[December 11, 2006 (Volume 71, Number 237)] [Unified Agenda] From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [frwais.access.gpo.gov] [DOCID: f:ua061003.wais] [Page 72940-73031] Department of Agriculture ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Part III ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Semiannual Regulatory Agenda [[Page 72940]] 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 2006 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 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. For general comments or inquiries about the agenda, please contact Michael Poe, Office of Budget and Program Analysis, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-1272. Dated: September 1, 2006. Jacquelyn Chandler, Chief, Legislative, Regulatory, and Automated Systems Division. Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 150 Honey Research and Promotion: Packer/Importer Board (FV-03-704)....................... 0581-AC37 151 National Organic Program: Sunset (Expiration) of Allowances and Prohibitions Contained 0581-AC51 on the National List (TM-04-07)....................................................... 152 Standards for Condition of Food Containers (FV-05-332)................................ 0581-AC52 153 Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act: Trust Rights (FV-05-373)..................... 0581-AC53 154 National Organic Program: Access to Pasture (TM-05-14)................................ 0581-AC57 155 Multi-Year Revision of Fees for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Terminal Market 0581-AC63 Inspection Services, FV-06-308........................................................ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 156 The National Organic Program: Amending the National List (TM-04-01), Crops and 0581-AC35 Processing............................................................................ 157 Changes in Fees and Hourly Fee Rates for Science and Technology Laboratory Services 0581-AC48 (ST-05-01)............................................................................ 158 Changes in Fees for Federal Meat Grading and Certification Services (LS-05-05)........ 0581-AC49 159 Changes in Fees for Voluntary Federal Dairy Grading and Inspection Services (Fee 0581-AC55 Increase) (DA-05-04).................................................................. 160 Federal Processed Fruits and Vegetables, Fee Increase (FV-05-379)..................... 0581-AC56 161 National Organic Program: Amending the National List (Crop and Livestock) TM-06-04.... 0581-AC61 162 National Organic Program: Amendments to the National List (Livestock) TM-03-04........ 0581-AC62 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Agricultural Marketing Service--Long-Term Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 163 National Organic Program: Add Standards for the Organic Certification of Wild Captured 0581-AB97 Aquatic Animals (TM-01-08)............................................................ 164 Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling of Beef, Pork, Lamb, Fish, Perishable 0581-AC26 Agricultural Commodities, and Peanuts (LS-03-04)...................................... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [[Page 72941]] Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 165 Administrative Requirements for Voluntary Shell Egg, Poultry, and Rabbit Grading (PY- 0581-AC25 02-003)............................................................................... 166 Eligibility Requirements for USDA Graded Shell Eggs (PY-98-006)....................... 0581-AC50 167 Revision of User Fees for 2006 Cotton Crop Classification Services (CN-06-001)........ 0581-AC58 168 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, FV06-1290-1....................................... 0581-AC59 169 National Organic Program: Harvey v. Johanns Court Order (TM-06-06).................... 0581-AC60 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Farm Service Agency--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 170 Procurement of Commodities for Foreign Donation (Reg Plan Seq No. 1).................. 0560-AH40 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. Farm Service Agency--Long-Term Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 171 Regulatory Streamlining of the Farm Service Agency's Direct Farm Loan Programs........ 0560-AF60 172 Interest Assistance Program........................................................... 0560-AG46 173 Ocean Freight Claims Administrative Appeal Process.................................... 0560-AG49 174 2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Assistance for Livestock Producers........................ 0560-AG76 175 Selection of FSA State and County Committees.......................................... 0560-AG90 176 Environmental Compliance and Related Concerns......................................... 0560-AH02 177 Debt Collection, Debt Settlement, and Assignment of Payments.......................... 0560-AH09 178 Disaster Declaration and Designation.................................................. 0560-AH17 179 Conservation Contract Debt Write-Down................................................. 0560-AH23 180 Guaranteed Farm Loan Fees............................................................. 0560-AH41 181 Emergency Conservation Program........................................................ 0560-AH43 182 2005 Hurricane Disaster Assistance Programs........................................... 0560-AH45 183 Reassignment of Sugar Allocation Shortfalls........................................... 0560-AH50 184 Storage Requirements for Grain Security for Marketing Assistance Loans................ 0560-AH52 185 Defining Sugar Subject to Marketing Allocations....................................... 0560-AH53 186 Indian Tribal Land Acquisition Program (ITLAP) Loan Write-Downs....................... 0560-AH54 187 Guaranteed Loans--Interest To Be Paid on Loss Claims.................................. 0560-AH55 188 Appraisal Requirements for Farm Ownership Loans....................................... 0560-AH56 189 Farm Storage Facility Loan Program.................................................... 0560-AH60 190 Grassroots Source Water Protection Program............................................ 0560-AH61 191 2006 Disaster Assistance Programs..................................................... 0560-AH62 192 Interest Rates on Farm Service Agency Farm Loan Programs Guaranteed Loans............. 0560-AH66 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Farm Service Agency--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 193 Amendments to the Standards for Approval of Warehouses for Commodity Credit 0560-AE50 Corporation Storage Contracts......................................................... 194 Clarification of Informal Appeals Procedures.......................................... 0560-AG88 195 Retaining Preferred Lender Program (PLP) Status, Processing Loss Claims, Payment of 0560-AH07 Interest Accrued During Bankruptcy, and Redemption Rights Periods for Guaranteed Loans 196 Planting Reporting for Tropical Crops--Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program.... 0560-AH19 197 Confidentiality of Conservation Program Information................................... 0560-AH32 198 Guaranteed Loans--Unauthorized Assistance............................................. 0560-AH34 199 Grains and Similarly Handled Commodities--Marketing Assistance Loans and Loan 0560-AH38 Deficiency Payments for the 2002 Through 2007 Crop Years.............................. [[Page 72942]] 200 Cooperative Marketing Associations.................................................... 0560-AH42 201 Emergency Forestry Conservation Reserve Program....................................... 0560-AH44 202 Revisions of Delegations of Authority................................................. 0560-AH46 203 Extension of the Milk Income Loss Contract Program.................................... 0560-AH47 204 Regulations for the United States Warehouse Act; Cotton Loans......................... 0560-AH48 205 Percentages for Direct and Counter-Cyclical Program Advance Payments.................. 0560-AH49 206 Revisions of Delegations of Authority................................................. 0560-AH51 207 Regulations Regarding Employee Conflicts of Interest.................................. 0560-AH57 208 Delegation of Authority; Cooperative Agreements for Conservation Programs............. 0560-AH58 209 2005 Dairy Disaster Assistance Payment (DDAP-II) Program.............................. 0560-AH59 210 2005 Cottonseed Payment Program....................................................... 0560-AH63 211 Removal of Obsolete Regulations; Holding Of Referenda................................. 0560-AH64 212 Removal of Obsolete Regulations....................................................... 0560-AH65 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 213 Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and Interactive Programs 0579-AB24 (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review)...................................... 214 Tuberculosis in Cattle; Import Requirements (Section 610 Review)...................... 0579-AB44 215 Boll Weevil; Quarantine and Regulations............................................... 0579-AB91 216 Trichinae Certification Program....................................................... 0579-AB92 217 Standards for Permanent, Privately Owned Horse Quarantine Facilities (Section 610 0579-AC00 Review)............................................................................... 218 Animal Welfare; Regulations and Standards for Birds (Reg Plan Seq No. 2).............. 0579-AC02 219 Importation of Plants for Planting; Establishing a New Category of Plants for Planting 0579-AC03 Not Authorized for Importation Pending Risk Assessment (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review) (Reg Plan Seq No. 3).............................................. 220 National Veterinary Accreditation Program (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 0579-AC04 Review)............................................................................... 221 Sharing Confidential Business Information Regarding the Introduction of Genetically 0579-AC08 Engineered Organisms and Products With Government Agencies............................ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 222 Phytosanitary Certificates for Imported Fruits and Vegetables......................... 0579-AB18 223 Chronic Wasting Disease in Elk and Deer; Interstate Movement Restrictions and Payment 0579-AB35 of Indemnity.......................................................................... 224 Revision of Fruits and Vegetables Import Regulations (Reg Plan Seq No. 4)............. 0579-AB80 225 Phytophthora Ramorum; Quarantine and Regulations (Reg Plan Seq No. 5)................. 0579-AB82 226 Interstate Movement of Sheep and Goats; Approved Livestock Facilities, Identification, 0579-AB84 and Recordkeeping Requirements........................................................ 227 Viruses, Serums, Toxins, and Analogous Products; Records and Reports.................. 0579-AB90 228 Special Need Requests Under the Plant Protection Act.................................. 0579-AB98 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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 Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 229 Plant Pest Regulations; Update of Current Provisions (Section 610 Review)............. 0579-AA80 230 Foot-and-Mouth Disease; Payment of Indemnity.......................................... 0579-AB34 231 Karnal Bunt Compensation.............................................................. 0579-AB45 [[Page 72943]] 232 Movement of Unroasted Coffee Into Hawaii and Puerto Rico.............................. 0579-AB96 233 Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy; Minimal-Risk Regions and Importation of Commodities; 0579-AB97 Unsealing of Means of Conveyance and Transloading of Products......................... 234 Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza; Voluntary Control Program and Payment of Indemnity.... 0579-AB99 235 Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy; Minimal-Risk Regions and Importation of Commodities. 0579-AC01 236 Citrus Canker; Compensation for Certified Citrus Nursery Stock........................ 0579-AC05 237 Agricultural Inspection and AQI User Fees Along the U.S./Canada Border................ 0579-AC06 238 Citrus Canker; Quarantine of the State of Florida..................................... 0579-AC07 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 239 Gypsy Moth; Interstate Movement of Regulated Articles (Completion of a Section 610 0579-AB55 Review)............................................................................... 240 Pine Shoot Beetle Host Material From Canada........................................... 0579-AB76 241 Importation of Small Lots of Seed Without Phytosanitary Certificates.................. 0579-AB78 242 Importation of Swine and Swine Products From the European Union....................... 0579-AB79 243 Requirements for Requests To Amend Import Regulations................................. 0579-AB83 244 User Fees for Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection Services......................... 0579-AB88 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 245 CSREES Agricultural Extension Formula Programs--Administrative Provisions............. 0524-AA26 246 CSREES Non-Formula Grant Programs--Administrative Provisions.......................... 0524-AA28 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 247 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...................................................................... 248 Revised Administrative Provisions--Small Business Innovation Research Grants Program.. 0524-AA31 249 Revised Administrative Provisions--National Research Initiative Competitive Grants 0524-AA32 Program............................................................................... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 250 CSREES Agricultural Research Formula Programs--Administrative Provisions.............. 0524-AA27 251 Guidelines for Hatch Multistate Research Funds........................................ 0524-AA29 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rural Housing Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 252 Civil Rights Compliance Requirements--1901-E to 1940-D................................ 0575-AA83 253 National Flood Insurance Regulations.................................................. 0575-AC07 [[Page 72944]] 254 Servicing Community Programs Loans and Grants......................................... 0575-AC12 255 Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants................................................. 0575-AC20 256 Community Facilities Direct Loan Program--Consolidate, Simplify, and Update 0575-AC27 Regulations........................................................................... 257 Planning and Performing Construction and Other Development............................ 0575-AC55 258 Environmental Policies and Procedures................................................. 0575-AC56 259 Community Programs Guaranteed Loans................................................... 0575-AC58 260 Section 538 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program Change Annual Guarantee Fee Due 0575-AC62 Date.................................................................................. 261 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing--Elimination of Construction Guarantee................ 0575-AC64 262 Thermal Requirements (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review)................. 0575-AC65 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rural Housing Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 263 Multi-Family Housing (MFH) Reinvention................................................ 0575-AC13 264 Guaranteed Single-Family Housing...................................................... 0575-AC18 265 3550--Direct Single-Family Housing Loans and Grants................................... 0575-AC54 266 Amend 3550--Direct Single-Family Housing Loans and Grants............................. 0575-AC59 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rural Housing Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 267 Surety Requirements................................................................... 0575-AC63 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 268 General Administrative Regulations; Sanctions--Administrative Remedies for Non- 0563-AB73 Compliance............................................................................ 269 General Administrative Regulations; Actual Production History (APH)................... 0563-AB83 270 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Tobacco Crop Insurance Provisions.................. 0563-AB98 271 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Cabbage Crop Insurance Provisions.................. 0563-AB99 272 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Cultivated Wild Rice Crop Insurance Provisions..... 0563-AC00 273 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Mustard Crop Insurance Provisions.................. 0563-AC04 274 General Administrative Regulations; Appeal Procedures and Standards for Approval-- 0563-AC06 Reinsurance Agreement................................................................. 275 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Grape and Table Grape Crop Insurance Provisions.... 0563-AC09 276 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Apple Crop Insurance Provisions.................... 0563-AC10 277 Emergency and Disaster Procedures for Crop Insurance Purposes......................... 0563-AC11 278 Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Millet Crop Insurance Provisions................... 0563-AC12 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 279 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Florida Citrus Fruit Crop Insurance Provisions..... 0563-AC01 280 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Fresh Market Sweet Corn Crop Insurance Provisions.. 0563-AC02 281 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Mint Crop Insurance Provisions..................... 0563-AC03 282 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Northern Potato Crop Insurance Provisions.......... 0563-AC05 283 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Walnut Crop Insurance Provisions; Almond Crop 0563-AC08 Insurance Provisions.................................................................. [[Page 72945]] 284 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Nursery Crop Provisions, Nursery Peak Inventory 0563-AC13 Endorsement and Nursery Rehabilitation Endorsement.................................... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Long-Term Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 285 Common Crop Insurance Regulations and Various Crop Insurance Provisions............... 0563-AB96 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 286 General Administrative Regulations; Nonstandard Underwriting Classification System.... 0563-AB66 287 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Peanut Crop Insurance Provisions................... 0563-AB97 288 Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Basic Provisions; Written Agreements............... 0563-AC07 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 289 United States Standards for Rough Rice; United States Standards for Brown Rice for 0580-AA94 Processing; and United States Standards for Milled Rice............................... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 290 United States Standards for Sorghum................................................... 0580-AA91 291 Fees for Rice Inspection Service...................................................... 0580-AA92 292 Clear Title Program; Technical Changes................................................ 0580-AA93 293 Official Fees and Tolerances for Barley Protein Testing............................... 0580-AA95 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Long-Term Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 294 Process Verification Service and Associated Fees...................................... 0580-AA85 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 295 United States Standards for Soybeans.................................................. 0580-AA90 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [[Page 72946]] Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 296 Disqualified Recipient Reporting and Computer Matching Requirements That Affect the 0584-AB51 Food Stamp Program.................................................................... 297 Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations: Resource Limits and Exclusions, 0584-AD12 Extended Certification Periods, and Transitional Benefits............................. 298 Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP): At-Risk Afterschool Suppers................ 0584-AD15 299 Food Stamp Program: Clarifications and Corrections to Recipient Claim Establishment 0584-AD25 and Collection Standards.............................................................. 300 FSP: Revisions to Bonding Requirements for Violating Retail and Wholesale Food 0584-AD44 Concerns.............................................................................. 301 Special Nutrition Programs: Fluid Milk Substitutions (Reg Plan Seq No. 6)............. 0584-AD58 302 Nutrition Standards in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs........ 0584-AD59 303 WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP): Implementation of the FMNP Provisions in 0584-AD74 the CN and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-265) and FMNP Funding Formula. 304 FSP: Administrative Sanctions Imposed Against Violating Electronic Benefits Transfer 0584-AD78 (EBT) Stores.......................................................................... 305 Revisions and Clarifications in Requirements for the Distribution and Control of 0584-AD81 Donated Foods......................................................................... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 306 Child and Adult Care Food Program: Improving Management and Program Integrity (Reg 0584-AC24 Plan Seq No. 7)....................................................................... 307 Food Stamp Program Regulatory Review: FSP Standards for Approval and Operation of Food 0584-AC37 Stamp Electronic Benefit Transfer Systems............................................. 308 National School Lunch Program: Reimbursement for Snacks in Afterschool Care Programs.. 0584-AC72 309 Child and Adult Care Food Program: Implementing Legislative Reforms To Strengthen 0584-AC94 Program Integrity..................................................................... 310 Disclosure of Children's Free, and Reduced Price Meals, and Free Milk Eligibility 0584-AC95 Information in the Child Nutrition Programs........................................... 311 Afterschool Snacks Under the Child and Adult Care Food Program........................ 0584-AD27 312 FSP: Eligibility and Certification Provisions of the Farm Security and Rural 0584-AD30 Investment Act of 2002 (Reg Plan Seq No. 8)........................................... 313 Quality Control Provisions of Title IV of Public Law 107-171 (Reg Plan Seq No. 9)..... 0584-AD31 314 Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)...................................... 0584-AD35 315 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): 0584-AD36 Miscellaneous Vendor-Related Provisions............................................... 316 Procurement Requirements for the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, and Special 0584-AD38 Milk Programs......................................................................... 317 Data Collection Related to Institutions and Organizations............................. 0584-AD43 318 Management of Donated Foods in Child Nutrition Programs, the Nutrition Services 0584-AD45 Incentive Program, and Charitable Institutions........................................ 319 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): 0584-AD47 Discretionary WIC Vendor Provisions in the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004, Public Law 108-265........................................................... 320 District-Wide Use of Provisions 2 and 3............................................... 0584-AD51 321 Administrative Error Reduction in the School Meals Programs........................... 0584-AD52 322 Applying for Free and Reduced Price Meals in the National School Lunch Program, and 0584-AD54 School Breakfast Program, and for Benefits in the Special Milk Program................ 323 Direct Certification of Children in Food Stamp Households and Certification of 0584-AD60 Homeless, Migrant and Runaway Children for Free Meals in the NSLP, SBP, and SMP (Reg Plan Seq No. 10)...................................................................... 324 Verification of Eligibility for Free, and Reduced Priced Meals in the National School 0584-AD61 Lunch and School Breakfast Programs................................................... 325 School Food Safety: Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point System................. 0584-AD65 326 Implementing Provisions From the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004: 0584-AD70 Seamless Summer Option for Schools Participating in the National School Lunch Program. 327 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): WIC 0584-AD71 Vendor Cost Containment (Reg Plan Seq No. 11)......................................... 328 WIC: Implementation of the Nondiscretionary WIC Certification and General 0584-AD73 Administration Provisions............................................................. 329 Revisions and Clarifications in Requirements for the Processing of Donated Foods...... 0584-AD76 330 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): 0584-AD77 Revisions in the WIC Food Packages (Reg Plan Seq No. 12).............................. 331 FSP: Unauthorized Redemption and Trafficking in Program Benefits...................... 0584-AD79 [[Page 72947]] 332 Marketing and Sale of Fluid Milk in Schools........................................... 0584-AD83 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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 Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 333 FSP: Regulation Restructuring To Reflect the End of Coupon Issuance Systems........... 0584-AD48 334 School Breakfast Program: Severe Need Assistance...................................... 0584-AD82 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Food and Nutrition Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 335 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): 0584-AB10 Miscellaneous Provisions.............................................................. 336 FSP: Civil Rights Data Collections.................................................... 0584-AC75 337 Special Nutrition Programs: Uniform Federal Assistance Regulations; Nondiscretionary 0584-AD16 Technical Amendments.................................................................. 338 FSP: Employment and Training Program Provisions of the Farm Security and Rural 0584-AD32 Investment Act of 2002................................................................ 339 FSP: Discretionary Quality Control Provisions of Title IV of Public Law 107-171....... 0584-AD37 340 Child Nutrition Programs: National School Lunch Program; Serving Fruits and Vegetables 0584-AD40 as Afterschool Snacks................................................................. 341 State Administrative Expenses......................................................... 0584-AD53 342 Implementing Provisions of the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004: 0584-AD68 Disregard of Overpayments in the Child Nutrition Programs............................. 343 Food Distribution Programs--Distributing Agency Evaluations of Non-Commercial 0584-AD72 Warehousing and Distribution Systems, Cost Comparisons, System Approval and Implementation........................................................................ 344 Food Stamp Program: Expiration of Residual Paper Coupons.............................. 0584-AD75 345 For-Profit Center Participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program.............. 0584-AD80 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 346 Performance Standards for Pumped or Massaged Bacon.................................... 0583-AC49 347 Egg Products Inspection Regulations (Reg Plan Seq No. 13)............................. 0583-AC58 348 Prior Labeling Approval System: Generic Label Approval................................ 0583-AC59 349 Addition of Mexico to the List of Countries Eligible for the Importation of 0583-AD01 Slaughtered (Fresh) Poultry and Egg Products Into the United States................... 350 Food Defense Plans.................................................................... 0583-AD06 351 Electronic Signatures................................................................. 0583-AD14 352 Food Allergen Labeling for Meat, Poultry, and Egg Products............................ 0583-AD22 353 Definition of Veal.................................................................... 0583-AD23 354 Export Product Deviations From Labeling Requirements and Ingredient Restrictions...... 0583-AD24 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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 Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 355 Performance Standards for the Production of Processed Meat and Poultry Products; 0583-AC46 Control of Listeria Monocytogenes in Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry Products (Reg Plan Seq No. 14)........................................................................... [[Page 72948]] 356 Nutrition Labeling of Single-Ingredient Products and Ground or Chopped Meat and 0583-AC60 Poultry Products (Reg Plan Seq No. 15)................................................ 357 Food Standards; General Principles and Food Standards Modernization................... 0583-AC72 358 Petitions for Rulemaking.............................................................. 0583-AC81 359 Classes of Poultry Updating Poultry Class Standards................................... 0583-AC83 360 Prohibition of the Use of Specified Risk Materials for Human Food and Requirements for 0583-AC88 the Disposition of Non-Ambulatory Disabled Cattle (Reg Plan Seq No. 16)............... 361 Meat Produced by Advanced Meat/Bone Separation Machinery and Meat Recovery Systems 0583-AD00 (Reg Plan Seq No. 17)................................................................. 362 Prohibition on the Use of Air-Injection Stunners for the Slaughter of Cattle (Reg Plan 0583-AD03 Seq No. 18)........................................................................... 363 Accredited Laboratory Program......................................................... 0583-AD09 364 Availability of Lists of Retail Consignees During Meat or Poultry Product Recalls (Reg 0583-AD10 Plan Seq No. 19)...................................................................... 365 Definitions and Procedures for Determining the Net Weight Compliance of Meat and 0583-AD17 Poultry Products...................................................................... 366 Allowing Bar-Type Cut Turkey Operations To Use J-Type Cut Maximum Line Speeds......... 0583-AD18 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 367 Performance Criteria for On-Line Antimicrobial Reprocessing of Pre-Chill Poultry 0583-AC73 Carcasses............................................................................. 368 Performance Standard for Chilling of Ready-To-Cook Poultry............................ 0583-AC87 369 Frequency of Foreign Inspection System Supervisory Visits to Certified Foreign 0583-AD08 Establishments........................................................................ 370 Addition of the People's Republic of China to the List of Countries Eligible To Export 0583-AD20 Processed Poultry and Poultry Products to the United States........................... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Foreign Agricultural Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 371 New Provisions and Revisions to Sugar Re-Export Programs.............................. 0551-AA65 372 Quality Samples Program............................................................... 0551-AA68 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Forest Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 373 Indian Allotments on National Forest System Lands..................................... 0596-AA52 374 Species Surplus to Domestic Manufacturing Needs....................................... 0596-AB27 375 Appeal of Decisions Relating to Occupancy and Use of National Forest System Lands..... 0596-AB45 376 Law Enforcement Support Activities.................................................... 0596-AB61 377 Noncompetitive Sale of Timber; Timber Substitution.................................... 0596-AB70 378 Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Timber Export and Substitution 0596-AB75 Restrictions.......................................................................... 379 Locatable Minerals.................................................................... 0596-AB98 380 Recreation Event Fees (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual, Chapter 2720)....... 0596-AC24 381 Outfitter and Guide Special Use Authorizations (Proposed Directives, Forest Service 0596-AC25 Handbook 2709.11, Chapter 30)......................................................... 382 Secretary Determination That Domestic Species of Unprocessed Timber Are Surplus to 0596-AC27 Domestic Needs Within the Zone of Southern California................................. 383 Clarifying Prohibitions Against Damage to the National Forest by Escaped Fires........ 0596-AC30 384 Revisions to General Prohibitions Regarding Livestock and Wild Free-Roaming Horses and 0596-AC31 Burros on National Forest System Lands................................................ [[Page 72949]] 385 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Documentation for Sporicide Use on National 0596-AC32 Forest System Lands (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Chapter 30). 386 Piscicide Applications on National Forest System Lands................................ 0596-AC33 387 Clarification for the Appropriate Use of a Criminal or a Civil Citation To Enforce 0596-AC38 Mineral Regulations................................................................... 388 Travel Management (Proposed Directives, Forest Service Manual 2300 and 7700).......... 0596-AC39 389 Small Business Administration Timber Sale Set-Aside Program........................... 0596-AC46 390 Linear Right-of-Way Rental Payment Schedule........................................... 0596-AC48 391 Forest Service National Environmental Policy Act Procedures (Reg Plan Seq No. 20)..... 0596-AC49 392 Outfitter and Guide Special Use Authorizations (Proposed Directives, Forest Service 0596-AC50 Handbook 2709.11, Chapter 40)......................................................... 393 Ground Water Resource Management Policy Direction (Proposed New Directive, Forest 0596-AC51 Service Manual, Chapter 2540)......................................................... 394 Forest Service Policy on Partner, Sponsor, and Donor Recognition (Proposed Directive, 0596-AC52 Forest Service Handbook 1509.14)...................................................... 395 Categorical Exclusion for Ski Area Resort Activities (Proposed Directive, FSH 1909.15, 0596-AC53 Chapter 30)........................................................................... 396 Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TES) Species, Species-of-Concern, Habitat 0596-AC55 Management, and Biodiversity Conservation (Proposed Directive, FSM 2670).............. 397 Processing Applications for Wind Energy Development on National Forest System Lands 0596-AC61 (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual 2720)...................................... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. Forest Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 398 Sale and Disposal of National Forest Timber; Cancellation of Timber Sale Contracts.... 0596-AB21 399 Special Forest Products and Forest Botanical Products................................. 0596-AB81 400 National Forest System Land Management Planning Categorical Exclusion (Final 0596-AB86 Directive, Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Chapter 30) (Reg Plan Seq No. 21)......... 401 Delegation of Authority To Approve Free Use by Individuals............................ 0596-AC09 402 Predecisional Administrative Review and Objection Process for Projects Authorized 0596-AC15 Under Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003......................................... 403 Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Timber Sale Contracts; 0596-AC16 Modification of Contracts............................................................. 404 Onshore Oil and Gas Operations; Federal and Indian Oil and Gas Leases; Onshore Oil and 0596-AC20 Gas Order Number 1, Approval of Operations............................................ 405 Predator Damage Management (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual, Chapter 2320).. 0596-AC22 406 Integrated Resource Contracts, FS-2400-13 and FS-2400-13T (Notice of Final Contracts). 0596-AC26 407 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Compliance Documentation for Surface Use 0596-AC34 Plans of Operation for Exploration or Development of an Oil and Gas Lease (Final Directive, FSH 1909.15, Ch. 30)....................................................... 408 Advertising and Sponsorship in Connection With Concessions Involving Privately Owned 0596-AC41 Improvements on National Forest System Lands (Final Directive, Forest Service Manual 2340)................................................................................. 409 Native Plant Materials Policy (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual 2070)........ 0596-AC44 410 Forest Service Renewable Resources Handbook (2409.19), Chapter 60, Stewardship 0596-AC45 Contracting........................................................................... 411 Forest Service National Trail Management Classification System (Final Directive, FSM 0596-AC47 2330)................................................................................. 412 Sensitive Species and Endangered Species Act Consultation for Land Management Plans 0596-AC54 (Interim Directive, Forest Service Manual 2670)....................................... 413 Grizzly Bear Management (Interim Directive, FSM 2676.1)............................... 0596-AC56 414 National Forest System Land Management Planning Directive (Final Directive, Forest 0596-AC57 Service Handbook 1909.12, Chapter 70-Wilderness Evaluation) (Reg Plan Seq No. 22)..... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. [[Page 72950]] Forest Service--Long-Term Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 415 Community and Private Land Forest Fire Assistance Program............................. 0596-AB96 416 Grazing Permit Administration (Proposed Directives, Forest Service Handbook 2209.13, 0596-AC12 Chapters 10 and 20)................................................................... 417 Watershed Forestry Assistance Program (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual 3500) 0596-AC18 418 Tribal Watershed Forestry Assistance Program (Proposed Directive, Forest Service 0596-AC19 Manual 3500).......................................................................... 419 Resource Agency Procedures for Conditions and Prescriptions in Hydropower Licenses.... 0596-AC42 420 Special Areas; State Specific Inventoried Roadless Area Management: Virginia.......... 0596-AC58 421 Special Areas; State Specific Inventoried Roadless Area Management: North Carolina.... 0596-AC59 422 Special Areas; State Specific Inventoried Roadless Area Management: South Carolina.... 0596-AC60 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Forest Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 423 Forest Service Trails Accessibility Guidelines (Final Interim Directive, Forest 0596-AB92 Service Manual, Chapter 2350)......................................................... 424 Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (Final Interim Directive, 0596-AB93 Forest Service Manual, Chapter 2330).................................................. 425 Notice, Comment, and Appeal Procedures for National Forest System Projects and 0596-AC28 Activities............................................................................ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Office of the Secretary--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 426 General Nonprocurement Regulations.................................................... 0503-AA21 427 Designation of Biobased Items for Federal Procurement, Round 2........................ 0503-AA30 428 Designation of Biobased Items for Federal Procurement, Round 3........................ 0503-AA31 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Office of the Secretary--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 429 Voluntary Labeling Program for Designated Biobased Products........................... 0503-AA28 430 Designation of Biobased Items for Federal Procurement................................. 0503-AA29 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 431 Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Financing Cooperative Stock............ 0570-AA26 432 Business and Industry Loan Program--Rewrite of Program Regulations.................... 0570-AA41 433 National Security Emergency........................................................... 0570-AA48 434 Equal Opportunity for Religious Organizations......................................... 0570-AA61 435 Amendment of Guarantee Requirements................................................... 0570-AA62 436 Socio-Economic Benefit Assessment System (SEBAS)...................................... 0570-AA63 437 Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements (REEEI) Program........... 0570-AA64 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [[Page 72951]] Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 438 Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program..................................... 