584-AD04
362 Payments of Certain Administrative Costs of State Agencies.......................... 0584-AD05
363 School Breakfast Program: Plain Language Revision and Reorganization................ 0584-AD10
364 WIC: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 248, Farmers' Market Nutrition Program.... 0584-AD11
365 Food Stamp Program: Vehicle and Maximum Excess Shelter Expense Deduction Provisions 0584-AD13
of Public Law 106-387...............................................................
366 CNP: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 225, Summer Food Service Program.......... 0584-AD17
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Food and Nutrition Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
367 Food Stamp Program: Work Provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work 0584-AC45
Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 and the Food Stamp Provisions of the Balanced
Budget Act of 1997..................................................................
368 National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and Child and Adult Care 0584-AD26
Food Program--Amendments to the Infant Meal Pattern.................................
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[[Page 74282]]
Food Safety and Inspection Service--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
369 Poultry Inspection: Revision of Finished Product Standards With Respect to Ingesta.. 0583-AC77
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Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
370 Transportation, Storage, and Other Handling of Potentially Hazardous Foods.......... 0583-AC05
371 Grant and Inauguration of Inspection................................................ 0583-AC07
372 Performance Standards for Bacon (Reg Plan Seq No. 14)............................... 0583-AC49
373 Reform of Regulations on Imported Meat and Poultry Products......................... 0583-AC56
374 Egg and Egg Products Inspection Regulations (Reg Plan Seq No. 15)................... 0583-AC58
375 Labeling--Generic Approval and Regulation Consolidation............................. 0583-AC59
376 Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Systems; 0583-AC63
Additions to Generic E. Coli Criteria...............................................
377 Food Standards; Guiding Principles and Food Standards Modernization................. 0583-AC72
378 Petitions for Rulemaking............................................................ 0583-AC81
379 Classes of Poultry Updating Poultry Class Standards................................. 0583-AC83
380 Elimination of Chilling Time and Temperature Requirements for Ready-To-Cook Poultry 0583-AC87
(Section 610 Review) (Reg Plan Seq No. 16)..........................................
381 Emergency Regulations To Prevent Meat Food and Meat Products That May Contain the 0583-AC88
BSE Agent From Entering Commerce (Reg Plan Seq No. 17)..............................
382 Addition of San Marino to the List of Countries Eligible To Export Meat and Meat 0583-AC91
Products to the United States.......................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
383 Beef or Pork With Barbecue Sauce; Revision of Standards............................. 0583-AC09
384 Performance Standards for Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products (Reg Plan Seq No. 0583-AC46
18).................................................................................
385 Meat Produced by Advanced Meat/Bone Separation Machinery and Recovery Systems (Reg 0583-AC51
Plan Seq No. 19)....................................................................
386 Nutrition Labeling of Ground or Chopped Meat and Poultry Products and Single- 0583-AC60
Ingredient Products (Reg Plan Seq No. 20)...........................................
387 Food Labeling; Nutrient Content Claims, Definition of the Term Healthy.............. 0583-AC65
388 Incorporation of Food and Color Additives Into 21 CFR............................... 0583-AC69
389 Performance Standards for On-Line Antimicrobial Reprocessing of Pre-Chill Poultry 0583-AC73
Carcasses...........................................................................
390 Agency Organization................................................................. 0583-AC78
391 Food Standards: Requirements for Substantive Standardized Meat and Poultry Products 0583-AC82
Named by Use of an Expressed Nutrient Content Claim and a Standardized Term.........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.
Food Safety and Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
392 Ante-Mortem and Post-Mortem Inspection of Livestock and Poultry..................... 0583-AC43
393 Requirements for Disposition and Disposal of Inspected Raw Meat and Poultry Products 0583-AC44
394 Reworking of Meat and Poultry Carcasses Accidentally Contaminated During 0583-AC53
Evisceration........................................................................
395 Elimination of Requirements for Total Quality Control Systems....................... 0583-AC68
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 74283]]
Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
396 Sharing Recall Distribution Lists With State and Other Federal Government Agencies.. 0583-AC75
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Food Safety and Inspection Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Identification Title Date Comments
Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0583-AC90 Standards and Labeling Requirements for Mechanically Separated (Species) and Products in 08/08/2002 Withdrawn
Which It Is Used (Completion of a Section 610 Review)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foreign Agricultural Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
397 Program To Provide Technical Assistance To Promote U.S. Agricultural Exports to 0551-AA62
Emerging Markets (Emerging Markets Program).........................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foreign Agricultural Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
398 Program To Assist U.S. Producers in Developing Domestic Markets for Value-Added 0551-AA60
Wheat Gluten and Wheat Starch Products..............................................
399 Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops............................................ 0551-AA63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foreign Agricultural Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
400 CCC Supplier Credit Guarantee Program............................................... 0551-AA30
401 Facility Guarantee Program.......................................................... 0551-AA35
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foreign Agricultural Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
402 Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Regulations for the Foreign Agricultural Service.. 0551-AA61
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Forest Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
403 Hydropower Applications............................................................. 0596-AA47
404 Indian Allotments on National Forest System Lands................................... 0596-AA52
405 Small Tracts Act Regulations........................................................ 0596-AA79
406 Species Surplus to Domestic Manufacturing Needs..................................... 0596-AB27
407 Appeal of Decisions Relating to Occupancy and Use of National Forest System Lands... 0596-AB45
408 Law Enforcement Support Activities.................................................. 0596-AB61
[[Page 74284]]
409 Noncompetitive Sale of Timber....................................................... 0596-AB70
410 Land Uses; Special Uses Requiring Authorizations.................................... 0596-AB74
411 Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Timber Export and Substitution 0596-AB75
Restrictions........................................................................
412 Special Forest Products and Forest Botanical Products............................... 0596-AB81
413 Determining Fair Market Value for Recreation Residence Use Authorizations........... 0596-AB83
414 National Forest System Land and Resource Management Planning........................ 0596-AB86
415 National Environmental Policy Act Documentation Needed for Certain Small 0596-AB88
Administrative Timber Sales on National Forest System Lands and Research Projects
(Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Chapter 30).......................................
416 Notice, Comment, and Appeal Procedures for National Forest System Projects and 0596-AB89
Activities..........................................................................
417 Land Uses; Prohibitions: Paleontological Resources.................................. 0596-AB91
418 Forest Service Trails Accessibility Guidelines...................................... 0596-AB92
419 Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines.......................... 0596-AB93
420 Interim Directive to Forest Service Manual Chapter 1920, Land and Resource 0596-AB97
Management Planning, FSM 1923, Objection Process....................................
421 Locatable Minerals.................................................................. 0596-AB98
422 National Environmental Policy Act Documentation Needed for Fire Management 0596-AB99
Activities (Proposed Interim Directive to Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Chapter
30).................................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Forest Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
423 Disposal of National Forest Timber; Cancellation of Timber Sale Contracts........... 0596-AB21
424 Collection of Reimbursable Costs for Processing Special-Use Applications and 0596-AB36
Administration of Special-Use Authorizations........................................
425 Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Extension of Timber Sale 0596-AB48
Contracts To Permit Urgent Removal of Timber From Other Lands.......................
426 Preference for Visitor Service; Alaska National Forest Conservation System Units.... 0596-AB57
427 National Environmental Policy Act Documentation Needed for Certain Special Uses 0596-AB73
Permit Actions (Final Interim Directive to FSH 1909.15, Chapter 30).................
428 Revisions to Road Management Policy (Forest Service Manual Chapter 7710)............ 0596-AB90
429 Forest Land Enhancement Program..................................................... 0596-AB95
430 Community and Private Land Forest Fire Assistance Program........................... 0596-AB96
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Forest Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
431 National Forest System Land and Resource Management Planning; Extension of 0596-AB87
Compliance Deadline.................................................................
432 Clarification of Extraordinary Circumstances for Categorical Exclusions............. 0596-AB94
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Forest Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Identification Title Date Comments
Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0596-AB80 Use of Fixed Anchors in Wilderness 10/03/2002 Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 74285]]
Office of Chief Financial Officer--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
433 Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide 0505-AA11
Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace (Grants).......................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of the Secretary--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
434 General Nonprocurement Regulations.................................................. 0503-AA21
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of the Secretary--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
435 Outreach and Assistance for Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers...................... 0503-AA22
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
436 Business and Industrial Guaranteed Loan Program--Miscellaneous Changes.............. 0570-AA23
437 Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plan............................................. 0570-AA24
438 Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Financing Cooperative Stock.......... 0570-AA26
439 Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program............................................. 0570-AA28
440 Annual Renewal Fee.................................................................. 0570-AA34
441 Rural Business Investment Program................................................... 0570-AA35
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
442 Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program................................... 0570-AA19
443 Allocation Formulas................................................................. 0570-AA30
444 Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Domestic Lamb Industry Adjustment 0570-AA31
Assistance Program Set-Aside........................................................
445 Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program--Farm Bill Changes.......................... 0570-AA36
446 B&I Guaranteed Loan Program Farm Bill Changes--Definition of Rural and Rural Area... 0570-AA38
447 B&I Guaranteed Loan Program Farm Bill Changes--Expand Eligibility Criteria.......... 0570-AA39
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
448 The Rural Business Enterprise Grants and Television Demonstration Grants--Small/ 0570-AA32
Emerging Private Business Enterprise................................................
449 Rural Business Opportunity Grants--Definition of Rural and Rural Areas--Farm Bill 0570-AA37
Changes.............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 74286]]
Rural Utilities Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
450 Telecommunications Standards and Specifications for Materials, Equipment, and 0572-AB40
Construction........................................................................
451 Servicing of Water Programs Loans and Grants........................................ 0572-AB59
452 Environmental Policies and Procedures............................................... 0572-AB73
453 Technical Assistance Grants......................................................... 0572-AB75
454 Special Equipment Contract (Not Including Installation), RUS Form 398............... 0572-AB76
455 Accounting Requirements for RUS Telecommunications Borrowers........................ 0572-AB77
456 Extensions of Payments of Principal and Interest.................................... 0572-AB79
457 Launching Our Communities Access to Local Television Act of 2000.................... 0572-AB82
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rural Utilities Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
458 Settlement of Debt.................................................................. 0572-AB61
459 Demand Side Management and Renewable Energy Systems................................. 0572-AB65
460 Electric Program Standard Contract Forms............................................ 0572-AB67
461 Exemptions of RUS Operational Controls Under Section 306E of the RE Act............. 0572-AB68
462 Telecommunications Program Specification............................................ 0572-AB69
463 General and Pre-Loan Policies and Procedures Common to Insured and Guaranteed Loans. 0572-AB72
464 Seismic Safety...................................................................... 0572-AB74
465 Record Retention Requirements for RUS Electric and Telecommunications Borrowers..... 0572-AB78
466 Useful Life of Facility Determination............................................... 0572-AB80
467 Rural Broadband Access Loans and Loan Guarantees.................................... 0572-AB81
468 Guarantees for Bonds and Notes Issued for Electrification Purposes.................. 0572-AB83
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rural Utilities Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
469 Mergers and Consolidations of Electric Borrowers.................................... 0572-AB63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natural Resources Conservation Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
470 Wetland Categorical Minimal Effects Exemptions...................................... 0578-AA27
471 Emergency Watershed Protection Program.............................................. 0578-AA30
472 Environmental Quality Incentives Program............................................ 0578-AA31
473 Agricultural Management Assistance Program.......................................... 0578-AA32
474 Conservation Security Program....................................................... 0578-AA36
475 Farm and Ranch Lands Protection Program............................................. 0578-AA37
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natural Resources Conservation Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
476 Conservation of Private Grazing Land................................................ 0578-AA29
477 Third-Party Vendor.................................................................. 0578-AA35
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 74287]]
Natural Resources Conservation Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
478 Highly Erodible Land and Wetland Conservation....................................... 0578-AA17
479 Forestry Incentives Program......................................................... 0578-AA26
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Natural Resources Conservation Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
480 Wetlands Reserve Program............................................................ 0578-AA33
481 Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program................................................. 0578-AA34
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Office of Procurement and Property Management--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence Title Identification
Number Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
482 Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM); Uniform Procedures for the 0599-AA10
Acquisition and Transfer of Excess Federal Property.................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
_______________________________________________________________________
169. NATIONAL LABORATORY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Legal Authority: 7 USC 138 to 138i
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990
(the FACT Act) authorized the establishment of the National Laboratory
Accreditation Program (NLAP). The NLAP is a voluntary, fee-for-service
program for accrediting laboratories that analyze for the presence of
pesticide residues in agricultural products. The regulations will
ensure that laboratories which request accreditation and conduct
residue testing of fresh fruits and vegetables for at least one of four
classes of pesticides, or make claims to the public or buyers
concerning the residue levels, meet certain standards.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 11/20/92 57 FR 54727
ANPRM Comment Period End 01/19/93
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: James V. Falk, Scientist, Department of Agriculture,
Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 3521-South, Technical Services
Branch, P.O. Box 96456, Room 3523-south, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 690-4089
Fax: 202 720-6496
Email: james.falk@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AB42
_______________________________________________________________________
170. CHANGES IN FEES FOR FEDERAL GRADING AND CERTIFICATION OF LIVESTOCK
FOR CHICAGO MERCANTILE EXCHANGE FUTURES DELIVERIES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 to 1627
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 53
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The purpose of this action is to amend the rate and
procedures used to charge applicants for Federal grading and
certification of livestock inspected for deliveries on commodity
futures contracts.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: John E. VanDyke, Branch Chief, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 2619-South, L&S, 14th
& Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6231
Fax: 202 690-3732
Email: john.vandyke@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AB66
[[Page 74288]]
_______________________________________________________________________
171. DISCONTINUE THE OFFICIAL GRADING OF IMPORTED BEEF, LAMB, VEAL, AND
CALF CARCASSES UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE AGRICULTURAL MARKETING ACT OF
1946
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) proposes to
discontinue the official grading of imported beef, lamb, veal, and calf
carcasses. Current regulations, promulgated under the Agricultural
Marketing Act of 1946, permit the official grading of imported beef,
lamb, veal, and calf carcasses provided the carcasses are in compliance
with all requirements of the standards and regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 02/01/00 65 FR 4780
ANPRM Comment Period End 04/03/00
NPRM 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Martin E. O'Connor, Assistant Chief, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, P.O. Box 96456,
Washington, DC 20250-6456
Phone: 202 720-7046
Fax: 202 690-4119
RIN: 0581-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________
172. REVISION OF REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE INSPECTION AND GRADING
SERVICE OF MANUFACTURED OR PROCESSED DAIRY PRODUCTS (DA-00-08)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 to 1627
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 58
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: These regulations have not been updated since December 1,
1976. The proposal will establish a revision of the existing
regulations to strengthen program integrity, to update the regulations
to accurately reflect inspection and grading services available, and to
clarify the meaning of the regulation provisions. The proposed changes
are not expected to have any major impact on program participants as
most participants are operating in a manner that is consistent with the
proposed changes.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Duane R. Spomer, Associate Deputy Administrator for
Standards and Grading, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, Rm. 2746-South, Dairy Programs, P.O. Box 96456,
Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-7473
Fax: 202 720-2643
Email: duane.spomer@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________
173. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: ADD STANDARDS FOR MUSHROOM, APICULTURE,
GREENHOUSE, AND HYDROPONIC PRODUCTION SYSTEMS AND THE HANDLING OF HONEY
(TM-01-09)
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 through 6522
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: AMS is revising the regulatory provisions for labeling
agricultural products as organically produced and handled (7 CFR part
205). This rule will establish production standards for mushroom,
apiculture, and greenhouse production systems and handling standards
for apiculture products. Also, this action will incorporate the
recommendations of the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)
finalized at its October 2001 meeting. In June 2001, the NOSB released
and accepted public comment on a draft version of mushroom and
greenhouse standards. Concurrently, the NOSB implemented a task force
to develop production and handling standards for apiculture.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions
Government Levels Affected: Federal, Tribal, State, Local
Federalism: This action may have federalism implications as defined in
EO 13132.
Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Program Manager, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Rm. 2510-South, 14th &
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: richard.mathews@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AB96
_______________________________________________________________________
174. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: ADD STANDARDS FOR THE ORGANIC
CERTIFICATION OF WILD CAPTURED AQUATIC ANIMALS (TM-01-08)
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 through 6522
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: AMS is revising the regulatory provisions for labeling of
agricultural products as organically produced and handled (7 CFR part
205). The term ``aquatic animal'' will be incorporated in the
definition of livestock and to establish production and handling
standards for operations that capture aquatic animals from the wild.
AMS has defined ``aquatic animal'' as any finfish or shellfish used for
human consumption, whether taken from regulated but free roaming marine
and fresh water populations (wild captured) or propagated and raised in
a controlled or selected environment (aquaculture). Production
standards for operations producing aquatic animals will incorporate
requirements for livestock origin, feed ration, health care, living
conditions, and recordkeeping. Handling standards for such operations
will address prevention of commingling of organically produced
commodities and prevention of contact between organically produced and
prohibited substances.
[[Page 74289]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal
Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Program Manager, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Rm. 2510-South, 14th &
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: richard.mathews@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________
175. LIVESTOCK MANDATORY REPORTING PROGRAM--LAMB AMENDMENT (LS-01-08)
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 1 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0581-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________
176. ESTABLISHING FEES FOR VOLUNTARY QUALITY SYSTEMS CERTIFICATION
SERVICES (LS-00-13)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action is necessary to ensure that voluntary Quality
Systems Certification Program (QSCP) services provided by the
Agricultural Marketing Service's Meat Grading and Certification Branch
remain financially self-sufficient and viable. The QSCP is a voluntary,
audit-based program developed at the request of the industry and others
to provide a means of verifying value-adding processes in the
production and processing of agricultural products.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Final Action 04/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Larry R. Meadows, Chief, Meat Grading and Certification
Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room
2628-South, Mail Stop 0248, L&S, Meat Grading Branch, 14th and
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0343
Fax: 202 690-4119
Email: larry.meadows@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC08
_______________________________________________________________________
177. [bull] VOLUNTARY FEDERAL MEAT GRADING AND CERTIFICATION SERVICES
(LS-02-06)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1622 through 1624
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is amending the fees for
Voluntary Meat Grading and Certification services provided by the Meat
Grading and Certification Branch. This rule would amend section 54.27
Charges for Service by replacing the published rates with the following
rates accordingly. Commitment Basis $55/hour, Noncommitment Basis $64/
hour, Premium Basis $72/hour, and Holiday Basis $110/hour. This
amendment would allow the Branch to offset increased operating expenses
and decreased revenue hours, and allow the Branch to maintain a 4-month
operating reserve required by the Agency.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: Federal
Agency Contact: Larry R. Meadows, Chief, Meat Grading and Certification
Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room
2628-South, Mail Stop 0248, L&S, Meat Grading Branch, 14th and
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0343
Fax: 202 690-4119
Email: larry.meadows@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC13
_______________________________________________________________________
178. [bull] EXEMPTION OF ORGANIC PRODUCERS FROM RESEARCH AND PROMOTION/
MARKETING ORDER ASSESSMENT (PY-02-002)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 10607
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 906; 7 CFR 916; 7 CFR 917; 7 CFR 927; 7 CFR 928; 7
CFR 929; 7 CFR 932; 7CFR 955; 7 CFR 956; 7 CFR 958; 7 CFR 966; 7 CFR
981; 7 CFR 982; 7 CFR 984; 7 CFR 989; 7 CFR 1150; 7 CFR 1160; 7 CFR
1205; 7 CFR 1207; 7 CFR 1209; 7 CFR 1210; 7 CFR 1215; 7 CFR 1216; 7 CFR
1218; 7 CFR 1219; 7 CFR 1220; 7 CFR 1230; 7 CFR 1240; 7 CFR 1250; 7 CFR
1260; 7 CFR 1280; ...
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, May 13, 2003.
Abstract: Section 501 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform
Act of 1996 (FAIR Act) was amended on May 13, 2002. The amendment
exempts any person that produces and markets solely 100 percent organic
products from paying assessments under a commodity promotion law. The
amendment further provides that the Secretary amend any research and
promotion regulations to reflect this exemption within 1 year.
Therefore, the Department of Agriculture is proposing amendments to the
research and promotion regulations and applicable marketing order
programs for which it has oversight The FAIR Act governs all research
and promotion and 15 marketing order programs. Currently, there are 15
established research and promotion programs, with the additional
program for Hass avocados in the final stages of rulemaking. The Hass
avocado program should be fully implemented before this action is
published.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Angela C. Snyder, Agricultural Marketing Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, STOP 0256,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4476
[[Page 74290]]
Fax: 202 720-5631
RIN: 0581-AC15
_______________________________________________________________________
179. [bull] NATIONAL DAIRY PROMOTION AND RESEARCH PROGRAM (DA-02-03)
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 2 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0581-AC16
_______________________________________________________________________
180. [bull] USER FEES FOR 2003 CROP COTTON CLASSIFICATION SERVICES (CN-
02-006)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 473a
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 28
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 1, 2003.
Abstract: This action would increase the user fees for cotton producers
for the 2003 crop cotton classification services under the Cotton
Statistics and Estimates Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Norma Randall McDill, Deputy Administrator, Department
of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14th & Independence
Avenue SW, Room 2641-South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3193
Fax: 202 690-1718
Email: norma.mcdill@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC17
_______________________________________________________________________
181. [bull] PACA: COATING OR BATTERING FRUITS AND VEGETABLES DOES NOT
ALTER THEIR CHARACTER (FV-02-369)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 499o
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 46
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: On June 21, 2002, the Frozen Potato Products Institute
petitioned the Agricultural Marketing Service to amend the definition
of ``fresh fruits and fresh vegetables'' under the Perishable
Agricultural Commodities Act. We have been asked to clarify our policy
that coating, battering, or otherwise treating fruits and vegetables to
maintain taste, color, and/or texture prior to or after cooking does
not alter their character.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: James R. Frazier, Chief, PACA Branch, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, F&V, P.O. Box 96456,
Washington, DC 20099-6546
Phone: 202 720-4180
Email: james_r_frazier@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC21
_______________________________________________________________________
182. [bull] PLANT VARIETY PROTECTION SERVICES (ST-02-02)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2321; 7 USC 2401
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 97
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The action would establish a new fee schedule covering
various administrative services that stakeholders are not currently
charged for by the Plant Variety Protection (PVP) Office. PVP, as
provided by the Agricultural Marketing Service is a voluntary, user-fee
service, conducted under the authority of the Plant Variety Protection
Act of 1970. The Act requires that reasonable fees be collected from
applicants for plant variety protection in order to cover program
expenses. Program obligations and administrative costs have increased
and user-fees have been falling short of projections. Based on the
current level of activity, new service fees will generate approximately
$169,000 of new revenue in fiscal year 2003.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Paul Zankowski, Dr., Commissioner, Plant Variety
Protection Office, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, 10301 Baltimore Blvd., Room 401, National Agricultural
Library, Beltsville, MD 20705
Phone: 301 504-5518
RIN: 0581-AC22
_______________________________________________________________________
183. [bull] USDA ``PRODUCED FROM'' GRADEMARK FOR SHELL EGGS (PY-02-007)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1627
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is clarifying requirements
for using the USDA ``Produced From'' grademark for shell eggs. These
requirements, in effect since 1998, are causing confusion and need to
be clarified to ensure uniform understanding and implementation of the
requirements.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Rex A. Barnes, Chief, Grading Branch, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Stop 0258, Poultry
Programs, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-3271
Fax: 202 690-3165
Email: rex.barnes@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________
184. [bull] ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR VOLUNTARY SHELL EGG,
POULTRY, AND RABBIT GRADING (PY-02-003)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56; 7 CFR 70
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is updating the
administrative requirements for Federal voluntary egg,
[[Page 74291]]
poultry, and rabbit grading. The regulations, in effect since the
1950s, contain some outdated terms, references, and phrases that need
updating to make them current and clear.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Rex A. Barnes, Chief, Grading Branch, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Stop 0258, Poultry
Programs, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-3271
Fax: 202 690-3165
Email: rex.barnes@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
_______________________________________________________________________
185. HASS AVOCADO PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ORDER (FV-01-705)
Priority: Routine and Frequent
Legal Authority: 7 USC 7801 to 7813
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1219
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Under the Hass Avocado Promotion, Research, and Information
Order, an industry board appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture will
conduct a program of promotion, research, and information in order to
increase consumption of fresh Hass avocados in the United States.
Domestic producers and importers will pay an assessment of 2.5 cents
per pound on the fresh Hass avocados they produce and import,
respectively, to fund the program. The board will be supervised by USDA
and pay a user fee to USDA to cover the cost of USDA oversight.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/13/01 66 FR 36869
NPRM Comment Period End 08/27/01
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Margaret B. Irby, Assistant Branch Chief, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Stop 0244, Fruit &
Vegetable Programs, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-0244
Phone: 202 720-9915
Fax: 202 205-2800
Email: margaret.irby@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________
186. MANGO PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ORDER (FV-01-707)
Priority: Routine and Frequent
Legal Authority: 7 USC 7411 through 7425
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1206
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Under the Mango Promotion, Research, and Information Order
(Order), an industry board appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture
will conduct a program of promotion, research, and information in order
to increase consumption of mangos in the United States. Domestic
handlers and importers will pay an assessment of one half cent per
pound on the mangos they handle and import, respectively, to fund the
program. The board will be supervised by USDA and pay a user fee to
USDA to cover the cost of USDA oversight.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/26/02 67 FR 54920
NPRM Comment Period End 10/25/02
Final Action 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Margaret B. Irby, Assistant Branch Chief, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Stop 0244, Fruit &
Vegetable Programs, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-0244
Phone: 202 720-9915
Fax: 202 205-2800
Email: margaret.irby@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________
187. [bull] FLUE-CURED TOBACCO ADVISORY COMMITTEE: AMENDMENT TO
REGULATIONS (TB-02-14)
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
Legal Authority: 5 USC (App.) Departmental Regulation 1042-52
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 29
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action amends the Flue-cured Tobacco Advisory Committee
regulations by removing the sections that reference composition and
representation on the Committee. Removal of these regulations will
eliminate lengthy rulemaking procedures and will allow the Committee to
react more quickly to new marketing changes or shifts in the industry
to maintain an orderly marketing system.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action (Direct Final) 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: John P. Duncan III, Deputy Administrator, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Ag Code 0280, Tobacco
Programs, Room 502 Annex Bldg., P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-
6456
Phone: 202 205-0567
Fax: 202 205-0235
Email: john.duncan3@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC11
[[Page 74292]]
_______________________________________________________________________
188. [bull] QUALITY SYSTEMS VERIFICATION PROGRAM (LS-02-10)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 62
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is moving the
responsibility for the administration of the Quality Systems
Certification program from the Livestock and Seed Program's Meat
Grading and Certification Branch, to the Audit, Review, and Compliance
Branch; establishing a new user-fee schedule for the program; expanding
the scope of the program to include all agricultural commodities; and
changing the name of the program to the Quality Systems Verification
Program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: Federal
Agency Contact: James L. Riva, Chief, Audit, Review, and Compliance
Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, STOP
0252, Room 2627-South, USDA, AMS, LS, ARC Branch, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-2052
Phone: 202 720-1124
Fax: 202 690-3428
Email: james.riva@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC12
_______________________________________________________________________
189. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM, AMENDMENT TO THE NATIONAL LIST OF
ALLOWED AND PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 through 6522
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action would add substances to the National List of
Allowed and Prohibited Substances recommended by the National Organic
Standards Board.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: State
Federalism: This action may have federalism implications as defined in
EO 13132.
Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Program Manager, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Rm. 2510-South, 14th &
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: richard.mathews@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC19
_______________________________________________________________________
190. [bull] TOBACCO INSPECTION: MANDATORY GRADING (TB-02-11)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Legal Authority: Section 759 of the Agriculture, Rural Development,
Food and Drug Administration; and Related Agencies Appropriations Act
for 2002 (Pub. L. 107-76)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 29
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule will administer mandatory grading for kinds of
tobacco approved by a majority of producers voting in referenda
required under section 759 of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food
and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for
2002 (Pub. L. 107-76) (Appropriations Act). The amended regulation will
provide mandatory grading for these types of tobacco as places other
than designated tobacco auction markets. The amended regulations will
include non-auction tobacco sold at locations (receiving stations)
where tobacco is offered for marketing or shipment into commerce. The
fees for providing this service would be established in the same manner
as user fees for grading of tobacco sold at auction authorized under
the Tobacco Inspection Act. The amended regulations must be made
effective by June 1, 2002, at the beginning of the tobacco marketing
season to fulfill the requirements of the statute to implement
mandatory grading.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 05/23/02 67 FR 36079
Interim Final Rule Effective 05/24/02
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 07/22/02
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: John P. Duncan III, Deputy Administrator, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Ag Code 0280, Tobacco
Programs, Room 502 Annex Bldg., P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-
6456
Phone: 202 205-0567
Fax: 202 205-0235
Email: john.duncan3@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________
191. [bull] ESTABLISHMENT OF MINIMUM QUALITY AND HANDLING STANDARDS FOR
DOMESTIC AND IMPORTED PEANUTS MARKETED IN THE U.S. AND TERMINATION OF
THE PEANUT MARKETING AGREEMENT AND ASSOCIATED RULES AND REGULATIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 996; 7 CFR 997; 7 CFR 998; 7 CFR 999
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Under this rule, mandated by the Farm Security and Rural
Investment Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-171), a new part 996 is established
which requires that all domestic and imported peanuts marketed in the
U.S. be officially inspected. This rule also establishes handling
standards that handlers and importers must follow and edible standards
that all such peanuts intended for edible use must meet prior to
entering human consumption channels. Safeguards to protect against
peanut quality concerns are also specified. This rule also terminates
Peanut Marketing Agreement No. 146 and its implementing rules and
regulations and the companion regulations that apply to imported
peanuts and peanuts handled by persons not subject to the Agreement.
[[Page 74293]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Ronald L. Cioffi, Chief, Marketing Order Administration
Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14th
& Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2491
Email: ronald.cioffi@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC23
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
_______________________________________________________________________
192. COTTON FUTURES ACT: CHANGING THE DESTINATION OF SPOT MARKETS (CN-
01-004)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 27
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/23/02 67 FR 48050
NPRM Comment Period End 09/23/02
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Norma Randall McDill
Phone: 202 720-3193
Fax: 202 690-1718
Email: norma.mcdill@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________
193. [bull] VOLUNTARY EGG, POULTRY, AND RABBIT GRADING, INCREASE IN FEES
AND CHARGES (PY-02-002)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56; 7 CFR 70
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is increasing the fees and
charges for Federal voluntary egg, poultry, and rabbit grading to cover
increase in salaries of Federal employees, salary increases of State
employees cooperatively utilized in administering the program, and
other increased Agency costs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/26/02 67 FR 48816
NPRM Comment Period End 08/26/02
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Rex A. Barnes, Chief, Grading Branch, Department of
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Stop 0258, Poultry
Programs, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-3271
Fax: 202 690-3165
Email: rex.barnes@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC10
_______________________________________________________________________
194. [bull] REMOVAL OF COTTONSEED CHEMIST LICENSING PROGRAM AND FEES
(ST-02-03)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1622 through 1624
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 96
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is removing the
Cottonseed Chemist Licensing Program. The AMS budget office performed a
budget analysis that indicated that even by economizing at every
opportunity, the program will fail to maintain sufficient revenue.
Timetable: Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: James V. Falk, Scientist, Department of Agriculture,
Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 3521-South, Technical Services
Branch, P.O. Box 96456, Room 3523-south, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 690-4089
Fax: 202 720-6496
Email: james.falk@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
_______________________________________________________________________
195. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR DAIRY PLANTS APPROVED FOR USDA
INSPECTION AND GRADING
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 58
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 07/29/02 67 FR 48971
Final Action Effective 08/28/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Duane R. Spomer
Phone: 202 720-7473
Fax: 202 720-2643
Email: duane.spomer@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AB59
[[Page 74294]]
_______________________________________________________________________
196. REVISION OF USER FEES FOR 2002 CROP COTTON CLASSIFICATION SERVICES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 28
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/19/02 67 FR 19357
Final Action 05/24/02 67 FR 36501
Final Action Effective 07/01/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Norma Randall McDill
Phone: 202 720-3193
Fax: 202 690-1718
Email: norma.mcdill@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________
197. ESTABLISHING A LAMB PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ORDER (LS-
01-12)
Priority: Routine and Frequent
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1280
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 04/11/02 67 FR 17847
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Government Levels Affected: Federal
Agency Contact: Marlene M. Betts
Phone: 202 720-1111
RIN: 0581-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________
198. [bull] FLUID MILK PROMOTION PROGRAM (DA-02-02)
Priority: Routine and Frequent
Legal Authority: 7 USC 6401 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1160
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 11, 2002, Final Rule to be
implemented at beginning of the month.
Abstract: Recently enacted Farm Security and Rural Investment of 2002
(2002 Farm Bill) mandated that the Secretary of Agriculture implement
certain amendments--within 90-days after passage of the Act (by 8/11/
02)--to amend the Fluid Milk Promotion Act of 1990.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 08/01/02 67 FR 49857
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: David Jamison, Chief, Promotion and Research Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Stop 0233,
Dairy Progams, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0233
Phone: 202 720-6909
Fax: 202 720-0285
Email: david.jamison2@usda.gov
RIN: 0581-AC14
BILLING CODE 3410-02-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Farm Service Agency (FSA)
_______________________________________________________________________
199. REGULATORY STREAMLINING OF THE FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S DIRECT FARM
LOAN PROGRAMS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 7; 7 CFR 18
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Farm Service Agency's (FSA's) direct farm loan programs
are still using the regulations and handbooks from the former Farmers
Home Administration, and still share many of its regulations, forms,
and handbooks with the Rural Housing Service, Rural Utilities Service,
and the Rural Business-Cooperative Service. This is very cumbersome and
confusing to both Agency employees and the general public. This action
will move all the direct farm loan program regulations from 7 CFR
chapter 18 to 7 CFR chapter 7 and will allow FSA the opportunity to
rewrite and re-engineer its direct farm loan program regulations. This
action also consolidates a number of actions that were previously
included in the regulatory agenda under separate RINs: 0560-AE04, 0560-
AE07, 0560-AE09, 0560-AE11, 0560-AE13, 0560-AE14, 0560-AE15, 0560-AE37,
0560-AE87, 0560-AE88, 0560-AE90, 0560-AE98, and 0560-AE99.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AF60
_______________________________________________________________________
200. [bull] PRODUCER DISQUALIFICATION FOR CROP INSURANCE FRAUD
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 106-224
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1405
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule implements the provisions of the Agricultural Risk
Protection Act of 2000 (ARPA) that provide for producer
disqualification for crop insurance fraud. In case of a violation
committed by a producer, the producer may be disqualified for a period
of up to 5 years from receiving any monetary or non-monetary benefits
under ARPA, the Agricultural Market Transition Act, the Agricultural
Act of 1949, the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act, the
Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938, title XII of the Food Security Act
of 1985, the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act of 1938, or
any law that provides assistance affected by a crop loss or falling
prices. The Secretary has discretion to consider the severity of a
violation in determining
[[Page 74295]]
whether to impose a sanction and the amount of the sanction.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/12/02 67 FR 57759
NPRM Comment Period End 11/12/02
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Sectors Affected: 111 Crop Production
Agency Contact: Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department of
Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, MS 0572, 1400 Indepenedence Avenue
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: phillip_elder@wdc.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG70
_______________________________________________________________________
201. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--LOAN ELIGIBILITY WITH PRIOR DEBT
FORGIVENESS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1941
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action will seek to clarify language needed to implement
the 2002 Farm Bill provisions relating to borrowers who received debt
forgiveness and a change in the eligibility requirements for direct
farm ownership loans: (1) The legislation provides that borrowers who
received debt forgiveness may also be eligible for new direct or
guaranteed operating loans if forgiveness resulted from a declared
major emergency or natural disaster. However, besides areas designated
as natural disasters, low-interest emergency loans are also available
in areas under plant or animal quarantines. This rule will obtain
public comments on the types of emergencies or natural disasters to be
considered eligible. (2) The legislation changes an eligibility
requirement for direct farm ownership loans from persons who
``operated'' a farm to persons who ``participated in the operation of''
a farm. This rule will obtain public comments on the meaning of the new
term. The expected cost is minimal.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Final Action 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG81
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Farm Service Agency (FSA)
_______________________________________________________________________
202. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM
Priority: Economically Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 701; 7 CFR 1410
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The legislation re-
authorized the CRP through 2007. Major changes include increasing the
acreage cap to 39.2 million acres, allowing for managed haying and
grazing, expanding the Farmable Wetlands Pilot Program to all States,
and redefining eligible land to include a fixed cropping history
requirement four out of the prior 6 years. Increased spending of $1.5
billion over 10 years is expected.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG74
_______________________________________________________________________
203. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--GENERAL CREDIT PROVISIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762; 7 CFR 764; 7 CFR 774; 7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 1943;
7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1956; 7 CFR 1962; 7 CFR 1065
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to farm credit as follows: Eligibility time limits on Farm
Service Agency (FSA) direct and guaranteed farm operating loans can be
waived for a period of time and more farmers can qualify for FSA
emergency loan financing; interest-rate assistance on guaranteed
operating loans is made permanent; and annual authorized loan amounts
increase. Beginning farmer and rancher programs are enhanced. Lending
procedures are streamlined, including raising the threshold for which
lenders can submit reduced documentation on loan guarantee
applications. No significant changes in expenditures are expected.
[[Page 74296]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG78
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions
Farm Service Agency (FSA)
_______________________________________________________________________
204. AMENDMENTS TO THE STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL OF WAREHOUSE FOR COMMODITY
CREDIT CORPORATION STORAGE CONTRACTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1423; 7 CFR 1427
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AE50
_______________________________________________________________________
205. DELETION OF FSA REGULATIONS REGARDING COLORADO RIVER BASIN SALINITY
CONTROL PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 702; 7 CFR 703; 7 CFR 752
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AE54
_______________________________________________________________________
206. AMENDMENTS TO THE DEBT SETTLEMENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES TO
CONFORM TO THE DEBT COLLECTION IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1996
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 792; 7 CFR 1403; 7 CFR 1404
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AF22
_______________________________________________________________________
207. AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM REGULATIONS
REGARDING LAND ELIGIBILITY
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/06/01 66 FR 63339
NPRM Comment Period End 02/04/02
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AF77
_______________________________________________________________________
208. EMERGENCY CONSERVATION PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 701
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/01/02 67 FR 49879
NPRM Comment Period End 09/30/02
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG26
_______________________________________________________________________
209. INTEREST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG46
_______________________________________________________________________
210. OCEAN FREIGHT CLAIMS ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL PROCESS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1405; 7 CFR 1499; 22 CFR 211
[[Page 74297]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG49
_______________________________________________________________________
211. ELIMINATION OF 30-DAY PAST-DUE PERIOD FOR FARM LOAN PROGRAM
BORROWERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG50
_______________________________________________________________________
212. TOBACCO MARKETING QUOTAS, CARDS, PENALTY PROVISIONS, RECORDKEEPING
AND REPORTING
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG52
_______________________________________________________________________
213. RESCHEDULING GUARANTEED LOANS WITH BALLOON PAYMENTS, CLARIFICATION
OF ANNUAL ANALYSIS REQUIREMENTS FOR GUARANTEED LENDERS, AND
SUBORDINATION REQUIREMENTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG53
_______________________________________________________________________
214. AMENDMENT TO THE REGULATIONS FOR DETERMINING ACREAGE FOR SKIP-ROW
COTTON
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 718.107
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG55
_______________________________________________________________________
215. PROMPT DISASTER SET-ASIDE CONSIDERATION AND PRIMARY LOAN SERVICING
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/20/02 67 FR 41869
NPRM Comment Period End 08/19/02
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG56
_______________________________________________________________________
216. 2002-CROP MARKETING QUOTAS AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVELS FOR FIVE KINDS
OF TOBACCO
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG58
_______________________________________________________________________
217. 2002-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR BURLEY
TOBACCO
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG59
_______________________________________________________________________
218. 2002-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR FLUE-CURED
TOBACCO
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
[[Page 74298]]
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG60
_______________________________________________________________________
219. SERVICING MINOR FARM LOAN PROGRAM LOANS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 772; 7 CFR 1901-E; 7 CFR 1942-A; 7 CFR 1951-E and
F; 7 CFR 1956-C
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG67
_______________________________________________________________________
220. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--DIRECT AND COUNTER-CYCLICAL
PAYMENTS
Priority: Economically Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1412
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to direct and counter-cyclical payments for commodities,
including peanuts, and for white winter wheat incentive payments.
Specific provisions are as follows: Establishment of base acres and
payment acres for a farm; Establishment of payment yield; Availability
of direct payments; Availability of counter-cyclical payments; Relation
to remaining payment authority under production flexibility contracts;
Establishment of payment yield and base acres for peanuts for a farm;
Availability of direct payments for peanuts; Availability of counter-
cyclical payments for peanuts; Producer agreement required as condition
on provision of direct payments and counter-cyclical payments; Planting
flexibility; Administration generally; Availability of incentive
payments for certain producers. (See the attached sheets for detailed
information.)
Expected Cost: Total outlays, exclusive of the peanut quota buyout are
expected to be about $10.9billion per year. The peanut quota buyout is
expected to cost about $1.3 billion total for the years 2003 - 2006.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG71
_______________________________________________________________________
221. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--ASSISTANCE FOR LIVESTOCK
PRODUCERS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1439
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Secretary may provide assistance to dairy and other
livestock producers to cover economic losses incurred by such producers
in connection with the production of livestock. The assistance may be:
(1) Indemnity payments to livestock producers who incur livestock
mortality losses; (2) Livestock feed assistance to livestock producers
affected by shortages of feed; (3) Compensation for sudden increases in
production costs; and (4) Such other assistance, and for such other
economic losses, as the Secretary considers appropriate. The
legislation provides that funding will be appropriated ``as may be
necessary to carry out'' the program. For comparison, outlays in FY
2001 for the Livestock Assistance, Pasture Recovery, American Indian
Livestock Feed and Livestock Indemnity Programs totaled $480 million.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG76
_______________________________________________________________________
222. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--ACREAGE REPORTING AND COMMON
PROVISIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 718
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to 1) acreage reports, which the Secretary shall require
producers on a farm to submit as a condition on the receipt of direct
or counter-cyclical payments or marketing assistance loans or loan
deficiency payments, to the Secretary annual acreage reports; 2)
producer agreements to be in compliance with conservation and other
requirements in order to be eligible for direct and counter-cyclical
payments; 3) transfers or changes of interest in a farm; 4) sharing of
payments; and 5) for the 2002 crop only, special farm reconstitutions,
in lieu of lease and transfer of allotments and quotas for flue-cured
tobacco. Costs will be minimal.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
[[Page 74299]]
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG79
_______________________________________________________________________
223. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--EQUITABLE RELIEF
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 718
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to equitable relief, by which the Secretary may provide relief
to any participant that is determined not to be in compliance with the
requirements of a covered program, and therefore ineligible for a loan,
payment, or other benefit under the covered program, if the participant
(1) acting in good faith, relied on the action or advice of the
Secretary (including any authorized representative of the Secretary) to
the detriment of the participant; or (2) failed to comply fully with
the requirements of the covered program, but made a good faith effort
to comply with the requirements. The Secretary may authorize a
participant in a covered program to (1) retain loans, payments, or
other benefits received under the covered program; (2) continue to
receive loans, payments, and other benefits under the covered program;
(3) continue to participate, in whole or in part, under any contract
executed under the covered program; (4) in the case of a conservation
program, re-enroll all or part of the land covered by the program; and
(5) receive such other equitable relief as the Secretary determines to
be appropriate. Cost is expected to be minimal due to low incidence of
cases and low dollar amounts of relief.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG80
_______________________________________________________________________
224. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--TREE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 783
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to assistance to orchardists who lost trees as a result of a
natural disaster. ``Natural disaster'' means plant disease, insect
infestation, drought, fire, freeze, flood, earthquake, lightning, and
other occurrence, as determined by the Secretary. Eligible ``trees''
include trees, bushes, and vines. Eligible losses will be those losses
in excess of 15 percent mortality. Reimbursement will be 75 percent of
the cost of re-planting the eligible loss, or at the Secretary's
option, sufficient seedlings to replant the stand. Total assistance is
limited to $75,000 per person or equivalent value in seedlings, and the
total acreage a person can receive payments on is 5,000 acres. There
are authorized to be appropriated such sums as are necessary to carry
out the program. In the last TAP program (1998), net outlays were 20.7
million dollars, and were before there were payment limitations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG83
_______________________________________________________________________
225. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--BIOENERGY PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1424
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions for
the Bioenergy Program. The legislation required the continuation of the
program and made several changes: 1) Modification of the biodiesel
definition, 2) expansion of the list of eligible commodities, including
some grasses, fats, oils and greases and animal by-products, and 3)
allowing producers to enter into multi-year contracts for program
payments. The legislation authorizes up to $150 million per fiscal year
through FY 2006. $0 is specifically provided for 2007.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/01/02 67 FR 61565
NPRM Comment Period End 10/31/02
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG84
[[Page 74300]]
_______________________________________________________________________
226. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--INCOME LIMITS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1400
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to gross income limitations for direct and counter-cyclical
payments and marketing loan and loan deficiency payments. The new
provisions are effective for 2003 and subsequent crop years. A $2.5
million limitation will be applied to individuals and entities who
derive less than 75 percent of their average adjusted income from
farming, ranching, or forestry operations, as determined by the
Secretary. These individuals or entities will be ineligible to receive
direct and counter-cyclical payments, marketing loan gains and loan
deficiency payments and certain conservation payments. The 2002 Act
does not define ``individual,'' but does define an ``entity.'' Under
the statute an ``entity'' is a corporation, joint stock company,
association, limited partnership, charitable organization, or other
similar entity (as determined by the Secretary), including any such
entity or organization participating in the farming operation as a
partner in a general partnership, a participant in a joint venture, a
grantor of a revocable trust, or as a participant in a similar entity
(as determined by the Secretary). The gross income limit will result in
savings about $23 million for 2002 to 2006.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG86
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Farm Service Agency (FSA)
_______________________________________________________________________
227. MEDIATION; AGRICULTURAL LOAN MEDIATION PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1946 subpart A
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 09/10/02 67 FR 57309
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: State
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AE26
_______________________________________________________________________
228. NONINSURED CROP DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM REGULATIONS FOR THE
2001 AND SUCCEEDING CROP YEARS
Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 03/19/02 67 FR 12446
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 04/19/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG20
_______________________________________________________________________
229. CONSERVATION OF FARMABLE WETLANDS
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 05/02/01 66 FR 22098
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG38
_______________________________________________________________________
230. TOBACCO LOSS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND AMENDMENTS TO THE TOBACCO
MARKETING QUOTA REGULATIONS
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1464
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 10/23/01 66 FR 53507
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG40
_______________________________________________________________________
231. COLLECTING GUARANTEED LOSS PAYMENTS FROM FSA FARM LOAN PROGRAM
BORROWERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 07/01/02 67 FR 44015
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG44
[[Page 74301]]
_______________________________________________________________________
232. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE U.S. WAREHOUSE ACT OF 2000
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 735 to 742
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 08/05/02 67 FR 50778
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG45
_______________________________________________________________________
233. HORSE BREEDER LOANS
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 764 and 775
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice 07/05/02 67 FR 44799
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Cathy Quayle
Phone: 202 690-4018
Fax: 202 721-1117
Email: cathy_quayle@wdc.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG62
_______________________________________________________________________
234. APPLE MARKET LOSS PAYMENT PROGRAM II
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1470
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/19/02 67 FR 47477
Final Action 09/12/02 67 FR 57719
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG63
_______________________________________________________________________
235. LIMITATIONS ON AMOUNT OF GUARANTEED FARM OWNERSHIP AND OPERATING
LOANS
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762; 7 CFR 761
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 06/18/02 67 FR 41311
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Phillip Elder
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: phillip_elder@wdc.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG64
_______________________________________________________________________
236. SALE AND PURCHASE OF FLUE-CURED TOBACCO ACROSS COUNTY LINES
(FLORIDA AND GEORGIA)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 06/18/02 67 FR 41310
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG68
_______________________________________________________________________
237. [bull] BOLL WEEVIL ERADICATION LOAN PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 770; 7 CFR 1941
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The purpose of the Boll Weevil Eradication Loan Program is to
assist producers, through non-profit and state governmental agencies,
in the eradication of the boll weevil from cotton producing states. The
current regulations allow only private non-profit organizations to be
eligible for a loan from FSA. State-run organizations, with the same
organizational and operating staff, boards, goals. and purpose, are
currently not authorized to take part in program benefits. Also,
eligible applicants must currently document that they are unable to get
a loan elsewhere.
This action will make three changes to the regulations. First, State
Agencies dedicated to the elimination of the boll weevil and recognized
by APHIS will be eligible to secure loan funds through FSA's Boll
Weevil Eradication Loan Program. Secondly, eligible applicants will not
need to document that they are unable to get a loan elsewhere. And
finally, the rule will be moved from 7 CFR 1941, subpart C, to 7 CFR
770.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 06/24/02 67 FR 59770
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Sectors Affected: 11192 Cotton Farming
Agency Contact: Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department of
Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, MS 0572, 1400 Indepenedence Avenue
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: phillip_elder@wdc.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG69
_______________________________________________________________________
238. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--MARKETING ASSISTANCE LOANS AND
LOAN DEFICIENCY PAYMENTS; MILK PRICE SUPPORT AND DAIRY MARKET LOSS;
APPLE MARKET LOSS
Priority: Economically Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1425; 7 CFR 1427; 7 CFR 1430; 7 CFR
1434
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to commodity loans and loan deficiency payments, including
peanuts, and the Milk Price Support Program. Specific provisions are as
follows: Loan rates for nonrecourse marketing assistance loans; Term of
loans; Repayment of loans; Loan deficiency payments; Payments in lieu
of loan deficiency payments for grazed acreage; Special marketing loan
provisions for upland cotton; Special competitive provisions for extra
long staple cotton; Availability of recourse loans for high moisture
feed grains and seed cotton; Marketing assistance loans and loan
deficiency payments for peanuts; Milk Price Support Program; National
dairy market loss payments;
[[Page 74302]]
Dairy export incentive and dairy indemnity programs; Adjustments of
loans; Personal liability of producers for deficiencies; Extension of
existing administrative authority regarding loans; Market loss
assistance for apple producers. Total outlays are expected to be about
$6.2 billion per year.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action--7 CFR 1421 10/11/02 67 FR 63506
Final Action Effective--7 CFR
1421 10/08/02
Final Action--7 CFR 1425, 1427,
1430, and 1434 10/18/02 67 FR 64454
Final Action Effective--7 CFR
1425, 1427, 1430, and 1434 10/15/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG72
_______________________________________________________________________
239. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--SUGAR PROGRAM
Priority: Economically Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1435; 7 CFR 1436
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to the Sugar Program, which is re-authorized through FY 2007.
The legislation terminates marketing assessments; makes in-process
sugars eligible for loans; reinstitutes the ``no-cost'' provision;
grants CCC authority to establish a payment-in-kind program; caps the
minimum payment requirement for sugar beet growers; eliminates the
forfeiture penalty; provides for storage facility loans; and
establishes flexible marketing allotments. A cost savings of $245
million is expected for 2002, and average outlays of $78 million for
2003 to 2006.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 08/26/02 67 FR 54926
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG73
_______________________________________________________________________
240. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--TERMINATION OF PEANUT MARKET
QUOTA PROGRAM AND REVISED FLUE-CURED TOBACCO RESERVE STOCK LEVEL
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 727
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to the termination of the peanut market quota program and the
change in the flue-cured tobacco reserve stock level. It will also
repeal superseded price support authority. No cost is expected.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 10/09/02 67 FR 62871
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG75
_______________________________________________________________________
241. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--PAYMENT LIMITS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1400
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provisions
relating to payment limitations for direct and counter-cyclical
payments and marketing loan and loan deficiency payments. The payment
limitations per ``person'' are as follows: $40,000 for direct payments,
$65,000 for counter-cyclical payments and $75,000 for loan deficiency
payments and marketing loan gains, for a total amount of $180,000. In
addition, the three-entity rule allows receipt of direct and indirect
payments through no more than three entities. If an individual receives
$180,000 as an individual and also holds 50 percent in two corporations
not combined as one ``person,'' the total amount received directly and
indirectly would be $360,000. The payment limitation will result in
savings of $97 million for 2002 to 2006.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 10/01/02 67 FR 61468
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG77
_______________________________________________________________________
242. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--SEA GRASS AND SEA OATS
ELIGIBILITY FOR THE NON-INSURED DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437
Legal Deadline: None
[[Page 74303]]
Abstract: This action will implement the 2002 Farm Bill provision
making oats and sea grass eligible for the Non-Insured Disaster
Assistance Program (NAP). Previously, NAP assistance was only available
for crops grown for agricultural production or ornamental uses. It was
not available for crops grown for conservation purposes. Sea oats,
although used for conservation purposes, also had been used for
ornamental purposes and was determined to be eligible by CCC. Sea grass
was only used for conservation purposes and was not eligible. Expected
cost is minimal, due to few participants.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 10/07/02 67 FR 62323
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG82
_______________________________________________________________________
243. [bull] 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--APPLE MARKET LOSS ASSISTANCE
PAYMENT PROGRAM III
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1470
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, August 10, 2002.