0570-AA19 439 Rural Business Investment Program..................................................... 0570-AA35 440 B&I Guaranteed Loan Program Farm Bill Changes--Expanded Eligibility Criteria.......... 0570-AA39 441 Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Implement the Debt Collection 0570-AA54 Improvement Act (DCIA) of 1996........................................................ ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 442 Tangible Net Equity................................................................... 0570-AA49 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rural Utilities Service--Proposed Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 443 Lien Accommodations and Subordinations for 100 Percent Private Financing.............. 0572-AB99 444 Water and Waste Loans and Grants...................................................... 0572-AC03 445 Specifications for 15, 25, and 35 kV Primary Underground Power Cable.................. 0572-AC05 446 Rural Broadband Access Loans and Loan Guarantees...................................... 0572-AC06 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rural Utilities Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 447 Telecommunications Standards and Specifications for Materials, Equipment, and 0572-AB40 Construction.......................................................................... 448 Servicing of Water Programs Loans and Grants.......................................... 0572-AB59 449 Public Television Station Digital Transition Grant Program............................ 0572-AC02 450 Rural Area Definitions for RUS WEP Programs........................................... 0572-AC04 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rural Utilities Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 451 Special Equipment Contract (Not Including Installation), RUS Form 398................. 0572-AB76 452 Exemption of Certain Borrowers From Controls.......................................... 0572-AB85 453 Elimination of Subpart M: Operational Controls........................................ 0572-AB97 454 Telecommunications System Construction Policies and Procedures........................ 0572-AB98 455 Seismic Safety........................................................................ 0572-AC01 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natural Resources Conservation Service--Final Rule Stage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 456 Conservation Security Program......................................................... 0578-AA36 457 Grassland Reserve Program............................................................. 0578-AA38 458 Confidentiality of Conservation Program Information................................... 0578-AA40 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [[Page 72952]] National Agricultural Statistical Service--Completed Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 459 Dairy Product Mandatory Reporting..................................................... 0535-AA00 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Office of Procurement and Property Management--Long-Term Actions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Regulation Sequence Title Identifier Number Number ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 460 Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR): Use of Biobased Materials.................. 0599-AA12 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- BILLING CODE 3410--90--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) _______________________________________________________________________ 150. HONEY RESEARCH AND PROMOTION: PACKER/IMPORTER BOARD (FV-03-704) Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 7411 through 7425 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1212 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (Department) received a request from the National Honey Packers and Dealers Association (Association), dated July 8, 2003, to develop an industry-funded research, promotion, consumer education, and information program for honey and honey products. The Association asked that this proposal be held and not sent forward until the industry made some modifications to the proposal. A new proposal was received by the Department in March 2006. This proposed new program, the Honey Research, Promotion, and Consumer Education and Industry Order (Order), will assist the honey industry to: (1) Develop and finance an effective and coordinated program to strengthen the position of the honey industry and (2) Maintain, develop, and expand existing markets for honey and honey products. Under the proposed Order, first handlers (packers) and importers of 250,000 or more pounds of honey and honey products would pay an assessment of $0.01 per pound to the National Honey Packers and Importers Board (Board). At this initial rate, revenue for the program would be approximately $3 million. Of this amount, about 51 percent would be generated by assessments on imported honey and honey products. The Board would be appointed by the Department to conduct a program of research and promotion, industry information, and consumer information needed to strengthen and increase the consumption of honey and honey products in the United States. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Charles W. Parrott, Associate Deputy Administrator, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Fruit & Vegetable Programs, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-6393 Fax: 202 720-0016 Email: charles.parrott@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC37 _______________________________________________________________________ 151. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: SUNSET (EXPIRATION) OF ALLOWANCES AND PROHIBITIONS CONTAINED ON THE NATIONAL LIST (TM-04-07) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 through 6522 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is revising regulations pertaining to the use of allowed and prohibited substances contained on the National List. The Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA), (7 U.S.C. 6501 et seq.), authorizes the establishment of the National List of allowed and prohibited substances. The National List identifies synthetic substances that are allowed and nonsynthetic substances that are prohibited in organic crop and livestock production. The National List also identifies nonsynthetics and synthetics that are allowed for use in organic handling. The allowances and prohibitions granted under the OFPA are required to be reviewed every 5 years by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). If they are not reviewed by the NOSB and renewed by the Secretary within 5 years of their inclusion on the National List, their authorized use or prohibition expires. This means that a synthetic substance currently allowed for use in organic production will no longer be allowed for use after October 21, 2007; a non-synthetic substance currently prohibited from use in organic production will be allowed after October 21, 2007; and a synthetic or nonsynthetic substance currently allowed for use in organic handling will be prohibited after October 21, 2007. Expiration of the exempted or prohibited use of substances is provided for under the OFPA's sunset provision. AMS will conduct informal rulemaking to facilitate the sunset review of 165 exempted and 9 prohibited substances currently on the National List. On June 17, 2005, AMS published an ANPRM that established [[Page 72953]] October 21, 2007, as the date by which the sunset review and renewal process must be concluded. This ANPRM discussed how the NOP will manage the sunset review and renewal process. The ANPRM also began the public comment process on whether the existing specific exemptions or prohibitions on the National List should be continued for organic production and handling. The comment period for the ANPRM closed on August 16, 2005. The NOSB will have approximately 90 days from the close of the comment period to provide a recommendation to AMS concerning the continued use and prohibition of over 150 materials. AMS expects to publish a proposed rule before the end of this year. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 06/17/05 70 FR 35177 ANPRM Comment Period End 08/16/05 NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-3252 Fax: 202 205-7808 Email: mark.bradley@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC51 _______________________________________________________________________ 152. STANDARDS FOR CONDITION OF FOOD CONTAINERS (FV-05-332) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1622 through 1624 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 42 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is proposing to revise regulations pertaining to 7 CFR part 42, Standards for Condition of Food Containers. Periodically, AMS reviews inspection standards to determine if they meet current industry practices. Based on our most recent analysis, we believe that the standards need to be revised. The revisions are necessary in order to provide standards that reflect current U.S. industry practices. Revisions to the standards include, but are not limited to: (1) Incorporating new defects and updating current defects for metal, glass, rigid and semi-rigid, and flexible containers; (2) Updating the standards to include new packaging technology such as aseptic packaging, metal cans with easy open lids, plastic rings that hold several containers together; and (3) Removing the Operating Characteristic (OC) curves for on-line sampling and inspection. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Final Action 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Lynne Eyre Yedinak, Food Technologist, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-9939 Fax: 202 690-0102 Email: fqastaff@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC52 _______________________________________________________________________ 153. PERISHABLE AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES ACT: TRUST RIGHTS (FV-05-373) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 4990 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 46 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act Branch, has issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking in response to concerns raised by the industry that sellers may lose their status as trust creditors when using electronic data interchange (EDI) for invoicing. The Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA) imposes a statutory trust on the assets, including inventory and receivables of a licensee or firm operating subject to the PACA that have not paid for perishable agricultural commodities. The PACA provides that a creditor may preserve its rights under the trust by including specified language on billing or invoicing statements. In 1997, the PACA regulations were amended to state that electronic transmissions are considered ``ordinary and usual billing and invoicing statements.'' While perfecting PACA trust rights on paper invoices is fairly straightforward, due to the nature of technology, perfecting trust rights using EDI is not. Sellers who use EDI transmissions to perfect their trust rights perceive a threat that their trust rights may not be preserved. AMS is soliciting comments on the preservation of PACA trust rights in connection with EDI invoicing so that the Agency will be able to provide greater direction to the industry of how PACA trust rights can be preserved when invoicing electronically. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 01/30/06 71 FR 4831 ANPRM Comment Period End 03/16/06 NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Bruce W. Summers, Chief, PACA Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-4180 Fax: 202 690-4413 Email: bruce.summers@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC53 _______________________________________________________________________ 154. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: ACCESS TO PASTURE (TM-05-14) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 et seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The National Organic Program (NOP) is administered by the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). Under the NOP, AMS established national standards for the production and handling of organically produced agricultural products. Since implementation of the NOP, some members of the public have advocated for a more explicit regulatory standard on the relationship between livestock, particularly dairy animals, and grazing land. They have asserted the current [[Page 72954]] regulatory language on access to pasture for ruminants and temporary confinement based on an animal's stage of production, when applied together, do not provide a uniform requirement for the pasturing of ruminant animals that meet the principles underlying an organic management system for livestock and livestock products that consumers expect. Comments received as a result of the proposed rule will assist in determining the Agency's next steps in rulemaking on this issue. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 04/13/06 71 FR 19131 ANPRM Comment Period End 06/12/06 NPRM 12/00/06 Final Action 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-3252 Fax: 202 205-7808 Email: mark.bradley@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC57 _______________________________________________________________________ 155. [bull] MULTI-YEAR REVISION OF FEES FOR THE FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLE TERMINAL MARKET INSPECTION SERVICES, FV-06-308 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 51 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is raising fresh fruit and vegetable destination market fees by 15 percent in order to: (1) Build and maintain the 4 months of operating reserve as required by AMS policy and (2) cover the costs associated with providing quality inspection services to destination markets. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Rita Bibbs-Booth, Program Support Section Head, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Program Support Section Head, Room 2049-South, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0240 Phone: 202 720-0391 Fax: 202 720-5136 Email: rita.bibbs-booth@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC63 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) _______________________________________________________________________ 156. THE NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: AMENDING THE NATIONAL LIST (TM-04- 01), CROPS AND PROCESSING Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: On December 21, 2000, the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) established within the National Organic Program (NOP) the National List. The National List regulations identify synthetic (natural) substances and ingredients that are prohibited for use in organic production and handling. Under the authority of the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 (OFPA), as amended (7 U.S.C. 6501 et seq.), the National List can be amended by the Secretary based on proposed amendments developed by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). This action will amend the National List to reflect recommendations submitted to the Secretary by the NOSB from November 15, 2000, through March 3, 2005. Between the specified time period, the NOSB has recommended that the Secretary add 4 substances to section 205.601 and 11 substances to section 205.605 of the National List regulations. This action will also amend the mailing address for where to file a Certification or Accreditation appeal pursuant to section 205.681(d). Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/16/05 70 FR 54006 NPRM Comment Period End 11/15/05 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-3252 Fax: 202 205-7808 Email: mark.bradley@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC35 _______________________________________________________________________ 157. CHANGES IN FEES AND HOURLY FEE RATES FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY SERVICES (ST-05-01) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 91; 7 CFR 92 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is proposing to change the hourly fee rates for Science and Technology (S&T) Laboratory Services. This action is being taken to raise these rates to reflect, among other factors, national and locality pay increases for Federal employees and inflation, operating costs, instrumentation and training, and program and agency administrative overhead costs. In the past, AMS has amended its regulations on an as needed basis in order to recover laboratory program costs. With this proposed regulation, AMS is providing for three annual standard [[Page 72955]] hourly fee rate increases for fiscal years 2007-2009. This would provide the agricultural commodity industries and other stakeholders with more timely and relevant information regarding voluntary user fees for laboratory testing services. The agency is also proposing to remove tables and schedules with listings of individual tests and services. Three annual hourly fee rate adjustments are proposed for appeals, holiday, and overtime services to reflect the anticipated increase cost of providing these laboratory services each fiscal year. The regulations are also being updated to identify current facility addresses. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/22/06 71 FR 55369 NPRM Comment Period End 10/23/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: James V. Falk, Docket Manager, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA, AMS, Science and Technology, Technical Services Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 690-4089 Fax: 202 720-4631 Email: james.falk@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC48 _______________________________________________________________________ 158. CHANGES IN FEES FOR FEDERAL MEAT GRADING AND CERTIFICATION SERVICES (LS-05-05) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is raising the fees for voluntary meat grading and certification services provided by the Meat Grading and Certification Branch. This amendment will allow the Branch to offset increased operating expenses and decreased revenue hours and allow the Branch a 4-month operating reserve required by the Agency. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/29/06 71 FR 15631 NPRM Comment Period End 05/30/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Larry R. Meadows, Chief, Meat Grading and Certification Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Livestock and Seed Program, Department of Agriculture, 139 Denver West Parkway, Bldg. 53, Suite 350, Lakewood, CO 80401 Phone: 720 497-2520 Fax: 720 497-0571 Email: larry.meadows@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC49 _______________________________________________________________________ 159. CHANGES IN FEES FOR VOLUNTARY FEDERAL DAIRY GRADING AND INSPECTION SERVICES (FEE INCREASE) (DA-05-04) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54; 7 CFR 58 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is revising regulations pertaining to Grading and Inspection, General Specification for Approved Plants and Standards for Grades of Dairy Products, to increase the fees. The increased fees are necessary to cover the increased costs of Federal employee pay and location adjustments as well as increases in operational costs; provide a limited amount of funding to continue to automate business practices to improve program efficiency and effectiveness; and increase the fees charged to applicants for the review of meat and poultry processing equipment. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/20/06 71 FR 20351 NPRM Comment Period End 05/22/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: State Agency Contact: John Mengel, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-4664 Email: john.mengel@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC55 _______________________________________________________________________ 160. FEDERAL PROCESSED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, FEE INCREASE (FV-05-379) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621; 7 USC 1627 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 52 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is raising fees contained in 7 CFR part 52, Processed Fruits and Vegetables, Processed Products Thereof, and Certain Other Processed Food Products. The proposed fee increase ranging from 19 to 26 percent will increase revenue by $2.0 million in fiscal year (FY) 2006. Also, planned fee increases during FY 2007 to FY 2009 will enable AMS to replenish program reserves to a 4.1 month level, approximately $6.4 million, by the end of FY 2009. Furthermore, it is proposed that an applicant entering into a year-round inspection contract will incur costs for the plant survey and sanitation inspection. This would increase program revenue by approximately $143,400 annually. Finally, it is proposed that an applicant entering into a year-round inspection contract, less than year-round (four or more consecutive 40-hour weeks) contract, or lot inspection will incur costs for Sunday differential if an employee works on Sunday. This would increase program revenue by approximately $34.724 annually. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/11/06 71 FR 39017 NPRM Comment Period End 08/10/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None [[Page 72956]] Agency Contact: Terry B. Bane, Branch Chief, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-4693 Email: terry.bane@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC56 _______________________________________________________________________ 161. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: AMENDING THE NATIONAL LIST (CROP AND LIVESTOCK) TM-06-04 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 et seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is amending the National Organic Programs' National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances (National List) regulations to reflect recommendations submitted to the Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) on August 17, 2005. Consistent with the recommendations from the NOSB, this proposed rule would add one new substance, along with any restrictive annotations to the National List. The NOSB recommended adding ``Sucrose octanoate esters``. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/03/06 71 FR 37854 NPRM Comment Period End 08/02/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-3252 Fax: 202 205-7808 Email: mark.bradley@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC61 _______________________________________________________________________ 162. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: AMENDMENTS TO THE NATIONAL LIST (LIVESTOCK) TM-03-04 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 to 6522 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Services is amending regulations pertaining to the National Organic Program National List to reflect recommendations submitted to the Secretary of Agriculture by the National Organic Standards Board. This rule will add 13 substances, along with any restrictive annotations to the National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/17/06 71 FR 40623 NPRM Comment Period End 09/15/06 Final Action 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-3252 Fax: 202 205-7808 Email: mark.bradley@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC62 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) _______________________________________________________________________ 163. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: ADD STANDARDS FOR THE ORGANIC CERTIFICATION OF WILD CAPTURED AQUATIC ANIMALS (TM-01-08) Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 12/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley Phone: 202 720-3252 Fax: 202 205-7808 Email: mark.bradley@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AB97 _______________________________________________________________________ 164. MANDATORY COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELING OF BEEF, PORK, LAMB, FISH, PERISHABLE AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES, AND PEANUTS (LS-03-04) Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. CFR Citation: 7 CFR 60 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 10/30/03 68 FR 61944 NPRM Comment Period End 12/29/03 Interim Final Rule 10/05/04 69 FR 59708 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 01/03/05 Interim Final Rule Effective 04/04/05 Final Action 09/00/08 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: Erin Morris Phone: 202 720-1749 Email: erin.morris@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC26 [[Page 72957]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) _______________________________________________________________________ 165. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR VOLUNTARY SHELL EGG, POULTRY, AND RABBIT GRADING (PY-02-003) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56; 7 CFR 70 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 07/24/06 71 FR 42005 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Charles Johnson Phone: 202 690-3153 Fax: 202 690-2746 Email: charles.johnson@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC25 _______________________________________________________________________ 166. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR USDA GRADED SHELL EGGS (PY-98-006) Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/19/06 71 FR 20287 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: David Bowden, Jr. Phone: 202 720-3506 Fax: 202 690-0941 Email: david.bowden@usda.gov Related RIN: Previously reported as 0581-AB56 RIN: 0581-AC50 _______________________________________________________________________ 167. [bull] REVISION OF USER FEES FOR 2006 COTTON CROP CLASSIFICATION SERVICES (CN-06-001) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 473A CFR Citation: 7 CFR 28 Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 1, 2006. Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service will adjust the user fees for cotton producers for 2006 crop cotton classification services under the Cotton Statistics and Estimates Act in accordance with the formula specified in the Uniform Cotton Classing Fees Act of 1987. The formula takes into account the inflationary rate, the estimated volume of the crop, and the level of the reserve fund of the Cotton Program. The actual adjustment in the fee was calculated in early 2006, as soon as all three of the factors required by legislation for the formula became available. The user fee for this years' crop cotton classification services is expected to generate $43 million in revenues. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/20/06 71 FR 20350 NPRM Comment Period End 05/05/06 Final Action 08/16/06 71 FR 47073 Final Action Effective 08/17/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Darryl Earnest, Deputy Administrator, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14 & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-3193 Fax: 202 690-1718 Email: darryl.earnest@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC58 _______________________________________________________________________ 168. [bull] SPECIALTY CROP BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM, FV06-1290-1 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 note CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1290 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) published a proposed rule in the Federal Register on April 20, 2006, to establish eligibility and application requirements, the review and approval process, and grant administration procedures for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP). The proposed program is intended to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. Between April 20 and May 22, AMS received 82 comments from industry members, congressional members, and the public. The SCBGP is authorized under section 101 of the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 (7 U.S.C. 1621 note). Section 101 directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to States for each of the fiscal years 2005 through 2009 to be used by the State departments of agriculture solely to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/20/06 71 FR 20353 NPRM Comment Period End 05/22/06 Final Action 09/11/06 71 FR 53303 Final Action Effective 10/11/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: State Agency Contact: Trista Etzig, Project Manager, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Room 2086-South, Stop 0243, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 690-4942 Email: trista.etzig@usda.gov RIN: 0581-AC59 _______________________________________________________________________ 169. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: HARVEY V. JOHANNS COURT ORDER (TM- 06-06) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 et seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service's National Organic Program revised certain sections of the National Organic Program regulations to comply with a June 9, 2005, consent final judgment and order issued by the United States District Court, District of Maine, and to address the November 10, 2005, amendments made to the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, concerning the transition of dairy livestock into organic production. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/27/06 71 fr 24820 NPRM 05/12/06 Final Action 06/07/06 71 FR 32803 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations [[Page 72958]] Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Barbara Robinson, Deputy Administrator, National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 690-1300 RIN: 0581-AC60 BILLING CODE 3410--02--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Farm Service Agency (FSA) _______________________________________________________________________ 170. PROCUREMENT OF COMMODITIES FOR FOREIGN DONATION Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 1 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0560-AH40 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions Farm Service Agency (FSA) _______________________________________________________________________ 171. REGULATORY STREAMLINING OF THE FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S DIRECT FARM LOAN PROGRAMS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 7; 7 CFR 18 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/09/04 69 FR 6056 NPRM Comment Period End 05/04/04 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AF60 _______________________________________________________________________ 172. INTEREST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/22/05 70 FR 36055 Correction 08/11/05 70 FR 46799 NPRM Comment Period End 09/06/05 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AG46 _______________________________________________________________________ 173. OCEAN FREIGHT CLAIMS ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL PROCESS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1405; 7 CFR 1499; 22 CFR 211 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/03/03 68 FR 9944 NPRM Comment Period End 04/02/03 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AG49 _______________________________________________________________________ 174. 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--ASSISTANCE FOR LIVESTOCK PRODUCERS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1439 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AG76 _______________________________________________________________________ 175. SELECTION OF FSA STATE AND COUNTY COMMITTEES Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 7; 7 CFR 710 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Notice 08/17/04 69 FR 51052 Comment Period End 09/22/04 69 FR 56742 Notice 01/18/05 70 FR 2837 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AG90 _______________________________________________________________________ 176. ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RELATED CONCERNS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. CFR Citation: 7 CFR 799 [[Page 72959]] 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH02 _______________________________________________________________________ 177. DEBT COLLECTION, DEBT SETTLEMENT, AND ASSIGNMENT OF PAYMENTS 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 Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov Related RIN: Previously reported as 0560-AF22 RIN: 0560-AH09 _______________________________________________________________________ 178. DISASTER DECLARATION AND DESIGNATION Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 791; 7 CFR 1945 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH17 _______________________________________________________________________ 179. CONSERVATION CONTRACT DEBT WRITE-DOWN Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 766 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH23 _______________________________________________________________________ 180. GUARANTEED FARM LOAN FEES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 05/15/06 71 FR 27978 NPRM Comment Period End 07/14/06 Correction 07/27/06 71 FR 42605 NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/04/06 Final Action To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: 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-AH41 _______________________________________________________________________ 181. EMERGENCY CONSERVATION PROGRAM Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. CFR Citation: 7 CFR 701 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 05/26/06 71 FR 30263 NPRM Comment Period End 06/26/06 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH43 _______________________________________________________________________ 182. 2005 HURRICANE DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 05/10/06 71 FR 27188 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 06/09/06 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH45 _______________________________________________________________________ 183. REASSIGNMENT OF SUGAR ALLOCATION SHORTFALLS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1435 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: 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-AH50 _______________________________________________________________________ 184. [bull] STORAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRAIN SECURITY FOR MARKETING ASSISTANCE LOANS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 15 USC 714b CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421 Legal Deadline: None [[Page 72960]] Abstract: This rule proposes amending regulations governing the Marketing Assistance Loan Programs of the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) that are authorized by the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (2002 Act). The major proposed regulatory changes would impact the administration of the programs by amending regulations governing constraints imposed by CCC on warehouses that store CCC grain and similar commodities pledged as collateral for CCC loans. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/03/06 71 FR 37857 NPRM Comment Period End 08/02/06 Final Action To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH52 _______________________________________________________________________ 185. [bull] DEFINING SUGAR SUBJECT TO MARKETING ALLOCATIONS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 7272 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1435 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: In 7 CFR 1435.2, USDA is modifying the following definition: Sugar means any grade or type of saccharine product derived, directly or indirectly, from sugarcane, sugar beets, sugarcane molasses, or sugar beet molasses and consisting of, or containing, sucrose or invert sugar, including raw sugar, refined crystalline sugar, edible molasses, edible cane syrup, liquid sugar, and in-process sugar. Currently, sugar produced from imported thick juice and similar sugarcane products such as cane syrup and high test molasses are not charged against a seller's domestic allocation because these products are already considered ``sugar,'' as defined in the sugar marketing allotment program regulation, upon entry to the United States. However, these products are not classified by the Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement as ``sugar.'' Therefore, they are not subject to the sugar tariff-rate quota. This inconsistency in the definition of sugar permits imported beet thick juice and its cane syrup counterparts to circumvent the sugar program. If this is done in significant quantities, it could negatively impact sugar prices resulting in CCC expenditures for sugar purchases. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 09/08/06 71 FR 5301 ANPRM Comment Period End 11/07/06 Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH53 _______________________________________________________________________ 186. [bull] INDIAN TRIBAL LAND ACQUISITION PROGRAM (ITLAP) LOAN WRITE- DOWNS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 109-221 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 770 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will revise 7 CFR part 770 to comply with the Native American Technical Corrections Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-221, May 12, 2006) (``NATCA''). Section 203 of the NATCA provides that (1) actual rental proceeds from the lease of land acquired by FSA Farm Loan Programs ITLAP loans shall be deemed to constitute the value of that land and (2) satisfies the requirement for an appraisal of that land when a Tribe applies for a write-down based on rental value. Prior to the passage of the NATCA, the value of land that is collateral for an ITLAP loan that is the subject of an application for a write-down was determined by a market value rent study of market rents for land in the subject land's general area. This requirement reduced the incentive for borrowers who apply for a write-down of the ITLAP loan to manipulate the value of their loan collateral by mismanagement of that land, or otherwise fail to collect a level of rent that reflects the local market. Value was determined by an independent professional source based on the amount that land in the same area and of the same type could be leased. The NATCA removes this requirement. Write-down amounts will be based on the dollar amount the land is rented for, not the amount of rent for which it could be leased. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH54 _______________________________________________________________________ 187. [bull] GUARANTEED LOANS--INTEREST TO BE PAID ON LOSS CLAIMS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989 et seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule proposes to allow a maximum of 210 days of interest to accrue from the payment due date with only one exception--FSA's failure to approve or reject the claim within 40 days of receipt. Also, the actions expected of lenders and FSA staff will be emphasized. Lenders are expected to file estimated or final loss claims on all accounts in a timely manner. Depending on the circumstances, the estimated loss claim could be for zero dollars. FSA staff will be reminded to monitor their estimated loss claims closer to avoid extra interest days. [[Page 72961]] 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, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH55 _______________________________________________________________________ 188. [bull] APPRAISAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FARM OWNERSHIP LOANS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 1943; 7 CFR 761 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This proposed amendment will provide that, for a loan that is not a Farm Ownership Loan, evaluation of the rights to any associated oil, gas, and minerals will not be required for the appraisal to be considered adequate. Conversely, any and all oil, gas, and mineral rights attached to any real estate property being offered as security for a Farm Ownership loan will be required to be evaluated in any real estate appraisal obtained by FSA in connection with the loan decision. Failure to include oil, gas, and minerals in the appraisal for a loan that is not a Farm Ownership Loan will in no way impair the Agency's ability to obtain our rights associated with a mortgage, deed of trust, or other security interest in such oil, gas, and minerals. 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, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH56 _______________________________________________________________________ 189. [bull] FARM STORAGE FACILITY LOAN PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 15 USC 714 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1436 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The CCC Charter Act authorizes CCC to provide financing for producers to build or upgrade farm storage and handling facilities. The Farm Storage Facility Loan Program was implemented in May 2000, with the final rule published in the Federal Register on January 18, 2001. Since that time, questions have come up regarding specific subjects not addressed in the final rule. The regulation presently states that the structure financed must be used to store an eligible facility loan commodity until the loan is repaid. The eligible facility loan commodities include wheat, rice, soybeans, sunflower seed, canola, rapeseed, safflower, flaxseed, mustard seed, dry peas, lentils, and small chickpeas harvested as whole grains, and peanuts. In addition, corn, grain sorghum, oats, wheat, and barley are eligible commodities to be stored as either whole grain or other than whole grain. Due to recent inquiries into the program for the storage of hay and processed feed, the regulation needs to be amended to include procedure to follow when an ineligible commodity is stored in a structure under loan. 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, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH60 _______________________________________________________________________ 190. [bull] GRASSROOTS SOURCE WATER PROTECTION PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 3839bb--2 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 709 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action will implement the Grassroots Source Water Protection provisions of the section 2502, Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 and section 1240O/1230 of the Food Security Act of 1985, amended. The Appropriation Act of 2006 will provide $3,750,000 in expenses to carry out the program. The FSA will oversee the program that establishes and operates the grassroots water protection program by each State rural water association. Each State rural water association provides onsite technical assistance capabilities to make the voluntary measurements plans in preventing source water pollution for the producers' and farmers' lands at State and local level and conduct other aspects of the program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH61 _______________________________________________________________________ 191. [bull] 2006 DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS Priority: Economically Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: PL 109-234 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1400 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action will implement the provisions of the Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2006 (2006 Act) related to the Livestock Compensation Program (LCP), Livestock [[Page 72962]] Indemnity Program (LIP), Livestock Indemnity Program for Contract Growers (LIP-CG), the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), and the Crop Disaster Assistance Program for specialty and nursery crops. The programs will provide assistance to eligible producers who suffered losses in counties covered by a natural disaster declaration related to hurricanes Katrina, Ophelia, Rita, and Wilma or a related condition and to producers in contiguous counties. The Act provides that, in general, the programs be implemented under the same terms and conditions as the similar programs already established for the 2005 hurricanes. See the attached 2006 Act for more specific information. 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, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH62 _______________________________________________________________________ 192. [bull] INTEREST RATES ON FARM SERVICE AGENCY FARM LOAN PROGRAMS GUARANTEED LOANS Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989 et seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: In 7 CFR 762.124, USDA is considering a modification of the following section on interest rates, terms, charges, and fees: Neither the interest rate on the guaranteed portion nor the unguaranteed portion may exceed the rate the lender charges its average agricultural loan customer. At the request of the Agency, the lender must provide evidence of the rate charged the average agricultural loan customer. This evidence may consist of average yield data, or documented administrative differential rate schedule formulas used by the lender. Thus, FSA is proposing to amend its guaranteed loan regulations at 7 CFR part 762.124(a)(3) to provide that the interest rates charged on FSA Guaranteed Farm Loans must be based on a published index. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 690-8104 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: phillip--elder@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH66 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Farm Service Agency (FSA) _______________________________________________________________________ 193. AMENDMENTS TO THE STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL OF WAREHOUSES FOR COMMODITY CREDIT CORPORATION STORAGE CONTRACTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1423; 7 CFR 1427 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 07/25/06 71 FR 42017 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AE50 _______________________________________________________________________ 194. CLARIFICATION OF INFORMAL APPEALS PROCEDURES Priority: Info./Admin./Other CFR Citation: 7 CFR 780 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 05/30/06 71 FR 30568 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-AG88 _______________________________________________________________________ 195. RETAINING PREFERRED LENDER PROGRAM (PLP) STATUS, PROCESSING LOSS CLAIMS, PAYMENT OF INTEREST ACCRUED DURING BANKRUPTCY, AND REDEMPTION RIGHTS PERIODS FOR GUARANTEED LOANS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 08/03/06 71 FR 43955 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH07 [[Page 72963]] _______________________________________________________________________ 196. PLANTING REPORTING FOR TROPICAL CROPS--NONINSURED CROP DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 09/07/06 71 FR 52738 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH19 _______________________________________________________________________ 197. CONFIDENTIALITY OF CONSERVATION PROGRAM INFORMATION Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Transferred to NRCS RIN 0578- AA40 05/01/06 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH32 _______________________________________________________________________ 198. GUARANTEED LOANS--UNAUTHORIZED ASSISTANCE Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 05/23/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: 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-AH34 _______________________________________________________________________ 199. GRAINS AND SIMILARLY HANDLED COMMODITIES--MARKETING ASSISTANCE LOANS AND LOAN DEFICIENCY PAYMENTS FOR THE 2002 THROUGH 2007 CROP YEARS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/06/06 71 FR 32415 Correction 06/19/06 71 FR 35147 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH38 _______________________________________________________________________ 200. COOPERATIVE MARKETING ASSOCIATIONS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1425 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 07/28/06 71 FR 42749 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Geraldine Broadway Phone: 202 720-1272 Fax: 202 690-3673 Email: gvb@obpa.usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH42 _______________________________________________________________________ 201. EMERGENCY FORESTRY CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/02/06 71 FR 91912 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH44 _______________________________________________________________________ 202. REVISIONS OF DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY Priority: Info./Admin./Other CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/25/06 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH46 _______________________________________________________________________ 203. EXTENSION OF THE MILK INCOME LOSS CONTRACT PROGRAM Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1430 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/17/06 71 FR 19621 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@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH47 _______________________________________________________________________ 204. REGULATIONS FOR THE UNITED STATES WAREHOUSE ACT; COTTON LOANS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1425 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM Comment Period End 04/14/06 [[Page 72964]] NPRM 05/26/06 71 FR 30318 Final Action 08/30/06 71 FR 51422 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: 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-AH48 _______________________________________________________________________ 205. PERCENTAGES FOR DIRECT AND COUNTER-CYCLICAL PROGRAM ADVANCE PAYMENTS Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1412 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/10/06 71 FR 17982 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@usda.gov Jacquelyn C. Chandler Phone: 202 720-1272 Fax: 202 720-8635 Email: jyc@obpa.usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH49 _______________________________________________________________________ 206. [bull] REVISIONS OF DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 16 USC 1231 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: USDA amends the delegations of authority from the Secretary of Agriculture to the Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services and to the Administrator, Farm Service Agency, for technical determinations for the Conservation Reserve Program principally due to enactment of Public Law 108-498. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/21/06 71 FR 35491 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH51 _______________________________________________________________________ 207. [bull] REGULATIONS REGARDING EMPLOYEE CONFLICTS OF INTEREST Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: PL 103-354 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1900 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule clarifies the regulations governing employee conflicts of interest for the successor agencies of the former Farmers Home Administration, which was reorganized by the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 into the Farm Service Agency (FSA), Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Rural Housing Service, and Rural Utilities Service. Since the reorganization, FSA revised its regulations to streamline them and separate them from the other successor agencies. FSA's regulations regarding employee conflicts of interest are now found in regulations published by the Office of Government Ethics in 5 CFR 2635 and regulations published jointly by OGE and FSA in 5 CFR part 8301. To avoid confusion regarding applicability of the regulations, this rule amends 7 CFR part 1900, subpart D, to provide specifically that they do not apply to FSA. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 07/11/06 71 FR 38979 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH57 _______________________________________________________________________ 208. [bull] DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY; COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS FOR CONSERVATION PROGRAMS Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 7 USC 6912(a)(1) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: USDA amends the delegations of authority from the Secretary of Agriculture to the Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services and to the Administrator, Farm Service Agency (FSA), to implement Cooperative Agreements for Conservation Programs implemented by FSA and to implement the Grassroots Source Water Protection Program authorized by the Food Security Act of 1985, section 1240O Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 08/30/06 71 FR 51421 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH58 _______________________________________________________________________ 209. [bull] 2005 DAIRY DISASTER ASSISTANCE PAYMENT (DDAP-II) PROGRAM Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 109-234 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1400 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action will implement the dairy disaster assistance provisions of the Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2006. [[Page 72965]] The legislation provides $17 million to make payments to dairy producers for dairy production and dairy spoilage losses in counties declared a natural disaster by the Secretary of Agriculture or a major disaster or emergency designated by the President during the 2005 calendar year due to Hurricanes Katrina, Ophelia, Rita, Wilma, or a related condition. Contiguous counties are included. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 10/31/06 71 FR 63668 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH59 _______________________________________________________________________ 210. [bull] 2005 COTTONSEED PAYMENT PROGRAM Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 109-234 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1427 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action will implement the cottonseed assistance provisions of the Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2006. The Act provides $15 million to make payments to producers and first handlers of the 2005 crop of cottonseed in counties declared a disaster by the President in 2005 due to hurricanes. The FSA shall provide payment under subsection (a) under the same terms and conditions as provided under section 2006 of the Agricultural Assistance Act of 2003. The Act also states that the assistance to producers and first handlers is to be based on their cotton production during the most recent year for a which disaster payment specifically for cottonseed was not authorized. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 10/31/06 71 FR 63665 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572 Phone: 202 205-5851 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: tom.witzig@usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH63 _______________________________________________________________________ 211. [bull] REMOVAL OF OBSOLETE REGULATIONS; HOLDING OF REFERENDA Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: PL 108-357 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 717 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action removes the regulations at 7 CFR part 717, Holding Of Referenda, because of the expiration of their statutory authority and the ending of the programs they governed. There are no impacts on past or current program operations. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 08/24/06 71 FR 49986 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 690-8104 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: phillip--elder@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH64 _______________________________________________________________________ 212. [bull] REMOVAL OF OBSOLETE REGULATIONS Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 15 USC 714b et seq; 7 USC 3801 et seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 700; 7 CFR 702; 7 CFR 711; 7 CFR 729; 7 CFR 752; 7 CFR 755; 7 CFR 1413; 7 CFR 1446; 7 CFR 1470; 7 CFR 1479; 7 CFR 1480; 7 CFR 1481; 7 CFR 1382 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action removes regulations rendered obsolete by expiration of their statutory authority and the ending of their respective programs. There are no impacts on past or current program operations. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 09/15/06 71 FR 54401 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 690-8104 Fax: 202 720-5233 Email: phillip--elder@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0560-AH65 BILLING CODE 3410--05--S [[Page 72966]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) _______________________________________________________________________ 213. ANIMAL WELFARE: MARINE MAMMALS; NONCONSENSUS LANGUAGE AND INTERACTIVE PROGRAMS (RULEMAKING RESULTING FROM A SECTION 610 REVIEW) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates the treatment of certain marine mammals under the Animal Welfare Act. The present standards for treatment of these animals have been in effect for over 10 years. During this time, advances have been made and new information has been developed with regard to the housing and care of marine mammals. We intend to develop amendments to the marine mammal standards on which consensus was not reached during negotiated rulemaking conducted between September 1995 and July 1996. The amendments would be to standards affecting variances, indoor facilities, outdoor facilities, space requirements, and water quality, as well as swim- with-the-dolphin programs. These actions appear necessary to ensure that the minimum standards for the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of marine mammals in captivity are based on current general, industry, and scientific knowledge and experience. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 05/30/02 67 FR 37731 ANPRM Comment Period End 07/29/02 NPRM 03/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: None Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Barbara Kohn, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Animal Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234 Phone: 301 734-8271 RIN: 0579-AB24 _______________________________________________________________________ 214. TUBERCULOSIS IN CATTLE; IMPORT REQUIREMENTS (SECTION 610 REVIEW) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1622; 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 31 USC 9701 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations regarding the importation of animals into the United States to establish several levels of risk classifications to be applied to foreign regions with regard to tuberculosis, and to establish requirements governing the importation of cattle based on each risk classification. These changes are necessary to help ensure that cattle infected with tuberculosis are not imported into the United States. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 10/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Dr. Kelly Rhodes, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Regionalization Evaluation Services Staff, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 38, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231 Phone: 301 734-4356 RIN: 0579-AB44 _______________________________________________________________________ 215. BOLL WEEVIL; QUARANTINE AND REGULATIONS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action would establish domestic boll weevil regulations that would restrict the interstate movement of regulated articles within regulated areas and from regulated areas into or through nonregulated areas in commercial cotton producing States. The proposed regulations would help prevent the artificial spread of boll weevil into noninfested areas of the United States and the reinfestation of areas from which the boll weevil has been eradicated. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 10/31/06 71 FR 63707 NPRM Comment Period End 01/02/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: William Grefenstette, National Coordinator, Boll Weevil Eradication Program, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 138, Riverdale, MD 20737 Phone: 301 734-8676 RIN: 0579-AB91 _______________________________________________________________________ 216. TRICHINAE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 7 USC 1622 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 149; 9 CFR 160 to 161 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action would establish a voluntary Trichinae Certification Program for U.S. pork that has been produced under disease-prevention conditions. Under the proposed program, we would certify pork production sites that follow prescribed good production practices that reduce, eliminate, or avoid the risk of exposure of animals to the zoonotic parasite Trichinella spiralis, a disease of swine. Such a program should enhance the ability of producers to export pork and pork products to overseas markets. This proposed program, which would be funded by program fees, has been developed as a cooperative effort by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Pork Board, and the pork processing industry. If adopted, this program would include those producers who choose to participate in the program, as well as slaughter facilities [[Page 72967]] and other persons that handle or process swine from pork production sites that have been certified under the program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Dave Pyburn, National Trichinae Coordinator, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 210 Walnut Street, Room 891, Des Moines, IA 50309 Phone: 515 284-4122 RIN: 0579-AB92 _______________________________________________________________________ 217. STANDARDS FOR PERMANENT, PRIVATELY OWNED HORSE QUARANTINE FACILITIES (SECTION 610 REVIEW) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1622; 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 31 USC 9701 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rulemaking would establish standards for the approval of permanent, privately owned quarantine facilities for horses. We are taking this action because demand for quarantine services for horses exceeds the space available at existing facilities. We believe that allowing imported horses to be quarantined in permanent, privately owned quarantine facilities that meet these newly proposed criteria would facilitate the importation of horses while continuing to protect against the introduction of communicable diseases of horses. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Dr. Freeda Isaac, Staff Veterinarian, VS, National Center for Import and Export, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231 Phone: 301 734-8364 RIN: 0579-AC00 _______________________________________________________________________ 218. ANIMAL WELFARE; REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS FOR BIRDS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 2 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0579-AC02 _______________________________________________________________________ 219. IMPORTATION OF PLANTS FOR PLANTING; ESTABLISHING A NEW CATEGORY OF PLANTS FOR PLANTING NOT AUTHORIZED FOR IMPORTATION PENDING RISK ASSESSMENT (RULEMAKING RESULTING FROM A SECTION 610 REVIEW) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 3 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0579-AC03 _______________________________________________________________________ 220. NATIONAL VETERINARY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM (RULEMAKING RESULTING FROM A SECTION 610 REVIEW) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 15 USC 1828 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 160 to 162 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations regarding the National Veterinary Accreditation Program to establish two accreditation categories in place of the current single category, to add requirements for supplemental training and renewal of accreditation, and to offer accreditation specializations. These changes are intended to support the Agency's animal health safeguarding initiatives, to involve accredited veterinarians in integrated surveillance activities, and to make the provisions governing our National Veterinary Accreditation Program more uniform and consistent. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/01/06 71 FR 31109 NPRM Comment Period End 07/31/06 Supplemental NPRM 01/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Dr. Lawrence Miller, Program Manager, National Veterinary Accreditation Program, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 46, Riverdale, MD 20737 Phone: 301 734-6188 RIN: 0579-AC04 _______________________________________________________________________ 221. [bull] SHARING CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS INFORMATION REGARDING THE INTRODUCTION OF GENETICALLY ENGINEERED ORGANISMS AND PRODUCTS WITH GOVERNMENT AGENCIES Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 31 USC 9701 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 340 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action would amend our regulations regarding genetically engineered organisms to add provisions concerning the sharing of confidential business information (CBI) with authorized officials of State, tribal, and Federal Government agencies. The proposed provisions would create mechanisms for sharing CBI submitted under the regulations pursuant to a permit application or notification application. This action is necessary to facilitate interagency communication and cooperation, to increase the transparency of regulatory decisionmaking, and to maintain rigorous yet appropriate regulation of genetically engineered organisms. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/07 [[Page 72968]] NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions Government Levels Affected: Federal, State, Tribal Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Michael Wach, Biotechnology Regulatory Services, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 147, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236 Phone: 301 734-0485 RIN: 0579-AC08 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) _______________________________________________________________________ 222. PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATES FOR IMPORTED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 21 USC 136 and 136a CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56 to 319.56-8 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Currently APHIS does not require a phytosanitary certificate to accompany fruits and vegetables imported into the United States except for certain fruits and vegetables grown in designated foreign regions. This rule would amend our regulations to require that a phytosanitary certificate accompany all fruits and vegetables imported into the United States, with certain exceptions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/29/01 66 FR 45637 NPRM Comment Period End 10/29/01 NPRM; Availability of Risk Assessment 05/24/06 71 FR 29846 NPRM; Availability of Risk Assessment Comment Period End 07/24/06 Final Rule 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Shirley Wager-Page, Branch Chief, Commodity Import Analysis and Operations, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 133, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231 Phone: 301 734-0627 RIN: 0579-AB18 _______________________________________________________________________ 223. CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE IN ELK AND DEER; INTERSTATE MOVEMENT RESTRICTIONS AND PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8316 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 55; 9 CFR 81 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rulemaking would establish requirements for the interstate movement of farmed elk and deer and provide indemnity for the depopulation of farmed elk and deer that have been infected with, or exposed to, chronic wasting disease (CWD). Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 02/08/02 67 FR 5925 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 04/09/02 NPRM 12/24/03 68 FR 74513 NPRM Comment Period End 02/23/04 Final Rule 07/21/06 71 FR 41682 Delay of Effective Date 09/08/06 71 FR 52983 Final Rule Effective 10/19/06 Notice of Receipt of Petitions and Request for Comments 11/03/06 71 FR 64650 Comment Period End 12/04/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Federal, State Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Dean Goeldner, Staff Veterinarian, National Center for Animal Health Programs, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 43, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231 Phone: 301 736-4916 RIN: 0579-AB35 _______________________________________________________________________ 224. REVISION OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES IMPORT REGULATIONS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 4 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0579-AB80 _______________________________________________________________________ 225. PHYTOPHTHORA RAMORUM; QUARANTINE AND REGULATIONS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 5 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0579-AB82 _______________________________________________________________________ 226. INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF SHEEP AND GOATS; APPROVED LIVESTOCK FACILITIES, IDENTIFICATION, AND RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 71 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations regarding the interstate movement of animals to require livestock facilities that handle sheep or goats in interstate commerce to be approved by us. This would include stockyards, livestock markets, buying stations, concentration points, or any other premises where sheep or goats in interstate commerce are assembled. Our approval would be contingent on the facility operator meeting certain minimum standards [[Page 72969]] and other conditions relating to the receipt, handling, and release of sheep and goats at the facility, as well as complying with certain animal identification and recordkeeping requirements. The standards and other conditions would be based, in part, on recently implemented regulations relating to the interstate movement of sheep and goats in order to control the spread of scrapie, a serious disease of sheep and goats. This rule would provide for the establishment of standards for the approval of livestock facilities that handle sheep or goats in interstate commerce. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/26/04 69 FR 52451 NPRM Comment Period End 10/25/04 Final Rule 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: State Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Diane Sutton, Senior Staff Veterinarian, National Center for Animal Health Programs, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 43, Riverdale, MD 20737-1235 Phone: 301 734-6954 RIN: 0579-AB84 _______________________________________________________________________ 227. VIRUSES, SERUMS, TOXINS, AND ANALOGOUS PRODUCTS; RECORDS AND REPORTS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 21 USC 151 to 159 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 101; 9 CFR 116 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This proposed rule would amend the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act regulations concerning records and reports to require veterinary biologics licensees and permittees to record and submit reports to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) concerning adverse events associated with the use of biological products that they produce or distribute. We would specify the information that must be included in the adverse event report and would require veterinary biologics manufacturers to report to APHIS the number of doses of each licensed product that they distribute. These actions would assist APHIS in providing complete and accurate information to consumers regarding adverse reactions or other problems associated with the use of licensed biological products. This proposed rule replaces a previously published proposed rule, which we are withdrawing as part of this document, that contained fewer specifics concerning the information that would have to be recorded in adverse event reports associated with the use of veterinary biologics that are submitted to the Agency. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/17/05 70 FR 48325 NPRM Comment Period End 10/17/05 Final Rule 06/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Albert P. Morgan, Chief Staff Veterinarian, VS, Center for Veterinary Biologics, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 148, Riverdale, MD 20737-1237 Phone: 301 734-8245 RIN: 0579-AB90 _______________________________________________________________________ 228. SPECIAL NEED REQUESTS UNDER THE PLANT PROTECTION ACT Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This proposed action would amend our domestic quarantine regulations to establish a process by which a State or political subdivision of a State could request approval to impose prohibitions or restrictions on the movement in interstate commerce of specific articles that are in addition to the prohibitions and restrictions imposed by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The Plant Protection Act provides that States or political subdivisions of States may make such special need requests, but there are currently no procedures in place for their submission or consideration. This action would establish a process by which States may make a special need request. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/04/06 71 FR 16711 NPRM Comment Period End 06/05/06 Final Rule 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Local, State Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Mr. James Writer, Agriculturist, Invasive Species and Pest Management, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 137, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231 Phone: 301 734-7121 RIN: 0579-AB98 [[Page 72970]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) _______________________________________________________________________ 229. 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 _______________________________________________________________________ 230. FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 9 CFR 53 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 05/01/02 67 FR 21934 NPRM Comment Period Extended 06/28/02 67 FR 43566 NPRM Comment Period End 07/01/02 NPRM Comment Period End 07/31/02 Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal, State Agency Contact: Mark Teachman Phone: 301 734-8073 RIN: 0579-AB34 _______________________________________________________________________ 231. 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 NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Vedpal S. Malik Phone: 301 734-6774 Related RIN: Related to 0579-AA83 RIN: 0579-AB45 _______________________________________________________________________ 232. MOVEMENT OF UNROASTED COFFEE INTO HAWAII AND PUERTO RICO Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 305; 7 CFR 319 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Shirley Wager-Page Phone: 301 734-8453 RIN: 0579-AB96 _______________________________________________________________________ 233. BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY; MINIMAL-RISK REGIONS AND IMPORTATION OF COMMODITIES; UNSEALING OF MEANS OF CONVEYANCE AND TRANSLOADING OF PRODUCTS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93 to 95 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 11/28/05 70 FR 71213 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 01/27/06 Final Rule To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions Government Levels Affected: Federal, State Agency Contact: Karen A. James-Preston Phone: 301 734-4356 Related RIN: Related to 0579-AB73 RIN: 0579-AB97 _______________________________________________________________________ 234. LOW PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA; VOLUNTARY CONTROL PROGRAM AND PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 9 CFR 53; 9 CFR 56; 9 CFR 145 to 147 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 09/26/06 71 FR 56302 Interim Final Rule Effective 09/26/06 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 11/27/06 Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal, State Agency Contact: Andrew R. Rhorer Phone: 770 922-3496 RIN: 0579-AB99 _______________________________________________________________________ 235. BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY; MINIMAL-RISK REGIONS AND IMPORTATION OF COMMODITIES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93 to 96 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Lisa Ferguson Phone: 301 734-6954 RIN: 0579-AC01 _______________________________________________________________________ 236. CITRUS CANKER; COMPENSATION FOR CERTIFIED CITRUS NURSERY STOCK Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 06/08/06 71 FR 33168 Interim Final Rule Effective 06/08/06 [[Page 72971]] Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 08/07/06 Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Federal, State Agency Contact: Stephen R. Poe Phone: 301 734-4387 RIN: 0579-AC05 _______________________________________________________________________ 237. [bull] AGRICULTURAL INSPECTION AND AQI USER FEES ALONG THE U.S./ CANADA BORDER Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 49 USC 80503 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319; 7 CFR 354 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action will amend the foreign quarantine and user fee regulations by removing the exemptions from inspection for fruits and vegetables grown in Canada and the exemptions from user fees for commercial vessels, commercial trucks, commercial railroad cars, commercial aircraft, and international air passengers entering the United States from Canada. As a result of this action, all agricultural products imported from Canada will be subject to inspection, and commercial conveyances, as well as airline passengers arriving on flights from Canada, will be subject to inspection and user fees. We are taking this action in part because we are not recovering the costs of our current inspection activities at the U.S./Canada border. In addition, our data show an increasing number of interceptions on the U.S./Canada border of prohibited material that originated in regions other than Canada that presents a high risk of introducing plant pests or animal diseases into the United States. These findings, combined with additional Canadian airport preclearance data on interceptions of ineligible agricultural products approaching the U.S. border from Canada, strongly indicate that we need to expand and strengthen our pest exclusion and smuggling interdiction efforts at that border. In order to do this and to recover the costs of our existing inspection activity, we need to collect user fees from commercial conveyances and international air passengers entering the United States from Canada. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 08/25/06 71 FR 50320 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 11/24/06 Interim Final Rule Effective 11/24/06 Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions Government Levels Affected: Federal Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Alan S. Green, Executive Director, Plant Health Programs, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 36, Riverdale, MD 20737 Phone: 301 734-8261 RIN: 0579-AC06 _______________________________________________________________________ 238. [bull] CITRUS CANKER; QUARANTINE OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action will amend the citrus canker regulations to list the entire State of Florida as a quarantined area for citrus canker and to amend the requirements for the movement of regulated articles from Florida now that the eradication of citrus canker in Florida is no longer being carried out as an objective. It will also amend the regulations to allow regulated articles that would not otherwise be eligible for interstate movement to be moved to a port for immediate export. These changes are necessary in light of the Department's determination that the established eradication program was no longer a scientifically feasible option to address citrus canker. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 08/01/06 71 FR 43345 Interim Final Rule Effective 08/01/06 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 10/02/06 Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal, State Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Stephen R. Poe, Senior Operations Officer, EDP, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 137, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231 Phone: 301 734-4387 RIN: 0579-AC07 [[Page 72972]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) _______________________________________________________________________ 239. GYPSY MOTH; INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF REGULATED ARTICLES (COMPLETION OF A SECTION 610 REVIEW) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 77701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 21 USC 136 and 136a CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301; 7 CFR 319 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule would amend the gypsy moth regulations by removing restrictions on the interstate movement of wood chips, which do not pose a risk of containing gypsy moth egg masses, and by adding restrictions on the movement and importation of bark and bark products, which pose a risk of containing gypsy moth egg masses. In addition, the rule would extend by 2 months the period during which regulated articles originating outside of any generally infested area must be safeguarded from infestation in order to be eligible for interstate movement directly through any generally infested area without a certificate or permit. These changes are necessary to update the provisions in the regulations to ensure consistent actions by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, our cooperators, and industry in order to limit the artificial spread of gypsy moth. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 05/23/03 68 FR 28157 NPRM Comment Period End 07/22/03 Final Action 07/19/06 71 FR 40875 Final Action Effective 08/18/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov. Agency Contact: Weyman Fussell, Program Manager, Invasive Species and Pest Management, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 134, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236 Phone: 301 734-5705 RIN: 0579-AB55 _______________________________________________________________________ 240. PINE SHOOT BEETLE HOST MATERIAL FROM CANADA Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Rule 09/29/06 71 FR 57383 Final Rule Effective 09/29/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Frederick A. Thomas Phone: 301 734-8367 RIN: 0579-AB76 _______________________________________________________________________ 241. IMPORTATION OF SMALL LOTS OF SEED WITHOUT PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/13/06 71 FR 19097 Final Action Effective 05/15/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Arnold T. Tschanz Phone: 301 734-5306 RIN: 0579-AB78 _______________________________________________________________________ 242. IMPORTATION OF SWINE AND SWINE PRODUCTS FROM THE EUROPEAN UNION Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93 to 94; 9 CFR 98 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 05/19/06 71 FR 29061 Correction 06/01/06 71 FR 31069 Final Action Effective 06/19/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Chip Wells Phone: 301 734-4356 RIN: 0579-AB79 _______________________________________________________________________ 243. REQUIREMENTS FOR REQUESTS TO AMEND IMPORT REGULATIONS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 05/30/06 71 FR 30563 Final Action Effective 06/29/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Ronald Sequeira Phone: 919 513-2663 RIN: 0579-AB83 _______________________________________________________________________ 244. USER FEES FOR AGRICULTURAL QUARANTINE AND INSPECTION SERVICES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 354 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Affirmation of Interim Final Rule 08/24/06 71 FR 49984 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: William E. Thomas Phone: 301 734-8295 Donna Ford Phone: 301 734-5901 RIN: 0579-AB88 BILLING CODE 3410--34--S [[Page 72973]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) _______________________________________________________________________ 245. CSREES AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION FORMULA PROGRAMS--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS Priority: Info./Admin./Other 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 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Ellen Danus, Chief, Policy, Oversight, and Funds Management Branch, 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@csrees.usda.gov RIN: 0524-AA26 _______________________________________________________________________ 246. 