Abstract: This final rule implements the Apple Market Loss Assistance
Payment Program III. The program will provide direct payments to apple
producers to provide relief due to the low prices received for their
2000 crop.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 10/11/02 67 FR 63242
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mr. Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service
Agency, Room 0339 South Building, MS 0572, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: tom_witzig@wdc.fsa.usda.gov
RIN: 0560-AG85
BILLING CODE 3410-05-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Prerule Stage
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
244. POTENTIAL PATHWAYS FOR THE SPREAD OF BOVINE SPONGIFORM
ENCEPHALOPATHY IN U.S. LIVESTOCK
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8316
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: We are soliciting public comment to help us develop
approaches to control risks that dead stock and nonambulatory animals
could serve as potential pathways for the spread of bovine spongiform
encephalopathy, if that disease should ever be introduced into the
United States. We are also seeking comments on the role of rendering in
dead stock disposal. We are publishing this notice to collect
information that could help us address animal disease risks associated
with nonambulatory animals and dead stock.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 11/00/02
ANPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Lisa Ferguson, Senior Staff Veterinarian,
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
Unit 41, Emergency Programs, VS, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-
1237
Phone: 301 734-8073
RIN: 0579-AB43
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
245. IMPORTATION OF FUJI VARIETY APPLES FROM THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7718;
7 USC 7731 to 7732; 7 USC 7751 to 7754; 21 USC 136 to 136a
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56-2cc
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action would amend the regulations that allow Fuji
variety apples to be imported into the United States. It would allow
Fuji variety apples to be imported from the Republic of Korea under a
systems approach, including strict cultural control conditions, from
certified orchards. This action is in response to a request from the
Republic of Korea.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/26/00 65 FR 24423
NPRM Comment Period End 06/26/00
NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/22/00 65 FR 50937
[[Page 74304]]
NPRM Comment Period End 10/23/00
Notice of Availability and
Request for Comments; Pest Risk
Assessment 11/00/02
Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Wayne D. Burnett, Senior Import Specialist, PIM, PPQ,
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799
RIN: 0579-AA93
_______________________________________________________________________
246. BLOOD AND TISSUE COLLECTION AT LIVESTOCK SLAUGHTERING
ESTABLISHMENTS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8316
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 71
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: We are considering establishing requirements for the
collection of blood and tissue samples from livestock (horses, cattle,
bison, sheep, and swine) and poultry at slaughter establishments when
it is necessary for disease surveillance. Under this proposal, any
person who moves an animal interstate for slaughter could only move the
animal to a slaughter establishment that has been approved by the
Administrator. The Administrator would approve a slaughter
establishment after determining that it is not necessary to conduct
testing at the establishment or determining that it is necessary to
conduct testing at the establishment and the establishment provides
space and facilities to collect blood and tissue samples for disease
testing. This collection of blood and tissue samples would enable us to
identify animals at slaughter that are affected by various communicable
diseases. This change would affect persons moving animals interstate
for slaughter, slaughter plants that receive animals in interstate
commerce, and in cases where an animal that tests positive can be
successfully traced back to its herd or flock of origin, the owners of
such herds or flocks. The long-term effects of this change would be to
improve surveillance programs for animal diseases and to contribute to
the eventual control or eradication of such diseases.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Dr. Diane Sutton, Senior Staff Veterinarian, VS,
National Animal Health Programs, Department of Agriculture, Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 43, 4700 River Road, Riverdale,
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4363
RIN: 0579-AB13
_______________________________________________________________________
247. PLUM POX COMPENSATION
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 7711 to 7712; 7 USC 7714; 7 USC 7731;
7 USC 7735; 7 USC 7751 to 7754; sec 301.75-15 also issued under sec
204, title II, PL 106-113; 113 Stat 1501A-293; sec 301.75-15 and
301.75.16 also issued under sec 203; title II, PL 106-224, 114 Stat 400
(7 USC 1421 note)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301.74-5
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule provides for the payment of compensation to the
owners of commercial stone fruit orchards and fruit tree nurseries who
had stone fruit trees or nursery stock destroyed in order to control
plum pox. The payment of these funds is necessary in order to reduce
the economic impact of the plum pox quarantine on affected commercial
stone fruit growers and fruit tree nursery owners. APHIS anticipates
publishing a proposed rule to address plum pox compensation issues that
have arisen since the close of the interim rule's comment period.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 09/14/00 65 FR 55431
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 11/13/00
NPRM 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Stephen R. Poe, Operations Officer, Program Support
Staff, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service, Unit 134, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8247
RIN: 0579-AB19
_______________________________________________________________________
248. BEES, BEEKEEPING BYPRODUCTS, AND BEEKEEPING EQUIPMENT (SECTION 610
REVIEW)
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 281; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772;
21 USC 136 to 136a
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319; 7 CFR 322
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule would revise the regulations for the importation of
honeybees and honeybee semen. Among other things, it would allow, under
certain conditions, the importation into the United States of honeybees
from Australia and honeybees and honeybee germ plasm from New Zealand.
It also would make these regulations more consistent with standards
established by the Office International des Epizooties, update them to
reflect current research and terminology, and simplify them and make
them more useful.
In addition, the rule would combine the regulations for the importation
of honeybees and honeybee semen with the regulations established to
prevent the introduction of exotic bee diseases and parasites through
the importation of bees other than honeybees, certain beekeeping
byproducts, and used beekeeping equipment. This change would make the
regulations more useful by consolidating all of the requirements
related to the importation of bees, beekeeping byproducts, and used
beekeeping equipment into one part.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/19/02 67 FR 53844
NPRM Comment Period End 11/18/02
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
[[Page 74305]]
Agency Contact: Dr. Wayne Wehling, Permits and Risk Assessment, PPQ,
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
Unit 141, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1228
Phone: 301 734-8757
RIN: 0579-AB20
_______________________________________________________________________
249. VETERINARY DIAGNOSTIC USER FEES--5-YEAR PLAN FOR FEES (SECTION 610
REVIEW)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 5542; 7 USC 1622; 7 USC 8301 to 8316; 21 USC 136
to 136a; 31 USC 3716 to 3717; 31 USC 3719; 31 USC 3720A; 31 USC 9701
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 130
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: We are proposing user fees for multiple fiscal years for
APHIS' Veterinary Services' veterinary diagnostic user fee goods and
services. We are proposing this action in order to ensure that we
recover the full costs of providing these goods and services.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Donna Ford, User Fee Section Head, FSSB, BASE, MRPBS,
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8351
RIN: 0579-AB22
_______________________________________________________________________
250. SALMONELLA ENTERITIDIS PHAGE-TYPE 4; REMOVE IMPORT RESTRICTIONS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7751; 7 USC 7754;
7 USC 8301 to 8316; 21 USC 136 to 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 4331 to
4332
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 71; 9 CFR 82; 9 CFR 94
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule would amend the regulations to remove import
restrictions on eggs (other than hatching eggs) of poultry, game birds,
and other birds from regions where Salmonella enteritidis phage-type 4
exists. Previously, Salmonella enteritidis phage-type 4 had not been
isolated in the United States; therefore, those import restrictions
were necessary to help prevent Salmonella enteritidis phage type-4 from
being introduced into this country. However, Salmonella enteritidis
phage-type 4 is now known to be present in the United States. This
action would eliminate restrictions on the importation of eggs from
regions where Salmonella enteritidis phage-type 4 exists. This rule
would also remove our domestic regulations regarding poultry disease
caused by Salmonella enteritidis serotype enteritidis. These
regulations are no longer enforced.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Michael David, Asst. Director, Sanitary
International Standards Team, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture,
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 33, 4700 River Road,
Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301 734-8093
RIN: 0579-AB31
_______________________________________________________________________
251. CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE IN ELK AND DEER; INTERSTATE MOVEMENT
RESTRICTIONS AND PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 3 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0579-AB35
_______________________________________________________________________
252. IMPORTATION OF MILK AND MILK PRODUCTS FROM FMD COUNTRIES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7751; 7 USC 7754;
7 USC 8303; 7 USC 8306; 7 USC 8308; 7 USC 8310 to 8311; 7 USC 8315; 21
USC 136 to 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 4331 to 4332
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 94
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule would amend the regulations regarding the
importation of animal products to establish additional processing and
handling requirements for milk and milk products imported from regions
in which foot-and-mouth disease exists. Additionally, it would require
that those materials, when imported from regions in which foot-and-
mouth disease exists, be accompanied by government certification
regarding the production, processing, and handling of the materials. We
believe these actions are necessary to ensure that materials containing
the foot-and-mouth disease virus are not imported into the United
States.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Karen A. James-Preston, Assistant Director,
Technical Trade Services Team, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture,
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Riverdale,
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8364
RIN: 0579-AB38
_______________________________________________________________________
253. [bull] IMPORTATION OF SOLID WOOD PACKING MATERIAL; ADOPTION OF
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7718;
7 USC 7731 to 7732; 7 USC 7751 to 7754; 21 USC 136 to 136a
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule would amend the regulations for the
importation of unmanufactured wood articles to adopt an international
standard entitled ``Guidelines for Regulating Wood Packaging Material
in International Trade'' that was approved by the Interim Commission on
Phytosanitary Measures of the International Plant Protection Convention
on March 15, 2002. The standard calls for wood packaging
[[Page 74306]]
material to be either heat treated or fumigated with methyl bromide, in
accordance with the Guidelines, and marked with an approved
international mark certifying treatment. We propose to adopt the IPPC
Guidelines because recent analyses of pest interceptions at ports show
an increase in pests associated with certain wood packaging material.
This increase in pests was found in wood packaging material that does
not meet the IPPC Guidelines' (e.g., wood packaging material from
everywhere except China, which must already be treated due to past pest
interceptions). There has been a decrease in pests associated with wood
packaging material from China, however, since we began requiring that
material be treated prior to importation. This change would affect all
persons using wood packaging material in connection with importing
goods into the United States.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Raymond Nosbaum, Senior Regulatory Coordinator, PPQ,
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
Unit 131, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-6280
RIN: 0579-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
254. ANIMAL WELFARE; INSPECTION, LICENSING, AND PROCUREMENT OF ANIMALS
(SECTION 610 REVIEW)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 1 to 2
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action would make several amendments to the Animal
Welfare Act regulations to clarify them and improve their
enforceability. In addition, it would amend a number of administrative
procedures to make them more efficient. We believe these actions are
necessary to help ensure compliance with the regulations and the Animal
Welfare Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/04/00 65 FR 47908
NPRM Comment Period End 10/03/00
NPRM Comment Period Reopened and
Extended 10/19/00 65 FR 62650
NPRM Comment Period End 11/20/00
Final Action 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Dr. Barbara Kohn, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Animal
Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service, Unit 84, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-7833
RIN: 0579-AA94
_______________________________________________________________________
255. PHYTOSANITARY TREATMENT BY IRRADIATION OF IMPORTED FRESH FRUITS AND
VEGETABLES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 21 USC 136
to 136a
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 305; 7 CFR 319
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rulemaking would establish irradiation as a new
treatment alternative for the importation of certain fresh fruits and
vegetables. Irradiation would be allowed as an alternative to
mitigation measures that are required to control certain species of
fruit flies in a variety of imported fruits and vegetables. If this
proposal is adopted, importers of certain fruits and vegetables will
have an additional alternative to the currently approved treatments,
such as fumigation and cold treatment, for treating their articles. No
net societal gains and losses other than small price-related changes
are expected from this rulemaking.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Policy Statement for Irradiation
Treatment of Fresh Fruits and
Vegetables 05/15/98 63 FR 24433
NPRM 05/26/00 65 FR 34113
NPRM Comment Period End 07/25/00
Supplemental NPRM 03/15/02 67 FR 11610
Supplemental NPRM Comment Period
End 04/15/02
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Inder Paul Gadh, Import Specialist, Phytosanitary
Issues Management Team, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale,
MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-5210
RIN: 0579-AA97
_______________________________________________________________________
256. IMPORTATION OF UNMANUFACTURED WOOD ARTICLES FROM MEXICO
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7718;
7 USC 7731 to 7732; 7 USC 7751 to 7754; 21 USC 136 to 136a
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action would add restrictions on the importation of pine
and fir logs and lumber, as well as other unmanufactured wood articles,
from Mexico. These wood articles from Mexico would have to meet certain
treatment and handling requirements to be eligible for importation into
the United States. We believe this action is necessary to prevent the
introduction into the United States of dangerous plant pests, including
forest pests, with unmanufactured wood articles from Mexico.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/11/99 64 FR 31512
[[Page 74307]]
NPRM Comment Period End 08/10/99
Final Action 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Wayne D. Burnett, Senior Import Specialist, PIM, PPQ,
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799
RIN: 0579-AB02
_______________________________________________________________________
257. ESTABLISHMENT OF REGIONS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION FOR CLASSICAL SWINE
FEVER, FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE, AND SWINE VESICULAR DISEASE
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7751; 7 USC 7754;
7 USC 8301 to 8316; 21 USC 136 to 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 4331 to
4332
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 92; 9 CFR 94; 9 CFR 98
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action would recognize certain regions in the European
Union as regions where classical swine fever is not known to exist and
from which live swine, swine semen, and pork and pork products may be
imported into the United States under certain conditions. Additionally,
it would recognize Greece as free of swine vesicular disease and
recognize eight regions in Italy as free of swine vesicular disease.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/25/99 64 FR 34155
NPRM Comment Period End 08/24/99
Notice of Availability of a Risk
Assessment 05/03/02 67 FR 22388
Comment Period End 07/17/02
Final Action 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. S. Anne Goodman, Supervisory Staff Officer,
Regionalization Evaluation Services, NCIE, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 38, 4700
River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4929
RIN: 0579-AB03
_______________________________________________________________________
258. NURSERY STOCK REGULATIONS (SECTION 610 REVIEW)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7718;
7 USC 7731 to 7732; 7 USC 7751 to 7754; 21 USC 136 to 136a
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 300; 7 CFR 319
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: We are proposing to amend the regulations for importing
nursery stock to provide additional treatment certifications for the
importation of niger seed and lilac, to reflect recent changes in plant
taxonomy and pest distributions, and to make various changes to the
requirements for postentry quarantine of imported plants. We are also
proposing several other amendments to update and clarify the
regulations and improve their effectiveness.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/28/01 66 FR 67123
NPRM Comment Period End 02/26/02
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: William Thomas, Import Specialist, PIM, PPQ, Department
of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 140,
4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799
RIN: 0579-AB23
_______________________________________________________________________
259. FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 4 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0579-AB34
_______________________________________________________________________
260. INFECTIOUS SALMON ANEMIA; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8316
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 53
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule amended the regulations regarding the control and
eradication of certain communicable diseases of livestock or poultry to
provide for the payment of indemnity to producers in the State of Maine
for fish destroyed due to infectious salmon anemia. Because
depopulation is necessary to control infectious salmon anemia, a
successful control program will provide for indemnification of
depopulated fish to gain producer support. This action will, therefore,
increase the effectiveness of our efforts to control infectious salmon
anemia in Maine and prevent further outbreaks of the disease.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 04/11/02 67 FR 17605
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 06/10/02
Affirmation of Interim Final
Rule 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: State
Agency Contact: Dr. Otis Miller Jr., National Aquaculture Coordinator,
NAHP, Veterinary Services, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service, Unit 36, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD
20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8715
RIN: 0579-AB37
_______________________________________________________________________
261. ANIMAL WELFARE; POLICY ON TRAINING AND HANDLING OF POTENTIALLY
DANGEROUS ANIMALS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: APHIS's Animal Welfare Act regulations require exhibitors and
other regulated entities that handle potentially dangerous animals to
provide a sufficient number of adequately trained personnel to handle
and care for the animals and to provide adequate protection from risk
for the general public when animals are exhibited.
APHIS is preparing a final policy statement to provide guidance to
[[Page 74308]]
exhibitors and other regulated entities for the training and handling
of potentially dangerous animals, adequate experience and training of
trainers, handlers, and attendants, and points to consider when
developing emergency contingency plans. The final policy statement
addresses the comments received in response to our draft policy
statement.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Draft Policy Statement 02/18/00 65 FR 8318
Comment Period End 04/18/00
Final Policy Statement 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Barbara Kohn, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Animal
Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection
Service, Unit 84, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-7833
Related RIN: Previously reported as 0579-AB12
RIN: 0579-AB39
_______________________________________________________________________
262. ADDITIONAL RESTRICTIONS ON THE IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN RUMINANT
MEAT, MEAT PRODUCTS, AND EDIBLE PRODUCTS OTHER THAN MEAT FROM BSE
REGIONS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8316
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 94; 9 CFR 96
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: We are amending the regulations governing the importation
into the United States of meat and meat products from ruminants and
other ruminant products to restrict the importation of meat and meat
products from ruminants and certain other ruminant products that were
processed or stored in regions where bovine spongiform encephalopathy
exists or regions considered to present an undue risk of introducing
bovine spongiform encephalopathy into the United States. This action is
necessary to ensure that materials containing the bovine spongiform
encephalopathy agent are not imported into the United States.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 02/00/03
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 04/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Donna L. Malloy, Senior Staff Veterinarian,
Technical Trade Services, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal
and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 38, 4700 River Road,
Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-3277
RIN: 0579-AB41
_______________________________________________________________________
263. BRUCELLOSIS IN SHEEP, GOATS, AND HORSES; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY
(SECTION 610 REVIEW)
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8316
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 51
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: We are proposing to amend the brucellosis indemnity
regulations to allow us to pay indemnity for sheep, goats, and horses
destroyed because of brucellosis. This action would make it easier to
eliminate affected herds/flocks and infected animals as sources of
infection by encouraging herd and flock owners to cooperate with our
brucellosis eradication program. This action is intended to help reduce
the incidence of brucellosis and the likelihood of it spreading within
the United States.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/13/01 66 FR 47593
NPRM Comment Period End 11/13/01
Final Action 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Valerie Ragan, Senior Staff Veterinarian, National
Animal Health Programs, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service, Unit 43, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD
20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-7708
RIN: 0579-AB42
_______________________________________________________________________
264. [bull] LOW PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8316
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 53
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: We are amending our general indemnity regulations to allow
the Department to pay indemnity to contract growers and owners for
poultry destroyed because of low pathogenic avian influenza associated
with a disease situation in Virginia. The Department will pay all
eligible losses of contract growers and up to 50 percent of eligible
losses of owners, minus any amount paid to the contract grower of a
flock.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: Federal
Agency Contact: Dr. Cheryl Hall, Staff Veterinarian, Planning,
Certification, and Monitoring Staff, VS, Department of Agriculture,
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 46, 4700 River Road,
Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4924
RIN: 0579-AB46
_______________________________________________________________________
265. [bull] BIOLOGICAL AGENTS AND TOXINS
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 5 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0579-AB47
[[Page 74309]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
266. IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN EMBRYOS AND ANIMAL SEMEN (SECTION 610
REVIEW)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 98
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 07/08/93 58 FR 36625
ANPRM Comment Period End 09/07/93
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Roger Perkins
Phone: 301 734-8364
RIN: 0579-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________
267. PLANT PEST REGULATIONS; UPDATE OF CURRENT PROVISIONS (SECTION 610
REVIEW)
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 330
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/27/96 61 FR 50767
ANPRM Comment Period End 12/26/96
NPRM 10/09/01 66 FR 51340
NPRM Comment Period End 02/06/02
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert Flanders
Phone: 301 734-5930
RIN: 0579-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________
268. IMPORTATION OF SOLID WOOD PACKING MATERIAL
Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 01/20/99 64 FR 3049
ANPRM Comment Period End 03/22/99
Notice 07/07/99 64 FR 36608
Comment Period End 09/07/99
Notice 10/17/00 65 FR 61301
NPRM 01/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Raymond Nosbaum
Phone: 301 734-6280
RIN: 0579-AA99
_______________________________________________________________________
269. HORSE PROTECTION; HORSE INDUSTRY ORGANIZATIONS
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 11
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Jodie Kulpa
Phone: 301 734-7833
RIN: 0579-AB04
_______________________________________________________________________
270. PSEUDORABIES IN SWINE; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 52
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 01/12/99 64 FR 2545
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 04/16/99
Interim Final Rule 04/18/00 65 FR 20706
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 06/19/00
Affirmation of Interim Rules To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Arnold C. Taft
Phone: 301 734-4916
RIN: 0579-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________
271. PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATES FOR IMPORTED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56 to 319.56-8
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/29/01 66 FR 45637
NPRM Comment Period End 10/29/01
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Wayne D. Burnett
Phone: 301 734-6799
RIN: 0579-AB18
_______________________________________________________________________
272. ANIMAL WELFARE: MARINE MAMMALS; NONCONSENSUS LANGUAGE AND
INTERACTIVE PROGRAMS
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 05/30/02 67 FR 37731
ANPRM Comment Period End 07/29/02
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Barbara Kohn
Phone: 301 734-7833
RIN: 0579-AB24
_______________________________________________________________________
273. IMPORTATION PROHIBITIONS BECAUSE OF BOVINE SPONGIFORM
ENCEPHALOPATHY
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 94.18; 9 CFR 95.1; 9 CFR 95.4; 9 CFR 95.29 (New)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
IRM Retroactively Effective 12/07/00
Interim Final Rule 08/14/01 66 FR 42595
Sec 95.29 Effective 08/14/01
Comment Period End 10/15/01
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Donna L. Malloy
Phone: 301 734-3277
RIN: 0579-AB26
[[Page 74310]]
_______________________________________________________________________
274. ANIMALS DESTROYED BECAUSE OF TUBERCULOSIS; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 50
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 02/20/02 67 FR 7583
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 04/22/02
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Joseph Van Tiem
Phone: 301 734-7716
RIN: 0579-AB29
_______________________________________________________________________
275. DRAFT ACTION PLAN FOR THE NOXIOUS WEEDS PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 360
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Notice 01/28/02 67 FR 3874
Comment Period End 03/29/02
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Alan V. Tasker
Phone: 301 734-5225
RIN: 0579-AB30
_______________________________________________________________________
276. TUBERCULOSIS; INDEMNITY FOR DAIRY CATTLE
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 50
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 07/26/02 67 FR 48745
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 09/24/02
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Joseph Van Tiem
Phone: 301 734-7716
RIN: 0579-AB36
_______________________________________________________________________
277. AMEND REGULATIONS TO HARMONIZE OUR IMPORT REQUIREMENTS WITH
PROPOSED NATIONAL TUBERCULOSIS ERADICATION PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: S. Anne Goodman
Phone: 301 734-4929
RIN: 0579-AB44
_______________________________________________________________________
278. KARNAL BUNT COMPENSATION
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 05/01/02 67 FR 21561
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 07/01/02
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert G. Spaide
Phone: 301 734-7819
Related RIN: Related To 0579-AA83
RIN: 0579-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
279. IMPORTATION OF CLEMENTINES FROM SPAIN
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 300; 7 CFR 319
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/11/02 67 FR 45922
Final Action Effective 10/15/02
Final Action 10/21/02 67 FR 64702
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Inder Paul Gadh
Phone: 301 734-5210
RIN: 0579-AB40
BILLING CODE 3410-34-S
[[Page 74311]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES)
_______________________________________________________________________
280. [bull] MATCHING REQUIREMENTS FOR FORMULA FUNDS FOR AGRICULTURAL
RESEARCH AND EXTENSION ACTIVITIES AT THE 1890 LAND-GRANT INSTITUTIONS
AND AT THE 1862 LAND-GRANT INSTITUTIONS IN INSULAR AREAS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 361a et seq; 7 USC 341 et seq; 7 USC 1449
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3419
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Passage of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of
2002, Sections 7212 and 7213, has changed the matching requirements for
the 1890 Land-Grant Institutions and the 1862 Land-Grant Institutions
in insular areas. Issues regarding the use of matching funds, sources
of matching funds, and matching waivers for the Insular 1862 Land-Grant
Institutions need to be clarified.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
Final Action 08/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Ellen Danus, Policy Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension
Service, STOP 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-
2299
Phone: 202 401-4325
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: edanus@reeusda.gov
RIN: 0524-AA25
_______________________________________________________________________
281. [bull] CSREES AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION FORMULA PROGRAMS--
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 341 et seq; 7 USC 1444
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Passage of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of
2002, sections 7212 and 7213, has resulted in the need for CSREES to
clarify its distribution of funding, matching requirements, carryover
provisions, and reporting requirements for Extension programs at 1862
Land-Grant Institutions and 1890 Land-Grant Institutions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Ellen Danus, Policy Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension
Service, STOP 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-
2299
Phone: 202 401-4325
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: edanus@reeusda.gov
RIN: 0524-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________
282. [bull] CSREES AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH FORMULA PROGRAMS--
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 361a et seq; 7 USC 1445; 7 USC 1622; 16 USC 582a
et seq
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Passage of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of
2002, sections 7202, 7204, 7212, and 7213, has resulted in the need for
CSREES to clarify its distribution of funding, matching requirements,
carryover provisions, and reporting requirements for the Hatch Act
funds, Hatch Multi-State Research funds, Evans-Allen Program funds,
McIntire-Stennis Cooperative Forestry Act funds, and Animal Health and
Disease Research funds.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Ellen Danus, Policy Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension
Service, STOP 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-
2299
Phone: 202 401-4325
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: edanus@reeusda.gov
RIN: 0524-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________
283. [bull] CSREES NON-FORMULA GRANT PROGRAMS--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 450i; PL 101-624; PL 105-185; PL 104-127; ...
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3427; 7 CFR 3400; 7 CFR 3402; 7 CFR 3405; 7 CFR
3406; ...