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 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Erin Daly, Senior Financial 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@csrees.usda.gov RIN: 0524-AA28 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) _______________________________________________________________________ 247. 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 04/29/03 68 FR 23014 NPRM Comment Period End 06/30/03 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Ellen Danus, Chief, Policy, Oversight, and Funds Management Branch, 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@csrees.usda.gov RIN: 0524-AA25 _______________________________________________________________________ 248. REVISED ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH GRANTS PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 15 USC 638; PL 99-591, 100 Stat 3341; PL 106-554 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3403 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: CSREES proposes revising the existing administrative provisions for the Small Business Innovation Research Grants Program Administrative Regulations to implement changes compliant with the Small Business Innovation Research Policy Directive (67 FR 60072) of September 24, 2002. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 05/18/06 71 FR 28780 NPRM Comment Period End 06/19/06 Final Action 12/00/06 [[Page 72974]] Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Winston Sherman, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service, STOP 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-2299 Phone: 202 401-5061 Email: wsherman@csrees.usda.gov RIN: 0524-AA31 _______________________________________________________________________ 249. REVISED ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--NATIONAL RESEARCH INITIATIVE COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 450i(b) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3411 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service proposes to make three revisions to the ``Eligibility requirements'' subsection of the administrative provisions for the National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program (NRICGP). All three of the proposed changes would impact the eligibility requirements for NRICGP's Agricultural Research Enhancement Awards, which are intended to help institutions develop competitive research programs and to attract scientists to conduct research in the agriculture, food, and environmental sciences. CSREES proposes to change the eligibility requirements for Postdoctoral Fellowships, New Investigator Awards, and Strengthening Awards. The proposed changes will increase the impact of the Agricultural Research Enhancement Awards. The expected results are (1) for Postdoctoral Fellowships, improved funding continuity and potentially more postdoctoral scientists entering into an agricultural research career; (2) for New Investigator Awards, improved project design and increased probability of a successful agricultural research program; and (3) for Strengthening Awards, improved research project continuity and more incentive for researchers to stay at USDA- Experimental Program for Stimulating Competitive Research or small/mid- sized institutions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/06/06 71 FR 32479 NPRM Comment Period End 08/07/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Erin Daly, Senior Financial 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@csrees.usda.gov RIN: 0524-AA32 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES) _______________________________________________________________________ 250. CSREES AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH FORMULA PROGRAMS--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS Priority: Info./Admin./Other CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 08/07/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Ellen Danus Phone: 202 401-4325 Fax: 202 401-7752 Email: edanus@csrees.usda.gov RIN: 0524-AA27 _______________________________________________________________________ 251. GUIDELINES FOR HATCH MULTISTATE RESEARCH FUNDS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 08/07/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Janet Downey Phone: 202 205-0453 Fax: 202 401-3481 Email: jdowney@csrees.usda.gov RIN: 0524-AA29 BILLING CODE 3410--09--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Rural Housing Service (RHS) _______________________________________________________________________ 252. 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: The Agency intends to publish a proposed rule to 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 [[Page 72975]] 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 exists due to noncompliance with recently enacted Civil Rights legislation. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Carlton L. Lewis, Chief, Program Compliance Branch, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0703, Washington, DC 20250-0703 Phone: 202 692-0097 TDD Phone: 202 692-0107 Fax: 202 692-0305 Email: carlton.lewis@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AA83 _______________________________________________________________________ 253. 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 01/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Linda Rodgers, Technical Support Branch Chief, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0761 Phone: 202 720-9647 Email: linda.rodgers@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC07 _______________________________________________________________________ 254. 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 will consolidate seven regulations containing Community Facility (CF) servicing information into one, streamlined regulation. The Agency will also make changes to improve the servicing options available to CF borrowers. The goal is to work with borrowers to enable them to continue operating and providing essential community services to rural residents. This consolidation and the proposed changes will improve service to borrowers and will ensure that the Government's investment is protected and maximized. The proposed action will have no financial impact on the public or the Agency. The consolidation and revisions of these regulations will be in the best interest of the Government and the public. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Beth Jones, Loan Specialist, Community Programs Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0787, Washington, DC 20250-0787 Phone: 202 720-1498 Fax: 202-690-0471 Email: beth.jones@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC12 _______________________________________________________________________ 255. 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 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Carolyn Bell, Single Family Housing Direct Loan Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0783, Washington, DC 20250-0783 Phone: 202 720-1532 Fax: 202 720-2232 Email: carolyn.bell@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC20 [[Page 72976]] _______________________________________________________________________ 256. 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: The Rural Housing Service is seeking to consolidate, simplify, and update its 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 03/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Anita Outen, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, STOP 0787, Washington, DC 20250-0787 Phone: 202 720-1497 Fax: 202-690-0471 Email: anita.outen@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC27 _______________________________________________________________________ 257. PLANNING AND PERFORMING CONSTRUCTION AND OTHER DEVELOPMENT Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 7 USC 1926; 42 USC 1472; 42 USC 1476; 42 USC 1479; 42 USC 1490 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1924, subpart A; 7 CFR 1924, subpart C; 7 CFR 1942, subpart A Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Rural Housing Service (RHS) is consolidating, simplifying, and updating the Agency standards for planning and developing sites and buildings to bring them in line with contemporary industry standards. This Agency regulation will contain the policies and procedures for planning and developing sites and buildings proposed for RHS financial assistance. This effort will produce a user-friendly tool to help program constituents, rural communities, and Agency personnel. The consolidation effort will also bring the requirements of these two regulations in line with the Agency's Single Family Housing, Multi- Family Housing, Community Programs, and Business and Industry regulations and handbooks. This action will have no financial impact on the public or Agency. These consolidations and technical revisions are in the best interest of the Government and public. This is a positive and needed action in RHS program delivery and will add value to the access and delivery of the Agency's programs. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 05/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Linda Rodgers, Technical Support Branch Chief, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0761 Phone: 202 720-9647 Email: linda.rodgers@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC55 _______________________________________________________________________ 258. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1794; 7 CFR 1901, subpart F; 7 CFR 1940, subpart G; 7 CFR 1940, subpart J Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Rural Development Agencies (Rural Housing Service, Rural Utilities Service, and Rural Business-Cooperative Service) are seeking to consolidate, simplify, and update the different Agency environmental requirements into a common environmental regulation. This Rural Development regulation will replace 7 CFR 1794, the current RUS environmental regulation; 7 CFR 1940-G, the current RHS/RBS environmental regulation; 7 CFR 1901-F, the current Historic Preservation regulation; and 7 CFR Part 1940-J, the current Intergovernmental Review regulation. This consolidation effort will produce a single user-friendly tool to help the program constituents, rural communities, and Rural Development staff and bring the environmental requirements of Agency actions in line with the environmental requirements of other Federal programs for similar actions. This rule consists of subparts A through O. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Linda Rodgers, Technical Support Branch Chief, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0761 Phone: 202 720-9647 Email: linda.rodgers@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC56 _______________________________________________________________________ 259. COMMUNITY PROGRAMS GUARANTEED LOANS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3575, subpart A Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Rural Housing Service proposes to amend its regulations utilized to service the Community Facilities guaranteed loan program by adding terms and definitions applicable to this subpart, amend or add existing regulation to establish reporting responsibilities for lenders participating in the program, and amend or add regulation to clarify program parameters in making, guaranteeing, holding, servicing, or liquidating guaranteed loans. The intended effect of this action is to provide a precise understanding of terms as they apply to eligibility and program [[Page 72977]] implementation and maintenance, and to establish accountability for adequate servicing on guaranteed loans. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 04/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Kendra L. Doedderlein, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0787, Washington, DC 20250-0787 Phone: 202 720-1503 Fax: 202-690-0471 Email: kendra.doedderlein@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC58 _______________________________________________________________________ 260. SECTION 538 GUARANTEED RURAL RENTAL HOUSING PROGRAM CHANGE ANNUAL GUARANTEE FEE DUE DATE Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3565, subpart B Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Rural Housing Service (RHS) administers the section 538 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program (GRRHP) under the authority of the Housing Act of 1949. Under the GRRHP, RHS guarantees loans for the development of housing and related facilities for low- or moderate- income families in rural areas. RHS is proposing to amend 7 CFR part 3565, subpart B, to change the language in 3565.53 (b) to change the due date of the annual guarantee fee. The annual guarantee fee is a non-refundable amount that the lender must pay each year that the loan guarantee remains in effect. Currently the Finance Office in St. Louis calculates annual guarantee fees manually since the borrower submissions of December 31 year-end financial information are not loaded into their automated systems by January 1, when annual guarantee fees are due. The Finance Office has requested that the annual guarantee fee due date is changed from January 1 to February 1 to allow their automated systems to be uploaded with December 31 year-end information thus enabling them to automate the annual guarantee fee calculation process. RHS expects this revision will have no economic impact on the lender, the developer and the project. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 10/04/06 71 FR 58545 NPRM Comment Period End 12/04/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: C.B. Alonso, Loan Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0781, Washington, DC 20250-0781 Phone: 202 720-1624 Email: cb.alonso@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC62 _______________________________________________________________________ 261. [bull] GUARANTEED RURAL RENTAL HOUSING--ELIMINATION OF CONSTRUCTION GUARANTEE Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3565, sec 538 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Rural Development is amending the Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program (GRRHP) regulation 7 CFR part 3565 to make a construction loan ineligible for a GRRHP guarantee and eliminate the 2 percent conversion reserve in lieu of the occupancy requirement. Rural Development wishes to eliminate the guarantee on the construction loan as construction guarantees represent less than 20 percent of closed loans in the GRRHP portfolio. Similarly, construction loan guarantees in processing are less than 23 percent. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Arlene Nunes, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0781, Washington, DC 20250-0781 Phone: 202 401-2307 Email: arlene.nunes@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC64 _______________________________________________________________________ 262. [bull] THERMAL REQUIREMENTS (RULEMAKING RESULTING FROM A SECTION 610 REVIEW) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480 CFR Citation: 7CFR 1924, subpart A Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The current Agency Procedure, section 1924.6 (a)(3)(i)(A), requires that surety be provided when the construction contract exceeds $100,000. This Procedure Notice changes the surety requirements in 1924-A [section 1924.6 (a)(3)(i)(A)] from a $100,000 contract amount to the Rural Development Single-Family Housing area lending limits, which will vary with the locality. This will liberalize the requirement for surety and take into account the increase in construction cost of single-family homes in the Rural Development's Single-Family Housing Program since the last revision (1980) to this section of the regulation. This should ease the burden on small contractors for whom obtaining surety is difficult and expensive, additionally reducing costs to our single-family housing borrowers. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Michel Mitias, Architect-Program Support Staff, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence [[Page 72978]] Avenue SW, STOP 0761, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-9653 Fax: 202 690-4335 Email: michel.mitias@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC65 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Rural Housing Service (RHS) _______________________________________________________________________ 263. MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING (MFH) REINVENTION Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 42 USC 1490a; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1475; 42 USC 1479; 42 USC 1480; 42 USC 1481; 42 USC 1484; 42 USC 1485; 42 USC 1486 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1806, subpart A; 7 CFR 1955, subpart B; 7 CFR 1955, subpart C; 7 CFR 1956, subpart B; 7 CFR 1965, subpart B; 7 CFR 1965, subpart E; 7 CFR 1930, subpart C; 7 CFR 1944, subpart D; 7 CFR 1944, subpart E; 7 CFR 1951, subpart C; 7 CFR 1951, subpart D; 7 CFR 1951, subpart K; 7 CFR 1951, subpart N; 7 CFR 1955, subpart A Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Rural Housing Service (RHS) has consolidated and streamlined the regulations pertaining to section 515 Rural Rental Housing, section 514 Farm Labor Housing Loans, section 516 Farm Labor Housing Grants, and section 521 Rental Assistance Payments. Fourteen published regulations have been reduced to one regulation and handbooks for program administration. This will simplify loan origination and portfolio management for applicants, borrowers, and housing operators, as well as Rural Development field staff. This also provides flexibility for program modifications to reflect current and foreseeable changes. It reduces regulations that address solely internal Agency program administration. Finally, the regulation is more customer-friendly and responsive to the needs of the public. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/02/03 68 FR 32872 NPRM Comment Period End 08/01/03 Interim Final Rule 11/26/04 69 FR 69032 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 12/27/04 Interim Final Rule Effective 02/22/05 70 FR 8503 Final Action 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Michael Steininger, Multi-Family Housing Direct Loans, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Stop 0782, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-1610 Fax: 202 690-3444 Email: michael.steininger@wdc.usda.gov Stephanie White, Multi-Family Housing Direct Loans, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0782, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-1615 Fax: 202 690-3444 Email: stephanie.white@wdc.usda.gov Related RIN: Merged with 0575-AC24 RIN: 0575-AC13 _______________________________________________________________________ 264. 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 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Roger Glendenning, Director, Guaranteed Loan Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0780 Phone: 202 720-1480 Fax: 202 205-2476 Email: roger.glendenning@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC18 _______________________________________________________________________ 265. 3550--DIRECT SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING LOANS AND GRANTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1472 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3550 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Rural Housing Service intends to revise the definitions of new and existing dwellings to remove the reference to a 10-year warranty plan; remove dollar limits and use 1 percent of insurance coverage on loss deductible clauses with the objective of recognizing the increasing cost of home ownership insurance due to higher cost of home purchase; and require homeowner education for new home buyers. This package has been separated into two rules. All revisions, except the homeowner education requirements were published as a direct final rule on February 8, 2005 [70 FR 6551]. The Agency developed a proposed rule to implement the homeowner education requirement. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Direct Final Rule 02/08/05 70 FR 6551 NPRM 03/06/06 71 FR 11167 NPRM Comment Period End 05/05/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Final Action Effective 01/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No [[Page 72979]] Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Janet Carter, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0783, Washington, DC 20250-0783 Phone: 202 720-1489 Fax: 202-690-2232 Email: janet.carter@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC54 _______________________________________________________________________ 266. AMEND 3550--DIRECT SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING LOANS AND GRANTS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Legal Deadline: None Abstract: In 1996, a new payment assistance formula was implemented to provide assistance to Rural Housing Service customers to make home ownership affordable through the section 502 Direct Loan Program. No analysis has been conducted on the formula and its actual impacts since the change was implemented. Anecdotal information reveals that the formula may result in disparate treatment for some customers, especially those in the more rural counties. In addition, the formula is complex and difficult to explain to customers and partners. USDA has contracted for a study of the formula to determine the extent of disparate or unintended borrower treatments/consequences of the existing formula and develop more equitable and simplified alternatives to provide payment assistance to our customers without increasing the cost of the program to the Government. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/17/06 71 FR 8523 NPRM Comment Period End 04/18/06 Final Action 06/00/07 Final Action Effective 07/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Michael S. Feinberg, Acting Director, Single Family Housing Direct Loan Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-1474 Fax: 202-720-2232 Email: michael.feinberg@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0575-AC59 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Rural Housing Service (RHS) _______________________________________________________________________ 267. SURETY REQUIREMENTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1924, subpart A Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 05/02/06 71 FR 25739 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Michel Mitias Phone: 202 720-9653 Fax: 202 690-4335 Email: michel.mitias@wdc.usda.gov Related RIN: Previously reported as 0575-AC60 RIN: 0575-AC63 BILLING CODE 3410--XV--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) _______________________________________________________________________ 268. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SANCTIONS--ADMINISTRATIVE REMEDIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant 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 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Nancy Kreitzer, Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence Avenue, Washington, DC 20250- 0807 Phone: 202 690-1683 RIN: 0563-AB73 _______________________________________________________________________ 269. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; ACTUAL PRODUCTION HISTORY (APH) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to update the rules governing establishment and maintenance of APH databases by incorporating changes in the Common Crop Insurance Provisions--Basic Provisions, as mandated by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 (ARPA), and to incorporate existing Risk Management Agency procedures and language used in procedural handbooks and crop insurance provisions, and making other [[Page 72980]] changes and clarifications to better meet the needs of insureds. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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 _______________________________________________________________________ 270. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, TOBACCO CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent 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 remove and reserve section 457.156, Quota Tobacco Crop Insurance Provisions, and to revise Guarantee Tobacco Crop Insurance Provisions as Tobacco Crop Insurance Provisions. The American Jobs Creation Act of 2004 eliminated the USDA Tobacco Marketing Quota Regulations and price support program by FSN as administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). The revisions will remove references to quota and add coverage for tobacco grown under a processor contract. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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-AB98 _______________________________________________________________________ 271. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, CABBAGE CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed action to convert the cabbage pilot crop insurance program to a permanent insurance program for the 2007 and succeeding crop years. The cabbage pilot program began in the 2000 crop year by offering cabbage crop insurance coverage to producers in Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia (Colquitt and Rabun Counties), Illinois, Michigan, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Following an evaluation of the cabbage pilot program, FCIC's Board of Directors approved conversion of the pilot program to a permanent program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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-AB99 _______________________________________________________________________ 272. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, CULTIVATED WILD RICE CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed action to convert the cultivated wild rice pilot crop insurance program to a permanent insurance program for the 2007 and succeeding crop years. The cultivated wild rice pilot program began in the 1999 crop year by offering cultivated wild rice crop insurance coverage to producers in Minnesota and California. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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-AC00 _______________________________________________________________________ 273. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, MUSTARD CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed action to convert the mustard pilot crop insurance program to a permanent insurance program for the 2007 and succeeding crop years. The mustard pilot program began in the 1999 crop year by offering mustard crop insurance coverage to producers in North Dakota. Following an evaluation of the mustard pilot program, FCIC's Board of Directors approved conversion of the pilot program to a permanent program and approved expansion for the 2005 crop year into counties in Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington where actuarially sound rates can be established. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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 [[Page 72981]] Phone: 816 926-7743 RIN: 0563-AC04 _______________________________________________________________________ 274. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; APPEAL PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL--REINSURANCE AGREEMENT Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will solicit comments to amend the Appeal Procedures and the Standards for Approval regulations by making some clarifications to the appeal process. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Nancy Kreitzer, Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4619, South Building, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 690-1683 Email: nancy.kreitzer@rma.usda.gov RIN: 0563-AC06 _______________________________________________________________________ 275. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, GRAPE AND TABLE GRAPE CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent 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 comments to revise the Grape crop provisions and Table Grape crop provisions by: 1) Expanding basic units by variety, 2) clarifying quality adjustment for Grape crop insurance provisions, 3) clarifying reduced tonnage contracts for the Grape crop insurance provisions, and 4) clarifying that cause of loss on Grape crop insurance provisions and Table Grape crop insurance provisions be the same. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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-AC09 _______________________________________________________________________ 276. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, APPLE CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. 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 revise the Apple Crop Provisions. The revision clarifies how production to count for appraised and harvested production on acreage designated as fresh apple acreage is determined under section 14 (Optional Coverage for Fresh Fruit Quality Adjustment). The current language is unclear and if misinterpreted may cause inequities in calculating crop insurance indemnities. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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-AC10 _______________________________________________________________________ 277. EMERGENCY AND DISASTER PROCEDURES FOR CROP INSURANCE PURPOSES Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506 (l); 7 USC 1506 (p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Risk Management Agency is proposing to revise the Common Crop Insurance Policy Basic Provisions to specify that, in the event of a natural disaster that impact crops and programs of the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation and where there has been a Presidential Disaster Declaration, the Secretary of Agriculture may determine that certain variances or waivers in policy and procedure requirements are necessary to protect the interests of policyholders. This would allow the Risk Management Agency to provide relief in the underwriting of crop protection and the adjudication of claims or when the impacts of natural disasters cause unnecessary delays in providing crop insurance protection or processing claims. It is not intended to provide insurance coverage where it would not be otherwise authorized or provide indemnity payments greater than what is authorized under the policy. The purpose would be to expedite the process of policyholders receiving their indemnities at a time when they are most at need. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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-AC11 _______________________________________________________________________ 278. [bull] COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; MILLET CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506 (p) [[Page 72982]] CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The purpose of the proposed rule is to solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed action to amend the Millet Crop Insurance Provisions to remove the reduction in indemnity for any unharvested millet acreage and revise the end of the insurance period dates to use only one date rather than dual dates. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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-AC12 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) _______________________________________________________________________ 279. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, FLORIDA CITRUS FRUIT CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed action to amend the Florida Citrus Fruit Crop Insurance Provisions by replacing the provisions currently contained at 7 CFR part 457.107 with revised provisions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 10/13/06 71 FR 60439 NPRM Comment Period End 11/27/06 Final Action 05/00/07 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-AC01 _______________________________________________________________________ 280. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, FRESH MARKET SWEET CORN CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposal to modify, clarify, and standardize the provisions to be consistent with other crop provisions. Some of the proposed changes are to remove and/ or to add definitions to enable the expansion of sweet corn into other areas; to revise provisions to allow coverage in some regions for sweet corn that is direct marketed to consumers; to revise the end of the insurance period to allow flexibility for coverage to be expanded into other areas; and to clarify the computations for computing the amount of harvested production. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/28/06 71 FR 42770 NPRM Comment Period End 09/26/06 Final Action 02/00/07 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-AC02 _______________________________________________________________________ 281. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, MINT CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed action to convert the mint pilot crop insurance program to a permanent insurance program for the 2007 and succeeding crop years. The mint pilot program began in the 2000 crop year by offering mint crop insurance coverage to producers in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Washington, and Indiana. Following an evaluation of the mint pilot program, FCIC's Board of Directors approved conversion of the pilot program to a permanent program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/06/06 71 FR 6016 NPRM Comment Period End 04/24/06 71 FR 14828 Final Action 12/00/06 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-AC03 _______________________________________________________________________ 282. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, NORTHERN POTATO CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposal to revise the Northern Potato Crop provisions and endorsements for the 2007 crop year by: 1) Changing the loss adjustment procedure; 2) enhancing the [[Page 72983]] Northern Potato Processing Quality Endorsement; 3) clarifying the Northern Potato Quality Endorsement, Certified Seed Endorsement, and Storage Coverage Endorsement; and 4) clarifying the Central and Southern Potato Crop Provisions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/28/06 71 FR 42761 NPRM Comment Period End 09/26/06 Final Action 02/00/07 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-AC05 _______________________________________________________________________ 283. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, WALNUT CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS; ALMOND CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent 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 amend the Common Crop Insurance, Regulations Almond and Walnut Crop Insurance Provisions. This rule will reduce the growing season requirement for almond and walnut trees. This change will allow insurance to attach to such trees because newer varieties of almond and walnut trees are more vigorous and produce at an earlier age. The newer varieties are planted more densely, achieve full canopy sooner, and come into full production earlier. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/21/06 71 FR 14119 NPRM Comment Period End 05/22/06 Final Action 01/00/07 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-AC08 _______________________________________________________________________ 284. [bull] COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, NURSERY CROP PROVISIONS, NURSERY PEAK INVENTORY ENDORSEMENT AND NURSERY REHABILITATION ENDORSEMENT Priority: Routine and Frequent Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: To solicit public comments on FCIC's proposal to revise the Nursery Crop Provisions amending the definition of ``liners'' to clarify liner insurability requirements. FCIC also proposes to amend the Nursery Peak Inventory Endorsement to add a new definition of peak basic unit value and to clarify the peak basic unit value is limited to 200 percent of the basic unit value declared under the Nursery Crop Insurance Provisions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/01/06 71 FR 52013 NPRM Comment Period End 10/31/06 Final Action 04/00/07 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-AC13 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) _______________________________________________________________________ 285. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS AND VARIOUS CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/14/06 NPRM Comment Period End 09/12/06 71 FR 40194 Final Action To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann Phone: 816 926-7743 RIN: 0563-AB96 [[Page 72984]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) _______________________________________________________________________ 286. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; NONSTANDARD UNDERWRITING CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 08/01/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann Phone: 816 926-7743 RIN: 0563-AB66 _______________________________________________________________________ 287. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, PEANUT CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS Priority: Routine and Frequent CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 09/26/06 71 FR 55995 Final Action Effective 10/26/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann Phone: 816 926-7743 RIN: 0563-AB97 _______________________________________________________________________ 288. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, BASIC PROVISIONS; WRITTEN AGREEMENTS Priority: Routine and Frequent CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/29/06 71 FR 36979 Final Action Effective 06/29/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann Phone: 816 926-7743 RIN: 0563-AC07 BILLING CODE 3410--08--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) _______________________________________________________________________ 289. UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR ROUGH RICE; UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR BROWN RICE FOR PROCESSING; AND UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR MILLED RICE Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1627 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 868 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: GIPSA is proposing to revise the U.S. Standards for Rough Rice, Brown Rice for Processing, and Milled Rice, under the AMA, to eliminate the requirement for certain grade related information to be shown on the grade-line of certificate for classes of Mixed Rice. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-7486 Fax: 202 690-2755 Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov RIN: 0580-AA94 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) _______________________________________________________________________ 290. UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR SORGHUM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 71 87k CFR Citation: 7 CFR 810 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: GIPSA is revising the United States Standards for Sorghum. GIPSA is amending the grain standards to change the definitions of sorghum classes by deleting references to tannin and adding language referencing the presence or absence of a pigmented test. GIPSA is amending the grain standards to change the definition of nongrain sorghum by removing sorghum-sudangrass hybrids, sorgrass, and sweet sorghum (sorgo), and adding language referencing seeds of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench that appear atypical of grain sorghum. GIPSA is amending the grade and grade requirements for sorghum by reducing the grading limits for broken kernels and foreign material and the subfactor foreign material and inserting a total count limit of 10 for other material used to determine sample grade factors. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/29/06 71 FR 15633 NPRM Comment Period End 05/30/06 Final Action 12/00/06 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, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-7486 Fax: 202 690-2755 Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov RIN: 0580-AA91 [[Page 72985]] _______________________________________________________________________ 291. FEES FOR RICE INSPECTION SERVICE Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 1627 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 868 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule revises the regulations governing the sampling, inspection, weighing, and certification for rice by increasing certain fees charged for the services by approximately 18 percent. Further, the rice fees increased an additional 3 percent each year through fiscal year 2010 and establish a stowage examination fee. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/11/06 71 FR 18231 NPRM Comment Period End 06/12/06 Final Action 12/00/06 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, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-7486 Fax: 202 690-2755 Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov RIN: 0580-AA92 _______________________________________________________________________ 292. CLEAR TITLE PROGRAM; TECHNICAL CHANGES Priority: Info./Admin./Other Legal Authority: 7 USC 1631; 7 CFR 2.22 and 2.81 CFR Citation: 9 CFR 205 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule is being issued to make changes to the clear title regulations as required by amendments made by the 2002 Farm Bill, which bring the clear title requirements more into conformity with the Uniform Commercial Code. GIPSA is making additional changes to allow the use of an approved unique identifier in place of the former mandate for States to display a social security number through their systems providing clear title information. The rule will adopt these changes in the regulations. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 09/27/06 71 FR 56338 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 11/27/06 Final Action 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: State Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-7486 Fax: 202 690-2755 Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov RIN: 0580-AA93 _______________________________________________________________________ 293. [bull] OFFICIAL FEES AND TOLERANCES FOR BARLEY PROTEIN TESTING Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 7187k CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800, 801 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: GIPSA extended its official inspection program to include testing of barley protein effective July 1, 2005. Testing is provided using near-infrared spectroscopy analyzers that were previously approved for different grains. To recover the cost of providing this service, GIPSA is establishing a fee identical to the fees already established for other near-infrared spectroscopy measurements. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 11/08/06 71 FR 65371 Interim Final Rule Effective 11/09/06 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 01/08/07 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, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-7486 Fax: 202 690-2755 Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov RIN: 0580-AA95 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) _______________________________________________________________________ 294. PROCESS VERIFICATION SERVICE AND ASSOCIATED FEES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 868.31 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler Phone: 202 720-7486 Fax: 202 690-2755 Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov RIN: 0580-AA85 [[Page 72986]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) _______________________________________________________________________ 295. UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR SOYBEANS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800; 7 CFR 810 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 09/06/06 71 FR 52403 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler Phone: 202 720-7486 Fax: 202 690-2755 Email: h.tess.butler@usda.gov RIN: 0580-AA90 BILLING CODE 3410--EN--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) _______________________________________________________________________ 296. DISQUALIFIED RECIPIENT REPORTING AND COMPUTER MATCHING REQUIREMENTS THAT AFFECT THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM Priority: Other Significant 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 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Final Action 06/00/07 Final Action Effective 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AB51 _______________________________________________________________________ 297. 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 by: 1) Bringing the maximum level of allowable resources in line with the Food Stamp Program by: a) Establishing a new resource limit of $3,000 for households with a disabled member and b) increasing the resource limit from $1,750 to $2,000 for households without elderly or disabled members; 2) allowing a resource exclusion for the first $1,500 of the value of one prepaid funeral arrangement per household member; 3) allowing households in which all members are elderly or disabled to be certified for up to 24 months; and 4) allowing State agencies the option to provide transitional benefits to households that leave the Temporary Assistance Program for Needy Families. The above provisions are modeled after Food Stamp Program provisions. (01-005) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/07 NPRM Comment Period Ends 11/00/07 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, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD12 _______________________________________________________________________ 298. 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 04/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/07 Final Action 02/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No [[Page 72987]] Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD15 _______________________________________________________________________ 299. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS TO RECIPIENT CLAIM ESTABLISHMENT AND COLLECTION STANDARDS Priority: Info./Admin./Other 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 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Final Action To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD25 _______________________________________________________________________ 300. FSP: REVISIONS TO BONDING REQUIREMENTS FOR VIOLATING RETAIL AND WHOLESALE FOOD CONCERNS Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 7 USC 2021 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278.1(b)(4); 7 CFR 278.2(f) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The proposed rule will revise the current bonding requirements set forth in section 278.1(b)(4) of Food Stamp Program (FSP) regulations that are imposed against retailers who have violated FSP rules and regulations. Section 12(d) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (the Act), as amended, gives the Secretary of Agriculture the discretionary authority to require that retailers who have been sanctioned for program violations present a collateral bond as a condition of future authorization. The Act also gives the Secretary the authority to prescribe the amount, terms, and conditions of such bonds by regulation. Currently, all violating retailers that are sanctioned for a specified period of time or imposed a civil money penalty are required to submit a bond if they wish to continue to participate in the FSP. The bond must be valid as long as the firm is authorized to participate in the FSP regardless of the period of disqualification imposed or the amount of the civil money penalty assessed. Retailers are required to renew their bond through a financial institution on a periodic basis. The proposed rule will: 1) Eliminate the current bonding requirement for retailers who are disqualified for a period of 6 months or imposed a civil money penalty in lieu of a 6-month disqualification period; and 2) limit the requirement to no more than 1 year for retailers who are disqualified for a specified period of time greater than 6 months or imposed a civil money penalty in lieu of a specified period of time greater than 6 months. Section 278.2(f) of the FSP regulations stipulates that retail food stores may not accept food stamp benefits in payment for any eligible food sold to food stamp households on credit. Thus, the proposed rule will also assign a specified period of time for retailers to be removed from the program for accepting food stamp benefits in payment for eligible food on credit. (04-002) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD44 _______________________________________________________________________ 301. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: FLUID MILK SUBSTITUTIONS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 6 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AD58 _______________________________________________________________________ 302. NUTRITION STANDARDS IN THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAMS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 108-265, sec 103 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Public Law 108-265 requires the Secretary to issue regulations that reflect specific recommendations for increased consumption of foods and food ingredients in school nutrition programs based on the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The current regulations specify that reimbursable meals offered by schools meet the Dietary Guidelines for Americans that are specified in the regulations. This proposed rule would revise the current regulations on nutrition standards to require that participating schools meet the applicable recommendations of the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans and other dietary recommendations. (04-017) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/07 [[Page 72988]] NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/07 Final Action 10/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD59 _______________________________________________________________________ 303. WIC FARMERS' MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (FMNP): IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FMNP PROVISIONS IN THE CN AND WIC REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2004 (PUB. L. 108-265) AND FMNP FUNDING FORMULA Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 248 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This proposed rule amends the FMNP regulations to implement the nondiscretionary FMNP provisions in Public Law 108-265, the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004. The legislative provisions include: (1) An option for State agencies to authorize roadside stands without prior FNS approval; (2) revising the match requirement to apply the 30 percent to the administrative cost of the program instead of 30 percent of the total cost of the program (administrative and food costs); and (3) increasing the maximum Federal benefit level from $20 to $30. Also included in this rulemaking will be a funding formula methodology for the FMNP when funds requested exceed available funds to allocate. The FMNP is a fixed grant program with limited funds. Funding increases are not guaranteed from year to year. Section 17(m) of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, as amended, sets forth broad funding requirements for the FMNP. By law, after base grants are provided to current State agencies (i.e., total Federal funds received in the prior fiscal year), the remaining funds are divided so that 75 percent is provided for expansion funds for current State agencies and 25 percent is provided for new State agencies. Currently, beyond the division of funds noted above, there are no requirements for how to allocate funds for expansion and new State agencies when funds requested exceed the amount of available funds. This proposed regulation would amend 7 CFR part 248 to set forth a funding formula in cases where FMNP funds requested exceed available funds to allocate. The proposed methodology would provide a base funding level for each State agency. Funding above the base level would be based on the individual State's need relative to all other State agencies' needs. (05-003) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 08/00/07 Final Action 08/00/08 Final Action Effective 09/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal Additional Information: This action consolidates two previous actions: the FMNP Funding Formula Rule, RIN 0584-AD41 (withdrawn in the spring 2005 agenda), and the Implementation of the FMNP Provisions Included in the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004, RIN 0584-AD46 (withdrawn from the fall 2004 agenda). URL For More Information: www.fns.usda.gov/wic Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov Related RIN: Merged with 0584-AD41 RIN: 0584-AD74 _______________________________________________________________________ 304. FSP: ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS IMPOSED AGAINST VIOLATING ELECTRONIC BENEFITS TRANSFER (EBT) STORES Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: Sec 12 of the Food Stamp Act CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278.6(e) 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 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. Background EBT is an electronic system that allows a food stamp recipient to authorize transfer of their Government benefits from a Federal account to a retailer account to pay for eligible food items. All States, the District of Columbia, Virgin Islands, Guam, and Puerto Rico have operational food stamp EBT systems. All food stamp benefits are being issued by EBT. Approximately, 153,000 retail food stores are authorized to accept food stamp benefits. One of the benefits of EBT is that it helps curb food stamp fraud committed by retail food stores. EBT creates an electronic record of each food stamp transaction, making it easier to identify and document instances where food stamp benefits are being illegally obtained (i.e., food stamp benefits being exchanged for cash or non-food items) by retail food stores. Proposed Regulation FNS is continuing to improve using EBT data efficiently to detect and pursue abuse. Section 278.6 of the Food Stamp regulations, however, does not thoroughly address the actions/sanctions that FNS may impose against retail food stores that are found [[Page 72989]] violating the program via the EBT system. Since the inception of EBT, FNS has discovered that food stores have departed from some of the conventional methods of committing food stamp fraud and have devised new and innovative ways to commit fraud using the EBT system. Hence, Section 278.6 of the Food Stamp Program regulations must be revised in order to address the administrative sanctions that may be imposed by FNS against EBT stores found violating the program. In addition to providing for EBT specific sanctions, FNS will conduct a comprehensive review of existing regulatory sanctions for conventional fraud and will make regulatory changes that are warranted and appropriate. (05-007) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/00/07 Final Action 12/00/07 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, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD78 _______________________________________________________________________ 305. [bull] REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS IN REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DISTRIBUTION AND CONTROL OF DONATED FOODS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 612(c), 612c note, 1431, 1431b, 1431e, 1431 note, 1446a-1, 1859, 2014, 2025; 15 USC 713c; 22 USC 1922; 41 USC 1751, 1755, 1758, 1760, 1761, 1762a, 1766, 3030a, 5179, 5180 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250; 7 CFR 251.4 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The rule would amend current regulations in 7 CFR part 250 to ensure the safe storage and management of donated foods and their efficient and cost-effective distribution, while reducing reporting and administrative requirements currently imposed on distributing agencies. Specifically, the rule would propose to: Require the distributing agency, and distributing agency agreements with recipient agencies, to ensure that the storage, management, distribution, and use of donated foods will be conducted in accordance with Federal food safety requirements. Require that inventory management systems assure that donated foods can be tracked in the event of a food recall. Retain FNS' authority to require the distributing agency to reevaluate its storage and distribution system and justify its efficiency and cost-effectiveness, but remove the requirement that the distributing agency reevaluate its storage and distribution system on a periodic basis. Require the distributing agency to permit direct deliveries of donated foods to recipient agencies, or to commercial storage facilities, processors, or other contractors, to the extent that such deliveries may be made cost-effectively. Remove the requirement that the distributing agency maintain a separate salvage account for funds obtained from salvage of donated foods, claim recoveries, etc., and the requirement that FNS approve certain expenditures from such accounts. Remove the exemption from claims recovery of donated food inventory losses in amounts less than 1 percent of total inventory of such food. Remove the requirement that the distributing agency submit commodity acceptability reports to FNS and conduct surveys of recipient agencies to collect information for such purpose. Retain the prohibition against maintenance of excessive donated food inventories (i.e., more than a 6-month supply) but remove the requirement that the distributing agency submit a report of excessive donated food inventories for donated foods received in child nutrition programs and TEFAP. Lastly, the rule would rewrite 7 CFR part 250 in a ``plain language'' format to make it easier to read and understand for the general public. We do not anticipate any additional costs imposed on distributing or recipient agencies or other entities as a result of the changes proposed in this rule. (06-002) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD81 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) _______________________________________________________________________ 306. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: IMPROVING MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAM INTEGRITY Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 7 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AC24 _______________________________________________________________________ 307. 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 makes 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 [[Page 72990]] systems must meet in order to be approved for operation. This rule revises those regulations to provide the State agency more flexibility in implementing and operating those systems. Clarifications and FNS settlement improvements are also incorporated into the rule. The rule contains a provision to provide State agencies with a new option to allow retailers with commercial equipment to use a Store and Forward process instead of the manual voucher process when the system is down. This provision went forward as an interim provision so that the Department can solicit additional comments. All the other provisions went forward as final. (96-016) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/12/01 66 FR 36495 NPRM Comment Period End 09/10/01 Interim Final Rule 04/11/05 70 FR 18263 Final Rule 04/11/05 70 FR 18263 Interim Final Rule Effective 05/11/05 Final Rule Effective 05/11/05 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 06/10/05 Final Action 06/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AC37 _______________________________________________________________________ 308. 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 10/00/07 Final Action Effective 11/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AC72 _______________________________________________________________________ 309. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: IMPLEMENTING LEGISLATIVE REFORMS TO STRENGTHEN PROGRAM INTEGRITY Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 243 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226 Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 20, 2000. Abstract: This final rule incorporates changes to the Child and Adult Care Food Program as required by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act (Pub. L. 106-224) to strengthen the management and integrity of the program. Provisions include: 1) Changes to eligibility requirements for participating institutions; 2) conditions for approval, such as ensuring financial viability, stipulating that new sponsoring organizations are allowed to participate only where there is need for the program, and the elimination of ``moving toward tax exempt status'' of institutions; 3) new program monitoring requirements; 4) new parental notification requirements by CACFP centers or homes that describe the program and benefits and provide parents with access to the sponsoring organization and State agency; 5) rules on allowing corrective action and appeals in situations involving the termination or suspension of participating institutions, facilities, and individuals; 6) funds recovery in situations involving fraud, abuse, or improper submissions for reimbursement; and 7) limitation on the percentage of funds that sponsoring organizations of centers can retain from day care meal reimbursements for their administrative expenses. These changes support the Department's ongoing efforts in management and integrity improvement. (00-005) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 06/27/02 67 FR 43448 Interim Final Rule Effective 07/29/02 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 12/24/02 Final Action 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Federalism: This action may have federalism implications as defined in EO 13132. Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AC94 _______________________________________________________________________ 310. DISCLOSURE OF CHILDREN'S FREE, AND REDUCED PRICE MEALS, AND FREE MILK ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION IN THE CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 242; PL 103-448, sec 108; PL 108-265, sec 104 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 215; 7 CFR 225; 7 CFR 226; 7 CFR 245 Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 20, 2000. [[Page 72991]] 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, 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 was withdrawn, and the final provisions are issued under RIN 0584-AC95. The final rule adopts or modifies as necessary many of the provisions mandated by the statute and required by the interim rule. The objective is to provide consistency in procedures when determining agencies' option 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 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 12/00/06 Final Action Effective 01/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AC95 _______________________________________________________________________ 311. 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 02/00/07 Final Action Effective 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD27 _______________________________________________________________________ 312. FSP: ELIGIBILITY AND CERTIFICATION PROVISIONS OF THE FARM SECURITY AND RURAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 2002 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 8 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AD30 _______________________________________________________________________ 313. QUALITY CONTROL PROVISIONS OF TITLE IV OF PUBLIC LAW 107-171 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 9 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AD31 _______________________________________________________________________ 314. 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 final 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 05/26/05 70 FR 30558 NPRM Comment Period End 07/25/05 Final Action 12/00/06 Final Action Effective 01/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal URL For More Information: www.fns.usda.gov [[Page 72992]] URL For Public Comments: www.fns.usda.gov/wic Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD35 _______________________________________________________________________ 315. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN (WIC): MISCELLANEOUS VENDOR-RELATED PROVISIONS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule amends the WIC regulations to clarify issues that have arisen subsequent to the publication of the WIC Food Delivery Systems final rule. It includes the following provisions: Allows the release of vendor information such as telephone numbers, e-mail/website addresses, store type, and whether the vendor has been disqualified; provides for an abbreviated administrative review when a State agency issues a civil money penalty in lieu of a reciprocal WIC disqualification; and prohibits State agencies from requiring infant formula manufacturers to provide free formula or other items as part of their infant formula rebate solicitations and contracts. (02-013) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/27/05 70 FR 43332 NPRM Comment Period End 11/25/05 Final Action 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD36 _______________________________________________________________________ 316. PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH, SCHOOL BREAKFAST, AND SPECIAL MILK PROGRAMS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1752 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210, 215, 220 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rule makes changes in three areas: the school food authority's responsibility for proper procurement procedures and contracts; prohibitions on the school food authority's use of nonprofit school food service account funds for costs resulting from improper procurements and contracts; and the State agency's review and approval of school food authority procurement procedures and contracts. (03-001) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/30/04 69 FR 78340 NPRM Comment Period End 02/28/05 Final Action 12/00/06 Final Action Effective 01/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD38 _______________________________________________________________________ 317. DATA COLLECTION RELATED TO INSTITUTIONS AND ORGANIZATIONS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: EO 13279 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220; 7 CFR 225; 7 CFR 226; 7 CFR 246; 7 CFR 247; 7 CFR 251 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Executive Order 13279, which was signed on December 12, 2002, instructs Federal agencies, to the extent permitted by law, to collect data regarding the participation of faith-based and community-based organizations in social service programs that receive Federal financial assistance. This rulemaking authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to require State agencies to collect and submit data to the Food and Nutrition Service that identifies the faith-based and community organizations that participate in the Federal nutrition assistance programs. This rulemaking adds requirements to the following programs: Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Child and Adult Care Food Program, Summer Food Service Program, Commodity Supplemental Food Program, and the Emergency Food Assistance Program. The data collection effort ends 5 years after the effective date of the final rule. (04-001) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/03/06 71 FR 10914 NPRM Comment Period End 06/01/06 Interim Final Rule 12/00/06 Interim Final Rule Effective 01/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD43 _______________________________________________________________________ 318. MANAGEMENT OF DONATED FOODS IN CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS, THE NUTRITION SERVICES INCENTIVE PROGRAM, AND CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250.12, 250.19, 250.24, 250.40, 250.41; 7 CFR 250.42, 250.48, 250.49, 250.50 Legal Deadline: None [[Page 72993]] Abstract: This final rule revises or clarifies requirements with respect to the distribution, management, and use of donated foods in child nutrition programs, the Nutrition Services Incentive Program, and by charitable institutions. Most significantly, it establishes specific requirements to ensure that school food authorities and other recipient agencies in child nutrition programs receive the value of all donated foods provided under contract with food service management companies to conduct the food service. It requires the food service management company to credit the recipient agency for donated foods received, through invoice reductions, refunds, or other means of crediting. The rule provides some flexibility in crediting for and use of donated foods by allowing the recipient agency to use donated food values other than the USDA purchase price and by allowing the food service management company to substitute donated foods with commercially purchased foods, with the exception of (1) donated ground beef and ground pork, and (2) end products received from processors. (04-003) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 06/08/06 71 FR 33344 NPRM Comment Period Extended 08/03/06 71 FR 43992 NPRM Comment Period End 09/07/06 Final Action 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD45 _______________________________________________________________________ 319. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN (WIC): DISCRETIONARY WIC VENDOR PROVISIONS IN THE CHILD NUTRITION AND WIC REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2004, PUBLIC LAW 108-265 Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246 Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, December 2004. Abstract: This rule proposes to amend regulations for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) by adding three requirements mandated by the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004, Public Law 108-265, concerning retail vendors authorized by WIC State agencies to provide supplemental food to WIC participants in exchange for WIC food instruments. This rulemaking would require WIC State agencies to notify WIC-authorized retail vendors of an initial violation, for violations requiring a pattern of occurrences in order to impose a sanction, before documenting a subsequent violation unless notification would compromise an investigation. In addition, State agencies would maintain a list of State-licensed wholesalers, distributors, and retailers, and manufacturers registered with the Food and Drug Administration, and would require WIC-authorized retail vendors to purchase infant formula only from sources on the list. Further, State agencies would prohibit the authorization of or payments to WIC-authorized vendors that derive more than 50 percent of their annual food sales revenue (``above-50- percent vendors'') and which provide incentive items or other free merchandise except food or merchandise of nominal value to program participant customers unless the vendor provides the State agency with proof that the vendor obtained the incentive items or merchandise at no cost. The intent of these provisions is to, respectively, enhance due process for vendors; prevent defective infant formula from being consumed by infant WIC participants; and, prevent increased WIC food costs caused by above-50-percent vendors who provide incentive items to participants which ultimately are derived from the proceeds of WIC purchases. (04-007) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/01/06 71 FR 43371 NPRM Comment Period End 10/02/06 Final Action 10/00/07 Final Action Effective 11/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD47 _______________________________________________________________________ 320. DISTRICT-WIDE USE OF PROVISIONS 2 AND 3 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-265 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 245 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Currently, schools may choose to use ``Provision 2'' or ``Provision 3,'' to reduce application burdens and simplify meal counting and claiming procedures. Provision 2 allows schools to establish claiming percentages and to serve all meals at no charge for a 4-year period. Provision 3 allows schools to simply receive the same level of Federal cash and commodity assistance each year, with some adjustments, for a 4-year period. Both provisions are used by schools with significant percentages of children eligible for free and reduced- price school meals. Schools serve all meals at no cost to the child but continue to be reimbursed at the rate determined in the year that the actual number of free and reduced price eligible children was determined. In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, 7 CFR 245, Determining Eligibility for Free and Reduced Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools, will be revised to allow school districts to use ``Provision 2`` or [[Page 72994]] ''Provision 3`` on a district-wide basis as well as on a school basis. (04-009) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 08/00/07 Interim Final Rule Effective 09/00/07 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 10/00/07 Final Action 06/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD51 _______________________________________________________________________ 321. ADMINISTRATIVE ERROR REDUCTION IN THE SCHOOL MEALS PROGRAMS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 108-265 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Public Law 108-265, the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 (Act), amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act and section 7 of the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 in the following ways. The new law: -- Establishes the additional category of schools at high risk for administrative errors, as defined by the Secretary, that are subject to an additional administrative review; -- Details a corrective action plan for States that fail to meet Secretary's performance criteria; -- Allocates funds to States based on number of local education agencies with high level or high risk for administrative error. (04- 010) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 06/00/07 Interim Final Rule Effective 07/00/07 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 09/00/07 Final Action 03/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD52 _______________________________________________________________________ 322. APPLYING FOR FREE AND REDUCED PRICE MEALS IN THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM, AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM, AND FOR BENEFITS IN THE SPECIAL MILK PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-265 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 245 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The regulations for determining eligibility for free and reduced price meals and free milk in schools will be revised to require that: (1) Descriptive materials distributed to parents and guardians contain a notification that: -- Participants in the special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants, and children (the WIC program), the Food Stamp Program, the Food Distribution Program on Indian reservations, and State Temporary Assistance for Needy families (TANF) programs may be eligible for free or reduced-price school meals; and -- Documentation may be requested for verification of eligibility for free or reduced-price meals; (2) Eligibility determinations for free or reduced-price school meals (other than cases where ``direct certification'' is used) are to be made on the basis of a complete application executed by an adult member of the household or in accordance with guidance issued by the Secretary. It will also stipulate that the household application must identify the names of each child in the household for whom free or reduced-price meal benefits are being requested and bars State agencies and local educational authorities from requesting separate applications for each child in cases where the children attend schools in the same local educational authority; (3) Explicitly permits applications with electronic signatures if the application is submitted electronically and the application filing system meets confidentiality standards set by the Secretary; and (4) Eligibility for free or reduced-price school meals remains valid for 1 year for most students. Eligibility would remain in effect beginning with approval for the current school year and ending on a date during the subsequent school year determined by the Secretary. An exception is included for cases where verification activities indicate ineligibility. (04-012) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 02/00/07 Interim Final Rule Effective 03/00/07 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 07/00/07 Final Action 07/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD54 _______________________________________________________________________ 323. DIRECT CERTIFICATION OF CHILDREN IN FOOD STAMP HOUSEHOLDS AND CERTIFICATION OF HOMELESS, MIGRANT AND RUNAWAY CHILDREN FOR FREE MEALS IN THE NSLP, SBP, AND SMP Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 10 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AD60 [[Page 72995]] _______________________________________________________________________ 324. VERIFICATION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR FREE, AND REDUCED PRICED MEALS IN THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAMS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 108-265 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 245 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, the verification procedures in 7 CFR 245, Determining Eligibility for Free and Reduced Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools, will be revised to require that, starting July 2005: 1. Local Educational Authorities (LEAs) verify the eligibility of children in a sample of approved free and reduced-price school meal applications. The basic sample size would be the lesser of 3 percent of all approved applications (as of October 1 of the school year) selected from error-prone applications or 3,000 approved error-prone applications. Error-prone applications would be those defined as within $100 a month or $1200 annually of the applicable income limit or, alternately, under criteria set by USDA. However, local educational agencies could choose 1 of 2 alternate sample sizes (effectively the options established in current regulations) if: -- Their nonresponse rate for the preceding school year is less than 20 percent, or -- For a local educational agency with more than 20,000 children approved by application as eligible for free or reduced-price school meals as of October 1, their nonresponse rate for the preceding school year is improved by 10 percent from the nonresponse rate for the second preceding school year. A nonresponse rate is the percentage of approved household applications for which verification information has not been obtained by a LEA. However, second-preceding-school-year nonresponse rates may not be available for all schools for the 2005-2006 school year. As a result, this rule would also provide that, for the 2005-2006 school year, large local educational agencies (20,000+ approved students) also could qualify to use 1 of the 2 alternate sample sizes (the options in current regulations) if they attempt to verify all approved household applications through the use of direct verification. When verifying eligibility for free or reduced-price school meals, local educational agencies can first use direct verification and obtain and use income and program participation information from public agencies administering certain programs. The programs are: The Food Stamp Program, the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, State TANF programs, State Medicaid programs, or similar income-tested programs (or other sources of information). In cases in which there are not enough error-prone applications to comply with the options, local educational agencies would be required to randomly select additional applications to fulfill the percentage or number requirement. 2. Requires local educational agencies to complete all verification activities (including required ``follow-up'' activities) by November 15 of each school year; States may extend this deadline to December 15 under criteria set by the Secretary. It will also require local educational agencies to make appropriate modifications to eligibility determinations based on their verification activities. 3. It also allows local educational agencies to ``decline'' to verify up to 5 percent of their verification sample and replace the declined applications with other approved applications. 4. Requires that the local educational agency provide written notice to households selected for verification. The notice must include a toll- free phone number that the household can call for assistance with the verification process. (04-019) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 02/00/07 Interim Final Rule Effective 03/00/07 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 02/00/08 Final Action 02/00/09 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD61 _______________________________________________________________________ 325. SCHOOL FOOD SAFETY: HAZARD ANALYSIS AND CRITICAL CONTROL POINT SYSTEM Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 108-265 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program Regulations will be revised to require that school food authorities implement a school food safety program for the preparation and service of meals that complies with any ``hazard analysis and critical control point'' system established by USDA through guidance, training, and technical assistance. (04-023) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 12/00/06 Interim Final Rule Effective 01/00/07 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 12/00/07 Final Action 08/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD65 [[Page 72996]] _______________________________________________________________________ 326. IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS FROM THE CHILD NUTRITION AND WIC REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2004: SEAMLESS SUMMER OPTION FOR SCHOOLS PARTICIPATING IN THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-265 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Section 116 of the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-265) amended section 13(a) of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (NSLA) to authorize a Seamless Summer Option for public or private nonprofit school food authorities to participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP). The law stipulates that schools that participate under the Seamless Summer Option must be reimbursed for breakfasts served at the School Breakfast Program free rates and for lunches and snacks served at the National School Lunch Program free rates. The Committee Report (108-279) accompanying the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 notes that the provision closely tracks the Seamless Summer Feeding Waiver, which was available to school sponsors nationwide from fiscal years 2002 through 2004. This interim final rule will amend 7 CFR parts 210 and 220 to incorporate the Seamless Summer Option that will be available to public and private nonprofit school food authorities that participate in the NSLP and SBP. The Department also intends to incorporate into the NSLP and SBP regulations much of the policy that has been developed for schools that were approved by State agencies or FNS to operate the waiver. (04-028) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 03/00/07 Interim Final Rule Effective 04/00/07 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 09/00/07 Final Action 03/00/08 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD70 _______________________________________________________________________ 327. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN (WIC): WIC VENDOR COST CONTAINMENT Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 11 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AD71 _______________________________________________________________________ 328. WIC: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NONDISCRETIONARY WIC CERTIFICATION AND GENERAL ADMINISTRATION PROVISIONS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This final rule implements the nondiscretionary WIC provisions in the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-265). It contains provisions that address the following aspects of WIC Program administration and operation: 1.Expansion of definitions of ``nutrition education'' and ``supplemental foods'' 2.Infant formula rebate contracts -- Adds new definitions (``State alliance'' and ``primary contract infant formula'') -- Limits the size of State alliances -- Requires State agencies to use primary contract infant formula as the first choice of issuance -- Allows State agencies to round up to the next whole can of infant formula as part of the prescribed food package -- Requires uncoupling of bids for milk- and soy-based infant formula in certain rebate solicitations -- Requires that bid solicitations require manufacturers to make a cent-for-cent increase or decrease in rebate amounts to match changes in national wholesale prices occurring subsequent to the bid opening -- Requires a State agency to have a system to ensure that rebate invoices provide a reasonable estimate or actual count of the number of units sold in the program 3.Program eligibility -- Provides additional exceptions to the physical presence requirement -- Excludes from consideration as income certain payments (Federal Supplemental Subsistence Allowance (FSSA)and National Flood Insurance) 4.Food delivery systems -- Requires State agencies to allow participants to receive supplemental foods from any of the authorized stores under retail food delivery systems -- Requires the State plan to include a description of the State agency's procedures for accepting and processing vendor applications outside the established timeframes -- Prohibits a State agency from imposing the cost of electronic benefit transfer equipment, systems, or processing on retail vendors 5.Funding and financial management -- Increases State agency carry-forward authority for nutrition services and administration funds from 1 percent to 3 percent -- Allows State agencies to use funds recovered through local agency claims in the same way that it uses funds recovered from vendors and participants. (04-006) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 12/00/06 Final Action Effective 01/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal Additional Information: This rule was initially assigned RIN 0584-AD49, and was withdrawn from the Fall 2004 Unified Agenda and Plan on September 14, 2004. URL For More Information: www.fns.usda.gov/wic Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 [[Page 72997]] Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD73 _______________________________________________________________________ 329. REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS IN REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROCESSING OF DONATED FOODS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 612d, 612c note; 7 USC 1431, 1431b, 1431e, 1431 note, 1446a-1, 1859, 2014, 2025; 15 USC 713c; 22 USC 1922; 42 USC 1751, 1755, 1758, 1760, 1761, 1762a, 1766, 3030a, 5179, 5180 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250.3, 250.13, 250.16, 250.17, 250.18; 7 CFR 250.19, 250.24, 250.30 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This proposed rule would amend current regulations to require multi-State processors to sign National Processing Agreements (NPA) with the Department to process donated foods into end products, as under a current demonstration project. Under NPA, the Department would be responsible for the review and approval of end product data schedules and the management of the processor's performance bond to protect the value of donated food inventories. Processors would still be required to enter into State Participation Agreements (SPA) to sell end products in the State and to meet other State-specific processing requirements. The proposals would reduce the workload currently required of State agencies in approving end product data schedules and accounting for donated foods provided to processors. However, State agencies may continue to ensure that processing requirements are met under current agreement or contract options. This proposed rule would also amend other processing requirements to reduce the paperwork burden and workload and to more fully integrate donated foods with commercial business practices. It would amend current regulations to: (1) Allow processing agreements or contracts of up to 5 years duration, rather than the current 1 year, with an option for two 1-year extensions; (2) allow substitution of donated beef and pork with like commercial foods of U.S. origin and of equal or better quality; (3) remove the verification of end product sales through commercial distributors; (4) reduce independent CPA audit requirements for multi-State processors by revising upward the donated food value thresholds that determine the required frequency of such audits; and (5) require in-State processors to obtain an independent CPA audit every 3 years, and remove the requirement that distributing agencies conduct an on-site review of such processors at least once every 2 years. Lastly, we would use the rule to rewrite and reorganize processing regulations in a ``plain language`` format to make them easier to understand for the general public. (05-005) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/24/06 71 FR 50250 NPRM Comment Period End 11/22/06 Final Action 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD76 _______________________________________________________________________ 330. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN (WIC): REVISIONS IN THE WIC FOOD PACKAGES Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 12 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AD77 _______________________________________________________________________ 331. FSP: UNAUTHORIZED REDEMPTION AND TRAFFICKING IN PROGRAM BENEFITS Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This interim final rulemaking is being developed in response to reports of incidents in which an authorized retailer has redeemed a Food Stamp Program participant's program benefits without the knowledge of the participant. In addition, this rule serves to modify actions that may be taken against some retailers found to be trafficking in program benefits. The Food Stamp Act, as amended, provides for the prosecution of any unauthorized issuance, redemption, use, transfer, acquisition, alteration or possession of coupons, ATP cards, or other program access device by an individual, partnership, corporation, or other legal entity to prosecution under sections 15(b) and (c) of the Food Stamp Act or under any other applicable Federal, State, or local law, regulation, or ordinance. Stealing benefits from a recipient by redeeming program benefits without their knowledge would be an offense that could be prosecuted under the current statute. However, program regulations do not provide clear administrative penalties for such thefts of Food Stamp Program benefits. In the absence of prosecution, there are currently no administrative actions that may be taken against such entities for stealing the program benefits of recipients. In addition, it has been determined that this activity does not meet the definition of trafficking as reflected in current Food Stamp Program regulations. This interim final rulemaking will add a simple amendment to current regulations to provide for the establishment of an administrative penalty for such violations of the Food Stamp Program equivalent to the penalty for trafficking in program benefits. Authorized individuals, partnerships, corporations, or other legal entities found to have stolen benefits from program recipients without their knowledge or complicity shall be disqualified from program participation permanently. Any firm charged with such a violation would be provided with the opportunity for administrative and judicial review of the disqualification action as provided for in current program regulations. In addition, in response to ongoing investigations by the Office of Inspector General of the USDA and the recommendations of the Department of [[Page 72998]] Justice, this interim final rulemaking puts in place a variation on current trafficking sanctions. Current legislation and regulations require immediate permanent disqualification for trafficking, subject to appeal. However, regulations provide a 10-day waiting period during which a firm may reply to the charges of trafficking as well as request and provide justification for a trafficking civil money penalty in lieu of permanent disqualification. There have been documented cases in which a preponderance of evidence indicates that there is a likelihood of continuous and flagrant trafficking activity that would take place if certain firms were permitted to continue in operational status during that 10-day period. In response, this interim rule provides for immediate termination of POS device operations for Food Stamp Program transactions in certain cases. This immediate termination would take place at the direction of the Office of Inspector General of the USDA and/or the Assistant United States Attorney's Office serving the appropriate geographic locale. At the direction of either or both of the aforementioned parties, the Agency would take immediate action to terminate the redemption of Food Stamp Program benefits by that firm if there is a finding of egregious trafficking activity. The firm will receive all other due process considerations currently provided in the program regulations; however, it's ability to conduct Food Stamp Program business will be immediately suspended. (06-001) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD79 _______________________________________________________________________ 332. [bull] MARKETING AND SALE OF FLUID MILK IN SCHOOLS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-265 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Public Law 108-265 amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to prohibit schools from directly or indirectly restricting the sale or marketing of fluid milk products on school premises or at school sponsored events at any time or any place. This amendment was in response to procurement contracts that limited the types of products that schools could sell outside of the reimbursable meal programs. This rule finalizes the incorporation of that requirement into the regulations governing the National School Lunch Program. (04-015) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 11/21/05 70 FR 70031 Interim Final Rule Effective 12/21/05 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 05/22/06 Final Action 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov Related RIN: Duplicate of 0584-AD57 RIN: 0584-AD83 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) _______________________________________________________________________ 333. FSP: REGULATION RESTRUCTURING TO REFLECT THE END OF COUPON ISSUANCE SYSTEMS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. CFR Citation: 7 CFR 274.8 and 274.12; 7 CFR 278 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/08 NPRM Comment Period End 06/00/08 Final Action 06/00/09 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-AD48 _______________________________________________________________________ 334. [bull] SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM: SEVERE NEED ASSISTANCE Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-265 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 220 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Prior to the interim rule, in order to receive the higher severe need School Breakfast Program reimbursements, schools must have served 40 percent plus of their lunches free or at a reduced price in the second preceding year and must document their costs. They received the lesser of their documented costs or the severe need rate. In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Child Nutrition Act of 1966, 7 CFR 220, the School Breakfast Program's regulations, is revised to remove the requirement to document costs. This rule also revises the regulations to require that the Secretary determine how schools without a second preceding year history may qualify for severe need reimbursements. (04-008) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 11/02/05 70 FR 66247 Interim Final Rule Effective 12/02/05 [[Page 72999]] Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 05/01/06 Final Action 12/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302 Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov Related RIN: Duplicate of 0584-AD50 RIN: 0584-AD82 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) _______________________________________________________________________ 335. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN (WIC): MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 09/27/06 71 FR 56708 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AB10 _______________________________________________________________________ 336. FSP: CIVIL RIGHTS DATA COLLECTIONS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 05/18/06 71 FR 28759 Final Action Effective 06/19/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AC75 _______________________________________________________________________ 337. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: UNIFORM FEDERAL ASSISTANCE REGULATIONS; NONDISCRETIONARY TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS Priority: Info./Admin./Other CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210, 215, 220, 225, 226, and 235 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 07/13/06 71 FR 39513 Final Action Effective 09/11/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD16 _______________________________________________________________________ 338. FSP: EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM PROVISIONS OF THE FARM SECURITY AND RURAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 2002 Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 273.7 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/09/06 71 FR 33376 Final Action Effective 08/06/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD32 _______________________________________________________________________ 339. FSP: DISCRETIONARY QUALITY CONTROL PROVISIONS OF TITLE IV OF PUBLIC LAW 107-171 Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 273; 7 CFR 275; 7 CFR 277 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Merged With 0584-AD31 03/01/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov Related RIN: Merged with 0584-AD31 RIN: 0584-AD37 _______________________________________________________________________ 340. CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS: NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM; SERVING FRUITS AND VEGETABLES AS AFTERSCHOOL SNACKS Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210.10 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 10/18/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov Sharon Ackerman [[Page 73000]] Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD40 _______________________________________________________________________ 341. STATE ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 235 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 08/11/06 71 FR 46074 Final Action Effective 09/11/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD53 _______________________________________________________________________ 342. IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS OF THE CHILD NUTRITION AND WIC REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2004: DISREGARD OF OVERPAYMENTS IN THE CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 05/30/06 71 FR 30561 Final Action Effective 06/29/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD68 _______________________________________________________________________ 343. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS--DISTRIBUTING AGENCY EVALUATIONS OF NON- COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSING AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS, COST COMPARISONS, SYSTEM APPROVAL AND IMPLEMENTATION Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn--Provisions will be incorporated into another rule 05/22/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD72 _______________________________________________________________________ 344. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: EXPIRATION OF RESIDUAL PAPER COUPONS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 274.12(a) Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 10/25/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov RIN: 0584-AD75 _______________________________________________________________________ 345. FOR-PROFIT CENTER PARTICIPATION IN THE CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 10/23/06 71 FR 62057 Final Action Effective 11/22/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, State Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman Phone: 703 305-2246 Fax: 703 605-0220 Email: sheri.ackerman@fns.usda.gov Related RIN: Duplicate of 0584-AD66 RIN: 0584-AD80 BILLING CODE 3410--30--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) _______________________________________________________________________ 346. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR PUMPED OR MASSAGED BACON Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq CFR Citation: 9 CFR 424.22(b) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: FSIS is proposing to revise the regulatory provisions concerning the production and testing of pumped or massaged bacon (9 CFR 424.22(b)). FSIS is proposing to remove provisions that prescribe the substances and amounts of such substances that must be used to produce pumped or massaged bacon. FSIS is proposing to replace these provisions with an upper limit for nitrite and a performance standard that establishments producing pumped or massaged bacon must meet. To meet the proposed performance standard, the process used to produce pumped or massaged bacon would be required to limit the presence of nitrosamines when the product is cooked. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of Policy, Program, and Employee Development, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety [[Page 73001]] and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0495 Fax: 202 401-1760 Email: daniel.engeljohn@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AC49 _______________________________________________________________________ 347. EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION REGULATIONS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 13 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0583-AC58 _______________________________________________________________________ 348. PRIOR LABELING APPROVAL SYSTEM: GENERIC LABEL APPROVAL 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 meat 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 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0279 Email: robert.post@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AC59 _______________________________________________________________________ 349. ADDITION OF MEXICO TO THE LIST OF COUNTRIES ELIGIBLE FOR THE IMPORTATION OF SLAUGHTERED (FRESH) POULTRY AND EGG PRODUCTS INTO THE UNITED STATES Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: FSIS is proposing to add Mexico to the list of countries from which fresh slaughtered poultry and egg products may be imported into the United States Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Sally White, Director, International Equivalence Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Room 2137, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-6400 Fax: 202 720-7990 Email: sally.white@fsis.usda.gov Related RIN: Duplicate of 0583-AC92 RIN: 0583-AD01 _______________________________________________________________________ 350. FOOD DEFENSE PLANS Priority: Other Significant Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: 7 USC 138f; 7 CFR 2.18, 2.53; 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 1031 et seq CFR Citation: 9 CFR 420 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to require that official establishments develop, implement, and maintain food security plans to prevent intentional product contamination. FSIS is also proposing to require establishments to review these plans at least once a year and modify them as appropriate. FSIS is taking this action to enhance protection of the nation's food supply against possible terrorist acts. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: State Agency Contact: Bobby Palesano, Acting Deputy Executive Associate for Program Development, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Room 2932, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-2490 Fax: 202 205-0080 Email: bobby.palesano@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD06 _______________________________________________________________________ 351. ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. Legal Authority: Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) (21 USC 601 et seq); Poultry Product Inspection Act (PPIA) (21 USC 451 et seq); Egg Products Inspection Act (EPIA) (21 USC 1031 et seq); Government Paperwork Elimination Act of 1998 (PL 105-277, title XVII) CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to accept electronic signatures as equal to handwritten signatures so long as the electronic report-generating and recordkeeping system uses procedures and controls designed to ensure authenticity, integrity, and where necessary, confidentiality. Such systems must also ensure that signatures are linked to records; that signatures cannot be excised, copied, transferred, or otherwise falsified; and that the signer cannot repudiate signed records as not genuine. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None [[Page 73002]] Agency Contact: Wanda Haxton, Program Analyst, Regulations and Petitions Policy Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0299 Fax: (202)6900486 Email: wanda.haxton@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD14 _______________________________________________________________________ 352. [bull] FOOD ALLERGEN LABELING FOR MEAT, POULTRY, AND EGG PRODUCTS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 1031 et seq CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317.2(f); 9 CFR 381.118; 9 CFR 590.411(c) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has jurisdiction over meat, poultry, and egg products while FDA has jurisdiction over all other food and ingredients, including their labeling. On August 2, 2004, the President signed the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA)(S. 741) into law which, in part, requires that labels for food products under the jurisdiction of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearly state the presence of any of eight major foods or food groups (i.e., milk, eggs, fish, Crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soy beans) because these foods account for 90 percent of all food allergies. The Agency recognizes that, in addition to the requirements FSIS has for ensuring that all ingredients of health concern are controlled in processing and declared on labeling, there is a need for clear and understandable, consumer-friendly terms that would be helpful for allergen-sensitive individuals to make informed food choices for all foods including meat, poultry, and egg products. Therefore, FSIS is developing a proposed rule to adopt the same naming conventions for the labeling of any of the eight major foods or food groups that is required by FALCPA when they are used to formulate a meat, poultry, or egg product. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0279 Email: robert.post@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD22 _______________________________________________________________________ 353. [bull] DEFINITION OF VEAL Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to establish a definition for ``veal.'' FSIS sees a clear need to define this term to distinguish this type of meat from other products of young cattle to ensure that the term ``veal'' is fairly and accurately used in commerce. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Jeffrey L. Brown, Program Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-2096 Fax: 202 690-0486 Email: jeffrey.brown@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD23 _______________________________________________________________________ 354. [bull] EXPORT PRODUCT DEVIATIONS FROM LABELING REQUIREMENTS AND INGREDIENT RESTRICTIONS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 21 USC 601(m) and 606(d); 21 USC 453(g) CFR Citation: 9 CFR 318.8 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to amend its meat and poultry products inspection regulations by removing the regulatory requirements that permit the use of certain ingredients in meat and poultry products that are intended for export only. After reviewing provisions of the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry Products Inspection Act, FSIS has concluded that meat and poultry products that are in conflict with domestic compositional standards and regulations may not be exported, even if they comply with the laws of the foreign countries to which they are destined. This conclusion represents a change in the Agency's implementation of the Acts; however, FSIS finds that this change is compelled by terms of the Acts themselves. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Ms. Daphne Brown, Regulations and Petitions Policy Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-5627 Fax: 202 690-0486 Email: daphen.brown@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD24 [[Page 73003]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) _______________________________________________________________________ 355. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF PROCESSED MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS; CONTROL OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES IN READY-TO-EAT MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 14 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0583-AC46 _______________________________________________________________________ 356. NUTRITION LABELING OF SINGLE-INGREDIENT PRODUCTS AND GROUND OR CHOPPED MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 15 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0583-AC60 _______________________________________________________________________ 357. FOOD STANDARDS; GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND FOOD STANDARDS MODERNIZATION Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 321 et seq CFR Citation: 9 CFR 410; 21 CFR 130 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have proposed to establish a set of general principles for food standards. The adherence to these principles will result in standards that will better promote honesty and fair dealing in the interest of consumers, protect the public, allow 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 general 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 05/20/05 70 FR 29214 NPRM Comment Period End 08/18/05 Final Action 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0279 Email: robert.post@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AC72 _______________________________________________________________________ 358. 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 01/12/06 71 FR 1988 NPRM Comment Period End 03/13/06 Final Action 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of Policy, Program, and Employee Development, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0495 Fax: 202 401-1760 Email: daniel.engeljohn@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AC81 _______________________________________________________________________ 359. 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 will 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. The rule will update existing regulations to reflect current poultry characteristics and production practices. Therefore, the impact on the poultry industry is expected to be minimal. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/29/03 68 FR 55902 NPRM Comment Period End 02/09/04 Final Action 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0279 Email: robert.post@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AC83 _______________________________________________________________________ 360. PROHIBITION OF THE USE OF SPECIFIED RISK MATERIALS FOR HUMAN FOOD AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DISPOSITION OF NON-AMBULATORY DISABLED CATTLE Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 16 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0583-AC88 [[Page 73004]] _______________________________________________________________________ 361. MEAT PRODUCED BY ADVANCED MEAT/BONE SEPARATION MACHINERY AND MEAT RECOVERY SYSTEMS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 17 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0583-AD00 _______________________________________________________________________ 362. PROHIBITION ON THE USE OF AIR-INJECTION STUNNERS FOR THE SLAUGHTER OF CATTLE Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 18 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0583-AD03 _______________________________________________________________________ 363. ACCREDITED LABORATORY PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq CFR Citation: 9 CFR 318, 381, and 439 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The rule revises, edits, and consolidates provisions to establish standards and procedures for the accreditation of non-Federal analytical chemistry laboratories. FSIS is amending the regulations to accommodate more readily the adoption of newer methods for analyzing an expanded number of chemical residues and to correct some factual data. In addition, FSIS is making other editorial changes to reflect Agency reorganizations and program changes since a rule was published in 1993. This rule also consolidates the regulations, now in two parts, into a single part, 9 CFR part 439. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/17/06 71 FR 2483 NPRM Comment Period End 03/20/06 Final Action 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Lynn E. Dickey Ph.D, Director, Regulations and Petitions Policy Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-5627 Fax: 202 690-0486 Email: lynn.dickey@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD09 _______________________________________________________________________ 364. AVAILABILITY OF LISTS OF RETAIL CONSIGNEES DURING MEAT OR POULTRY PRODUCT RECALLS Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 19 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0583-AD10 _______________________________________________________________________ 365. DEFINITIONS AND PROCEDURES FOR DETERMINING THE NET WEIGHT COMPLIANCE OF MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq;; 21 USC 451 et seq CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 442 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has proposed to amend the Federal meat and poultry products inspection regulations in order that they reference the revised version of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Handbook 133 that contains standards for determining the reasonable variations allowed for the declared net weight on labels of immediate containers of meat and poultry products; the procedures to be used to determine the net weight and net weight compliance of meat and poultry products; and related definitions. The Agency also is proposing to consolidate the separate net weight regulations for meat and poultry products in a new CFR part, applicable to both meat and poultry products. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/28/06 71 FR 15340 NPRM Comment Period End 05/30/06 Final Action 09/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0279 Email: robert.post@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD17 _______________________________________________________________________ 366. ALLOWING BAR-TYPE CUT TURKEY OPERATIONS TO USE J-TYPE CUT MAXIMUM LINE SPEEDS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 et seq CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.68 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: FSIS has proposed to amend the Federal poultry products inspection regulations to provide that turkey slaughter establishments that open turkey carcasses with Bar-type cuts may operate at the maximum line speeds established for J-type cuts, if the establishment uses the specific type of shackle described in this proposed rule. Under this proposed rule, as under current regulations, the inspector in charge will reduce line speeds when, in his or her judgment, the prescribed inspection procedure cannot be adequately performed within the time available because of the health conditions of a particular flock or because of other factors. Such factors include the manner in which birds are being presented to the inspector for inspection and the level of contamination among the birds on the line. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 09/09/05 70 FR 53582 NPRM Comment Period End 12/08/05 Final Action 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Shaukat Syed, Director, New Technology Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0675 Email: shaukat.syed@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD18 [[Page 73005]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) _______________________________________________________________________ 367. PERFORMANCE CRITERIA FOR ON-LINE ANTIMICROBIAL REPROCESSING OF PRE- CHILL POULTRY CARCASSES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 424 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn-Issues will be addressed in future rulemakings 08/07/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn Phone: 202 205-0495 Fax: 202 401-1760 Email: daniel.engeljohn@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AC73 _______________________________________________________________________ 368. PERFORMANCE STANDARD FOR CHILLING OF READY-TO-COOK POULTRY Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.66 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn-Issues will be addressed in future rulemakings 08/07/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn Phone: 202 205-0495 Fax: 202 401-1760 Email: daniel.engeljohn@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AC87 _______________________________________________________________________ 369. FREQUENCY OF FOREIGN INSPECTION SYSTEM SUPERVISORY VISITS TO CERTIFIED FOREIGN ESTABLISHMENTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 9 CFR 327.2; 9 CFR 381.96 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 08/03/06 71 FR 43958 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Sally White Phone: 202 720-6400 Fax: 202 720-7990 Email: sally.white@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD08 _______________________________________________________________________ 370. ADDITION OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA TO THE LIST OF COUNTRIES ELIGIBLE TO EXPORT PROCESSED POULTRY AND POULTRY PRODUCTS TO THE UNITED STATES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2.18, 2.53; 9 CFR 381 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 04/24/06 71 FR 20867 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Sally White Phone: 202 720-6400 Fax: 202 720-7990 Email: sally.white@fsis.usda.gov RIN: 0583-AD20 BILLING CODE 3140--DM--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) _______________________________________________________________________ 371. NEW PROVISIONS AND REVISIONS TO SUGAR RE-EXPORT PROGRAMS Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 19 USC 1202; 19 USC 3314 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1530 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This regulation governs the importation of world price sugar and its subsequent use as a refined re export, product ingredient, or input into the production of polyhydric alcohols. The proposed amendments and/or modifications are principally aimed at reorganizing and simplifying the complexity of the current regulation; clarifying certain definitions, including the coverage of beet and cane sugar; extending the scope of the regulation to specially include toll operations, which was inadvertently omitted; and implementing Mexico- NAFTA legal commitments. The proposed action will provide for increased operational efficiencies and promote the Government's objectives regarding regulatory simplification. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ ANPRM 05/01/03 68 FR 23230 ANPRM Comment Period End 06/02/03 NPRM 01/21/05 70 FR 3150 NPRM Comment Period End 03/22/05 Final Action 06/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Tamoria S. Thompson-Hall, Budget Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Room 6083-S, MS 1028, Washington, DC 20250-1028 Phone: 202 690-1690 Email: tammy.thompson@usda.gov Kimberly Chisley, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-2568 Fax: 202 720-3814 Email: chisleyk@fas.usda.gov RIN: 0551-AA65 _______________________________________________________________________ 372. QUALITY SAMPLES PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 44 USC 3501; 15 USC 714 [[Page 73006]] CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1483 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Rule proposes to establish regulations applicable to the Quality Samples Program (QSP), currently authorized by section 5(f) of the CCC Charter Act, 15 U.S.C. 714c(f). This proposed rule would codify existing guidelines. The rule would provide specific regulations concerning program administration. Significant provisions include program objectives and priorities, eligible organizations, qualification requirements, application and review processes, reimbursement rules and procedures, financial reporting and program evaluation requirements, and program controls. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/03/06 71 FR 43992 NPRM Comment Period End 10/02/06 Interim Final Rule 04/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None URL For More Information: www.fas.usda.gov Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-2568 Fax: 202 720-3814 Email: chisleyk@fas.usda.gov RIN: 0551-AA68 BILLING CODE 3410--10--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Forest Service (FS) _______________________________________________________________________ 373. 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 part 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 18 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 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AA52 _______________________________________________________________________ 374. 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 USC 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 subsection (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 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB27 [[Page 73007]] _______________________________________________________________________ 375. 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 212; 36 CFR 214; 36 CFR 215; 36 CFR 228; 26 CFR 241; 36 CFR 251; 36 CFR 254; 36 CFR 292 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed rule to revise the process by which certain parties can appeal decisions relating to authorizations for use and occupancy of National Forest System lands and resources. This proposed rule would create a new part 214 to replace regulations at 36 CFR part 251, subpart C. The Forest Service has a continuing commitment to review its regulations periodically, to identify specific problems in administering them, and to determine whether they meet agency and public needs. Experience with the procedures at 36 CFR part 251, subpart C, has shown that certain provisions in the rule consistently raise questions. Thus, the agency has identified a need to amend the procedures at 36 CFR part 251, subpart C, to correct and clarify aspects of the part 251 appeals process and its relationship to the amended appeal rule at 36 CFR part 215. Among specific changes being proposed are acknowledgement that this is the appropriate part for appeal of decisions related to locatable mining operations; making terminology consistent with part 215; establishing time frames for intervening, scheduling oral presentations or requesting stays; clarifying that decisions to deny permits for noncommercial group use are not subject to appeal, but rather are immediately subject to judicial review; and making conforming technical revisions to 36 CFR parts 212, 215, 228, 241, 251, 254, and 292. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB45 _______________________________________________________________________ 376. 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: On February 16, 1994 (59 FR 7880), the Forest Service published a proposed rule for 36 CFR part 261, Prohibitions, and part 262, Law Enforcement Support Activities. Due to the high level of interest in and comment on part 261, the decision was made to publish second proposed rules separately for each part. The Forest Service is proceeding with publication of a second proposed rule for part 262, Law Enforcement Support Activities. The proposed revisions to part 262 are narrow in scope and are meant to clarify specific administrative provisions. In particular, they address the limitations and conditions for paying rewards in connection to fire or property prosecution; clarify the rules regarding the purchase of information or evidence in furtherance of investigations; and clarify certain actions and regulations regarding the impoundment, removal, and disposition of animals and personal property from National Forest System lands. The proposed rule also responds to comments concerning part 262 that were received in response to the proposed rule published in 1994. The majority of those comments referred to how the rule defines certain terms. To address those comments in this second proposed rule, the agency proposes to add a new section for definitions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/16/94 59 FR 7880 NPRM Comment Period End 05/18/94 Second NPRM 02/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB61 _______________________________________________________________________ 377. NONCOMPETITIVE SALE OF TIMBER; TIMBER SUBSTITUTION 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 changing the reference to 16 USC 472(d) to 16 USC 472a(d). This proposed rule would revise the existing regulations regarding noncompetitive sale of timber based on the Secretary of Agriculture's determination that ``extraordinary conditions'' exist to apply to sales agency wide. This proposed rule would add paragraph (c), which further defines extraordinary conditions to allow forest officers, without advertisement, to make modifications to awarded timber and forest product sales, which result in the substitution of timber or forest products from outside the sale area specified in the contract. This would be applied to situations where replacement timber from outside the sale area could be substituted for timber lost as a result of litigation or catastrophic events. Substitute timber or forest products must be from the same national forest, and meet agency requirements for compliance with the National Environmental Protection Act, the National Forest Management Act, and notice, comment, and appeal procedures at 36 CFR part 215. This proposed rule would authorize the Forest Service to propose timber sale modifications and to enter into discussions with purchasers on such modifications. But, timber purchasers would not be obligated to accept any proposed modifications. To the extent that timber sale cancellations and partial cancellations are avoided, the effect of this proposed rule would be to reduce future damage claims on timber sales. [[Page 73008]] Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB70 _______________________________________________________________________ 378. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; TIMBER EXPORT AND SUBSTITUTION RESTRICTIONS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 620 CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223; 36 CFR 261 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This proposed rule for timber export and substitution restrictions would implement the provisions of the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990, as amended in 1997. 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 National Forest System (NFS) and private timber requiring domestic processing, including transfers; prescribes procedures for identifying unprocessed NFS 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 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB75 _______________________________________________________________________ 379. 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 the Government Accountability Office and Office of Inspector General audits and recommendations in the National Research Council's 1999 report titled ``Hard rock 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. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB98 _______________________________________________________________________ 380. RECREATION EVENT FEES (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, CHAPTER 2720) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 497, 551 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed directive to amend Forest Service Manual 2721.49 regarding the basis of determining fees for recreation events. Currently, fees are based on a percentage of gross revenues. The proposed fee system would establish a fee based on the number of people involved in the event. This modification in the fee system would result in fees similar to the Bureau of Land Management for this type of use. Additionally, the modification would reduce the administrative workload, for both holders and the Government, associated with the auditing of records for permits that generate less than $100,000 in revenue. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 02/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC24 _______________________________________________________________________ 381. OUTFITTER AND GUIDE SPECIAL USE AUTHORIZATIONS (PROPOSED DIRECTIVES, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 2709.11, CHAPTER 30) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 497 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed agency directive to amend Forest Service Handbook 2709.11, section 37, regarding fees for outfitting and guiding special use [[Page 73009]] authorizations. This action is being taken to improve administrative efficiency for the agency and reduce administrative burden to small business. For example: for minor concession uses, the proposed directive would revise the current fee system from one based on a percentage of gross revenue to a flat rate, thus reducing record keeping and audit requirements. Public comment is invited and will be considered in development of a final directive. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directives 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC50 RIN: 0596-AC25 _______________________________________________________________________ 382. SECRETARY DETERMINATION THAT DOMESTIC SPECIES OF UNPROCESSED TIMBER ARE SURPLUS TO DOMESTIC NEEDS WITHIN THE ZONE OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 16 USC 620 CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.200(d) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to amend 36 CFR 223.200 to add a new paragraph (d) to address the Secretary of Agriculture's proposed determination that domestic species of unprocessed timber within the zone of southern California are being considered surplus to domestic needs. Section 439 of Public Law 101-382, the Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act (16 USC 620 note, 620, 620a-j) established special authorities for determining if specific quantities of grades and species of unprocessed timber originating from Federal lands is surplus to domestic manufacturing needs. Extended drought conditions, overstocking, and increased bark beetle activities have created a forest health and fuels management crisis on national forests in southern California. The San Bernardino National Forest, the most heavily impacted national forest, has identified over 100,000 acres of dead and dying timber for priority treatment, with an estimated 140 million board feet of salvage volume. As of September 2003, over 474,000 acres of the gross acreage within the forest boundary is showing significant vegetative mortality. Processing infrastructure such as loggers, log truckers, or mills do not exist in the area. Most of this timber volume is economically inaccessible to the domestic timber market. The Secretary's proposed determination that domestic species of unprocessed timber is surplus to domestic needs would allow the lifting of export restrictions so unprocessed timber could be offered on the foreign market. This action would increase utilization of dead and dying timber, increase capability to reduce hazardous fuels, and decrease government costs. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC27 _______________________________________________________________________ 383. CLARIFYING PROHIBITIONS AGAINST DAMAGE TO THE NATIONAL FOREST BY ESCAPED FIRES Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 551 CFR Citation: 36 CFR 261.1; 36 CFR 261.2; 36 CFR 261.5 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service intends to amend 36 CFR 261.1, 261.2, and 261.5 to clarify that strict liability will be applied to a person who commits a prohibited action under section 261 that results in a fire escaping and damaging or threatening National Forest System lands. This section has not been interpreted consistently in the courts. Amending the CFR to align with the Model Penal Code definitions of criminal intent will achieve consistency in application and interpretation. In addition, the CFR will be amended to clarify that a person conducting a legitimate prescribed fire on private or public lands adjacent to National Forest System Lands will be subject to the Model Penal Code standard of negligence. This will bring the law enforcement action in line with the objectives and goals of the National Fire Plan and the Healthy Forest Initiative by assuring those who conduct those activities with due diligence will not be subject to a strict liability interpretation in 36 CFR 261.5. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC30 _______________________________________________________________________ 384. REVISIONS TO GENERAL PROHIBITIONS REGARDING LIVESTOCK AND WILD FREE-ROAMING HORSES AND BURROS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 551 CFR Citation: 36 CFR 222; 36 CFR 261.7; 36 CFR 261.21 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to revise the regulation governing the management of wild free-roaming horses and burros. This [[Page 73010]] proposed action will incorporate into regulation new provisions for management of wild horses and burros enacted by the Fiscal Year 2005 Omnibus Appropriations Act (Pub. L. 108-447, Division E, title 1, section 142). This proposed action would also eliminate concerns raised by employees and others about inconsistencies in Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management regulations on the management of wild horses and burros. The Fiscal Year 2005 Omnibus Appropriations Act amended the Wild Free- Roaming Horses and Burros Act (Pub. L. 92-195) and mandated the sale of wild horses and burros that meet specific criteria. In general, the law mandates the sale of excess wild horses and burros that are more than 10 years of age or that have been offered unsuccessfully for adoption at least 3 times. These animals are to be made available for sale without limitation, including through auction to the highest bidder, at local sale yards, or other convenient livestock selling facilities, until all excess animals offered for sale are sold or until appropriate management levels are attained across all areas occupied by wild horses and burros. Funds generated from the sale of these animals are to be credited to the Bureau of Land Management and used to help alleviate costs generated from the adoption of wild horses and burros. Additionally, the Forest Service wishes to merge this revision of 36 CFR part 222 with an existing proposed action to revise 36 CFR part 261, subpart A--General Prohibitions; section 261.7, Livestock; and section 261.21, Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros (RIN 0596-AC31). That proposed rule would clarify ambiguity regarding whether strict liability must be proven for violations of the prohibitions set out in those sections related to livestock and wild free-roaming horses and burros. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC31 _______________________________________________________________________ 385. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) DOCUMENTATION FOR SPORICIDE USE ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1909.15, CHAPTER 30) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 42 USC 4321 to 4346 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is considering development of a new Categorical Exclusion (CE) to Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 1909.15, Environmental Policy and Procedures Handbook, chapter 30, which addresses categories of action that normally do not require either an environmental impact statement (EIS) or environmental assessment (EA). The new category would be applicable to the use of fungicide on recently cut trees through thinning or other tree cutting activity in conjunction with the Healthy Forest Initiative categorical exclusions (and possibly other situations). Coordination with other governmental agencies will be conducted during development of the aforementioned CE. The Healthy Forest Initiatives (HFI) Categorical Exclusion 31.2(10) states `Hazardous fuels reduction activities'(d) shall not include the use of herbicide or pesticides. . ..' It has come to our attention that a frequently connected action of thinning for fuels reduction is the use of sporax or borax fungicide to maintain stand health. Such fungicides, although commonly used in forestry and elsewhere, are technically classified as a pesticide and as such are not allowed under 31.2(10). This incongruity has had the following effect: (a) Some units may be alternatively using timber sale improvement category 31.2(6) or other categories, because they do not preclude the use of fungicides. This results in an underreporting of HFI accomplishments, and given the scope of the other categories, it is likely that fewer acres are being treated; (b) Although not confirmed, some units may not be treating the harvested stands to protect against fungal agents which could put stands at risk; and (c) Some units may be alternatively using environmental assessments. This results in increased planning costs and time and underreporting of HFI accomplishments. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 04/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC32 _______________________________________________________________________ 386. PISCICIDE APPLICATIONS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 36 CFR 241; 36 CFR 251.50(a); 36 CFR 261.9(f) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: State Fish and Game agencies typically use piscicides as a tool for managing fish populations in water bodies of the U.S. At times, these State agencies apply piscicides when they conduct fisheries management on water within the National Forest Systems lands. Current regulations at 36 CFR 251.5 and 261.9(f), require permits for all land uses and prohibit the use of any pesticide on National Forest System lands ``. . . except for personal use as an insect repellent or as provided by special-use authorization for other minor uses.`` The wording in these regulations has led to confusion and inconsistent application of Forest Service piscicide policy that has delayed restoration projects and strained working relationships with State cooperators. Therefore, the Forest Service is proposing that the regulations at 36 CFR part 241 (Fish and Wildlife), 36 [[Page 73011]] CFR part 251, subpart B, (Special Uses, 251.50(a)), and 36 CFR part 261, subpart A (General Prohibitions, 36 CFR 261.9(f)) be modified to allow State Game and Fish agencies to apply piscicides without first having to obtain a special use authorization, under certain conditions. A special use authorization would still be required for piscicide application within wilderness areas. The regulation could help eliminate redundancy with other State and Federal laws and regulations and improve the implementation of restoration and management projects. Eliminating the Forest Service special use authorization requirement for this use is not expected to change the frequency of piscicide applications on National Forest System lands or change how piscicides are used. States are required to comply with other Federal laws when applying piscicides, such as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and the Endangered Species Act. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC33 _______________________________________________________________________ 387. CLARIFICATION FOR THE APPROPRIATE USE OF A CRIMINAL OR A CIVIL CITATION TO ENFORCE MINERAL REGULATIONS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 36 CFR 261.10 (b); 36 CFR 261.10 (k) Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to amend the regulations at 36 CFR 261.10 to clarify when a criminal citation should be used for unauthorized mining operations. This revision is necessary to address recent adverse District Court decisions which have found that sections 261.10(b) and (k) do not apply to the enforcement of unauthorized mining operations. These sections deal with taking possession of, occupying, or using National Forest System lands for residential purposes, and the use or occupancy of the lands or facilities, respectively. Adding appropriate language would make it clear that these sections do apply to mineral operations. In addition, in the definitions section where operating plan is defined, references to other mineral-related regulations will be added to indicate that 36 CFR 261.10 applies to them as well. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC38 _______________________________________________________________________ 388. TRAVEL MANAGEMENT (PROPOSED DIRECTIVES, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 2300 AND 7700) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: EO 11644; 36 CFR 212 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The final regulation entitled ``Travel Management; Designated Routes and Areas for Motor Vehicle Use (36 CFR part 212)'' was published on November 9, 2005 (70 FR 68264). The Forest Service plans to publish proposed directives to implement the regulation. The proposed directive changes are needed to provide guidance on implementation of the Travel Management regulation, conform terminology to the rule, and provide consistent direction on the process of designating roads, trails, and areas for motor vehicle use. The proposed changes consolidate policy for travel planning for roads and trails in FSM 7710, while retaining separate chapters related to operations and maintenance for roads (FSM 7730) and trails (FSM 2350). The changes would expand the scope of the current roads analysis process to encompass motorized trails and areas, while streamlining travel analysis to ensure that it is completed in a timely manner. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC39 _______________________________________________________________________ 389. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION TIMBER SALE SET-ASIDE PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 36 CFR 223.118 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing a revision of its policy procedures in Forest Service Handbook 2409.18, Timber Sale Preparation Handbook, chapter 90, Programs With Small Business Administration, to drop structural changes in the Forest Service Directives. This proposed revision would better reflect the current timber sale program, make the recomputation process as fair as possible, and simplify the process by which market share is determined. This proposed policy change would not affect scheduled recomputations and special recomputations. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 08/01/06 71 FR 43435 Comment Period End 10/02/06 Comment Period Extended 09/29/06 71 FR 57462 [[Page 73012]] Comment Period End 12/11/06 Final Action 01/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC46 _______________________________________________________________________ 390. [bull] LINEAR RIGHT-OF-WAY RENTAL PAYMENT SCHEDULE Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 15801 CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251.57 Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, August 8, 2006. Abstract: The Forest Service (FS) is seeking public participation in the formulation of a proposed rule to update the linear right-of-way rental fee schedule authorized by 36 CFR 251.57 and set out in Forest Service Handbook 2709.12, chapter 30. Section 367 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (the Act) directs the Secretary of Agriculture to, not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Act on August 8, 2005, update the per-acre rental fee schedule. The rental fee schedule covers most linear rights-of-way granted under section 28 of the Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, as amended, and title V of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, as amended. Both laws require the holder of a right-of-way to pay annually, in advance, the fair market value to occupy, use, or traverse public lands, for facilities such as power lines, fiber optic lines, pipelines, roads, and ditches. The Act also requires the FS to revise the per-acre rental fee zone values by State, county, and type of linear right-of-way use to reflect current land values in each zone. The Secretary of the Interior is also required by the Act to make these same revisions for rights-of-way on public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking on April 27, 2006 (71 FR 24836). Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC48 _______________________________________________________________________ 391. [bull] FOREST SERVICE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT PROCEDURES Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 20 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0596-AC49 _______________________________________________________________________ 392. [bull] OUTFITTER AND GUIDE SPECIAL USE AUTHORIZATIONS (PROPOSED DIRECTIVES, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 2709.11, CHAPTER 40) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 43 USC 1761 to 1771 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed agency directive to amend Forest Service Handbook 2709.11, section 41.53, regarding the administration of outfitting and guiding special use authorizations. This action is being taken to simplify the application and administration process for temporary use permits; offer the same terms and conditions to educational and institutional permit holders as to other types of permit holders; clarify policy for priority use permits governing performance, inspections, and allocation of use; and develop a process for allocation of use on a first-come, first-served basis for temporary use permits to facilitate greater participation in outfitting and guiding by youth, educational, and religious groups. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us Related RIN: Split from 0596-AC25 RIN: 0596-AC50 _______________________________________________________________________ 393. [bull] GROUND WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICY DIRECTION (PROPOSED NEW DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, CHAPTER 2540) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 475; 16 USC 526 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: In recent years, the USDA Forest Service has been receiving an increasing number of inquiries and applications to access ground water resources on National Forest System lands nationwide. With the need for water expected to continue increasing in most areas of the country, it is likely this trend will persist. As a consequence, a need for national direction to ensure consistent and informed responses nationwide to ground water-related projects and proposals has been identified. This direction would amend the Forest Service Manual by adding section 2543 to chapter 2540. The new manual section: Clarifies Agency responsibilities with respect to ground water issues; provides direction for consideration of ground water resources in decisionmaking, including water-well and water-pipeline applications, siting of public water supplies, and implementation of source water protection programs on NFS lands; initiates a policy of quantifying ground [[Page 73013]] water withdrawals from NFS lands; establishes ground water data management requirements; and promotes sustainable use of ground water resources. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC51 _______________________________________________________________________ 394. [bull] FOREST SERVICE POLICY ON PARTNER, SPONSOR, AND DONOR RECOGNITION (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1509.14) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 558a to 558d; 42 USC 12501; 16 USC 1271; 16 USC 1641 to 1646 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to publish a directive to Forest Service Handbook 1509.14 where consistent national direction regarding sponsorship and donor recognition can be established. The proposed policy will establish new guidelines for the acceptance, utilization, and recognition of donations. The guidelines are intended to be practical standards under which the USDA Forest Service may fully use its donation acceptance authorities, while maintaining integrity, impartiality, and public confidence. Donations are appropriate tools authorized by Congress for the Department and its bureaus to accomplish their missions. The Department's policy is to accept, utilize, recognize, and solicit donations in a manner that promotes and enhances the Department's programs, activities, and operations, consistent with applicable law and the donation guidelines. The policy will also set forth the Chief's delegation of authority regarding donations and fundraising; establish roles and responsibilities for USDA FS employees who work with donors, fundraising partners, and potential donors; identify plans and agreements relating to philanthropic activities and explain when they are required to be used; establish criteria for consideration in accepting of donations; and provide general guidance on appropriate forms of donor recognition. The policy will also serve as guiding criteria for USDA FS employees' conduct in relation to donation and sponsorship activities and fundraising campaigns which benefit the USDA FS. The USDA FS seeks to ensure the integrity and appropriateness of donations and fundraising activities and add new direction on how partners are acknowledged for their contributions. This policy is to be used by USDA FS employees in tandem with the Partnership Guide. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC52 _______________________________________________________________________ 395. [bull] CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION FOR SKI AREA RESORT ACTIVITIES (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FSH 1909.15, CHAPTER 30) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 7 CFR 1b CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed directive to amend Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, chapter 30, regarding categorical exclusions (CEs) from documentation under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Its purpose is to improve management efficiency for ski areas operating under special use authorization on National Forest System lands. Experience in environmental analysis of ski area developments has shown that many projects implementing a ski area master development plan or programmatic decision that was analyzed through an Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) have not individually or cumulatively had a significant effect on the human environment. In the majority of projects, the issues associated with ski areas arise from the initial development or expansion of an area rather than from implementing projects. The current list of CEs in this handbook omits some activities that do not warrant additional analysis and therefore places an unnecessary cost burden on the Agency and ski area operators. The Agency will review past environmental analyses to determine the types of implementing projects that typically do not have significant effects. Examples may include lift replacement or modification, minor modification of existing ski trails and terrain, vegetation management, improving or replacing existing facilities, and minor construction within the permitted area. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 06/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC53 [[Page 73014]] _______________________________________________________________________ 396. [bull] THREATENED, ENDANGERED, AND SENSITIVE (TES) SPECIES, SPECIES-OF-CONCERN, HABITAT MANAGEMENT, AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FSM 2670) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service proposed to revise Forest Service Manual 2670, Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TES) Plants and Animals, to set forth direction to ensure compliance with existing laws, regulations, and de-facto Agency policies and to reflect current conservation biology, knowledge, management practices, and emerging ecosystem and TES species-related topics and issues. This amendment is needed to: (1) Better guide forest plan compliance with the two National Forest Management Act (NFMA) planning rules on ecosystem and species conservation; (2) guide project level effects analysis and documentation for TES species; (3) modify objectives for TES species and habitat conservation; (4) modify policies for TES species and habitat conservation; (5) modify responsibilities assigned for TES species and habitat conservation; (6) correct several definitions related to TES species and habitat management; (7) correct cooperation procedures for TES species and habitat conservation; (8) update direction on sensitive species management; (9) set forth any direction needed for species-of-concern; (10) update direction on the recovery of T&E species; and (11) incorporate two 2006 Interim Directives on the 2005 NFMA Planning Rule and on grizzly bear management. The proposed changes are expected to provide more effective implementation of the Endangered Species Act, the 1982 and 2005 NFMA planning regulations, and Agency strategies and policies for at-risk species and their habitats. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC55 _______________________________________________________________________ 397. [bull] PROCESSING APPLICATIONS FOR WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 2720) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 109-58; EO 13212; 16 USC 472; 16 USC 4601(6a(c)); 7 USC 1011(f); . . . CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is seeking comment on proposed policy that would govern the review and processing of applications for wind energy development on National Forest System land. This policy would address the internal agency process and responsibilities for: (1) Reviewing proposed wind energy plans of development, site plans, and operation plans; (2) issuing special use authorizations for site testing and monitoring (met towers), and (3) issuing special use authorizations for wind energy development in accordance with existing Forest Service regulations pertaining to special land uses set out at 36 CFR 251.54; as well as (4) determining the level of environmental analysis required for individual wind energy projects in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act, Council of Environmental Quality regulations, and existing Forest Service environmental policy and procedures. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC61 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Forest Service (FS) _______________________________________________________________________ 398. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST TIMBER; CANCELLATION OF TIMBER SALE CONTRACTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant 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 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 cancelled 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 [[Page 73015]] 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 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB21 _______________________________________________________________________ 399. 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 is promulgating 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 interim final rule also implements Public Law 106-113, which authorizes a pilot program of charges and fees for harvest of 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 provide consistency for the sustainability and sale of special forest products including forest botanical products. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB81 _______________________________________________________________________ 400. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND MANAGEMENT PLANNING CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION (FINAL DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1909.15, CHAPTER 30) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 21 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0596-AB86 _______________________________________________________________________ 401. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO APPROVE FREE USE BY INDIVIDUALS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.8 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service published an interim final rule to revise the current regulations at 36 CFR 223.8 to increase the value of timber and special forest products on National Forest System lands made available for free use. The current regulation, which has not been updated for over 30 years, provides for free use of timber up to $20 in value in any one fiscal year. Forest Supervisors may grant permits of material not exceeding $100 in value. Regional Foresters may approve permits for larger amounts and, in times of emergency, may delegate authority to Forest Supervisors for up to $500 in value. Prior approval is required by the Chief if the amount exceeds $5,000 in value. The market value of timber and special forest products has increased, however, and therefore, the regulation needs to be updated to reflect current values. This increase will authorize Forest Supervisors and Regional Foresters to provide free use of timber and special forest products up to $5,000 and $10,000 in value respectively. Comments received will be considered in the development of the final rule. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 01/04/06 71 FR 523 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 03/06/06 Final Action 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC09 _______________________________________________________________________ 402. PREDECISIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW AND OBJECTION PROCESS FOR PROJECTS AUTHORIZED UNDER HEALTHY FORESTS RESTORATION ACT OF 2003 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-148 CFR Citation: 36 CFR 215; 36 CFR 218, subpart A Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, January 5, 2004, PL 108-148, sec 105. The Healthy Forest Restoration Act of 2003 (HFRA) required the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate interim final regulations within 30 days after the enactment of the Act. Abstract: The Forest Service promulgated an interim final rule on January 9, 2004 (69 FR 1529), at 36 CFR part 218, to establish a predecisional administrative review process whereby persons can seek administrative review and file objections for hazardous fuel reduction projects authorized under the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 (HFRA). The Agency solicited public comment on the interim final rule for a 90-day period. The comments received will be utilized to finalize 36 CFR part 218. [[Page 73016]] Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 01/09/04 69 FR 1529 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 04/08/04 Final Action 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC15 _______________________________________________________________________ 403. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; TIMBER SALE CONTRACTS; MODIFICATION OF CONTRACTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a; 16 USC 618; 16 USC 620 to 620j CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.112 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is adopting a final rule at part 223, subpart B, of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, section 223.112. This final rule authorizes timber sale contracting officers to modify contracts to provide a redetermination of stumpage rates and deposits to reflect significant timber market declines. This rule applies to existing timber sale contracts awarded after October 1, 1995, that have been suspended for more than 90 days, during the normal operating season because of administrative appeals or litigation, through no fault of the timber purchaser. This final rule provides relief for purchasers in this situation by enabling them to obtain stumpage rate redeterminations to continue existing contracts after the suspension has been lifted to ensure the economic viability of the sale. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 04/09/04 69 FR 18813 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 06/08/04 Final Action 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC16 _______________________________________________________________________ 404. ONSHORE OIL AND GAS OPERATIONS; FEDERAL AND INDIAN OIL AND GAS LEASES; ONSHORE OIL AND GAS ORDER NUMBER 1, APPROVAL OF OPERATIONS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 30 USC 223 et seq CFR Citation: 36 CFR 228 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Through a joint Federal Register publication, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), acting as lead agency, and the Forest Service are proposing to revise the current 1983 Onshore Oil and Gas Order Number 1 (Order). The new proposed Order is being jointly published by the Forest Service and the BLM to facilitate common conservation practices and procedures across agency boundaries. The Order provides the requirements necessary for the approval of all proposed oil and gas exploratory, development, or service wells on all Federal and Indian (except Osage Tribe) onshore oil and gas leases. The revision is necessary due to provisions of the 1987 Federal Onshore Oil and Gas Leasing Reform Act, legal opinions, court cases since the Order was issued in 1983, and other policy and procedural changes. The revised Order would address the submittal of a complete Application for Permit to Drill or Deepen package, including a Drilling Plan, Surface Use Plan or Operations, evidence of bond coverage, operator certification, and clarification as to when a BLM right-of-way grant or Forest Service special use permit are needed to authorize secondary uses supporting the oil and gas operation. The proposed rule changes to 36 CFR part 228 would include: (1) Removal of a specific reference to the 1983 Order to a reference that plans of operations or master development plans be submitted ``in accordance with the current applicable Onshore Oil and Gas Order,'' (2) removal of the appendix (text of 1983 Order), and (3) removal of a non-existent cross-reference to appeal procedures at 36 CFR part 217 and replacing that reference with ``the current applicable agency appeal procedures,'' and (4) inclusion of 5 congressionally-mandated categorical exclusions promulgated in section 390 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 07/27/05 70 FR 43349 NPRM Comment Period End 08/26/05 Final Action 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC20 _______________________________________________________________________ 405. PREDATOR DAMAGE MANAGEMENT (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, CHAPTER 2320) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 426 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a notice of proposed directive to FSM 2320 to clarify the role of the Forest Service in predator damage management in wilderness. In 1993, the Forest Service entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service-Wildlife Services (APHIS-WS) to clarify the [[Page 73017]] Forest Service's role in working with APHIS-WS regarding predator damage management activities conducted by APHIS-WS on National Forest System lands. In 1995, direction was issued to FSM 2650 to bring Forest Service policy on predator damage management into conformance with the MOU. Additionally in 1995, an interim directive to FSM 2323.33c was issued regarding predator damage management in wilderness to conform with both the MOU and FSM 2650. The interim directive clarified the role of APHIS-WS as the lead agency in preparing environmental documentation for predator control activities initiated by APHIS. The interim directive to FSM 2323.33c was reissued in 1997 and expired in 1998. Therefore, the current direction in effect in FSM chapter 2320 does not reflect the MOU or policy changes made in FSM 2650. A Washington Office team is working with Regional staff, APHIS-WS, and the Office of General Counsel to amend FSM 2320 to conform with the MOU, FSM 2650, and clarify and strengthen the Forest Service's role and responsibility regarding predator damage management action in wilderness. Comments received on this proposed directive will be considered in the development of the final directive. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 06/07/06 71 FR 32915 Comment Period Extended 08/08/06 Comment Period End 09/07/06 Final Directive 03/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC22 _______________________________________________________________________ 406. INTEGRATED RESOURCE CONTRACTS, FS-2400-13 AND FS-2400-13T (NOTICE OF FINAL CONTRACTS) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-7 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Section 323 of Public Law 108-7, the Consolidated Appropriations Resolution (16 U.S.C. 2104 note) established special authorities for stewardship contracting not addressed in existing Forest Service timber sale contracts. In general, the new authorities provide for including service work in timber sale contracts and applying the value of timber or other forest products removed as an offset against the cost of services received. Integrated Resource Contracts FS-2400-13 and FS-2400-13T are being developed for use with stewardship end result contracting when the value of timber exceeds the cost of service work. Except where they deviate to address the new authorities, the FS-2400- 13 and FS-2400-13T contracts parallel recently revised timber sale contracts FS-2400-6 and FS-2400-6T, which became effective upon notice in the Federal Register on May 6, 2004 (69 FR 25367). In order to fully implement the authorities under section 323 of Public Law 108-7, and because they are so similar to timber sale contracts FS- 2400-6 and FS-2400-6T, the Agency implemented interim use of the integrated resource contracts while public comments are being sought. Comments received will be considered in the development of the final contracts. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Notice of Interim Contracts 10/05/04 69 FR 59577 Comment Period End 11/04/04 Notice of Final Contracts 01/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC26 _______________________________________________________________________ 407. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) COMPLIANCE DOCUMENTATION FOR SURFACE USE PLANS OF OPERATION FOR EXPLORATION OR DEVELOPMENT OF AN OIL AND GAS LEASE (FINAL DIRECTIVE, FSH 1909.15, CH. 30) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 42 USC 4321 to 4346 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service proposes to add a new categorical exclusion 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 (EIS) or environmental assessment (EA). The new category will be applicable to the issuance of Surface Use Plans of Operation for exploration or development of an oil and gas lease. Executive Order 13212 states that ``For energy-related projects, agencies shall expedite their review of permits or take other actions as necessary to accelerate the completion of such projects, while maintaining safety, public health, and environmental protections. The agencies shall take such actions to the extent permitted by law and regulation, and where appropriate.