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: CSREES plans to propose one administrative provision that
contains the elements common to all of the competitive and
noncompetitive grant programs it administers. In a relatively short
period of time, this will allow the Agency to apply basic rules to
grant programs that are currently operating without them, including new
non-formula grant programs created by the passage of the Farm Security
and Rural Investment Act of 2002.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Erin Daly, Policy Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension
Service, STOP 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-
2299
Phone: 202 401-3319
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: edaly@reeusda.gov
RIN: 0524-AA28
BILLING CODE 3410-09-S
[[Page 74312]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Rural Housing Service (RHS)
_______________________________________________________________________
284. CIVIL RIGHTS COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS--1901-E TO 1940-D
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 100-259; 29 USC 794; PL 94-135; 42 USC 6101 et seq;
PL 94-239; 15 USC 1601 et seq; EO 11246; PL 88-352; 42 USC 2000d et
seq; PL 90-284; 42 USC 3601 to 3619; PL 100-430; PL 92-318; 20 USC 1681
et seq; PL 93-112; EO 12898
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 15; 12 CFR 202; 28 CFR 42; 45 CFR 90; 41 CFR 60 to
64; 24 CFR 14; 7 CFR 1940 subpart D; 7 CFR 1901 subpart E
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This ruling will effectuate a comprehensive civil rights
regulation implementing the following laws: The Equal Credit
Opportunity Act (ECOA); title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; title
VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, as amended by the Fair Housing
Amendments Act of 1988 (The Fair Housing Act); section 504 Federally
Conducted and Federally Assisted Programs; title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972; Age Discrimination Act of 1975; and Executive
Orders 11246 and 12898 (Environmental Justice). The revised regulations
will provide detailed guidelines for field offices for improved
enforcement and compliance with these laws, which heavily impact the
Agency's programs. Mechanisms for monitoring compliance by field
offices and recipients of Federal financial assistance at all levels
will decrease the Agency's vulnerability that exist due to
noncompliance with recently enacted Civil Rights legislation.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 10/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Carlton L. Lewis, Chief, Program Compliance Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, STOP 0703, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 692-0097
TDD Phone: 202 692-0107
Fax: 202 692-0305
Email: cllewis@rdmail.rural.usda.gov
RIN: 0575-AA83
_______________________________________________________________________
285. NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE REGULATIONS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 42 USC 4012a; 42 USC 4104b;
42 USC 4106; 42 USC 4128; PL 91-152; PL 93-234; PL 103-325; ...
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1926, subpart B; 7 CFR 1806, subpart B
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency is rewriting its regulations to conform to the
requirements of the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994
(NFIRA).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions,
Organizations
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal
Agency Contact: Baxter Hill, Technical Support Branch Chief, Department
of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 6900/Stop 0761, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1499
RIN: 0575-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________
286. SERVICING COMMUNITY PROGRAMS LOANS AND GRANTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 31 USC 3711; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3570 subpart E; 7 CFR 1951 subpart E; 7 CFR 1951
subpart O; 7 CFR 1955 subpart A; 7 CFR 1955 subpart B; 7 CFR 1955
subpart C; 7 CFR 1956 subpart C; 7 CFR 1951 subpart F
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency is combining seven regulations affecting the
servicing of Community Programs loans and grants into one regulation.
There are no policy or procedural changes. The published regulation
will be simplified by removing the administrative portion and will only
contain the information affecting the public.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Beth Jones, Loan Specialist, Community Programs
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 0183/
Stop 0787, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1498
Email: epjones@rdmail.rural.usda.gov
RIN: 0575-AC12
_______________________________________________________________________
287. MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING (MFH)
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 6 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0575-AC13
_______________________________________________________________________
288. SELF-HELP TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1944; 7 CFR 3551
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The regulations for 7 CFR 1944-I ``Self-Help Technical
Assistance Grants'' is being rewritten and renumbered to 7 CFR 3551.
Changes are proposed for clarification of policy and procedures
relative to the: 1) Application procedure, which is changing to an
annual competitive grant process; 2) labor contribution of
participating families; 3) monitoring of grantee progress through Self-
Help Automated Reporting and Evaluation System (SHARES); and 4) define
the roles of Technical and Management Assistance Contractors.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 04/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
[[Page 74313]]
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: William M. Toney, Director, Single Family Housing
Direct Loan Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service,
Stop 0783, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1474
RIN: 0575-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________
289. COMMUNITY FACILITIES DIRECT LOAN PROGRAM--CONSOLIDATE, SIMPLIFY,
AND UPDATE REGULATIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1926
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1942, subpart A; 7 CFR 1942, subpart C
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Community Programs, a division of the Rural Housing Service,
is seeking to consolidate, simplify, and update the Agency's
regulations used to administer the Community Facilities Direct Loan
Program. This effort will produce a user-friendly tool to help
constituents and rural communities seeking to develop their essential
community facilities for public use. The proposed action will have no
financial impact on the public or agency.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Joseph Ben-Israel, Senior Loan Specialist, Department
of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 0183/STOP 0787, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1490
Email: jbenisra@rdmail.rural.usda.gov
RIN: 0575-AC27
_______________________________________________________________________
290. GUARANTEED RURAL RENTAL HOUSING PROGRAM--SECONDARY MORTGAGE MARKET
PARTICIPATION
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3565
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Section 538 of title V of the Housing Act of 1949 authorizes
USDA to make commitments to guarantee loans for the development of
housing and related facilities. By this authority, the Rural Housing
Service (RHS) administers the Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program.
The RHS, through consultation with industry and government experts in
the loan guarantee field, has identified barriers to the success of the
program. In the case of default, regulations will be revised to allow
for a timely payment to the investor. In addition, lenders will be
allowed to submit a claim for ``estimated'' losses. The RHS also
intends to lower the annual guarantee fee from 50 to 25 basis points.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Douglas MacDowell, Senior Loan Specialist, Department
of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Stop 0781, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0781
Phone: 202 720-1627
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: dmacdowe@rurdev.usda.gov
RIN: 0575-AC28
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Rural Housing Service (RHS)
_______________________________________________________________________
291. ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 96-510; PL 94-580; PL 94-469; PL 92-500; PL 91-190
CFR Citation: 40 CFR 300; 40 CFR 260; 40 CFR 700; 40 CFR 400; 7 CFR
1940
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The objective of this action is to replace the existing
environmental regulation and to implement changes to streamline the
environmental process for the Rural Housing Service (RHS) and the Rural
Business-Cooperative Service (RBS); to include changes necessitated by
amendments to various environmental laws, Executive orders, and
regulations applicable to the two agencies; to clarify wording; correct
inconsistencies; and where applicable, to delete obsolete material and
update references in other program regulations. This revision
represents an important contribution to the Department's efforts to
streamline its operations and realize more efficient use of staff time.
There are a number of Federal environmental statutes which govern the
management of hazardous substances, materials, and wastes. At the
present time, RHS and RBS do not have implementing regulations for
these Federal statutes. The development of implementation procedures
for managing hazardous substances is necessary to insure consistency in
compliance with Federal, as well as State, environmental statutes; to
develop appropriate ``due diligence'' policies to ensure that the
market value of real estate being considered as security for financial
assistance adequately reflects potential contamination from hazardous
waste; and to minimize the Agencies' liability with regard to
environmental cleanups of hazardous waste in loan processing/servicing
and property management activities.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/14/00 65 FR 55784
NPRM Comment Period End 11/13/00
Final Action 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Susan Wieferich, Senior Environmental Protection
Specialist, Program Support Staff, Department of Agriculture, Rural
Housing Service, Room 6900/Stop 0761, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250
[[Page 74314]]
Phone: 202 720-9647
RIN: 0575-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________
292. DIRECT SECTION 502 AND 504 SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 31 USC 3700
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1806; 7 CFR 1900; 7 CFR 1944; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR
1955; 7 CFR 1956; 7 CFR 1965; 7 CFR 3550
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Housing Service reopened the comment period on four
sections of this regulation seeking potential changes to the definition
of modest housing and calculation of payment subsidies. The Agency has
reviewed the comments and will be publishing minor corrections and
clarifications in the existing regulation. In addition, the Agency will
provide an updated definition of modest housing moving away from
reliance on the section 203(b) mortgage limits set by the Department of
Housing and Urban Development. The Agency will use more localized data
and provide clearer guidance to ensure compliance with our mission to
finance housing that is decent, safe, sanitary, and modest. No changes
in the payment subsidy are anticipated.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/08/96 61 FR 15395
NPRM Comment Period End 06/07/96
Interim Final Rule 11/22/96 61 FR 59762
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 12/26/96
Interim Final Rule Effective 12/26/96
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: William M. Toney, Director, Single Family Housing
Direct Loan Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service,
Stop 0783, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1474
RIN: 0575-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________
293. GUARANTEED SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3555; 7 CFR 1980, subpart D
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Housing Service is rewriting the regulations
governing the Guaranteed Single-Family Housing program to provide
better clarity and consistency within the program. The action is taken
to update the regulations to current mortgage industry standards and
provide more guidance on program oversight and monitoring.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/15/99 64 FR 70124
NPRM Comment Period End 02/14/00
Final Action 08/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Roger Glendenning, Deputy Director, Guaranteed Loan
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 2248/
Stop 0784, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0780
Phone: 202 720-1480
Fax: 202 205-2476
Email: rglendenning@rdmail.rural.usda.gov
RIN: 0575-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________
294. OPERATING ASSISTANCE FOR MIGRANT FARMWORKER PROJECTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1484; 42 USC 1486; 42 USC 1490a; PL
105-276, sec 599c
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1944, subpart D; 7 CFR 1930, subpart C
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Regulation implements the provisions of Public Law 105-276,
enacted October 21, 1998, which amended section 521 of the Housing Act
of 1949. This amendment provides that, for migrant farmworker housing
projects financed under section 514 or 516 of the Housing Act, the
Secretary may, at the request of the owner, permit amounts provided for
rental assistance under section 521 to be used to provide assistance
for the costs of operating the project.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/02/00 65 FR 65790
NPRM Comment Period End 01/02/01
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: David Layfield, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 1239/STOP 0781, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0781
Phone: 202 690-0759
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: dlayfiel@rdmail.rural.usda.gov
RIN: 0575-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________
295. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO ENCOURAGE THE DEVELOPMENT OF DOMESTIC AND
MIGRANT FARM LABOR HOUSING
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 42 USC 1484; 42 USC 1486
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1944, subpart D
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Section 514 of title V of the Housing Act of 1949 authorizes
USDA to make loans for farm labor housing. Section 516 of the Act
authorizes USDA to make grants for the same purpose. These authorities
are implemented through 7 CFR part 1944, subpart D. Section 516 also
authorizes USDA to provide financial assistance to private and public
nonprofit agencies to encourage the development of farm labor housing.
Recipients of this financial assistance, in turn, assist other
organizations obtain loans and grants for the construction of farm
labor housing. This regulation change will incorporate the ``technical
assistance'' provision of the statute into 7 CFR 1944. The amount of
assistance is limited by statute to 10 percent of the total section 516
allocation.
[[Page 74315]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/01/01 66 FR 29739
NPRM Comment Period End 07/31/01
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: David Layfield, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 1239/STOP 0781, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0781
Phone: 202 690-0759
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: dlayfiel@rdmail.rural.usda.gov
RIN: 0575-AC25
BILLING CODE 3410-XV-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)
_______________________________________________________________________
296. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART D; APPLICATION FOR CROP
INSURANCE
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation amends the General
Administrative Regulations by revising the ``Collection of Information
and Data (Privacy Act)'' statement found on the general crop insurance
application. The proposed amendments to the statement include defining
``substantial beneficial interest'' as those persons whose interest in
the policyholder is in excess of 10 percent. Other minor changes have
been made to more fully comply with provisions of the Privacy Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB00
_______________________________________________________________________
297. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; MOVEMENT OF BUSINESS AMONG
INSURANCE PROVIDERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: To ensure that the interests of policyholders are protected
and that the policies and policyholder data are transferred in an
orderly manner, the Risk Management Agency is providing comprehensive
regulations that will apply to agents, managing general agents, policy-
issuing companies, and reinsured companies. The objective of this
regulation is to prescribe uniform administrative requirements for the
movement or assumption of crop insurance policies.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Heyward Baker, Director, Reinsurance Services Division,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Room 6727 South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4232
RIN: 0563-AB71
_______________________________________________________________________
298. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SANCTIONS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); PL 106-224
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RMA plans to supplement the existing sanction authority found
at 7 CFR 400.451 in order to include the revised sanctions available
for offenses which occur after June 20, 2001, the date of passage of
the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000. This action will
supplement the existing regulations which remain effective for all
offenses occurring before June 20, 2000. This rule will contain
guidelines for the level of sanctions that may be imposed, waiver
authority on the part of the Administrator or designee, examples of
sanctionable offenses, and the evidentiary standards to be followed.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert J. Crockett, Sanction Officer, Department of
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 430 G. Street, Suite
4167, Davis, CA 95616-4167
Phone: 530 792-5864
RIN: 0563-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________
299. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; BLUEBERRY CROP INSURANCE
PROVISIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to solicit public comments on
FCIC's proposed action to convert the blueberry pilot insurance program
to a permanent insurance program. The pilot was initiated for the 1995
crop year for selected counties in Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey,
and North Carolina and covered highbush and rabbiteye blueberry
varieties.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
[[Page 74316]]
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB76
_______________________________________________________________________
300. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; NURSERY CROP INSURANCE
PROVISIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The purpose of this proposed rule is to solicit public
comments on FCIC's proposed action to revise the Nursery Crop
Provisions (99-073) for the 2002 crop year to: Specify that container
grown and field grown plants are separate crops, provide optional units
by location for field grown nursery plant, incorporate the ``lower of''
rule into section 6 of the provisions, permit insureds to purchase
insurance coverage on a year-round basis, incorporate provisions to
provide a rehabilitation payment for plants damaged by an insured cause
of loss.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________
301. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; ACTUAL PRODUCTION HISTORY
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506 (l); 7 USC 1506 (p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: To revise actual production history regulations to reflect
changes in calculation of approved APH yields as mandated by the
Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000. Revisions will include:
Assigned yields for crops produced on land not farmed before (added
land), rotations to crops not previously produced (new crops), and for
prevented planting acreage if planted to a substitute crop; adjustments
for successful pest control efforts and for organic crops destroyed to
maintain organic certification; and substitution of 60 percent of the
transitional yield for low actual yields if producers elect that
option.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________
302. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; BASIC PROVISIONS AND GENERAL
ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS, SUBPART T, REGULATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400; 7 CFR 457
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 18, 2000.
Abstract: The purpose of these rules is to propose changes to the
Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Basic Provisions and the General
Administrative Regulations, Subpart T--Insurance Implementation,
mandated by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000. The changes
will be proposed to be effective beginning with the 2002 crop year for
all crops with a contract change date on or after June 30, 2001. The
major changes to the Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Basic
Provisions are: 1) Limit indemnities and premiums when more than one
crop is planted on acreage within the same crop year; 2) if an initial
crop is prevented from being planted and a substitute crop is planted
on the acreage within the same crop year, allow reduced prevented
planting coverage for the initial crop, and the initial crop's Actual
Production History (APH) will be reduced to 60 percent of the
producer's APH; and 3) add scientifically sound sustainable and organic
farming practices as good farming practices.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB85
_______________________________________________________________________
303. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART L--REINSURANCE
AGREEMENT--STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL; REGULATIONS FOR THE 1997 AND
SUBSEQUENT REINSURANCE YEARS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1508
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) proposes to
amend its General Administrative Regulations to publish the terms of
the Standard Reinsurance Agreement (SRA) in the Federal Register. This
will improve the integrity of the public/private partnership by
avoiding ad hoc changes to important definitions and terms during
negotiations involving compensation paid to each insurance provider.
The current SRA has not been published in the Federal Register;
therefore, the intent of this proposal is to codify the definitions and
terms.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
[[Page 74317]]
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Heyward Baker, Director, Reinsurance Services Division,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Room 6727 South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4232
RIN: 0563-AB86
_______________________________________________________________________
304. [bull] GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; QUALITY ASSURANCE AND
PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT SYSTEM FOR THE FEDERAL CROP INSURANCE PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l), 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) proposes a
regulation to amend its General Administrative Regulations that
includes an additional Subpart which contains the Quality Assurance and
Performance Measurement System for private sector delivery of the
Federal Crop Insurance program.
This regulation will establish a standard of measure for determining
acceptable and unacceptable levels of performance by private insurance
providers. It will define how monetary errors will be identified,
classified, and reported. It will also establish a system of incentives
and sanctions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Heyward Baker, Director, Reinsurance Services Division,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Room 6727 South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4232
RIN: 0563-AB88
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)
_______________________________________________________________________
305. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; SMALL GRAINS CROP INSURANCE
PROVISIONS AND WHEAT WINTER COVERAGE ENDORSEMENT
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457.101; 7 CFR 457.102
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation proposes to revise and
clarify existing policy provisions, establish winter wheat coverage in
certain South Dakota and Wisconsin counties, reduce coverage under
Option B of the Wheat Winter Coverage Endorsement, and to require
insurance on spring wheat planted to replace damaged winter wheat
covered under the Wheat Winter Coverage Endorsement.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/20/00 65 FR 21144
NPRM Comment Period End 06/19/00
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB63
_______________________________________________________________________
306. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; NONSTANDARD UNDERWRITING
CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Nonstandard Underwriting Classification System (NCS): NCS was
criticized by producers and their representatives for several years and
became a major issue with the repetitive floods in the upper Midwest
and multi-year droughts in the Southwest. Complaints included claims
that the NCS procedures: 1) Did not adequately exclude widespread
causes of loss (disaster adjustment); 2) failed to recognize diverse
conditions within a county; 3) unfairly hit new or struggling producers
caught by repetitive disasters; and 4) set too high a premium for those
producers listed. Additionally, administration of the NCS process was
complicated, sometimes subjective, and labor intensive.
The Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that was published in the
Federal Register in September 1997 sought comments from the public on
options to improve NCS. Twenty-two comments were received in response
to the advanced notice. RMA decided to replace NCS with a process that
charged appropriate rates for those producers with adverse loss
experience and less than average production histories.
RMA examined increasing premium rates based on producers' lower APH
yields and using a surcharge based on use of the yield floor (or some
other identifiable indicator of adverse experience) to determine if
these measures would adequately address the need to increase premiums
for those producers with the most adverse loss histories based on the
frequency and severity of losses. After reviewing past NCS experience
on the existing book of business, it was determined that appropriate
rate increases for those producers whose APH yields were less than
average would compensate entirely for the elimination of NCS.
RMA implemented the following actions to accomplish the goal of
replacing NCS beginning with the 1999 crop year:
-- Removed and reserved the current NCS regulation (7 CFR part 400,
subpart O) by publishing a proposed rule in the Federal Register. The
final
[[Page 74318]]
rule is pending clearance; however, the Agency proceeded with the
process and has waived NCS since 1999.
-- Developed and implemented appropriate rate adjustments to offset the
removal of NCS.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/17/97 62 FR 48798
ANPRM Comment Period End 10/17/97
NPRM 09/02/98 63 FR 46703
NPRM Comment Period End 10/19/98
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB66
_______________________________________________________________________
307. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; PREMIUM REDUCTIONS; PAYMENTS OF
REBATES, DIVIDENDS, AND PATRONAGE REFUNDS; AND PAYMENTS TO INSURED-OWNED
AND RECORD-CONTROLLING ENTITIES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p); 7 USC 1508(e)(3)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: To allow approved insurance providers to apply to the Federal
Crop Insurance Corporation for authority to reduce the premium charged
producers in accordance with section 508(e)(3) of the Federal Crop
Insurance Act, as amended, and to provide the limitations and
requirements applicable to the payment of rebates, dividends, and
patronage refunds to insureds and payments to insured-owned and record-
controlling entities.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/12/99 64 FR 25464
NPRM Comment Period End 07/12/99
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Heyward Baker, Director, Reinsurance Services Division,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Room 6727 South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4232
RIN: 0563-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________
308. CATASTROPHIC RISK PROTECTION ENDORSEMENT; GROUP RISK PLAN OF
INSURANCE REGULATIONS; BASIC PROVISIONS
Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l), 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 402; 7 CFR 407; 7 CFR 457
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 30, 2000.
Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) amends the
Catastrophic Risk Protection Endorsement (7 CFR part 402), the Group
Risk Plan of Insurance Regulations (7 CFR part 407), and the Common
Crop Insurance Regulations, Basic Provisions (7 CFR part 457) to revise
those provisions affected by the changes in the administrative fees and
subsidies and the substitution of yields in the producer's actual
production history mandated by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of
2000.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule Effective 06/28/00 65 FR 40483
Interim Final Rule 06/30/00 65 FR 40483
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 08/29/00
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________
309. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBMISSION OF POLICIES AND
PROVISIONS OF POLICIES AND RATES OF PREMIUMS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Minor revisions will be made to the regulation for
clarification and other revisions will be made as specified: Remove the
need to publish policies from 508(h) submissions as a Notice of
Availability in the Federal Register; information will be made
available electronically to producers and approved insurance providers;
confidential information may be withheld from the public under the
standard for privileged or confidential information pertaining to trade
secrets and commercial or financial information even after approval by
the Board; there will be an expert review of submissions; the applicant
will be notified in writing at least 30 days prior to the Board
disapproving a submission, if the Board intends to disapprove the
submission; a submission will be deemed approved by the Board if the
Board fails to make a determination within a prescribed time period;
applicants will be reimbursed for research and developmental costs and
maintenance costs; and companies selling the product will pay fees to
the developer of the product after the fourth year of the applicant
being paid maintenance costs unless maintenance for the product is
transferred to FCIC.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/16/01 66 FR 36951
NPRM Comment Period End 08/15/01
Interim Final Rule 09/17/01 66 FR 47949
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 11/16/01
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal
[[Page 74319]]
Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB84
_______________________________________________________________________
310. [bull] COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS
Priority: Routine and Frequent
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l), 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457.101; 7 CFR 457.161
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) amends the
Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Small Grains Crop Provisions (7 CFR
section 457.101) and Canola and Rapeseed Crop Insurance Provisions (7
CFR section 457.161) to implement the quality loss adjustment
procedures contained in section 10003 of the Farm Security and Rural
Investment Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-171).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule Effective 06/26/02
Interim Final Rule 06/28/02 67 FR 43525
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 08/27/02
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB87
_______________________________________________________________________
311. [bull] COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; SUNFLOWER, COARSE GRAINS,
SAFFLOWER, DRY PEA, RICE, AND DRY BEAN CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS
Priority: Routine and Frequent
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l), 7 USC 1506(p)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457.108; 7 CFR 457.113; 7 CFR 457.125; 7 CFR
457.140; 7 CFR 457.141; 7 CFR 457.150; ...
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to amend policies for the crops
listed above, to implement the quality loss adjustment procedures
contained in section 10003 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment
Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-171) that allow quality determinations to be
made by warehouse operators that are licensed under State law or are
not licensed under State law but are in compliance with State law
regarding warehouses, provided they have entered into a storage
agreement with the Commodity Credit Corporation. The sunflower and
coarse grain crop provisions currently provide for the samples to be
analyzed by a grader licensed to grade the crop under the authority of
the United States Grain Standards Act or the United States Warehouse
Act and the safflower, dry pea, rice, and dry bean crop provisions
currently provide for the samples to be analyzed by a grader licensed
to grade the crop under the authority of the Agricultural Marketing Act
or the United States Warehouse Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743
RIN: 0563-AB89
BILLING CODE 3410-08-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)
_______________________________________________________________________
312. LIVESTOCK PURCHASE OR SALE: PROHIBIT NON-REPORTING OF PRICE
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 204; 7 USC 228
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 201.54
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Following a review of comments received in response to the
ANPRM, the Agency is proposing a regulation that would make purchasing
or selling livestock with the condition that the price not be reported
a violation of the Packers and Stockyards Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/10/98 63 FR 48450
ANPRM Comment Period End 12/09/98
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov
RIN: 0580-AA65
_______________________________________________________________________
313. PROHIBITION ON DISGUISING GRAIN QUALITY
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 71
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.61
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency proposes to revise regulations under the U.S.
Grain Standards Act to prohibit the disguising of grain quality by
adding various substances during post-harvest marketing.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
[[Page 74320]]
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov
RIN: 0580-AA77
_______________________________________________________________________
314. FEES FOR OFFICIAL INSPECTION AND OFFICIAL WEIGHING SERVICES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 71
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.71
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: GIPSA is proposing several changes in the way the Agency
charges fees for official inspection and weighing services performed in
the United States, under the United States Grain Standards Act.
Currently, GIPSA assesses fees by using hourly and unit rates and by
assessing an administrative tonnage fee. The proposed action will
increase the hourly and unit rates. GIPSA is also proposing to increase
the administrative tonnage fee and adopt a new, regional fee structure.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov
RIN: 0580-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)
_______________________________________________________________________
315. TOLERANCES FOR DIVIDERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 71 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 801.10
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: GIPSA proposes to remove section 801.10, Tolerance for
Dividers, from the CFR. Since GIPSA no longer tests dividers, the rule
is no longer needed. By using the direct final rule process, GIPSA will
give the public general notice of its intent to remove the rule and
provide interested persons an opportunity to participate in the
rulemaking through submission of comments.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov
RIN: 0580-AA57
_______________________________________________________________________
316. REVIEW INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 71 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.125; 7 CFR 800.135; 7 CFR 800.87
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency is proposing to revise regulations under the U.S.
Grain Standards Act to allow interested persons to stipulate the
quality factors that would be redetermined during a reinspection or
appeal inspection for grade. Currently reinspections and appeal
inspections for grade must include a review for all factors that (1)
may determine the grade; (2) are reported on the original certificate;
or (3) are required to be shown. The Agency has determined that
mandating all quality factors be reexamined during a review inspection
is inefficient, time consuming, and costly. Further, such a complete
review of the preceding inspection service is usually not needed to
confirm the true quality of the grain. This proposed action will allow
interested parties to specify which official factors should be
redetermined during the reinspection or appeal inspection service.
However, to safeguard against inadvertent misgrading, official
personnel may determine other factors, when deemed necessary.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/21/02 67 FR 54136
NPRM Comment Period End 10/21/02
Final Action 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov
RIN: 0580-AA58
_______________________________________________________________________
317. SWINE PACKER MARKETING CONTRACTS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 181; PL 106-78
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 206
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency is issuing rules under the Packers and Stockyards
Act to implement the Swine Packer Marketing Contracts subtitle of the
Livestock Mandatory Reporting Act of 1999. The Agency will establish a
swine contract library and publish contract provisions on its web site.
[[Page 74321]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/05/00 65 FR 53653
NPRM Comment Period End 10/05/00
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov
RIN: 0580-AA71
_______________________________________________________________________
318. EXCEPTIONS TO GEOGRAPHIC AREAS FOR OFFICIAL AGENCIES UNDER THE
USGSA
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 71
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.81; 7 CFR 800.99; 7 CFR 800.116-.118; 7 CFR
800.185; 7 CFR 800.196
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency is proposing to revise regulations under the U.S.
Grain Standards Act to reflect the amendment made by the Grain
Standards and Warehouse Improvements Act of 2000 that provides an
exception under which the Secretary may determine that more than one
official agency can provide inspection services in a specified
geographic area.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/03/02 67 FR 44571
NPRM Comment Period End 09/03/02
Final Action 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov
RIN: 0580-AA76
BILLING CODE 3410-EN-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
_______________________________________________________________________
319. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN
(WIC): MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule responds to a variety of program concerns,
most of which have been expressed by WIC State agencies. The proposal
increases State agency flexibility regarding the sharing of participant
information with other programs and streamlines Federal requirements
for financial and participation reporting by State agencies. Several
minor clarifications and technical corrections are also made. (89-515)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/03
Final Action 05/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________
320. INTENTIONAL PROGRAM VIOLATION REPORTING AND COMPUTER MATCHING
REQUIREMENTS THAT AFFECT THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is
undetermined.
Legal Authority: 5 USC 552(a) Computer Matching and Privacy Protection
Act; 7 USC 2015(b) Food Stamp Act
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule describes requirements for State agencies
to report information on individuals disqualified from the program for
intentional program violations to FNS and codifies prisoner
verification and death master file matching mandated by legislation and
previously implemented through agency directive. (89-010)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/03
Final Action 09/00/03
Final Action Effective 11/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________
321. FSP: CIVIL RIGHTS DATA COLLECTIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 88-352, sec 601
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272
Legal Deadline: None
[[Page 74322]]
Abstract: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 requires the
collection of racial/ethnic data for all programs utilizing Federal
funds. State agencies are required to collect the data by racial/ethnic
categories set by the Federal Government. In 1997, those categories
changed. This proposed rule would change the racial categories for
State Food Stamp Program reporting to comply with the new Federal
racial categories. (98-010)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Final Action 10/00/03
Final Action Effective 12/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC75
_______________________________________________________________________
322. COMMODITY SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM: PLAIN LANGUAGE, PROGRAM
ACCOUNTABILITY, AND PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 101-624; PL 104-127
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 247
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule will rewrite regulations pertaining to the
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (7 CFR part 247) in ``plain
language.'' It will also amend regulatory provisions in this part to
increase program accountability and flexibility for program operators.
The rule will affect program accountability by: (1) Requiring State
agencies to initiate a claim against participants for repayment of the
value of program benefits obtained as a result of intentional
misrepresentation; (2) extending the period that State agencies may
disqualify participants for program violations to up to 1 year; (3)
requiring State agencies to disqualify participants for engaging in
dual participation or for other selected program violations; (4)
including under program violations the physical abuse, or the threat of
physical abuse, of program staff.
Amendments to increase program flexibility include: (1) Allowing the
State to extend the certification of elderly persons on a fixed income
for an indefinite period without a formal review of eligibility; (2)
increasing the period of time the State agency has to review a local
agency's application for participation; (3) allowing State agencies to
request to retain more than the maximum amount of administrative funds
allocated whether or not they perform warehouse services; (4) reducing
the frequency of State management evaluations of local agencies; and
(5) making State plans and Federal-State agreements permanent, with
amendments submitted as needed.
Other miscellaneous proposed changes include: (1) Requiring local
agencies to notify applicants of a decision on their application within
10 days of the date of application; (2) including the specific factors
that FNS uses to determine the amount of caseload that States will
receive in addition to base caseload; (3) making the caseload cycle the
period from January 1 to December 31; and (4) including a pregnant
woman's embryo or fetus in utero as a household member in determining
the family's income eligibility.
The rule will also incorporate legislative provisions that have been
implemented through program policy, including: (1) Increasing the
percentage of the program appropriation, and of funds carried over from
the previous year, to be allotted for administrative support of State
and local agencies from 15 to 20 percent; and (2) requiring that State
and local agencies provide information on certain other public
assistance programs to participants. (99-005)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/03
Final Action 05/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC84
_______________________________________________________________________
323. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ADMINISTRATIVE COST REIMBURSEMENT
Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Legal Authority: PL 105-185, sec 502
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 277
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 1, 1998, Payment reduction
required by law.
Abstract: This rule will allow State agencies to charge the FSP for its
share of common costs for determining eligibility of Temporary
Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) households for FSP in accordance
with new HHS policy and approved cost allocation plans. (99-007)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/03
Final Action 11/00/03
Final Action Effective 03/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC86
[[Page 74323]]
_______________________________________________________________________
324. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND
CHILDREN (WIC): REVISIONS IN THE WIC FOOD PACKAGES
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 7 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AC90
_______________________________________________________________________
325. IMPROVING ACCESS TO THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM FOR PERSONS WITH LIMITED
ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 42 USC 2000d
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272.4(b)
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: On August 11, 2000, the President signed an Executive order
requiring Federal agencies to examine the services they provide and to
develop and implement a system that ensures persons with limited
English proficiency (LEP) have meaningful access to Federal health and
human services programs and activities. The Executive order clarifies
long-standing title VI principles that prohibit discrimination based on
national origin. (00-016)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 08/00/03
Final Action 06/00/04
Final Action Effective 09/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD06
_______________________________________________________________________
326. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS: RESOURCE LIMITS
AND EXCLUSIONS, EXTENDED CERTIFICATION PERIODS, AND TRANSITIONAL
BENEFITS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2032
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 253; 7 CFR 254
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule would amend FDPIR regulations to: 1)
Increase the standard FDPIR resource limit from $1750 to $2000 per
household (households that include a member or members age 60 or over
shall continue to have a resource limit of $3000); 2) allow a resource
exclusion for the first $1500 of the value of one pre-paid funeral
arrangement per household member (in instances where the total value of
the agreement is not already excluded because it is funded under a life
insurance policy or an inaccessible trust fund); 3) allow households in
which all members are elderly or disabled to be certified for up to 24
months, provided that the State agency contacts the household at least
once every 12 months; and 4) allow States the option to provide
transitional FDPIR benefits (for 3 months), at a minimum, to households
with earnings that leave the Temporary Assistance Program for Needy
Families (TANF). All of the above provisions conform to Food Stamp
Program policy and will ensure consistent treatment between the two
programs. (01-005)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD12
_______________________________________________________________________
327. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM (CACFP): AT-RISK AFTERSCHOOL
SUPPERS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 243(i)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule would revise the Child and Adult Care Food
Program (CACFP) regulations to allow reimbursement of suppers provided
by at-risk afterschool care programs in seven States. Six States were
initially authorized by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act (Pub. L.
106-224); the seventh State was authorized by fiscal year 2002
appropriation legislation. At-risk suppers in these States (Delaware,
Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Missouri, New York, and Oregon) are
reimbursed under the same conditions set forth in the National School
Lunch Act (NSLA) for at-risk snacks in the CACFP. Children who are 18
or younger and enrolled in qualifying afterschool programs located in
the seven States may receive free suppers. To qualify, afterschool care
programs must be located in low-income areas, provide care to children,
and have an educational or enrichment purpose. (01-007)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD15
_______________________________________________________________________
328. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS IMPOSED AGAINST
VIOLATING ELECTRONIC BENEFITS TRANSFER (EBT) STORES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 12 USC 2021; 13 USC 2022
[[Page 74324]]
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278.6
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The United States Department of Agriculture, Food and
Nutrition Service (FNS), is proposing to revise section 278.6 of the
Food Stamp Program Regulations entitled ``Disqualification of Retail
Food Stores and Wholesale Food Concerns and Imposition of Civil Money
Penalties In Lieu of Disqualifications.'' This section of the
regulation is being revised as a result of the implementation of the
Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system. This section of the
regulations addresses the administrative sanctions (i.e., imposing a
period of disqualification or assessing a monetary penalty) that may be
imposed by FNS against retail food stores and wholesale food concerns
that are found violating the Food Stamp Program. (01-012)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 08/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD18
_______________________________________________________________________
329. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: SIMPLIFICATION AND STATE FLEXIBILITY
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 8 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AD22
_______________________________________________________________________
330. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW REQUIREMENTS--FOOD
RETAILERS/WHOLESALERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278; 7 CFR 279
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The rule proposes to streamline and make technical
corrections to the administrative review process by amending portions
of current regulations provided in parts 278 and 279. It would
eliminate repetitious, outdated and unnecessary provisions without
taking away a business's right to an administrative review or a
judicial review. It would also eliminate formal procedures for face-to-
face meetings with review officers. There are very few requests for
such reviews, and because administrative review decisions are based on
documented facts and not on face-to-face meetings, these meetings are
unnecessary and ineffective. (02-001)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD23
_______________________________________________________________________
331. [bull] FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS TO
RECIPIENT CLAIM ESTABLISHMENT AND COLLECTION STANDARDS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Section 13 of the Food Stamp Act of 1977, as amended,
requires State agencies to pursue collection of recipient overissuances
in the Food Stamp Program. On July 6, 2000, FNS published a major rule
that revised many of the processes and procedures in this area. This
proposed rule provides clarifications and corrections to the July 6,
2000, rulemaking. (02-003)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/03
Final Action 03/00/04
Final Action Effective 03/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD25
_______________________________________________________________________
332. [bull] FSP: EBT AND RETAIL FOOD STORES PROVISIONS OF THE FARM
SECURITY AND RURAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 2002
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171, secs 4108, 4110, 4113, and 4117
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 274.12; 7 CFR 278; 7 CFR 279
Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, May 13, 2002, PL 107-171, sec 4108,
4113, and 4117.
Other, Statutory, October 1, 2002, PL 107-171, sec 4110.
Abstract: Section 4108--This rule proposes to allow alternate methods
for issuing food stamp benefits during disasters when reliance on
electronic benefit transfer systems (EBT) is impracticable.
Section 4110--This rule proposes to eliminate the requirement that
Federal costs for electronic benefit transfer systems cannot exceed the
costs of the paper systems they replace.
Section 4113--This rule proposes to allow group homes and institutions
to redeem EBT benefits directly through banks in areas where EBT has
been implemented rather than going through authorized wholesalers or
other retailers.
Section 4117--This rule proposes to allow the Secretary of Agriculture
to use mailing methods other than certified mail when notifying
retailers
[[Page 74325]]
of the above mentioned adverse actions so long as the method provides
evidence of delivery. (02-005)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/00/03
Final Action 07/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD28
_______________________________________________________________________
333. [bull] FSP: HIGH PERFORMANCE BONUSES
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 9 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AD29
_______________________________________________________________________
334. [bull] FSP: ELIGIBILITY AND CERTIFICATION PROVISIONS OF THE FARM
SECURITY AND RURAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 2002
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 10 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AD30
_______________________________________________________________________
335. [bull] FSP: QUALITY CONTROL PROVISIONS OF THE FARM SECURITY AND
RURAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 2002
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 11 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AD31
_______________________________________________________________________
336. [bull] FSP: EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM PROVISIONS OF THE FARM
SECURITY AND RURAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 2002
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 12 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AD32
_______________________________________________________________________
337. [bull] COMMODITY SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM (CSFP)--ALLOCATION OF
ADMINISTRATIVE FUNDS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 247.10
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule will amend CSFP regulations to implement
nondiscretionary provisions of Public Law 107-171 affecting the
allocation of administrative funds to State agencies. The law allocates
to State agencies an administrative grant per assigned caseload slot,
adjusted each year for inflation, to pay program administrative costs.
It also deletes the current limitation of the total administrative
allocation to 20 percent of total program funding. The method of
allocation used previously did not guarantee States a specific amount
for each caseload slot assigned. The changes provide more stable
funding support for State and local agencies. (02-010)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD33
_______________________________________________________________________
338. [bull] SENIOR FARMERS' MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (SFMNP)
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 4306
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 249
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule will implement the provision of the Farm
Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-171) that gives
the Department the authority to promulgate regulations for the
operation and administration of the SFMNP. The purposes of the SFMNP
are to provide fresh, nutritious, unprepared locally grown fruits,
vegetables, and herbs from farmers' markets, roadside stands, and
community supported agriculture programs to low-income seniors, and to
increase the consumption of agricultural commodities by expanding,
developing, and/or aiding in the development of domestic farmers'
markets, roadside stands, and community supported agriculture programs.
(02-012)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 11/00/03
Final Action 06/00/04
Final Action Effective 10/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD35
[[Page 74326]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
_______________________________________________________________________
339. WIC: REQUIREMENTS FOR AND EVALUATION OF WIC PROGRAM REQUESTS FOR
BIDS FOR INFANT FORMULA REBATE CONTRACTS
Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: At the time the current cost containment regulations were
published in 1989, there were only minor differences in infant formula
wholesale prices and few differences in types of infant formulas
offered by manufacturers; i.e., milk- and soy-based infant formula.
However, current wholesale prices vary considerably among manufacturers
for similar formulas and several new infant formulas have emerged on
the market over the last decade. Therefore, to reflect market changes
in the infant formula industry and to optimize competition in the WIC
Program's infant formula rebate contracts, this interim rule would
require WIC State agencies to award infant formula rebate contracts
based on the lowest net price, allowing highest gross rebate as a basis
of award only when retail prices of the different brands of infant
formula vary, on average, by 5 percent or less. Additionally, this rule
would define the types and forms of infant formula that must be
included in cost containment systems. It would also expand on
conditions that must be met for the issuance of infant formulas not
covered by rebate contracts. (92-013)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/16/98 63 FR 38343
NPRM Comment Period End 09/14/98
Interim Final Rule 08/23/00 65 FR 51213
Interim Final Rule Effective 10/23/00
Interim Final Rule
Implementation Date 11/21/00
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 08/23/01
Final Action 04/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________
340. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ANTICIPATING INCOME AND REPORTING CHANGES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2032
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule revises Food Stamp Program procedures for reporting
and acting on changes in earned income. The changes are designed to
increase State agency flexibility and improve procedures for
determining the eligibility and benefits of households whose income
fluctuates unpredictably. Under this rule, State agencies would choose
from four different reporting requirements for households with earned
income. The reporting requirement a State agency selects would replace
the current requirement that households report a change of more than
$25 in earned income. In addition to reporting a change in source of
income, households would be required to report one of the following: A
change in wage rate or salary and a change in part-time or full-time
status, provided the household is certified for no more than 3 months;
a change in wage rate or salary and a change of more than 5 hours a
week that is expected to continue for more than a month; or a change in
the amount earned of more than $100 a month. The reporting requirement
for changes in unearned income would be increased to changes of more
than $50 a month from the current threshold of changes of more than $25
a month. In addition to the above reporting options, State agencies
would also be able to select the option of requiring households to
report changes through a quarterly reporting system rather than at the
time the changes become known to the household. (93-005)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/17/96 61 FR 66233
NPRM Comment Period End 02/18/97
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________
341. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: IMPROVING MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAM
INTEGRITY
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 13 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0584-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________
342. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM REGULATORY REVIEW: FSP STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL
AND OPERATION OF FOOD STAMP ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER SYSTEMS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2034
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 274.12
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule proposes revisions to food stamp regulations
affecting the standards and administration of EBT systems for food
stamp issuance. Current regulations at 7 CFR 274.12 delineate the
standards that EBT systems must meet in order to be approved for
operation. This rule will revise those regulations to provide the State
agency more flexibility in implementing and operating those systems.
Clarifications and FNS settlement improvements will also be
incorporated into the rule. (96-016)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/12/01 66 FR 36495
NPRM Comment Period End 09/10/01
Final Action 11/00/02
[[Page 74327]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC37
_______________________________________________________________________
343. NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM: REIMBURSEMENT FOR SNACKS IN
AFTERSCHOOL CARE PROGRAMS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 105-336
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 235; 7 CFR 245
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The William F. Goodling Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act
of 1998 amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to
authorize reimbursement for snacks served under the NSLP in afterschool
care programs operated by schools. The afterschool program must be
organized primarily to provide care for children and have an
educational or enrichment purpose. Additionally, the statute mandates
free snacks for all children enrolled in afterschool care programs
operated by schools in areas served by a school in which at least 50
percent of the enrolled children are certified for free or reduced
price meals. (98-007)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/11/00 65 FR 60502
NPRM Comment Period End 01/09/01
Final Action 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC72
_______________________________________________________________________
344. FSP: ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER (EBT) SYSTEMS INTEROPERABILITY AND
PORTABILITY
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 106-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272.1; 7 CFR 274.12
Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, September 7, 2000, PL 106-171, sec 3.
Other, Statutory, February 11, 2001, PL 106-171, sec 4.
Other, Statutory, October 1, 2002, PL 106-171, sec 3.
Abstract: This rule revises Food Stamp regulations to ensure that
recipients can use their electronic food stamp benefits across State
borders by requiring interoperable State electronic issuance systems.
The regulations establish uniform national standards to achieve this
requirement. Also, 100 percent funding is available under the
regulation to pay for the operational cost of this functionality up to
a national limit of $500,000. Costs beyond this level will be covered
at the standard 50 percent program reimbursement rate for State
administrative costs. (00-001)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 08/15/00 65 FR 49719
Interim Final Rule Effective 09/19/00
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 11/13/00
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC91
_______________________________________________________________________
345. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: DISCLOSURE OF CHILDREN'S ELIGIBILITY
INFORMATION UNDER THE CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 242; PL 103-448, sec 108
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 215; 7 CFR 225; 7 CFR 226; 7 CFR 245
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 20, 2000.
Abstract: This rule establishes requirements for the disclosure of
children's free and reduced price meal and free milk eligibility
information by agencies that make the free and reduced price meal or
free milk determination under the National School Lunch Program, the
School Breakfast Program, the Special Milk Program, the Child and Adult
Care Food Program, and the Summer Food Service Program. The rule
responds to amendments to the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch
Act, which allow limited disclosure of children's free and reduced
price meal or free milk eligibility information, Public Law 103-448,
the Healthy Meals for Healthy Americans Act of 1994; and Public Law
106-224, the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000; comments
received on the July 25, 2000, proposed rule on ``Disclosure of
Children's Eligibility Information'' (65 FR 45725 issued under RIN
0584-AC21) and comments received on the January 11, 2001, interim rule
on ``Disclosure of Children's Eligibility Information to State Medicaid
and the State Children's Health Insurance Program'' (66 FR 2195 issued
under RIN 0584-AC95). This rule incorporates the proposed rule and
interim rule into one final rule. Therefore, RIN 0584-AC21 is
withdrawn, and the final provisions will be issued under RIN 0584-AC95.
The final rule will adopt or modify as necessary many of the provisions
mandated by the statute and required by the interim rule. Many of these
same provisions were presented as recommendations in the proposed rule.
The objective is to provide consistency in procedures when determining
agencies opt to disclose children's eligibility information and to
provide some protection against unauthorized disclosures and misuse of
personal information, regardless of whether the disclosure is to
Medicaid or SCHIP or
[[Page 74328]]
to an education or other program. (00-004)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule Effective 10/01/00
Interim Final Rule 01/11/01 66 FR 2195
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 04/11/01
Final Action 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC95
_______________________________________________________________________
346. IMPLEMENTATION OF POULTRY SUBSTITUTION PILOT AS PERMANENT AND
MODIFICATION OF COMMODITY RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 612c; 7 USC 612c note; 7 USC 1431; 7
USC 1431b; 7 USC 1431e; 7 USC 1431 note; 7 USC 1446a-1; 7 USC 1859; 7
USC 2014; 7 USC 2025; 15 USC 713c; 22 USC 1922; 42 USC 1751; 42 USC
1755; 42 USC 1758; 42 USC 1760 to 1761; 42 USC 1762a; 42 USC 1766; 42
USC 3030a; 42 USC 5179 to 5180
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250.14; 7 CFR 250.16; 7 CFR 250.30
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: 1) Poultry and fruit and vegetables may currently be
substituted for commodities under pilots and waivers. Due to the
success of these programs, the regulations will be changed to allow
such commercial substitution on a permanent basis. 2) Due to changes in
the commercial market and the food donation program, the Department
will allow vendors to use their own labels in place of USDA donated
labels for school programs. This will complicate school's recordkeeping
and inventory procedures. The regulations will be modified to
accommodate the change in labels. (01-001)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/21/02 67 FR 7977
NPRM Comment Period End 04/22/02
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD08
_______________________________________________________________________
347. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: UNIFORM FEDERAL ASSISTANCE REGULATIONS;
NONDISCRETIONARY TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 31 USC 503, 111, and 7501; PL 98-502; PL 104-156
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210, 215, 220, 225, and 235
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This final rule makes a number of technical changes to the
regulations governing the National School Lunch Program, the Special
Milk Program for Children, the School Breakfast Program, the Child and
Adult Care Food Program, the Summer Food Service Program, and State
Administrative Expense Funds. The United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA) is revising its grants management regulations in
order to bring the entitlement programs it administers under the same
regulations that already apply to nonentitlement programs and to
identify exceptions to these general rules that apply only to
entitlement programs. (01-008)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD16
_______________________________________________________________________
348. EXPANDED VERIFICATION OF ELIGIBILITY SUMMARY REQUIREMENTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 42 USC 1758, sec 9(d)(2)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 245
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Recent comparisons of National data indicate that there are
more students certified for free and reduced price meals than there are
students eligible for such meal benefits. As a result, the Food and
Nutrition Service (FNS) plans to propose regulations to address this
discrepancy. FNS plans to publish proposed regulations to require local
school food authorities to report verification activity and results to
their respective State agency to support State agency oversight
activities and to allow States to report the school level data to USDA.
Results will provide USDA with information that will assist in
improving the certification of eligibility for free and reduced price
meal benefits. (01-015)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/09/02 67 FR 51779
NPRM Comment Period End 10/08/02
Final Action 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD20
[[Page 74329]]
_______________________________________________________________________
349. [bull] PRIVACY ACT: REVISION OF AN EXISTING SYSTEM OF RECORDS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036; PL 100-103
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 273
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This is a revision to the existing system of records entitled
``Claims Against Food Stamp Recipients-USDA/FNS-3.'' The revision is
being made to comply with the requirements of Treasury Offset Program.
This notice announces that FNS will now share data with private sources
for the purpose of obtaining addresses to locate individuals who may
owe delinquent food stamp recipient claims and employment information
for administrative wage garnishment. (02-002)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 01/00/03
Final Action Effective 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD24
_______________________________________________________________________
350. [bull] AFTERSCHOOL SNACKS UNDER THE CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD
PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 105-336
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The William F. Goodling Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act
of 1998 amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to
authorize reimbursement for snacks served under CACFP in afterschool
care programs operated by at-risk centers. The afterschool program must
be organized primarily to provide care for children and have an
educational or enrichment purpose. All snacks are served free to
participants because at-risk centers are located in eligible areas
(that is, areas served by a school in which at least 50 percent of the
enrolled children are certified for free or reduced price meals). (02-
004)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/11/00 65 FR 60502
NPRM Comment Period End 01/09/01
Final Action 06/00/03
Final Action Effective 07/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD27
_______________________________________________________________________
351. [bull] SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS,
AND CHILDREN (WIC): EXCLUSION OF MILITARY HOUSING PAYMENTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 4402
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This final rule implements a non-discretionary legislative
provision of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Pub.
L. 107-171) by providing WIC State agencies the option to exclude
payments to military personnel for privatized housing, whether on- or
off-base, when determining income eligibility for the WIC program. (02-
011)
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive,
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD34
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
_______________________________________________________________________
352. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: IMPLEMENTING LEGISLATIVE REFORMS
TO STRENGTHEN PROGRAM INTEGRITY
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 06/27/02 67 FR 43448
Interim Final Rule Effective 07/29/02
Final Action 06/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Federalism: This action may have federalism implications as defined in
EO 13132.
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC94
[[Page 74330]]
_______________________________________________________________________
353. STATE ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE FUNDS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 235
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC96
_______________________________________________________________________
354. SPECIAL MILK PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN: PLAIN LANGUAGE REVISION AND
REORGANIZATION
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 215
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC97
_______________________________________________________________________
355. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART
250, DONATION OF FOODS FOR USE IN THE UNITED STATES, ITS TERRITORIES AND
POSSESSIONS, AND AREAS UNDER ITS JURISDICTION
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC98
_______________________________________________________________________
356. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART
251, THE EMERGENCY FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TEFAP)
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 251
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC99
_______________________________________________________________________
357. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART
252, THE NATIONAL COMMODITY PROCESSING PROGRAM (NCP)
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 252
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD00
_______________________________________________________________________
358. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART
253, THE FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS (FDPIR)
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 253
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD01
_______________________________________________________________________
359. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART
254, THE FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS (FDPIR) IN
OKLAHOMA
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 254
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD02
_______________________________________________________________________
360. NUTRITION EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAM: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF
7 CFR PART 227
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 227
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
[[Page 74331]]
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD03
_______________________________________________________________________
361. STATE AGENCY LIABILITIES AND FEDERAL SANCTIONS
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 276
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD04
_______________________________________________________________________
362. PAYMENTS OF CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF STATE AGENCIES
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 277
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD05
_______________________________________________________________________
363. SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM: PLAIN LANGUAGE REVISION AND
REORGANIZATION
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 220
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD10
_______________________________________________________________________
364. WIC: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART 248, FARMERS' MARKET
NUTRITION PROGRAM
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 248
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD11
_______________________________________________________________________
365. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: VEHICLE AND MAXIMUM EXCESS SHELTER EXPENSE
DEDUCTION PROVISIONS OF PUBLIC LAW 106-387
Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 273.8; 7 CFR 273.9
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD13
_______________________________________________________________________
366. CNP: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART 225, SUMMER FOOD SERVICE
PROGRAM
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 225
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD17
[[Page 74332]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
_______________________________________________________________________
367. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: WORK PROVISIONS OF THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY
AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996 AND THE FOOD STAMP
PROVISIONS OF THE BALANCED BUDGET ACT OF 1997
Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 273.7; 7 CFR 273.22; 7 CFR 273.24
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 06/19/02 67 FR 41589
Final Action Effective 08/19/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AC45
_______________________________________________________________________
368. NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM, SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM, AND CHILD
AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM--AMENDMENTS TO THE INFANT MEAL PATTERN
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220; 7 CFR 226
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 05/28/02 67 FR 36779
Final Action Effective 06/27/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local
Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov
RIN: 0584-AD26
BILLING CODE 3410-30-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Prerule Stage
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
369. POULTRY INSPECTION: REVISION OF FINISHED PRODUCT STANDARDS WITH
RESPECT TO INGESTA
Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is
undetermined.
Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470 et seq
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: FSIS is seeking to clarify its Poultry Inspection regulations
regarding visible ingesta on poultry carcasses and parts. This action
was precipitated by a civil suit filed against USDA.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 05/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC77
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
370. TRANSPORTATION, STORAGE, AND OTHER HANDLING OF POTENTIALLY
HAZARDOUS FOODS
Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect the private sector under PL
104-4.
Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 to 695; 21 USC 451 to 470
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 308; 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 325; 9 CFR 381
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), in conjunction
with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), published an advance
notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) that addressed possible
regulatory approaches to the transportation and storage of potentially
hazardous foods (including meat and poultry products) and solicited
comments and information from the public. FSIS and FDA have been
considering various efforts to ensure that potentially hazardous foods
outside of food processing establishments will be handled in a way that
will minimize the growth of pathogenic organisms or other hazards. FSIS
now anticipates rulemaking under the Federal Meat Inspection Act and
the Poultry Products Inspection Act on proposed handling standards and
information to assure that the public is informed of the manner of
handling required to maintain these products under sanitary conditions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 11/22/96 61 FR 59372
ANPRM Comment Period End 02/20/97
NPRM 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
[[Page 74333]]
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________
371. GRANT AND INAUGURATION OF INSPECTION
Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is
undetermined.
Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 304; 9 CFR 305
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: FSIS is proposing to clarify the regulations in 9 CFR parts
304 and 305, which provide for grant and inauguration of inspection in
meat and poultry establishments to address issues raised by the Office
of Inspector General and others.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________
372. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR BACON
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 14 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0583-AC49
_______________________________________________________________________
373. REFORM OF REGULATIONS ON IMPORTED MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 327; 9 CFR 381
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: As part of its continuing regulatory reform effort, FSIS is
proposing to consolidate and streamline the regulations governing the
importation of livestock and poultry products to make them consistent
with the regulatory approach the Agency has taken in its Pathogen
Reduction/Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (PR/HACCP)
regulations and related rulemakings. FSIS is proposing to eliminate
obsolete provisions and, where appropriate, to replace command-and-
control provisions with performance standards. The Agency is proposing
to require establishments where import inspection is conducted to have
documented process controls that parallel in some respects the HACCP
and other documented systems that establishments where inspection of
domestic products is conducted must have.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC56
_______________________________________________________________________
374. EGG AND EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION REGULATIONS
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 15 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0583-AC58
_______________________________________________________________________
375. LABELING--GENERIC APPROVAL AND REGULATION CONSOLIDATION
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470; 21 USC 601 to 695
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 327; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 412
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rulemaking will continue an effort initiated several
years ago by amending FSIS's regulations to expand the types of
labeling that are generically approved. FSIS plans to propose that the
submission of labeling for approval prior to use be limited to certain
types of labeling, as specified in the regulations. In addition, FSIS
plans to reorganize and amend the regulations by consolidating the
nutrition labeling rules that currently are stated separately for
livestock products and poultry products (in part 317, subpart B, and
part 381, subpart Y, respectively) and by amending their provisions to
set out clearly various circumstances under which these products are
misbranded.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
RIN: 0583-AC59
_______________________________________________________________________
376. PATHOGEN REDUCTION; HAZARD ANALYSIS AND CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS
(HACCP) SYSTEMS; ADDITIONS TO GENERIC E. COLI CRITERIA
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 to 695; 21 USC 451 to 470
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 310; 9 CFR 381
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: FSIS is proposing to add generic E. coli criteria to the
regulations. In addition, FSIS is proposing to revise the terms used to
identify and define certain classes of product listed in the Salmonella
tables.
FSIS is proposing to delay making the proposed criteria and standards
applicable for 1 year for small establishments and for 2 years for very
small establishments.
[[Page 74334]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC63
_______________________________________________________________________
377. FOOD STANDARDS; GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND FOOD STANDARDS MODERNIZATION
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) are proposing to modernize their food
standards. The agencies are proposing a set of guiding principles that
define how modern food standards should be structured to protect the
interest of consumers, provide for technological advances in food
production, be consistent with international food standards, and be
clear, simple, and easy to use for both manufacturers and the agencies
that enforce compliance with the standards. The proposed guiding
principles will establish the criteria that the Agencies will use in
considering whether a petition to establish, revise, or eliminate a
food standard will be the basis for a proposed rule.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
RIN: 0583-AC72
_______________________________________________________________________
378. PETITIONS FOR RULEMAKING
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 553
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 392
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: FSIS is proposing to amend its regulations to add a new part
that prescribes procedures for the submission, consideration, and
disposition of petitions for rulemaking. The proposal also describes
the Agency's expectations for the type of documentation that should be
submitted in support of a petition and that will facilitate regulatory
development. FSIS is proposing this action to provide clear guidance to
those who would like to participate in the rulemaking process by
petitioning FSIS to issue, amend, or repeal a rule administered by the
Agency.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC81
_______________________________________________________________________
379. CLASSES OF POULTRY UPDATING POULTRY CLASS STANDARDS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 451
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.170(a)
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: FSIS is proposing to amend the official U.S. classes of
poultry so that they more accurately and clearly describe the
characteristics of poultry in the market today. Poultry classes are
defined primarily in terms of age and sex of the bird. Genetic
improvements and new poultry management techniques have reduced the
grow-out period for some poultry classes while extensive cross breeding
has produced poultry with higher meat yields but blurred breed
distinctions. This action is being taken to ensure that poultry
products are labeled in a truthful and non-misleading manner.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
RIN: 0583-AC83
_______________________________________________________________________
380. ELIMINATION OF CHILLING TIME AND TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENTS FOR
READY-TO-COOK POULTRY (SECTION 610 REVIEW)
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 16 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0583-AC87
_______________________________________________________________________
381. EMERGENCY REGULATIONS TO PREVENT MEAT FOOD AND MEAT PRODUCTS THAT
MAY CONTAIN THE BSE AGENT FROM ENTERING COMMERCE
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 17 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0583-AC88
_______________________________________________________________________
382. [bull] ADDITION OF SAN MARINO TO THE LIST OF COUNTRIES ELIGIBLE TO
EXPORT MEAT AND MEAT PRODUCTS TO THE UNITED STATES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 to 695
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 327
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: FSIS is proposing to add San Marino to the list of countries
from
[[Page 74335]]
which meat or meat food products may be imported into the United
States.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC91
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
383. BEEF OR PORK WITH BARBECUE SAUCE; REVISION OF STANDARDS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 319
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has been
petitioned to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations by removing
a meat yield requirement for the standardized products ``Beef With
Barbecue Sauce'' and ``Pork With Barbecue Sauce.'' Current regulations
for these products require that the product contain not less than 50
percent of the species identified on the label and that the weight of
the cooked pork or beef not exceed 70 percent of the uncooked weight of
the meat. The first requirement is consistent with other meat and sauce
requirements, but the second requirement is not. The petitioner asserts
that the product standard (promulgated in 1952) does not reflect
current production practices or the commercial marketability of beef or
pork with barbecue sauce. The petitioner further states that producers
of these products are at a competitive disadvantage with other meat and
sauce producers, because other meat and sauce producers do not have a
70 percent yield requirement. For example, producers of the
standardized products ``Beef with Gravy,'' ``Meat Pies,'' and
``Spaghetti with Meat and Sauce'' and similar standardized products do
not have any meat yield requirements.
FSIS has determined that the petitioner's request should be granted.
This action would permit fair competition between meat and barbecue
sauce producers, and poultry and sauce producers, and would provide
consistent requirements in both the meat and poultry inspection
regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/03/97 62 FR 46450
NPRM Comment Period End 11/03/97
Final Action 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC09
_______________________________________________________________________
384. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR READY-TO-EAT MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 18 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0583-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________
385. MEAT PRODUCED BY ADVANCED MEAT/BONE SEPARATION MACHINERY AND
RECOVERY SYSTEMS
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 19 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0583-AC51
_______________________________________________________________________
386. NUTRITION LABELING OF GROUND OR CHOPPED MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS
AND SINGLE-INGREDIENT PRODUCTS
Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 20 in part II of this issue of
the Federal Register.
RIN: 0583-AC60
_______________________________________________________________________
387. FOOD LABELING; NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIMS, DEFINITION OF THE TERM
HEALTHY
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This interim final rule extended until January 1, 2003, the
effective date of the requirements that, to bear the claim ``healthy''
or any other derivative of the term ``health,'' individual meat and
poultry products can contain no more than 360 milligrams (mg) sodium
and that meal-type products can contain no more than 480 mg sodium.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 12/28/99 64 FR 72490
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 01/27/00
Interim Final Rule 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
RIN: 0583-AC65
[[Page 74336]]
_______________________________________________________________________
388. INCORPORATION OF FOOD AND COLOR ADDITIVES INTO 21 CFR
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 602 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 321 et
seq
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 318.7; 9 CFR 381.147
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This final rule will amend the meat and poultry inspection
regulations by completing earlier efforts to incorporate current
listings in 9 CFR into 21 CFR.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
RIN: 0583-AC69
_______________________________________________________________________
389. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ON-LINE ANTIMICROBIAL REPROCESSING OF
PRE-CHILL POULTRY CARCASSES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 424
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule is proposing to allow, on a voluntary basis, the
on-line reprocessing of pre-chill poultry carcasses that are
accidentally contaminated with digestive tract contents during
slaughter. The treated carcasses must meet a standard at pre-chill, in
addition to pre-chill standards for generic E. coli and Salmonella
already prescribed.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/01/00 65 FR 75187
NPRM Comment Period End 01/30/01
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC73
_______________________________________________________________________
390. AGENCY ORGANIZATION
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470; 21 USC 601 to 695; 21 USC 1031 to
1056
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 300; 9 CFR 301; 9 CFR 306; 9 CFR 320; 9 CFR 381; 9
CFR 590
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend FSIS's regulations adopted under
the FMIA, PPIA, and EPIA by updating and consolidating organizational
provisions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety
and Inspection Service, Room 112 Cotton Annex Building, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC78
_______________________________________________________________________
391. FOOD STANDARDS: REQUIREMENTS FOR SUBSTANTIVE STANDARDIZED MEAT AND
POULTRY PRODUCTS NAMED BY USE OF AN EXPRESSED NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIM AND
A STANDARDIZED TERM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 21 USC 601; 21 USC 451
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.172; 9 CFR 319.10
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: FSIS is amending the Federal meat and poultry inspection
regulations to establish a general definition and standard of identity
for standardized meat and poultry products that have been modified to
qualify for use of an expressed nutrient content claim in their product
names. These products will be identified by an expressed nutrient
content claim, such as ``fat free,'' ``low fat,'' and ``light,'' in
conjunction with an appropriate standardized term. FSIS is taking this
action to 1) assist consumers to maintain healthy dietary practices by
providing for modified versions of standardized meat and poultry
products that have reductions of certain constituents that are of
health concern to some people, 2) increase regulatory flexibility and
support product innovation and, 3) provide consumers with an
informative nutrition labeling system.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/29/95 60 FR 67474
NPRM Comment Period End 02/27/96
Final Action 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
RIN: 0583-AC82
[[Page 74337]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
392. ANTE-MORTEM AND POST-MORTEM INSPECTION OF LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY
Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is
undetermined.
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 309; 9 CFR 310; 9 CFR 381
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: State
Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC43
_______________________________________________________________________
393. REQUIREMENTS FOR DISPOSITION AND DISPOSAL OF INSPECTED RAW MEAT AND
POULTRY PRODUCTS
Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is
undetermined.
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 311; 9 CFR 314; 9 CFR 320; 9 CFR 325; 9 CFR 381; 9
CFR 428; 9 CFR 455
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 03/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: State
Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC44
_______________________________________________________________________
394. REWORKING OF MEAT AND POULTRY CARCASSES ACCIDENTALLY CONTAMINATED
DURING EVISCERATION
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 310; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 433
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC53
_______________________________________________________________________
395. ELIMINATION OF REQUIREMENTS FOR TOTAL QUALITY CONTROL SYSTEMS
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 381
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/00/04
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State
Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC68
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
_______________________________________________________________________
396. SHARING RECALL DISTRIBUTION LISTS WITH STATE AND OTHER FEDERAL
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 9 CFR 390
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 04/24/02 67 FR 20009
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State
Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: daniel.engeljohn@usda.gov
RIN: 0583-AC75
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)
_______________________________________________________________________
397. PROGRAM TO PROVIDE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO PROMOTE U.S.
AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS TO EMERGING MARKETS (EMERGING MARKETS PROGRAM)
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rule proposes to establish regulations applicable to the
Emerging Markets Program, currently authorized by the Food,
Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 and amended by the
Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996. The Emerging
Markets Program currently operates under agency guidelines. The
proposed rule would amend and codify the existing guidelines.
Codification of the guidelines should not change program administration
noticeably. Because the program is already in operation under agency
guidelines, this proposal would have no significant impact on the U.S.
economy.
The proposed rule will provide specific regulations concerning program
administration. Significant provisions include definition of emerging
market and country eligibility, program objectives and priorities,
eligible
[[Page 74338]]
organizations, qualification requirements, application and review
processes, decisions and appeals, reimbursement rules and procedures,
reporting requirements, evaluations, and program controls.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 6087, South Building,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: chisleyk@fas.usda.gov
Tamoria Thompson, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of Agriculture,
Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 6087, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: thompsont@fas.usda.gov
RIN: 0551-AA62
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)
_______________________________________________________________________
398. PROGRAM TO ASSIST U.S. PRODUCERS IN DEVELOPING DOMESTIC MARKETS FOR
VALUE-ADDED WHEAT GLUTEN AND WHEAT STARCH PRODUCTS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 15 USC 714c
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1482
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The rule provides for a 2-year program to assist U.S. wheat
gluten producers in fully adjusting to import competition by
transitioning the industry from production of basic bulk commodities to
production of value-added commodities where the market potential is
more viable. U.S. producers of wheat gluten, who meet the eligibility
requirements of the rule and submit the required market development
plans, will receive an annual lump sum payment by CCC to conduct
specific program activities aimed at facilitating the transition to
value-added wheat gluten products for sale in the domestic market.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 06/08/01 66 FR 30801
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 07/09/01
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 6087, South Building,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: chisleyk@fas.usda.gov
Tamoria Thompson, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of Agriculture,
Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 6087, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: thompsont@fas.usda.gov
RIN: 0551-AA60
_______________________________________________________________________
399. [bull] TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE FOR SPECIALTY CROPS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 3205
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1487
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 mandates
that the Secretary make available annually $2 million of Commodity
Credit Corporation funds to establish and carry out an export
assistance program to address sanitary, phytosanitary, and technical
barriers that prohibit or threaten the export of U.S. specialty crops.
This interim rule would establish the Technical Assistance for
Specialty Crops program, providing a new tool to enable USDA to make
available much needed resources to the specialty crop industry to
remove, resolve or mitigate these barriers to increased exports.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 09/10/02 67 FR 39254
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 11/12/02
Final Action 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 6087, South Building,
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: chisleyk@fas.usda.gov
RIN: 0551-AA63
[[Page 74339]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions
Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)
_______________________________________________________________________
400. CCC SUPPLIER CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAM
Priority: Economically Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is
undetermined.
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1493
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 07/19/95 60 FR 37025
NPRM Comment Period End 09/18/95
Interim Final Rule 07/01/96 61 FR 33825
Interim Final Rule Effective 08/30/96
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 12/30/96
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: chisleyk@fas.usda.gov
Tamoria Thompson
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: thompsont@fas.usda.gov
RIN: 0551-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________
401. FACILITY GUARANTEE PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 17; 7 CFR 1493
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 03/01/93 58 FR 11786
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 06/01/93
Interim Final Rule 08/08/97 62 FR 42651
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 10/07/97
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: chisleyk@fas.usda.gov
Tamoria Thompson
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: thompsont@fas.usda.gov
RIN: 0551-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)
_______________________________________________________________________
402. FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA) REGULATIONS FOR THE FOREIGN
AGRICULTURAL SERVICE
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 07/11/02 67 FR 45895
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: chisleyk@fas.usda.gov
Tamoria Thompson
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: thompsont@fas.usda.gov
RIN: 0551-AA61
BILLING CODE 3410-10-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Forest Service (FS)
_______________________________________________________________________
403. HYDROPOWER APPLICATIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 551; 43 USC 1761
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Forest Service is revising its current policy and
procedures, implemented in February 1987, concerning administration of
hydropower authorizations and the processing of proposals for
hydropower projects affecting National Forest System lands. These
revisions are necessary to make Agency policy and procedures consistent
with regulatory changes by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
(FERC). The proposed policy was published in the Federal Register on
May 22, 1995 (60 FR 27153), for a 60-day public comment period, which
was extended for another 45 days (60 FR 36401). As a result of the
comments received, substantial changes were made to the proposed policy
(60 FR 36401). Therefore, the Forest Service is publishing a revised
proposed policy for public comment.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/22/95 60 FR 27153
NPRM Comment Period Extended 07/17/95 60 FR 36401
NPRM Comment Period End 09/05/95
Second NPRM 11/00/02
Second NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AA47
[[Page 74340]]
_______________________________________________________________________
404. INDIAN ALLOTMENTS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1603; 43 USC 1740; 25
USC 337
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 254
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule sets forth the Forest Service role and
procedures in the conveyance of Indian allotments on National Forest
System (NFS) lands. The Indian Allotment Act of 1910, as amended,
authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to make allotments of NFS
lands to American Indians for homesteading and agricultural and grazing
purposes, but only after a determination by the Secretary of
Agriculture that the lands are more valuable for agriculture or grazing
than for timber. The Forest Service has relied upon U.S. Department of
the Interior rules and procedures at 43 CFR 2533 to govern its
involvement in Indian allotment cases. Litigation and a decision by the
Interior Board of Land Appeals require the Forest Service to set forth
its own regulations. This proposed rule clarifies the role of the
Forest Service in the allotment process. It preserves the rights of
affected individual American Indians who wish to apply for allotments
on NFS lands. An earlier version of this proposed rule was published in
the Federal Register on June 22, 1987 (52 FR 23473). Very few comments
were received on the 1987 proposed rule, and this revision of the
proposed rule makes only limited changes needed to update the rule due
to the passage of 15 years since publication of the first version of
the proposed rule. Because of the amount of time that has elapsed since
the earlier version of the proposed rule was published, the agency
believes that it is in the public interest to publish a revised
proposed rule and request comment prior to adopting a final rule.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/22/87 52 FR 23473
NPRM Comment Period End 07/22/87
Second NPRM 11/00/02
Second NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________
405. SMALL TRACTS ACT REGULATIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 521(c) to 521(i)
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 254
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Implementation of the Agency's Small Tracts regulations
(adopted in 1984) has revealed an inadvertent inconsistency between the
regulations at 36 CFR 254.35(f) and 254.41(a) and the legislative
history of the Small Tracts Act of January 12, 1983. The regulations
imply that the disposal of mineral fractions by sale can only be made
in response to an application from an abutting landowner, thus
discouraging the conveyance by sale to the public. The Act clearly
authorizes sale of mineral fractions to the public through public sale,
as well as individual applications, provided that certain conditions
are met. The revisions will clarify the application of the Act to
ensure that both individual applications and public sale are
permissible means of disposing of qualifying tracts.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AA79
_______________________________________________________________________
406. SPECIES SURPLUS TO DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING NEEDS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 620 et seq
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.200
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule would amend 36 CFR 223.200 to list species
proposed to be surplus to domestic manufacturing needs. This proposed
rule would implement a portion of section 620a(b) of the Forest
Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990 (16 U.S.C. 620
et seq.). Section 620a(a) of the Act provides that no person who
acquires unprocessed timber originating from Federal lands west of the
100th meridian in the contiguous 48 States may export such timber from
the United States, or sell, trade, exchange, or otherwise convey such
timber from the United States, unless such timber has been determined
under subsection (b) to be surplus to the needs of timber manufacturing
facilities in the United States. Section 620a(b) of the Act provides
that the prohibition contained in section (a) shall not apply to
specific quantities of grades and species of unprocessed timber
originating in Federal lands which the Secretary determines, through
rulemaking, to be surplus to domestic manufacturing needs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: Federal
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB27
[[Page 74341]]
_______________________________________________________________________
407. APPEAL OF DECISIONS RELATING TO OCCUPANCY AND USE OF NATIONAL
FOREST SYSTEM LANDS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251; 36 CFR 214
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: These proposed regulations would redesignate these appeals
rules as a new part 214, thus placing all appeals and notice and
comment rules in close proximity. Additionally, this proposed rule
would revise a number of existing provisions. For example, changes to
part 251 would clarify the application of this rule to the issuance of
permits for occupancy and use of National Forest System lands. When 36
CFR part 251, subpart C, regulations were promulgated in 1989, NEPA
analysis and documentation was not consistently applied to the
authorization of special uses. Now the authorization and the issuance
of permits and other authorization requires application of the NEPA
process prior to issuance. In addition, since these regulations were
implemented, Congress has passed the Appeal Reform Act. The proposed
changes to the permit-related appeal rules are needed to make this
regulation consistent with regulations at 36 CFR part 215. Among
specific proposed changes being considered are removing the second
level of appeal opportunity, removing the discretionary review option,
shortening timeframes for scheduling oral presentations, and making
changes to conform terminology and definitions with 36 CFR part 215.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________
408. LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPPORT ACTIVITIES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1011(f); 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 559(a)
to 559(g); 40 USC 484(m)
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 262
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: In February 1994, the Forest Service published proposed rule
changes for parts 261 and 262 of title 36 of the Code of Federal
Regulations. Due to the high level of interest in and comment on part
261, the decision was made to publish a second proposed rule. The
majority of the public comment on part 262 referred to the definition
section, which has been revised to respond to those comments. The
Forest Service has decided to issue a second proposed rule for comment
only on part 262, Law Enforcement Support Activities. Proposed
revisions to part 261 will proceed separately.
In addition, the proposed amendment to 36 CFR part 262, Law Enforcement
Support Activities, would amend the rules that govern monetary rewards
and payments for information leading to the arrest and conviction of
people who harm natural resources or threaten employees. The proposed
rule would remove established rewards for damaging or stealing yew
trees, the natural source of taxol, as taxol is now produced
synthetically. The change also would clarify the procedures in subpart
B for administrative impoundments and removals of livestock, dogs, and
personal property.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/16/94 59 FR 7880
NPRM Comment Period End 05/18/94
Second NPRM 02/00/03
Second NPRM Comment Period End 04/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________
409. NONCOMPETITIVE SALE OF TIMBER
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 472(a)
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.85
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule would revise 36 CFR 223.85 by removing
references to section 2001(k) of Public Law 104-19 (109 Stat. 246) and
defining ``extraordinary conditions'' to allow forest officers, without
advertisement, to make modifications to timber and forest product
sales, which result in the substitution of timber or forest products
from outside the sale area specified in the contract. Under the
proposed rule, substitute timber or forest products would have to come
from the same administrative national forest and meet Agency
requirements for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act
and other environmental laws. Forest Service officials would be
authorized to propose timber sale modifications and to enter into
discussions with purchasers on such modifications. However, timber
purchasers would not be compelled to accept any modifications offered
under this rule.
To the extent that timber sale cancellations and partial cancellations
are avoided, future damage claims on timber sales would be reduced.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 02/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 04/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
[[Page 74342]]
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________
410. LAND USES; SPECIAL USES REQUIRING AUTHORIZATIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 477 to 482; 16 USC 551; 43 USC 1761 to 1771
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251.50
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: In April 1997, the Forest Service completed a reengineering
study of its special uses program on how to manage the program in a
more businesslike, customer-service-oriented way. The Agency is
proposing revisions to 36 CFR 251.50 that would implement
recommendations from this study. The study determined that many units
are issuing special use authorizations unnecessarily, thereby
increasing workloads. The study concluded that the Agency should
clarify the special uses rules at section 251.50(a) to make explicitly
clear that special use authorizations should not be issued for
activities that are addressed by other Forest Service regulations; for
example, those governing the disposal of timber (part 223); minerals
(part 228); and the grazing of livestock (part 222). The study also
concluded that section 251.50(e) should be added to direct that special
use authorizations should not be issued where such authorization would
serve no land or resource management objective and would have nominal
effects on National Forest System lands; for example, where activities
are adequately regulated by other governmental entities or where an
authorized officer determines that normal operation and maintenance by
the holder is within the scope of a right-of-way, easement, or other
valid existing real property interest. Further, the rule at section
251.50(d) would clarify requirements regarding authorizations for
special uses involving National Forest System roads and trails. The
current regulation requires the issuance of closure orders for
regulation of special uses on NFS roads and trails. The revised
regulation will eliminate the necessity of individual closure orders
for common public service permit programs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB74
_______________________________________________________________________
411. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; TIMBER EXPORT
AND SUBSTITUTION RESTRICTIONS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 620
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223; 36 CFR 261
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The proposed rule for timber export and substitution
restrictions would implement the Forest Resources Conservation and
Shortage Relief Act of 1990, as amended. The proposed rule defines the
certain terms necessary to facilitate uniform compliance; prohibits
transfer of unprocessed private timber for export by a person who
possesses or acquires unprocessed Federal timber; prohibits export of
such unprocessed private timber by a third or successive party;
prescribes procedures for reporting the acquisition and disposition of
NFS and private timber requiring domestic processing, including
transfers; prescribes procedures for identifying unprocessed National
Forest Service and private timber requiring domestic processing; and
establishes procedures for assessing civil and criminal penalties and
applying administrative remedies for violations of the Act, its
implementing regulations, and contracts subject to the Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: Federal
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________
412. SPECIAL FOREST PRODUCTS AND FOREST BOTANICAL PRODUCTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: PL 106-113
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Forest Service proposes to promulgate regulations for
managing special forest products and forest botanical products. The
regulations will guide the Forest Service in the administration of the
broader category of special forest products. The proposed rule also
implements Public Law 106-113, which authorizes a pilot program of
charges and fees for harvest of forest botanical products
(Appropriations Act H.R. 3423, section 339, Forest Botanical Products).
Forest botanical products include products, such as herbs, berries,
seeds, and wildflowers that are not wood products. The intended effect
of this rule is to give guidance and consistency for the sustainability
and sale of special forest products including forest botanical
products.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134,
[[Page 74343]]
ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________
413. DETERMINING FAIR MARKET VALUE FOR RECREATION RESIDENCE USE
AUTHORIZATIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 497; PL 106-291, title VI
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The appropriations act for the Department of the Interior and
related agencies for fiscal year 2001 (Pub. L. 106-291) contains
provisions in title VI ``Cabin User Fee Fairness Act of 2000'' to
ensure consistent and fair processes for appraising the fee simple
value of recreation residence lots on National Forest System (NFS)
lands. This act (1) establishes in law that the base annual fee for
recreation residences is 5 percent of the market value of the lot; (2)
changes the appraisal cycle period from 20 years to 10 years; and (3)
requires the Secretary of Agriculture to (a) complete an inventory of
utilities, access, and facilities serving each recreation residence
tract or lot and document who paid for the installation of those
improvements; (b) develop a new set of guidelines for conducting
appraisals for recreation residences on NFS lands; (c) use a different
annual indexing indicator; and (d) issue new Agency direction to
implement the provisions of the Act within 2 years of its passage (10/
11/2000). The Forest Service proposes to publish notice in the Federal
Register of policy changes to the Forest Service Manual (FSM 2723) and
Handbooks (FSH 2709.11, sec. 33; and FSH 5409.12, ch. 6) that would
make Agency direction consistent with the requirements in the Act for
the base annual fee and appraisal cycle (described in the preceding
items (1) and (2)) and to request public comment on those policy
changes related to the inventory, guidelines for appraisals, and
indexing indicator (described in the preceding items (3)(a) to (3)(d)).
Comments will be considered in development of the final policy.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________
414. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 16 USC et seq; 5 USC 301
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 219, subpart A
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to revise the November 9,
2000, land and resource management planning rule. This action responds
to serious concerns raised by employees and others about the agency's
ability to implement some provisions of the November 2000 rule. The
Forest Service also plans to address issues or deficiencies that have
evolved from over 2 decades of forest planning. The goal is to develop
a new rule that improves the planning process, decisionmaking, and
legal defensibility of land and resource management plans.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Final Action 08/00/03
Final Action Effective 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
URL For More Information:
http://www.fs.fed.us/emc/nfma
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB86
_______________________________________________________________________
415. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT DOCUMENTATION NEEDED FOR CERTAIN
SMALL ADMINISTRATIVE TIMBER SALES ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS AND
RESEARCH PROJECTS (FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1909.15, CHAPTER 30)
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 42 USC 1421 to 4337
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: In 1999, as a result of a court action, the Forest Service
lost the ability to use a categorical exclusion from National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation for small timber sales.
This category was used extensively for small timber sales to remove
hazardous trees, treat insect and disease outbreaks, and provide
related timber products for local communities. As a consequence, the
responsible official must now prepare an environmental assessment (EA)
on these small volume timber sales (under 250,000 board feet of green
timber or 1 million board feet of salvage timber). This has resulted in
a Service-wide increase in environmental analysis costs and delays in
beginning and completing these small timber sale projects on the
National Forests and Research Experimental Forests. This proposal would
categorically exclude from documentation in an EA or environmental
impact statement (EIS) certain types of small timber sales in the
National Forests and Research Experimental Forests and would enable the
Agency to accomplish in a more timely and efficient manner the
treatment of small fire hazard areas, insect and disease outbreaks, and
hazardous tree removal. This new categorical exclusion would be added
to the existing categories for categorical exclusions in chapter 30 of
Forest
[[Page 74344]]
Service Handbook (FSH) 1909.15, and by Council on Environmental Quality
(CEQ) regulation, this proposal requires public notice and opportunity
to comment. For convenience and cost savings, the final directive may
be issued temporarily as an interim directive to chapter 30 of FSH
1909.15 but would be incorporated as an amendment as soon as there are
sufficient other changes to the chapter to warrant revision of the
entire chapter. Decisions using this new category may be subject to a
30-day public comment period and administrative appeal under 36 CFR
part 215.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB88
_______________________________________________________________________
416. NOTICE, COMMENT, AND APPEAL PROCEDURES FOR NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM
PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; PL 102-381, sec 322 (Appeal
Reform Act); 106 Stat 1419 (16 USC 1612 note)
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 215 (Revision)
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: In 1992, the Appeal Reform Act mandated the Forest Service to
develop appeal regulations for site-specific projects on National
Forest System lands. The regulations were promulgated in 1994.
Experience has shown there are certain provisions in the regulations
that consistently give rise to questions by employees and the public
and reduce efficient processing of administrative appeals. This
proposed rule would revise the appeal regulations to bring better focus
to public participation and to improve consistency in the application
of this regulation, both of which would result in improved efficiency
of the appeals process for the public and the Government.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB89
_______________________________________________________________________
417. LAND USES; PROHIBITIONS: PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 551; 18 USC 641
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251.50; 36 CFR 251.51; 36 CFR 261.2; 36 CFR
261.9(i)
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed rule consists of several technical changes to
the agency's special uses and prohibited acts regulations regarding
fossil collecting. First, the proposed rule would revise 36 CFR 251.50
to make clear that noncommercial recreational collecting of
nonvertebrate fossils is an activity that does not require a special
use authorization. Noncommercial vertebrate fossil collecting by
academic and other similar institutions would be added as an activity
that requires a special use authorization. The commercial collection of
paleontological resources would not be authorized on National Forest
System Lands. Second, this proposed rule would revise the definition
for ``paleontological resource'' at 36 CFR 261.2 to make it
scientifically correct. The revised definition for ``paleontological
resource'' and a definition for ``nonvertebrate fossil collecting''
would be added to 36 CFR 251.51. Third, the prohibitions related to
paleontology at 36 CFR 261.9 would be revised to reflect the changes at
36 CFR part 251. Other conforming amendments to 36 CFR parts 251 and
261 will be made to accommodate the changes identified in this
abstract. This proposed rule is consistent with the Forest Service's
stated commitment to develop a unified policy for management of fossil
resources on Federal and Indian lands in accordance with the seven
principles established in the May 2000 Secretary of the Interior's
Report to the Senate.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Final Action 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB91
_______________________________________________________________________
418. FOREST SERVICE TRAILS ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 49 USC 4151; 29 USC 794; 7 CFR 15e
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and 7 CFR 15e require that new or
reconstructed facilities be accessible. The Forest Service Trails
Accessibility Guidelines in this proposed policy amending Forest
Service Manual (FSM) 2350, Trail, River, and Similar Recreation
Opportunities, would establish clear agency guidelines to provide the
highest level of accessibility to pedestrian/hiker trails for the
greatest number of people, including persons
[[Page 74345]]
with disabilities, while not fundamentally altering the environment and
recreational setting. The proposed policy also would incorporate the
definition of a wheelchair and clarify direction that a mobility device
that meets that definition of a wheelchair may be used anywhere foot
travel is permitted. Comments will be considered in development of the
final guidelines.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________
419. FOREST SERVICE OUTDOOR RECREATION ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 42 USC 4151; 29 USC 794; 7 CFR 15e
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and 7 CFR 15e require that new or
reconstructed facilities be accessible. The Forest Service Outdoor
Recreation Accessibility Guidelines in this proposed policy amending
Forest Service Manual (FSM) chapter 2330, Publicly Managed Recreation
Opportunities, would establish clear agency guidelines to provide the
highest level of accessibility for the greatest number of people,
including persons with disabilities, while not fundamentally altering
the environment and recreational setting. Outdoor recreation facilities
include campgrounds, picnic areas, beach access and other access
routes, and so on. The proposed policy also would clarify direction
regarding existing requirements for the Golden Access Passport
eligibility and documentation utilized by all Federal agencies under
the 1980 amendment to the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act.
Comments will be considered in development of the final guidelines.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________
420. [bull] INTERIM DIRECTIVE TO FOREST SERVICE MANUAL CHAPTER 1920,
LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING, FSM 1923, OBJECTION PROCESS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 36 CFR 219
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency is proposing to issue an interim directive (ID) to
Forest Service Manual chapter 1920, Land and Resource Management
Planning to provide Agency-wide guidance on objections filed against
land and resource management plan decisions. The objection process is
authorized in the National Forest System Land and Resource Management
Planning rule at 36 CFR 219.32 (65 FR 65714, November 9, 2000). The
2000 Planning Rule is currently being revised to address concerns
raised regarding the Agency's ability to implement some portions of the
rule's provisions. Nevertheless, this pre-decisional objection process
is a viable tool for field units to use to attempt to resolve issue(s)
prior to making a final Agency decision on land and resource management
plans. Therefore, it is prudent to provide interim direction on the
objection process in order to ensure Agency-wide consistency in its
implementation. Upon issuance of this ID, notice will be given in the
Federal Register with a request for public comment. Comments will be
reviewed and considered in developing the final policy on the objection
process.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________
421. [bull] LOCATABLE MINERALS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 30 USC 21 to 54; 30 USC 612
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 228, subpart A
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This revision follows recommended changes developed by GAO
and OIG audits and recommendations in the National Research Council's
1999 report titled ``Hardrock Mining on Federal Lands.'' The proposed
rule would improve the administration of the locatable minerals
program. The proposed rule's objectives are to improve the process for
modifying, suspending, and terminating plans of operation; improve the
process of reviewing and adjusting reclamation bonds to cover the full
cost of reclamation; improve the process of managing temporary
closures; define proper occupancy and use; and improve noncompliance
and enforcement actions. This proposed rule revision will increase the
efficiency of locatable minerals administration and protect the public
from funding mine reclamation.
[[Page 74346]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/03
Final Action 12/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________
422. [bull] NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT DOCUMENTATION NEEDED FOR
FIRE MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES (PROPOSED INTERIM DIRECTIVE TO FOREST SERVICE
HANDBOOK 1909.15, CHAPTER 30)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 42 USC 1421 to 4337
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Forest Service proposes to issue an interim directive to
Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 1909.15, Environmental Policy and
Procedures Handbook, chapter 30, which addresses categories of actions
that normally do not require either an environmental impact statement
or an environmental assessment. The interim directive would add two
categories of actions applicable to certain fire management activities,
including prevention, mitigation, and emergency stabilization and
rehabilitation (or restoration) measures. Such management activities
would be designed to keep fire on the ground so that suppression
efforts can be more effective. The objective of these activities for
fuels management in areas of wildland-urban interface would be to
reduce potential wildland fire intensity to a level where fire
suppression forces can safely remain on site during a wildland fire.
Hazard reduction treatments would be accomplished using both prescribed
fire and mechanical methods (thinning, logging, creating fuelbreaks,
and so on). Comments received on the proposed interim directive will be
used in development of final direction.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Forest Service (FS)
_______________________________________________________________________
423. DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST TIMBER; CANCELLATION OF TIMBER SALE
CONTRACTS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 618
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.30; 36 CFR 223.40; 36 CFR 223.116
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Forest Service is issuing a final rule to revise current
Agency regulations regarding cancellation of timber sale contracts,
permits, and other such instruments authorizing the sale or harvest of
timber or other forest products. This rule is needed to clarify when,
why, and by whom contracts may be canceled to remove redundant
provisions and to provide a new formula for compensation when the
Government must cancel timber sale contracts. The Forest Service takes
every precaution before authorizing a particular activity on National
Forest System lands to ensure that its authorization conforms with
existing laws and with existing conditions on the ground at the time of
the authorization. The current regulations place an inappropriate
amount of financial liability on the Forest Service when the agency
must, for reasons of public policy, judicial decision, or statutory
direction, cancel a timber sale contract or permit. The regulatory
changes are necessary because the Forest Service is unable to continue
bearing the majority of the financial risk and burden of contract
cancellations. This rule would more reasonably allocate the risk
between the Government and private parties. Establishing these
reasonable limits to the Government's exposure to financial liability
and burden of risk in the event of contractual changes or contract
cancellations is critical to protecting the public's financial
interests.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/30/96 61 FR 68690
NPRM Comment Period End 02/13/97
Final Action 01/00/03
Final Action Effective 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB21
[[Page 74347]]
_______________________________________________________________________
424. COLLECTION OF REIMBURSABLE COSTS FOR PROCESSING SPECIAL-USE
APPLICATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION OF SPECIAL-USE AUTHORIZATIONS
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 43 USC 1764; 30 USC 181
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The objective of this proposal is to incorporate into
regulation the authority contained in the Mineral Leasing Act and the
Federal Land Policy and Management Act to reimburse the United States
for reasonable administrative costs associated with the issuance and
administration of special-use authorizations on National Forest System
lands. It responds to a recommendation contained in GAO Audit Report
RCED-97-16 (12/96).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/24/99 64 FR 66341
NPRM Comment Period Extended 12/29/99 64 FR 72971
NPRM Comment Period End 02/04/00
Comment Period Extended 02/25/00 65 FR 10042
Comment Period End 03/09/00
Final Action 12/00/02
Final Action Effective 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Additional Information: Cost reimbursement for processing special-use
applications and administration of special-use authorizations was
originally included under RIN 0596-AA36. All provisions pertaining to
the special-use application and administration process were merged into
the Final Rule published November 30, 1998 (63 FR 65950, RIN 0596-
AB35). Thus, this rulemaking addresses only the cost-reimbursement
provisions.
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB36
_______________________________________________________________________
425. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; EXTENSION OF
TIMBER SALE CONTRACTS TO PERMIT URGENT REMOVAL OF TIMBER FROM OTHER
LANDS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a; 16 USC 618; 16 USC 620
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.50; 36 CFR 223.53
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This interim rule and policy change will provide for
extension of National Forest System (NFS) timber sale contracts when
such an extension will permit the prompt removal and utilization of
non-NFS timber damaged by catastrophic events. This change will define
the responsibilities of the parties for requesting and approving such
extensions and specify when such extensions should be approved. This
change will also allow for the use of scarce timber resources and the
recovery of economic benefits from timber that might otherwise be lost
because of contractual obligations to harvest undamaged timber. The
interim rule will provide the regulatory foundation for extending
existing contracts.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 11/00/02
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: Federal
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________
426. PREFERENCE FOR VISITOR SERVICE; ALASKA NATIONAL FOREST CONSERVATION
SYSTEM UNITS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 3197
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Forest Service is issuing a final rule to establish
procedures by which eligible persons may receive preferences authorized
by statute in the issuance of special use permits to conduct revenue-
producing visitor services within Conservation System Units on the
National Forests in Alaska. This regulation is necessary to implement
section 1307 of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act
(ANILCA; 16 U.S.C. 3101 et seq.). Lands administered by the Forest
Service comprise approximately 5% of the Federal lands affected by this
statute; therefore, in preparing this rule, the Forest Service has
coordinated with two agencies of the Department of the Interior in
order to provide consistency in the implementation of ANILCA. The final
rule for the National Park Service was published on October 18, 1996
(61 FR 54334, revising 36 CFR part 13) and the final rule for the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service was published on January 14, 1997 (62 FR
1838, revising 50 CFR part 36). While the USDI received many comments
on its proposed rules, the Forest Service received only four comments
on its proposed rule, which was published on April 25, 1997 (62 FR
20140). After considering all public comments, the Forest Service has
revised the rule to clarify that statutory rights granted by ANILCA
take precedence over the Forest Service outfitter and guide policy
regarding reissuance of permits to priority use holders without
competition; other changes made in this final rule are primarily minor
and non-substantive.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/25/97 62 FR 20140
NPRM Comment Period End 06/24/97
Final Action 11/00/02
Final Action Effective 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
[[Page 74348]]
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________
427. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT DOCUMENTATION NEEDED FOR CERTAIN
SPECIAL USES PERMIT ACTIONS (FINAL INTERIM DIRECTIVE TO FSH 1909.15,
CHAPTER 30)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 42 USC 4321 to 4346
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: In April 1997, the Forest Service completed a reengineering
study of its special uses program. One finding in that study was that
the Forest Service is conducting extensive National Environmental
Policy Act (NEPA) analysis and documentation for the renewal or
transfer of ownership of special use authorizations having no
significant effect on the human environment, either individually or
cumulatively. This level of NEPA compliance is costly, time consuming,
and not commensurate with the risk attributed to the activity.
Therefore, the Forest Service proposes to add a new category of
categorical exclusions from NEPA documentation at sections 31.1b and
31.2 of FSH 1909.15, Environmental Policy and Procedures Handbook. This
action would give clearer direction regarding the NEPA obligation, when
issuance of a special use authorization is a purely ministerial action
and no changes are proposed in permitted activities or facilities.
The proposed policy published September 20, 2001 (66 FR 48412) also
contained a proposed revision to section 30.3 to clarify the NEPA
documentation that is needed for processing applications and
authorizations under a categorical exclusion when extraordinary
circumstances exist. This revision to section 30.3 regarding
extraordinary circumstances was incorporated as a separate action in
RIN 0596-AB94 and final policy was published August 23, 2002 (67 FR
54622).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/20/01 66 FR 48412
NPRM Comment Period End 11/19/01
Final Action 01/00/03
Final Action Effective 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
Related RIN: Related To 0596-AB94
RIN: 0596-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________
428. REVISIONS TO ROAD MANAGEMENT POLICY (FOREST SERVICE MANUAL CHAPTER
7710)
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 551; 23 USC 205
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 212
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: On January 12, 2001 (66 FR 3205), the Forest Service adopted
a new road management policy to improve the analysis and decisionmaking
of the National Forest System road system. As part of a Governmentwide
review of recently adopted rules and policies announced January 20,
2001, the Chief conducted an internal review of the new road management
policy. As a consequence, the Agency identified several changes to be
made to Forest Service Manual (FSM) chapter 7710. The first of these
was to issue an interim directive (ID No. 7710-2001-1) to redelegate
the authority for extending deadlines for completion of forest-scale
analysis from the Chief to the Regional Foresters. Additionally, the ID
granted all units an additional year to complete road inventories and
analysis. This ID was effective May 31, 2001. Upon issuance, the Agency
gave notice in the Federal Register with a request for comment. The
Agency later determined that the interim requirements of the road
management policy limiting road construction in inventoried roadless
and contiguous unroaded areas were not relevant to the road management
policy; rather, these requirements should be dealt with in the context
of overall management planning of roadless areas. Moreover, field units
were generally finding it difficult to determine how to define and map
contiguous unroaded areas consistently. In some recent cases, the
interim requirements were resulting in EIS's for minimal road
construction or reconstruction along the edge of inventoried roadless
areas and contiguous unroaded areas, with resultant delays in project
decisions. Therefore, the Agency issued a second ID effective December
14, 2001 (ID No. 7710-2001-3), to rescind these interim requirements
from FSM chapter 7710 and simultaneously issued a third ID (ID No.
1920-2001-1) to relocate these roadless requirements to FSM chapter
1920, Land and Resource Management Planning. Although the second ID was
immediately effective, a notice with a request for comment was
published in the Federal Register on December 20, 2001 (66 FR 65796).
Comments on ID No. 7710-2001-1 and ID No. 7710-2001-3 have been
considered in developing the next appropriate steps concerning the road
management policy. The Agency has decided to move ahead with adoption
of the changes to FSM chapter 7710. The issues regarding interim
protection of roadless areas will be handled as changes to chapter
1920.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/20/01 66 FR 65796
NPRM Comment Period End 02/19/02
Final Action 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB90
[[Page 74349]]
_______________________________________________________________________
429. [bull] FOREST LAND ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 230, subpart C
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This interim rule is needed to implement the Forest Land
Enhancement Program (FLEP) authorized in the 2002 Farm Security and
Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-171) through an amendment to
the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act (16 U.S.C. 2103). The FLEP
program replaces two previous conservation incentives programs (the
Stewardship Incentive Program (SIP) and the Forestry Incentives Program
(FIP)). It is very similar to other cooperative grant and agreement
programs that the Forest Service has managed over the past 50 years.
The goals of FLEP are to: (1) Enhance the productivity of timber, fish
and wildlife habitat, soil and water quality, wetland, recreational
resources, and aesthetic values of private non-industrial private
forestland; and (2) establish, manage, maintain, enhance, and restore
such forests. The act requires establishing a coordinated and
cooperative Federal, State, and local grants program directed to
achieve sustainable forestry; assisting owners of non-industrial
private forestlands to more actively manage these lands and related
resources; and encouraging such owners to use State, Federal, and
private sector resource management expertise, financial assistance, and
educational programs.
The interim rule is being drafted in consultation with other State and
Federal Government partners. The FLEP steering committee includes
representatives from State forestry agencies, the Cooperative State
Research, Education and Extension Service, and the Office of General
Council. The Technical Committee that is drafting the interim rule is
comprised of national and regional Forest Service representatives, as
well as State forestry staff from across the country. Every State
forester will have an opportunity to review and provide input to the
interim rule before it is finalized and submitted for clearance. Other
government and non-government partners will also have this opportunity.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 12/00/02
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 02/00/03
Interim Final Rule Effective 03/00/03
Final Action 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: Federal, State, Local
Federalism: This action may have federalism implications as defined in
EO 13132.
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB95
_______________________________________________________________________
430. [bull] COMMUNITY AND PRIVATE LAND FOREST FIRE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 230, subpart D (new)
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 directs
the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a Community and Private Land
Fire Assistance Program, to be administered by the Forest Service and
implemented through the State Foresters. The Forest Service is issuing
an interim rule to provide for the implementation and administration of
the program, which would allow the following activities on both Federal
and non-Federal lands: Fuel hazard mitigation and prevention, invasive
species management, multi-resource wildfire planning, community
protection planning, community and landowner education, market
development and expansion, improved wood utilization, and special
restoration projects.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB96
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Forest Service (FS)
_______________________________________________________________________
431. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING;
EXTENSION OF COMPLIANCE DEADLINE
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 36 CFR 219, subpart A
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 05/20/02 67 FR 35431
Interim Final Rule Effective 05/20/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
RIN: 0596-AB87
[[Page 74350]]
_______________________________________________________________________
432. [bull] CLARIFICATION OF EXTRAORDINARY CIRCUMSTANCES FOR CATEGORICAL
EXCLUSIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 43 USC 4321 to 4346
CFR Citation: None
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Forest Service adopted an Interim Directive (No. 1909.15-
2002-2) to guide employees in complying with the National Environmental
Policy Act and the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations
for certain actions which can be categorically excluded from
documentation in an environmental assessment or an environmental impact
statement. This policy was split from RIN 0596-AB73 and published as a
separate action. The Interim Directive clarifies the consideration of
extraordinary circumstances as they apply to categorical exclusions.
The intent of this Interim Directive is to facilitate employees'
consistent interpretation and application of CEQ regulations and
related agency policy. Notice of adoption of this Interim Directive was
published and became effective on August 23, 2002 (67 FR 54622).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 08/23/02 67 FR 54622
Interim Final Rule Effective 08/23/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Andria D Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4610
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us
Related RIN: Split From 0596-AB73
RIN: 0596-AB94
BILLING CODE 3410-11-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions
Office of Chief Financial Officer (OCFO)
_______________________________________________________________________
433. GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT) AND
GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (GRANTS)
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3017 and 3021
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/23/02 67 FR 3266
NPRM Comment Period End 03/25/02
Next Action Undetermined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Annie Walker-Bradley
Phone: 202 720-9983
Fax: 202 690-3561
Email: abradley@cfo.usda.gov
RIN: 0505-AA11
BILLING CODE 3410-90-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)
_______________________________________________________________________
434. GENERAL NONPROCUREMENT REGULATIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 5 USC 901 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3020
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: USDA published 7 CFR part 3015, Uniform Federal Assistance
Regulations, in 1981 to establish and codify departmentwide policies
and standards for administering grants and cooperative agreements to
governmental and nongovernmental entities. Since that time, the Office
of Management and Budget has led efforts to establish Governmentwide
common rules for governmental and nongovernmental recipients of grants
and cooperative agreements. Consequently, over the years, USDA has
codified its Governmentwide common rules in other parts of title 7 of
the CFR. This has resulted in corresponding amendments to part 3015 to
revise its scope accordingly. We are proposing to remove part 3015 and
to add part 3020 to parts of title 7. We are proposing to include other
administrative requirements that were never codified. The alternative
would be to continue to work with the disjointed, outdated part 3015.
Expected results are that the new part 3020 will be more clear and
concise and will only contain those cross-cutting requirements not
included in other USDA departmentwide administrative regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Annie Walker-Bradley, Acting Director Planning and
Accountability, Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary,
Room 4632 South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-9983
Fax: 202 690-3561
Email: abradley@cfo.usda.gov
RIN: 0503-AA21
[[Page 74351]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)
_______________________________________________________________________
435. OUTREACH AND ASSISTANCE FOR DISADVANTAGED FARMERS AND RANCHERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2279(a)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 26
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This rulemaking will remove CFR part 1943, subpart C, ``Small
Farmer Outreach Training and Technical Assistance Program,'' under the
Farm Service Agency and add new CFR part 26, ``Outreach and Assistance
to Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Program,'' under the
Office of the Secretary. The Food, Agriculture, Conservation and Trade
Act of 1990, title XXV, section 2501 and the Department of Agriculture
Appropriation Acts provides funding for the ``Outreach and Assistance
for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Program.'' These acts
provide the Office of Outreach with the authority to make grants and
enter into contracts, cooperative agreements, and other agreements with
entities to provide outreach, training, and technical assistance; to
encourage and assist socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers to own
and operate farms and ranches; and increase their participation and
accessibility to agricultural programs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/30/01 66 FR 21608
NPRM Comment Period End 05/30/01
Final Action 05/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Geraldine Herring, Special Outreach Program
Coordinator, Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 29259
Phone: 202 720-6350
Fax: 202 720-7489
Email: 2501rfp@usda.gov
RIN: 0503-AA22
BILLING CODE 3410-90-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)
_______________________________________________________________________
436. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--MISCELLANEOUS
CHANGES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 5 USC 301
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4287, subpart B; 7 CFR 4279, subpart A; 7 CFR 4279,
subpart B
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Revisions are proposed in the following areas: Exclusion of
financing agriculture production, limiting debt refinancing, criteria
for reducing percent of guarantee, revising loan priority criteria,
eligibility issues when an applicant is delinquent on Federal debt,
title IX provisions, additional administrative guidance, tightening
eligibility criteria for non-bank lenders, removing the need for a
Regional Attorney review for transfers and assumptions of existing
loans, limiting debt refinancing, limiting packaging fees, adjusting
loan priorities, additional application requirements for certain
applicants, and various other minor editorial changes.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 10/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: John R. Dunn, Director, Cooperative Resources
Management Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-
Cooperative Service, Room 4206/Stop 3253, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-1374
Email: john.dunn@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA23
_______________________________________________________________________
437. AFFIRMATIVE FAIR HOUSING MARKETING PLAN
Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is
undetermined.
Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1703 subpart B; 7 CFR 1942 subpart G; 7 CFR 4284
subpart D; 7 CFR 4287, subpart B; 7 CFR 4279, subpart B; 7 CFR 4274,
subpart D; 7 CFR 4280, subpart A; 7 CFR 4287, subpart H
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action will incorporate the requirement for housing-
related projects (such as apartment buildings, nursing homes, group
homes, and assisted living type facilities) to develop an Affirmative
Fair Housing Marketing Plan (plan) when receiving funding from the
Intermediary Relending Program, Rural Business Enterprise Grant
Program, Rural Business Opportunity Grant Program, Rural Economic
Development Loan and Grant Programs, and the Business and Industry
Direct and Guaranteed Loan Programs. The plan will describe strategies
to attract applications from all groups in a housing market area and
efforts to reach those persons in the market area who traditionally
would not be expected to apply for housing. The Rural Housing Service
Multifamily Housing Program regulations currently include this borrower
requirement.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Nichell Daniels, Loan Specialist, B&I Servicing Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room
6858/Stop 3224, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3224
Phone: 202 690-1754
RIN: 0570-AA24
[[Page 74352]]
_______________________________________________________________________
438. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--FINANCING
COOPERATIVE STOCK
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 5 USC 301
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B; 7 CFR 4279, subpart A
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency proposes to revise the Business and Industry
Program regulations to incorporate additional guidance and eliminate or
reduce certain requirements when financing cooperative stock. It also
proposes to develop a streamlined application form when financing
working capital, which includes cooperative stock.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 07/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes
Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: John R. Dunn, Director, Cooperative Resources
Management Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-
Cooperative Service, Room 4206/Stop 3253, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-1374
Email: john.dunn@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________
439. RURAL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE GRANT PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1932; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1942; 7 CFR 4284
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service proposes to completely
rewrite and renumber 7 CFR 1942, subpart G, to 7 CFR part 4284, subpart
B. This rewrite will incorporate public law changes and clarify
administrative regulatory procedures and guidelines in order to improve
program administration.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Amy Cavanaugh, Loan Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Stop 3225, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3225
Phone: 202 720-1400
RIN: 0570-AA28
_______________________________________________________________________
440. ANNUAL RENEWAL FEE
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1932
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service is amending its
regulation for Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans to provide for an
annual renewal fee. The intended effect of this rule is to reduce the
subsidy rate and its associated budget authority dollar level, which
will result in a greater level of assistance to the public (i.e.,
higher supportable loan level).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 01/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: Businesses
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Dwight Carmon, Director, Special Project Program
Oversight Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-
Cooperative Service, STOP 3221, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-4100
Fax: 202 690-3808
Email: dwight.carmon@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA34
_______________________________________________________________________
441. [bull] RURAL BUSINESS INVESTMENT PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 6029
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action will implement the provisions of section 6029 of
the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act (the 2002 Farm Bill, copy of
relevant provisions attached), which amended the Consolidated Farm and
Rural Development Act by adding ``Subtitle H -- Rural Business
Investment Program.'' Section 6029 provides that the Secretary
``shall'' establish the program and provides mandatory no-year funding
out of the Commodity Credit Corporation at a level sufficient to
guarantee $280 million of debentures and $44 million in grants. The
purpose of the program is the establishment of equity capital
investment in Rural Business Investment Companies and other entities
through a combination of grants and guarantees of debentures with the
objective of fostering economic development in rural areas. The program
is expected to be administered by the Small Business Administration
(SBA), using primarily SBA regulations. These may be supplemented with
Rural Development instructions established by the Rural Business-
Cooperative Service (RBS). An interagency agreement under section 1535
of title 31, United States Code, will be executed by both agencies to
provide the mechanism by which SBA will deliver the program and by
which RBS will provide reimbursement for SBA's services.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 09/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End 11/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Steve Levy, Spacial Initiatives Assistant, Department
of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 6901-S/STOP
3220, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-4100
Email: steve.levy@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA35
[[Page 74353]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)
_______________________________________________________________________
442. RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LOAN AND GRANT PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 940c
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1703, subpart B; 7 CFR 4280, subpart A
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action is part of a reinvention laboratory initiative of
the Department of Agriculture and Rural Business-Cooperative Service.
The regulations will be written in a ``plain language'' style. The
regulation will be simpler and improve the ease of use by the public
and program beneficiaries. The regulation will be written in a question
and answer format from the perspective of questions from the applicant
under this program. The regulations will simplify the application
format, review and selection process, and recipient's recordkeeping
requirements. It will also add a section on the appeal of adverse
decisions. The comment period on the proposed rule ended February 14,
2000. The Agency received 28 written comments. The Agency conducted a
meeting, which was open to the public on August 2, 2000, to allow the
Agency to listen to oral presentations from the general public on the
proposed rule. The Agency will respond to the comments made at the
meeting in the preamble to the final rule as part of the rulemaking
processing under the Administrative Procedures Act.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/15/99 64 FR 69937
NPRM Comment Period End 02/14/00
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Patricia Wing, Loan Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 6867, South
Building, STOP 3225, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9558
Email: patricia.wing@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________
443. ALLOCATION FORMULAS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1940, subpart L
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action will amend existing regulations for allocating
program funds among Agency State offices. It will add the Rural
Business Opportunity Grant Program and update the formulas used for
Rural Business Enterprise Grant and Business and Industry Programs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 08/03/00 65 FR 47695
NPRM Comment Period End 10/02/00
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Diane Berger, Loan Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, STOP 3225, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2383
Fax: 202 720-6561
Email: diane.berger@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________
444. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--DOMESTIC LAMB
INDUSTRY ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM SET-ASIDE
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 5 USC 301
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This action provides for a set-aside of $15 million in
Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans in fiscal year (FY) 2001, $15
million in FY 2002, and $5 million in FY 2003 to help fund the Domestic
Lamb Industry Adjustment Assistance Program. The effective date for the
set-aside was September 30, 2000.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 10/30/00 65 FR 64596
Interim Final Rule Effective 10/30/00
Final Action 08/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: John R. Dunn, Director, Cooperative Resources
Management Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-
Cooperative Service, Room 4206/Stop 3253, 1400 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-1374
Email: john.dunn@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA31
_______________________________________________________________________
445. [bull] RURAL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE GRANT PROGRAM--FARM BILL CHANGES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1932
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1942
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: President Bush signed the Farm Bill May 13, 2002, changing
the definition of rural and rural area in the Consolidated Farm and
Rural Development Act for certain programs including the Rural Business
Enterprise Grant (RBEG) program. The definition now reads ``any area
other than a city or town that has a population of greater than 50,000
inhabitants and the urbanized area contiguous and adjacent to such as a
city or town.'' The previous definition of rural and rural area was
``any area that is not within the outer boundary of any city having a
population of 50,000 or more and its immediately adjacent urbanized and
urbanizing areas with a population density of more than 100 persons per
square mile.'' Therefore, the RBEG program, which is authorized under
the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, must be changed to
reflect the current definition.
The Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act also amended the
definition of small and emerging private business enterprise to include
nonprofit entities and other tax exempt organizations who have a
principal office located on land of an existing or former Native
American reservation in a city, town, or unincorporated area that has a
population of not more than 5,000 inhabitants as an eligible small
[[Page 74354]]
and emerging business regardless of the number of employees or
operating capital of the enterprise.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Amy Cavanaugh, Loan Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Stop 3225, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3225
Phone: 202 720-1400
RIN: 0570-AA36
_______________________________________________________________________
446. [bull] B&I GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM FARM BILL CHANGES--DEFINITION OF
RURAL AND RURAL AREA
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1980, subpart E; 7 CFR 4279, subpart B
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Section 6020 of the Act amends section 343(a) of the
Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act by changing the definition
of ``rural'' and ``rural area'' for the purposes of the B&I program to
read: ``Any area other than a city or town that has a population of
greater than 50,000 inhabitants and the urbanized area contiguous and
adjacent to such a city or town.'' 7 CFR part 4279, subpart B, and 7
CFR part 1980, subpart E, must be changed to incorporate the new
definition.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Brenda Griffin, Loan Specialist, Processing Division,
Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room
6847/Stop 3224, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6802
Email: brenda.griffin2@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA38
_______________________________________________________________________
447. [bull] B&I GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM FARM BILL CHANGES--EXPAND
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Section 6013 of the Act adds other renewable energy systems
as an eligible loan purpose. Section 6017 expands eligibility criteria
for loans to cooperatives and loan guarantees in non-rural areas under
certain conditions and expands eligibility and relaxes financial
reporting requirements for the B&I Cooperative Stock Purchase Program.
It also allows the Agency to require specialized appraisals for the B&I
program. Section 6019 requires the Agency to provide a short,
simplified application form for guarantees of $400,000 or less
initially. 7 CFR part 4279, subpart B, must be changed to incorporate
these provisions of the statute.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 07/00/03
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 09/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Brenda Griffin, Loan Specialist, Processing Division,
Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room
6847/Stop 3224, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6802
Email: brenda.griffin2@usda.gov
RIN: 0570-AA39
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)
_______________________________________________________________________
448. THE RURAL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE GRANTS AND TELEVISION DEMONSTRATION
GRANTS--SMALL/EMERGING PRIVATE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1942, subpart G
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 10/15/02 67 FR 63536
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Amy Cavanaugh
Phone: 202 720-1400
RIN: 0570-AA32
_______________________________________________________________________
449. [bull] RURAL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY GRANTS--DEFINITION OF RURAL AND
RURAL AREAS--FARM BILL CHANGES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1926
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4284
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: President Bush signed the Farm Bill May 13, 2002, changing
the definition of rural and rural area in the Consolidated Farm and
Rural Development Act for certain programs including the Rural Business
Opportunity Grant (RBOG) program. The definition now reads ``any area
other than a city or town that has a population of greater than 50,000
inhabitants and the urbanized area contiguous and adjacent to such as a
city or town.'' The prior definition of rural area for this program
includes ``any area that is not within the boundaries of a city with a
population in excess of 10,000 inhabitants.'' Therefore, the RBOG
Program, which is authorized under the Consolidated Farm and Rural
Development Act, must be changed to reflect the current definition.
The objective of the Agency is to publish a final rule Federal Register
document to promulgate the changes in the Consolidated Farm and Rural
Development Act into 7 CFR part 4284, subpart G. We recommend a not
significant designation of significance
[[Page 74355]]
from the Office of Management and Budget on the final rule. The RBOG
Program has only received an appropriation from Congress for the past
two fiscal years. The year-end obligations total for fiscal years 2000-
2001 was $12,849,188. The new Farm Bill increases the maximum amount of
appropriations authorization from $7.5 million to $15 million for the
RBOG Program.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 10/15/02 67 FR 63537
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Amy Cavanaugh, Loan Specialist, Department of
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Stop 3225, 1400
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3225
Phone: 202 720-1400
RIN: 0570-AA37
BILLING CODE 3410-XY-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Rural Utilities Service (RUS)
_______________________________________________________________________
450. TELECOMMUNICATIONS STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR MATERIALS,
EQUIPMENT, AND CONSTRUCTION
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) proposes to amend 7 CFR
1755 to include requirements presently contained in RUS Bulletin 345-3.
This rule would establish and codify provisions for the inclusion and
removal for products from I.P. 344-2. This rule also proposes to
integrate the existing section on field trials in the procedures for
product acceptance and inclusion in this codification, as well as
clarifying and reorganizing the field trials section.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB40
_______________________________________________________________________
451. SERVICING OF WATER PROGRAMS LOANS AND GRANTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1782; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1956
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This proposed action combines nine existing loan-servicing
regulations of Water Programs into one. The new regulations will codify
and clarify Water Programs policy relating to loan-servicing by
incorporating simplified language without significantly changing any of
the Agency's servicing policies or procedures.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________
452. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 to 950b; PL 103-354; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1794
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Based on a greater use of small-scale and distribution
generation, RUS' experience and review of its existing procedures, RUS
has determined that several changes are necessary for its environmental
process to operate in a more effective and efficient manner.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________
453. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1775
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RUS proposes to amend the regulation to separate the
technical assistance and training grant and solid waste management
grant programs for clarification purposes and to bring the regulation
in line with revisions to OMB circulars. Additionally, it eliminates
the requirement that applicants submit a pre-application
[[Page 74356]]
when applying for grant funds and transfers grant processing and
servicing from the National Office to Rural Development State Offices.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________
454. SPECIAL EQUIPMENT CONTRACT (NOT INCLUDING INSTALLATION), RUS FORM
398
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 CFR 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RUS is amending its regulations on Telecommunications
Standards and Specifications for Materials, Equipment, and Construction
to revise RUS Form 398, Special Equipment Contract (Not Including
Installation).
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB76
_______________________________________________________________________
455. ACCOUNTING REQUIREMENTS FOR RUS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1770
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RUS proposes to revise subpart B, Uniform System of Accounts,
to reflect changes to 47 CFR part 32, Uniform System of Accounts, by
the Federal Communications Commission.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB77
_______________________________________________________________________
456. EXTENSIONS OF PAYMENTS OF PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1721
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RUS proposes to amend the regulation to include distributed
generation projects. Also, the agency proposes to impose a maximum
interest rate not to exceed more than 3 percent in excess of the RUS
borrower's average interest on the notes being deferred. This 3 percent
limit would be used to offset all or part of the administrative costs.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 10/08/02 67 FR 62652
NPRM Comment Period End 12/09/02
Final Action 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB79
_______________________________________________________________________
457. [bull] LAUNCHING OUR COMMUNITIES ACCESS TO LOCAL TELEVISION ACT OF
2000
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 47 USC 1101 et seq; PL 106-553; PL 107-171
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is proposing to draft
regulations to implement title X, Local TV Act, of H.R. 5548. The
purposed of this Act is to facilitate access, on a technology neutral
basis, to signals of local television stations for households located
in non-served and under-served areas.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB82
[[Page 74357]]
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Rural Utilities Service (RUS)
_______________________________________________________________________
458. SETTLEMENT OF DEBT
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 to 950b; 7 USC 1981; PL 99-591; PL 103-354
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) proposes to amend its debt
settlement procedures to allow its Administrator to modify the
requirements borrowers must meet to receive debt settlements.
Currently, all borrowers must meet the same requirements regardless of
the amount of debt or other circumstances. The intent of the proposed
change is to facilitate debt settlements where the RUS Administrator
determines that the Government's interest in the debt can still be
protected without having the borrower meet each of the current
requirements. Such determinations would be made on a case-by-case
basis. While the change is expected to improve the efficiency of debt
settlements, it is not intended to alter the basic outcome of such
settlements.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________
459. DEMAND SIDE MANAGEMENT AND RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1710
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Agency is removing subpart H in its entirety.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/25/01 66 FR 20759
NPRM Comment Period End 05/25/01
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB65
_______________________________________________________________________
460. ELECTRIC PROGRAM STANDARD CONTRACT FORMS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1724; 7 CFR 1726; 7 CFR 1755
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RUS proposes to amend its regulations to revise its standard
forms of contracts that borrowers are required to use when contracting
for construction and procurement financed through loans made or
guaranteed by RUS, in accordance with applicable RUS regulations.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
ANPRM 09/16/98 63 FR 49503
ANPRM Comment Period End 11/16/98
NPRM 07/02/02 67 FR 44396
NPRM Comment Period End 10/30/02
Final Action 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB67
_______________________________________________________________________
461. EXEMPTIONS OF RUS OPERATIONAL CONTROLS UNDER SECTION 306E OF THE RE
ACT
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1710
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RUS proposes to eliminate duplicative lists of requirements
and to eliminate RUS notification to each borrower informing them of
their exemption from operational controls status under the 110 percent
rule.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 05/24/02 67 FR 36542
NPRM Comment Period End 06/24/02
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB68
_______________________________________________________________________
462. TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM SPECIFICATION
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is proposing to amend its
regulations to change the manner in which it publishes the
specifications that products need to meet for their use in
telecommunications systems of RUS borrowers. The specifications are
currently published in the text of the CFR. This proposed rule would
eliminate this unnecessary and burdensome publication in the CFR.
[[Page 74358]]
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB69
_______________________________________________________________________
463. GENERAL AND PRE-LOAN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES COMMON TO INSURED AND
GUARANTEED LOANS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1710
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RUS is amending its regulations to clarify that the purchase
or acquisition of existing electric facilities and implementation of
demand side management and energy conservation programs, and on-grid
and off-grid renewable energy systems are eligible loan purposes under
the Rural Electrification Act, as amended. The rule also makes several
technical corrections to conform the language of the regulations to
existing law and to correct a typographical error.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 02/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB72
_______________________________________________________________________
464. SEISMIC SAFETY
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 42 USC 7701 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1792-C
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The revision to the existing CFR is made to update the
requirements of the agency. The direct final rule provides RUS
borrowers, grant recipients, Rural Telephone Bank (RTB) borrowers and
the public with updated rules for compliance with seismic safety
requirements for new building construction using RUS or RTB loan, grant
or guaranteed funds or funds provided through lien accommodations or
subordinations approved by RUS or RTB.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB74
_______________________________________________________________________
465. RECORD RETENTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RUS ELECTRIC AND
TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1767; 7 CFR 1770
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: RUS plans to issue record retention requirements for its
Electric and Telecommunications borrowers.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB78
_______________________________________________________________________
466. USEFUL LIFE OF FACILITY DETERMINATION
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1710
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service proposes to eliminate the
requirement to use depreciation rates as found in RUS Bulletin 183-1
for determining the useful life of a facility.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 04/09/02 67 FR 17018
NPRM Comment Period End 05/09/02
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________
467. [bull] RURAL BROADBAND ACCESS LOANS AND LOAN GUARANTEES
Priority: Other Significant
Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Legal Authority: PL 107-171, 7 USC 901 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1738
Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, November 13, 2002.
Abstract: RUS is amending its regulations in order to establish the
Rural Broadband Access Loan and Loan
[[Page 74359]]
Guarantees Program as authorized by the Farm Security and Rural
Investment Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 101-171). Section 6103 of the Farm
Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, amended the Rural
Electrification Act of 1936 (RE Act), as amended, to add title VI,
Rural Broadband Access, to provide loans and loan guarantees to provide
funds for the cost of construction, improvement, or acquisition of
facilities and equipment for the provision of broadband service in
eligible rural communities. This rule prescribes the types of loans
available, facilities financed, and eligible applicants, as well as a
minimum credit support requirement to be considered for a loan. In
addition, the rule prescribes the process though which RUS will
consider applicants under the priority consideration and the state
allocations required in title VI.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________
468. [bull] GUARANTEES FOR BONDS AND NOTES ISSUED FOR ELECTRIFICATION
PURPOSES
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 107-171
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1720
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Farm
Bill) amends the Rural Electrification Act of 1936 to include section
313A: Guarantees For Bonds And Notes Issued For Electrification Or
Telephone Purposes. The Farm Bill became law on May 13, 2002, and
requires the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate regulations that
carry out the amendments within 180 days. Furthermore, the
implementation of the amendments shall take effect no later than 240
days.
The new section 313A: Guarantees for Bonds And Notes Issued For
Electrification Or Telephone Purposes, states that the Secretary shall
guarantee payments on bonds or notes issued by cooperative or other
lenders organized on a not-for-profit basis. Section 313A provides
limits to the amount of guarantees, the purpose for the guarantee and
qualifications of eligible lenders seeking a guarantee of a bond or
note. The section also provides for a fee to be charged to lenders that
receive a guarantee under section 313A, which will be deposited in the
Rural Economic Development Subaccount.
The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is proposing the development of rules
that carry out the amendments made by section 313A. The rules will
establish regulations that allow the Secretary to comply with the
requirements outlined and set the limitations provided for in the Farm
Bill.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 11/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined
Government Levels Affected: Undetermined
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development &
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Rural Utilities Service (RUS)
_______________________________________________________________________
469. MERGERS AND CONSOLIDATIONS OF ELECTRIC BORROWERS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717
Completed:
________________________________________________________________________
Reason Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 09/16/02 67 FR 58323
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120
RIN: 0572-AB63
BILLING CODE 3410-15-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
_______________________________________________________________________
470. WETLAND CATEGORICAL MINIMAL EFFECTS EXEMPTIONS
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 3821 et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 12
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The 1985 Farm Bill, as amended, gives producers a major
incentive to conserve wetlands by tying eligibility for most USDA
program benefits to conservation of wetlands. However, producers can
convert wetlands based on available exemptions, including a minimal
effect exemption. A minimal effect applies if the action, individually
and cumulatively, will have minimal effect on the functional
hydrological and biological value of the wetlands in the area. A
categorical minimal effect is
[[Page 74360]]
one that, when carried out, will always have a minimal effect on the
hydrologic and biological functions of wetlands in the area. These
activities will be identified on a regional basis.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Floyd Wood, Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service, Watersheds and Wetlands Division, PO
Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013-2890
Phone: 202 690-1588
Fax: 202 720-2143
Email: floyd.wood@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________
471. EMERGENCY WATERSHED PROTECTION PROGRAM
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: PL 81-516; 33 USC 701; PL 95-334; 16 USC 2203
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 624
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: A revision is necessary to incorporate changes in the
program, which have resulted from the passage of the 1996 Farm Bill; to
fulfill a desire to make the program more responsive and efficient; and
to respond to concerns of the public and the Agency. The rule is being
reorganized and several items added.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Victor Cole, National EWP Leader, Department of
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Room 6019-S, PO
Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 690-4575
Fax: 202 720-2143
Email: vcole@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________
472. [bull] ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY INCENTIVES PROGRAM
Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.
Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect the private sector under PL
104-4.
Legal Authority: 16 USC 3839aa
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1466
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) assistance
promotes agricultural production and environmental quality as
compatible goals, and strives to optimize environmental benefits.
Through EQIP, CCC provides flexible technical, financial, and
educational assistance to producers to install and maintain
conservation systems that enhance soil, water, air quality, related
natural resources, and wildlife while sustaining production of food and
fiber. The statutory purposes of EQIP are to promote agricultural
production and environmental quality as compatible goals and to
optimize environmental benefits.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mark W. Berkland, Director, Conservation Operations
Division, Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation
Service, PO Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 720-1845
Fax: 202 720-4265
Email: mark.berkland@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA31
_______________________________________________________________________
473. [bull] AGRICULTURAL MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 7 USC 1524b
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1465
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Through the Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program,
the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) provides financial assistance
funds annually to producers in 15 statutorily designated States to
construct or improve water management structures or irrigation
structures, to plant trees to form windbreaks or to improve water
quality; and to mitigate risk through production diversification or
resource conservation practices, including soil erosion control,
integrated pest management, or transition to organic farming. The AMA
Program is applicable in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland,
Massachusetts, Maine, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York,
Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mark W. Berkland, Director, Conservation Operations
Division, Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation
Service, PO Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 720-1845
Fax: 202 720-4265
Email: mark.berkland@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA32
_______________________________________________________________________
474. [bull] CONSERVATION SECURITY PROGRAM
Priority: Economically Significant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 3838
CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This program will provide assistance and cost share
incentives to producers who implement or maintain conservation
practices on their property.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Martha Joseph, Resource Conservationist, Department of
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Room 6027-S, P.O.
Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
[[Page 74361]]
Phone: 202 720-7157
Fax: 202 720-2143
Email: martha.joseph@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA36
_______________________________________________________________________
475. [bull] FARM AND RANCH LANDS PROTECTION PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 3838i
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1491
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: This program will seek to protect and help farmers and
ranchers keep their land in agriculture. The program provides matching
funds to State, tribal, local governments, and non-governmental
organizations with existing farmland protection programs to purchase
conservation easements.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Douglas J. Lawrence, Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service
Phone: 202 720-1510
Fax: 202 720-0745
Email: doug.lawrence@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA37
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
_______________________________________________________________________
476. CONSERVATION OF PRIVATE GRAZING LAND
Priority: Other Significant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 2005b
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 610
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Private grazing land constitutes nearly one-half of the non-
Federal land of the United States and is basic to environmental,
social, and economic stability of rural areas. In fact, grazing land
constitutes the single largest watershed cover type in the United
States and contributes significantly to the quality and quantity of
water for all of the many uses in the watershed. Congress recognized
the importance of grazing lands in subtitle H, section 386, of the
Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 by authorizing
the Secretary to provide a coordinated technical, educational, and
related assistance program to conserve and enhance private grazing
lands.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
NPRM 06/29/01 66 FR 34584
NPRM Comment Period End 08/28/01
Final Rule 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Mitch Flanagan, Resource Conservationist, Department of
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Washington, DC
20013
Phone: 202 690-5988
Fax: 202 720-4265
Email: mitch.flanagan@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA29
_______________________________________________________________________
477. [bull] THIRD-PARTY VENDOR
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 652
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: Third-party vendor assistance will allow producers to obtain
technical services from the department or entities by a certification
process.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 12/00/02
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Federalism: Undetermined
Agency Contact: Martha Joseph, Resource Conservationist, Department of
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Room 6027-S, P.O.
Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 720-7157
Fax: 202 720-2143
Email: martha.joseph@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
_______________________________________________________________________
478. HIGHLY ERODIBLE LAND AND WETLAND CONSERVATION
Priority: Other Significant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 12
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule 09/06/96 61 FR 47019
Interim Final Rule Comment
Period End 11/05/96
Final Action To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Martha Joseph
Phone: 202 720-7157
Fax: 202 720-2143
Email: martha.joseph@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA17
_______________________________________________________________________
479. FORESTRY INCENTIVES PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 635; 7 CFR 701
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Interim Final Rule To Be Determined
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Small Entities Affected: No
[[Page 74362]]
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Robert Molleur
Phone: 202 720-6521
Fax: 202 720-4265
Email: robert.molleur@usda.gov
RIN: 0578-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
_______________________________________________________________________
480. [bull] WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 3837, et seq
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1467
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Wetlands Reserve Program provides wetland conservation
assistance through long-term easements and restoration agreements. This
rule would enable the Secretary to grant a waiver if the ``ownership
change occurs due to foreclosure on the land and the owner of the land
immediately before the foreclosure exercises a right of redemption from
the mortgage holder in accordance with State law.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 06/07/02 67 FR 39254
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Roger L. Bensey, Director, Department of Agriculture,
Natural Resources Conservation Service, Watersheds & Wetlands Division,
P.O. Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 720-3534
RIN: 0578-AA33
_______________________________________________________________________
481. [bull] WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVES PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Legal Authority: 16 USC 3839bb-1
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 636
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 amended
the authority of the Secretary of Agriculture for the Wildlife Habitat
Incentives Program (WHIP) to provide additional cost-share assistance
to landowners who enter into an agreement to protect and restore plant
and animal habitat for a term of 15 years. The current regulations for
WHIP require cost-share agreements to be for a term of 5 to 10 years.
This change will amend the program regulation to conform to the
statutory language.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Final Action 07/24/02 67 FR 48353
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Roger L. Bensey, Director, Department of Agriculture,
Natural Resources Conservation Service, Watersheds & Wetlands Division,
P.O. Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 720-3534
RIN: 0578-AA34
BILLING CODE 3410-16-S
_______________________________________________________________________
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage
Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM)
_______________________________________________________________________
482. OFFICE OF PROCUREMENT AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT (OPPM); UNIFORM
PROCEDURES FOR THE ACQUISITION AND TRANSFER OF EXCESS FEDERAL PROPERTY
Priority: Info./Admin./Other
Legal Authority: 7 USC 2206a; 7 USC 301 note; 7 USC 321 et seq; 20 USC
1059c(b)
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3200
Legal Deadline: None
Abstract: The Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM) is
amending its procedures for the acquisition and transfer of excess
personal property to 1994 Institutions (as defined in section 532 of
the Equity in Education Land Grant Status Act of 1994); Hispanic-
Serving Institutions (as defined in section 316(b) of the Higher
Education Act of 1965); and any college or university eligible to
receive funds under the Act of August 30, 1890. This amendment
clarifies administrative rules regarding equipment transfer and reduces
the administrative burden placed on recipient institutions.
Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________
Action Date FR Cite
________________________________________________________________________
Direct Final Rule 01/00/03
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: Kathleen N. Fay, Property Utilization Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Office of Procurement and Property
Management, Mail Stop 9304, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20250
Phone: 202 720-9779
Email: kathy.fay@usda.gov
RIN: 0599-AA10
[FR Doc. 02-26642 Filed 12-06-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-98-S