`` The National Energy Policy and the Forest Service Energy Implementation plan call for streamlining of processing Applications for Permit to Drill (APDs) and other energy related permits in an environmentally sound manner. Comments received on the proposed categorical exclusion are being used in development of the final direction in FSH 1909.15, chapter 30. In accordance with Council on Environmental Quality regulations, the Forest Service must give prior notice and opportunity for comment by publishing the proposed categorical exclusion in the Federal Register before the agency adopts final direction. [[Page 73018]] Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 12/13/05 70 FR 73722 Comment Period End 02/13/06 Final Directive 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC34 _______________________________________________________________________ 408. ADVERTISING AND SPONSORSHIP IN CONNECTION WITH CONCESSIONS INVOLVING PRIVATELY OWNED IMPROVEMENTS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS (FINAL DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 2340) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a final directive to Forest Service Manual 2343.03 regarding (1) advertising in concessions involving privately developed facilities operated under special use authorization on National Forest System (NFS) lands and (2) sponsorship of new public services associated with those concessions. With respect to advertising, the current policy addresses only exterior advertising while the final directive adds direction to allow the permit holder to advertise inside buildings and other interior spaces owned by the holder. With respect to sponsorship, the final directive adds new direction on sponsorships that promote public participation in the management of NFS lands. The final directive describes the duration, location, and content of recognition of sponsors. Additionally, the final directive addresses special events and waives a prohibition on exterior advertising during a short-term event and requires the holder to not display the Forest Service shield or other Agency symbol in conjunction with product names, services, and advertising. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Directive 11/25/05 70 FR 71081 Comment Period End 03/27/06 Final Directive 03/00/07 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC41 _______________________________________________________________________ 409. NATIVE PLANT MATERIALS POLICY (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 2070) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: EO 13112; 36 CFR 219.10(b) CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service is developing new proposed directives to Forest Service Manual 2070, Native Plant Materials, which would address the uses of native plant materials in the revegetation, restoration, and rehabilitation of National Forest System lands in order to achieve the Agency's goal of conserving aquatic and terrestrial biological diversity. The proposed policy would include a requirement to collaborate with Federal, State, and local government entities and the public to develop and implement a program for native plant materials with emphasis on life forms beyond the current conifer effort. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 05/26/06 71 FR 30375 Comment Period End 07/25/06 Final Action 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us Nona Jones, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1135, ADM - 1ST-D&R, Post Office Box 96090-808RPE, Washington, DC 20090-6090 Phone: 703 605-4927 Fax: 703 235-2337 Email: npjones@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC44 _______________________________________________________________________ 410. FOREST SERVICE RENEWABLE RESOURCES HANDBOOK (2409.19), CHAPTER 60, STEWARDSHIP CONTRACTING Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-278 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Public Law 108-278, the Tribal Forest Protection Act, authorizes the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture, upon request of an Indian tribe to enter into an agreement or contract to carry out a project to protect Indian forest land that meets specified criteria to issue public notice of initiation of any necessary environmental review or of the potential of entering into such an agreement or contract under which the Indian tribe would carry out certain activities. It authorizes the appropriate Secretary to enter into such an agreement or contract following completion of any necessary environmental analysis. The Forest Service (FS) has issued an interim directive (ID) to Forest Service Handbook 2409.19 establishing guidance for evaluating proposals submitted by tribes. The intended effect of issuance of this ID is to provide consistent overall guidance to FS employees regarding tribal proposals. Forest Service is seeking comments on this interim directive to ensure that issues or deficiencies are addressed. [[Page 73019]] Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Directive; Request for Comment 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC45 _______________________________________________________________________ 411. [bull] FOREST SERVICE NATIONAL TRAIL MANAGEMENT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM (FINAL DIRECTIVE, FSM 2330) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 36 CFR 212 CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: On July 3, 2006, the Forest Service published a Notice in the Federal Register for public comment on the Agency's proposed revisions to the National Trail Class Management System and Trail Design Parameters. The Forest Service uses this system to classify National Forest System Trails into 5 classes: Trail Class 1- Minimal/ Undeveloped; Trail Class 2- Simple/Minor Development; Trail Class 3- Developed/Improved; Trail Class 4- Highly Developed; and Trail Class 5- Fully Developed. These trail classes are assigned to existing trails according to the physical characteristics of the trail. The Forest Service has an estimated 133,000 miles of National Forest System Trails. The National Trail Class System is an internal agency tool that local Forest Service mangers use to designate trail classes at the field level. The Trail Design Parameters are used as the technical guidelines for trail construction and maintenance. Both of these tools are used internally by the Forest Service and are part of the national processes for evaluating the condition and design of Forest Service trails. These tools are used by the Forest Service to consistently inventory and classify trails. The Trails Classification System does not have any on-the-ground environmental impacts. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Proposed Directive 07/03/06 71 FR 38021 Comment Period End 09/03/06 Final Action 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC47 _______________________________________________________________________ 412. [bull] SENSITIVE SPECIES AND ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT CONSULTATION FOR LAND MANAGEMENT PLANS (INTERIM DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 2670) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service needs to issue an interim directive to clarify sensitive species and Endangered Species Act consultation management with the 2005 Planning Rule prior to the approval of the first Forest Land Management Plan (LMP) under the 2005 National Forest Management Act (NFMA) Planning Rule. The Agency anticipates that the first LMP will be approved in late summer or autumn of 2006. After consideration of comments, the direction subsequently would be issued in a comprehensive amendment to Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2670. Direction issued to sections FSM 2670.45 and FSM 2670.46 would add responsibilities for those Forest Supervisors and District Rangers who prepare Land Management Plans under the 2005 National Forest Management Act (NFMA) Planning Rule. The interim directive would describe changes necessary because of the different mechanisms and procedures in the 2005 NFMA Planning Rule to accomplish the plant community diversity and other requirements of the NFMA, and because these mechanisms and procedures are intended to implement the 2005 NFMA Planning Rule rather than the 1982 Planning Rule. The new policy would read, ``The provisions contained in the FSM 2670 that apply to sensitive species and to conducting a biological evaluation for Land Management Plan (LMP) decisions made under the 2005 Planning Rule, do not apply to that LMP, once the plan is approved.'' Direction issued to sections FSM 2670.45 and FSM 2670.46 would add responsibilities for those Forest Supervisors and District Rangers who prepare Land Management Plans under the 2005 National Forest Management Act (NFMA) Planning Rule. The change is necessary because, by themselves, such LMPs have no effect on listed species or designated critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act that can be meaningfully identified and evaluated. The new policy would state, ``A forest that revises its Land Management Plan (LMP) under the 2005 NFMA Planning Rule is subject to its regulations at 36 CFR 219.10, and to direction in FSM 1921.73, Ecological Evaluation of Sustainability, and Forest Service Handbook 1909.12, Land Management Planning Handbook. As a result, there would be no basis to request an ESA section 7(a)(2) jeopardy consultation on the LMP. In addition, all provisions contained in FSM 2670 that refer to identifying effects of forest plans to endangered and threatened species, to not jeopardizing species, or to using section 7(a)(2) formal consultation, do not apply to the development, amendment, revision, or implementation of LMPs. Collaboration with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service under section 7(a)(1) on LMP programs for the conservation of endangered and threatened species would continue.`` The proposed changes are expected to provide more effective implementation of the 1982 and 2005 NFMA planning regulations and a better field understanding of applicable policies on these topics. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Directive; Request for Comment 12/00/06 [[Page 73020]] 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC54 _______________________________________________________________________ 413. [bull] GRIZZLY BEAR MANAGEMENT (INTERIM DIRECTIVE, FSM 2676.1) Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq CFR Citation: None Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Forest Service plans to issue an interim directive (ID) to FSM 2676.1 to provide appropriate and updated direction on Grizzly Bear populations and Distinct Population Segments (DPS), such as the pending Yellowstone Grizzly DPS, that are delisted. The updated direction will reflect new information on the current status of grizzly bears. The direction in the ID would be broadened to be applicable to populations that are listed as ``Threatened'' under the Endangered Species Act, and to ``Distinct Population Segments`` that are delisted. The interim changes remove out-of-date population estimates and adds the current status of the population in the Greater Yellowstone Area. The ID addresses habitat management objectives, rather than recovery criteria, and removes the requirement to establish thresholds through the cumulative effects assessment process. New authorities, objectives, responsibilities, and policy on habitat management and the use of direct bear management techniques will be added and those that are obsolete will be removed. The interim changes are expected to lead to more effective implementation of conservation activities for grizzly bears and a better field understanding of applicable policies for grizzly bear management. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Directive; Request for Comment 12/00/06 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC56 _______________________________________________________________________ 414. [bull] NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND MANAGEMENT PLANNING DIRECTIVE (FINAL DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1909.12, CHAPTER 70-WILDERNESS EVALUATION) Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 22 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0596-AC57 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions Forest Service (FS) _______________________________________________________________________ 415. COMMUNITY AND PRIVATE LAND FOREST FIRE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 36 CFR 230 subpart D (new) Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB96 _______________________________________________________________________ 416. GRAZING PERMIT ADMINISTRATION (PROPOSED DIRECTIVES, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 2209.13, CHAPTERS 10 AND 20) Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: None Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Directives 07/19/05 70 FR 41370 Comment Period End 08/20/05 Proposed and Interim Directives 08/19/05 70 FR 48663 Comment Period End 12/19/05 Notice--Previous Actions Withdrawn for Reconsideration 09/20/05 70 FR 55102 Proposed Directives 12/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC12 _______________________________________________________________________ 417. WATERSHED FORESTRY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 3500) Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: None Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Advance Notice of Proposed Guideline 05/25/04 69 FR 29688 Comment Period End 07/26/04 Proposed Guideline To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No [[Page 73021]] Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC19 RIN: 0596-AC18 _______________________________________________________________________ 418. TRIBAL WATERSHED FORESTRY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 3500) Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: None Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Advance Notice of Proposed Guideline 05/25/04 69 FR 29687 Comment Period End 07/26/04 Proposed Guideline To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal, Tribal Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC18 RIN: 0596-AC19 _______________________________________________________________________ 419. RESOURCE AGENCY PROCEDURES FOR CONDITIONS AND PRESCRIPTIONS IN HYDROPOWER LICENSES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1 Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 11/17/05 70 FR 69804 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 01/17/06 Final Action To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC42 _______________________________________________________________________ 420. [bull] SPECIAL AREAS; STATE SPECIFIC INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREA MANAGEMENT: VIRGINIA Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 539; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1608; 16 USC 1613; 23 USC 201; 36 CFR 294 CFR Citation: 36 CFR 294, subpart C Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Governor of Virginia submitted a petition to the Secretary of Agriculture under the provisions of the State Petitions for Inventoried Roadless Area Management, 36 CFR part 294, subpart B (2005 rule), adopted on May 5, 2005. The Secretary accepted the Governor's petition and initiated a proposed rulemaking for the roadless areas in Virginia. This rulemaking would prohibit road construction and reconstruction and timber harvest in certain inventoried roadless areas on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Exceptions to the prohibitions would be allowed for certain health, safety, resource protection, and ecological management needs. However, on September 20, 2006, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California issued an order setting aside the 2005 rule and reinstating the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation rule (2001 rule). On September 22, 2006, the State of Wyoming filed a motion asking the Wyoming District Court, among other things, to reinstate its order enjoining the 2001 rule. As a result of ongoing litigation, USDA has notified the States that they may consider submitting a new rulemaking petition for roadless area management under the generic petition provisions in the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553(e)) and Agriculture Department regulation (7 CFR 1.28). Timetable: Next Action Undetermined 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC59, Related to 0596-AC60 RIN: 0596-AC58 _______________________________________________________________________ 421. [bull] SPECIAL AREAS; STATE SPECIFIC INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREA MANAGEMENT: NORTH CAROLINA Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 529; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1608; 16 USC 1613; 23 USC 201; 36 CFR 294; . . . CFR Citation: 36 CFR 294, subpart D Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Governor of North Carolina submitted a petition to the Secretary of Agriculture under the provisions of the State Petitions for Inventoried Roadless Area Management, 36 CFR part 294, subpart B (2005 rule), adopted on May 5, 2005. The Secretary accepted the Governor's petition and initiated a proposed rulemaking for the roadless areas in North Carolina that would prohibit road construction and reconstruction and timber harvest in certain inventoried roadless areas on the Croatan, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests in North Carolina. Exceptions to the prohibitions would be allowed for certain health, safety, resource protection, and ecological management needs. However, on September 20, 2006, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California issued an order setting aside the 2005 rule and reinstating the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation rule (2001 rule). On September 22, 2006, the State of Wyoming filed a motion asking the Wyoming District Court, among other things, to reinstate its order enjoining the 2001 rule. As a result of ongoing litigation, USDA has notified the States that they may consider submitting a new rulemaking petition for roadless area management under the generic petition provisions in the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553(e)) and Agriculture Department regulation (7 CFR 1.28). Timetable: Next Action Undetermined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None [[Page 73022]] Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC58, Related to 0596-AC60 RIN: 0596-AC59 _______________________________________________________________________ 422. [bull] SPECIAL AREAS; STATE SPECIFIC INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREA MANAGEMENT: SOUTH CAROLINA Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 529; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1608; 16 USC 1613; 23 USC 201; 36 CFR 294 CFR Citation: 36 CFR 294, subpart E Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Governor of South Carolina submitted a petition to the Secretary of Agriculture under the provisions of the State Petitions for Inventoried Roadless Area Management, 36 CFR part 294, subpart B (2005 rule), adopted on May 5, 2005. The Secretary accepted the Governor's petition and initiated a proposed rulemaking for the roadless areas in South Carolina that would prohibit road construction and reconstruction and timber harvest in certain inventoried roadless areas on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests in South Carolina. Exceptions to the prohibitions would be allowed for certain health, safety, resource protection, and ecological management needs. However, on September 20, 2006, the United States District Court for the Northern District of California issued an order setting aside the 2005 rule and reinstating the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation rule (2001 rule). On September 22, 2006, the State of Wyoming filed a motion asking the Wyoming District Court, among other things, to reinstate its order enjoining the 2001 rule. As a result of ongoing litigation, USDA has notified the States that they may consider submitting a new rulemaking petition for roadless area management under the generic petition provisions in the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553(e)) and Agriculture Department regulation (7 CFR 1.28). Timetable: Next Action Undetermined 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, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003 Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC58, Related to 0596-AC59 RIN: 0596-AC60 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Forest Service (FS) _______________________________________________________________________ 423. FOREST SERVICE TRAILS ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES (FINAL INTERIM DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, CHAPTER 2350) Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: None Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Directive 05/22/06 71 FR 29294 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB92 _______________________________________________________________________ 424. FOREST SERVICE OUTDOOR RECREATION ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES (FINAL INTERIM DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, CHAPTER 2330) Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: None Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Directive 05/22/06 71 FR 29288 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AB93 _______________________________________________________________________ 425. NOTICE, COMMENT, AND APPEAL PROCEDURES FOR NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 36 CFR 215 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 07/14/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks Phone: 202 205-3610 Fax: 202 260-6539 Email: aweeks@fs.fed.us RIN: 0596-AC28 BILLING CODE 3410--11--S [[Page 73023]] _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Office of the Secretary (AgSEC) _______________________________________________________________________ 426. 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 07/16/03 68 FR 41947 NPRM Comment Period End 08/15/03 Final Action 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Tyson Whitney, Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-8978 Email: tyson.whitney@usda.gov RIN: 0503-AA21 _______________________________________________________________________ 427. [bull] DESIGNATION OF BIOBASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT, ROUND 2 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 9002 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2902 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rulemaking will designate for preferred procurement under the Federal Biobased Preferred Procurement Program, 10 items. These are: Adhesive and mastic removers, insulating foam for wall construction, hand cleaners and sanitizers, composite panels, transformer fluids, biodegradable containers, fertilizers, metalworking fluids, sorbents, and graffiti and grease removers. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/17/06 71 FR 47566 NPRM Comment Period End 10/16/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal URL For More Information: www.biobased.oce.usda.gov Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan, Agricultural Economist, Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4059, South Building, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 401-0532 Fax: 202 401-0535 Email: mduncan@oce.usda.gov RIN: 0503-AA30 _______________________________________________________________________ 428. [bull] DESIGNATION OF BIOBASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT, ROUND 3 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 9002 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2902 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This rulemaking will designate for preferred procurement under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement Program, 10 items. These are: 2-cycle engine oils, lip care products, biodegradable films, stationary equipment hydraulic fluids, biodegradable cutlery, glass cleaners, greases, dust suppressants, carpets, and carpet and upholstery cleaners. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 08/17/06 71 FR 47590 NPRM Comment Period End 10/16/06 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Federal URL For More Information: www.biobased.oce.usda.gov Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan, Agricultural Economist, Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, Office of Energy Policy and New Uses, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4059, South Building, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 401-0532 Fax: 202 401-0535 Email: mduncan@oce.usda.gov RIN: 0503-AA31 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Office of the Secretary (AgSEC) _______________________________________________________________________ 429. VOLUNTARY LABELING PROGRAM FOR DESIGNATED BIOBASED PRODUCTS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2902 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 01/11/05 70 FR 1792 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan Phone: 202 401-0532 Fax: 202 401-0535 [[Page 73024]] Email: mduncan@oce.usda.gov RIN: 0503-AA28 _______________________________________________________________________ 430. DESIGNATION OF BIOBASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2902 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 03/16/06 71 FR 13686 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: Federal Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan Phone: 202 401-0532 Fax: 202 401-0535 Email: mduncan@oce.usda.gov RIN: 0503-AA29 BILLING CODE 3410--90--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Rural Business--Cooperative Service (RBS) _______________________________________________________________________ 431. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--FINANCING COOPERATIVE STOCK Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart A; 7 CFR 4279, subpart B 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. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Brenda Griffin, Loan Specialist, B&I Processing Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-6802 Fax: 202 720-6003 Email: brenda.griffin@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA26 _______________________________________________________________________ 432. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY LOAN PROGRAM--REWRITE OF PROGRAM REGULATIONS 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 4279, subpart A; 7 CFR 4279, subpart B; 7 CFR 4287, subpart B Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The regulations are being completely rewritten to make changes that will ultimately reduce delinquencies, enhance program effectiveness, correct minor inconsistencies, and make the regulations more clear and easier to understand. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: Local, Tribal Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Michael Foore, Program Advisor, Office of the Administrator, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0056 Fax: 202 690-4737 Email: michael.foore@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA41 _______________________________________________________________________ 433. NATIONAL SECURITY EMERGENCY Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 7 USC 1963 CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) proposes to streamline procedures for loans and grants for existing business and industry direct and guarantee loan programs. This rulemaking will also establish emergency regulations for the community facilities program currently administered within the Rural Housing Service (RHS). Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robin Meigel, Finance Specialist, Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 1569, Washington, DC 20250-1569 Phone: 202 720-9452 Fax: 202 720-7491 Email: robin.meigel@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA48 _______________________________________________________________________ 434. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1980; 7 CFR 4274; 7 CFR 4279 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agency proposes to amend RD Instructions 1980-E, 4274-D, and 4279-B to remove the prohibition on making financial assistance available to faith-based organizations. These regulations are to be further amended to provide guidance regarding the [[Page 73025]] separation of inherently religious activities and those for which assistance is provided. This guidance is the same in both justification and purpose to that provided in the final rule amendments to 7 CFR part 16, published in the Federal Register on July 9, 2004, Volume 69, pages 41375 to 41383. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: Rick Bonnet, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 3221, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-1804 Fax: 202 690-3808 Email: rick.bonnet@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA61 _______________________________________________________________________ 435. AMENDMENT OF GUARANTEE REQUIREMENTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1932, note; 7 USC 1989; 31 USC 3716; 412 USC 1480 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951, subpart C Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Agency proposes to add a paragraph providing that any amounts paid by the Agency pursuant to a claim by a guaranteed lender will constitute a Federal debt owing to the Agency by any third-party guarantor of the defaulted loans, to the extent of the amount of the third-party guarantee. A final rule was published on January 22, 2004 [69 FR 2999], adding section 1951.133 that provides any amounts paid by the Agency on account of the liabilities of guaranteed loan borrower constitute a Federal debt owing to the agency by the guaranteed loan borrower for purposes of the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C. 3716) (DCIA), to collect the debt. This proposed rulemaking will have the effect of making the DCIA remedies available to the Agency for pursuing collection against third-party guarantors as well. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 NPRM Comment Period End 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Robin Meigel, Finance Specialist, Department of Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 1569, Washington, DC 20250-1569 Phone: 202 720-9452 Fax: 202 720-7491 Email: robin.meigel@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA62 _______________________________________________________________________ 436. [bull] SOCIO-ECONOMIC BENEFIT ASSESSMENT SYSTEM (SEBAS) Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279; 7 CFR 4287 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Socio-Economic Benefit Assessment System (SEBAS) requires specific items of project information to estimate the performance and economic effectiveness of Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans. At present, the information needed to generate SEBAS performance reports is not required by regulation. The proposed action will revise the identified regulations to require information necessary to generate performance output data from SEBAS. Specifically, detailed sales and wage information and a list of expenses related to applicant operations. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 04/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: William C Smith, Loan Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 3224, Washington, DC 20250-3224 Phone: 202 205-0903 Fax: 202 720-6003 Email: william.smith@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA63 _______________________________________________________________________ 437. [bull] RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS (REEEI) PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4280; 7 CFR 4279, subpart A; 7 CFR 4279, subpart B; 7 CFR 4287, subpart B Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Socio-Economic Benefit Assessment System (SEBAS) model requires specific items of project information to estimate the performance and economic effectiveness of Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans. At present, the information needed to generate SEBAS performance reports is not required by regulation. The proposed action will revise the identified regulations to require information necessary to generate performance output data from SEBAS. Specifically, detailed sales, sales and wage information, and a list of expenses related to applicant operations. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/00/07 NPRM Comment Period End 04/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal Federalism: Undetermined Agency Contact: William C Smith, Loan Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 [[Page 73026]] Independence Avenue SW, STOP 3224, Washington, DC 20250-3224 Phone: 202 205-0903 Fax: 202 720-6003 Email: william.smith@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA64 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Rural Business--Cooperative Service (RBS) _______________________________________________________________________ 438. 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 improves the ease of use by the public and program beneficiaries. The regulations will simplify the application format, review and selection process, and recipients' recordkeeping requirements. It will also add a section on the appeal of adverse decisions. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/15/99 64 FR 69937 NPRM Comment Period End 02/14/00 65 FR 69937 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Todd Hubbell, Loan Specialist, Specialty Lenders Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 3225, Washington, DC 20250- 3225 Phone: 202 690-2516 Email: todd.hubbell@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA19 _______________________________________________________________________ 439. RURAL BUSINESS INVESTMENT PROGRAM Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 6029 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4290 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This action will implement the provisions of section 6029 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act, which authorizes the Rural Business Investment Program. 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. By law, the program is required to be administered by another Federal agency that has considerable expertise in operating a similar program. The Rural Business-Cooperative Service has contracted with the Small Business Administration. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 06/08/04 69 FR 32200 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 07/08/04 Final Action 08/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: Michael Foore, Program Advisor, Office of the Administrator, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 205-0056 Fax: 202 690-4737 Email: michael.foore@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA35 _______________________________________________________________________ 440. B&I GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM FARM BILL CHANGES--EXPANDED 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 Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 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 11/09/04 69 FR 64829 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 12/09/04 Interim Final Rule Effective 12/09/04 Final Action 07/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Brenda Griffin, Loan Specialist, B&I Processing Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-6802 Fax: 202 720-6003 Email: brenda.griffin@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA39 _______________________________________________________________________ 441. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--IMPLEMENT THE DEBT COLLECTION IMPROVEMENT ACT (DCIA) OF 1996 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service proposes to revise RD Instruction 4279-B to require personal and corporate guarantees for the term of the guaranteed loan and to develop Agency-approved personal and corporate guaranteed forms to identify that the financial assistance received is [[Page 73027]] a Federal debt and subject to the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 04/07/05 70 FR 17616 NPRM Comment Period End 06/06/05 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: Undetermined Agency Contact: David W. Lewis, Branch Chief, B&I Servicing Branch, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 3224, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 690-0797 Fax: 202 720-6003 Email: david.lewis@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA54 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Rural Business--Cooperative Service (RBS) _______________________________________________________________________ 442. TANGIBLE NET EQUITY Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1980; 7 CFR 4279 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Final Action 06/08/06 71 FR 33181 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Fred Kieferle Phone: 202 720-7818 Fax: 202 720-6003 Email: fred.kieferle@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0570-AA49 BILLING CODE 3410--XY--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Proposed Rule Stage Rural Utilities Service (RUS) _______________________________________________________________________ 443. LIEN ACCOMMODATIONS AND SUBORDINATIONS FOR 100 PERCENT PRIVATE FINANCING Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717-R Legal Deadline: None Abstract: RUS proposes to amend its regulations on lien accommodations and subordinations. The rule proposes to remove the procedures where case-by-case RUS approval of the issuance of additional secured debt is required and establish those procedures: Eligible financing purposes, decision factors for granting lien accommodations, application content and timeframe, in an agency guide bulletin. This proposed rule will focus on lien accommodation policies and establish a more user-friendly regulation for lien accommodation and subordination for 100 percent private financing. RUS proposes this clarification of the rule and update to the existing lien accommodation and subordination regulations in its ongoing effort to maintain current program rules. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AB99 _______________________________________________________________________ 444. WATER AND WASTE LOANS AND GRANTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1780 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service, an agency delivering the United States Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Utilities Programs, is proposing to amend its regulation used to process water and waste disposal (WWD) loans and grants. The regulation will be amended to provide predevelopment planning grants for low-income and poverty-stricken areas, enhancements for water and sewer systems with significant security weaknesses, changes to the use of grant funds for rural or Native Alaskan Villages, mandatory use of pre-authorized debit (PAD) repayment for borrowers, modified reserve requirements for borrowers, simplified application process, requirements for alternative project delivery methods, and planning for future enhancements to delivery of the program. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AC03 [[Page 73028]] _______________________________________________________________________ 445. SPECIFICATIONS FOR 15, 25, AND 35 KV PRIMARY UNDERGROUND POWER CABLE Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1728 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: This proposed rule is necessary to provide RUS electric borrowers with updated specifications for 15 and 25 kV underground power cable and to provide borrowers with specifications for 35 kV underground power cable. These specifications cover single-phase and multi-phase primary underground power cable, which RUS electric borrowers use to construct their rural underground electric distribution systems. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AC05 _______________________________________________________________________ 446. [bull] RURAL BROADBAND ACCESS LOANS AND LOAN GUARANTEES Priority: Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is undetermined. Legal Authority: PL 107-171; 7 USC 901 et. seq CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1738 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Since the Broadband Program's inception, the Agency has faced and continues to face significant challenges in administering the program, including the fierce competitive nature of the broadband market, the fact that many companies proposing to offer broadband service are start-up organizations with limited resources, constantly changing technology, and economic factors such as the higher cost of serving rural communities. Because of these challenges, the agency has been reviewing the characteristics of the Broadband Program and has determined that modifications are required to accelerate the deployment of broadband service to the rural areas of the country in order to meet President Bush's initiative for universal broadband deployment by 2007. Therefore, this rulemaking proposes to implement changes on the following subject matter: 1) Funding in competitive markets; 2) the definition of Eligible Rural Community; 3) a new standard for minimum data transmission rate; 4) new equity requirements and modified loan purposes to include operating expenses; 5) market survey requirements; and 6) time limits for build-out and deployment and funding against current borrowers. Additional clarifications to procedural matters will also be incorporated as necessary. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AC06 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Rural Utilities Service (RUS) _______________________________________________________________________ 447. 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 Development Utilities Programs proposes to amend 7 CFR 1755 to include requirements presently contained in Bulletin 345-3. This rule would establish and codify provisions for the inclusion and removal of 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 08/05/05 70 FR 45314 NPRM Comment Period End 10/04/05 Final Action 03/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AB40 _______________________________________________________________________ 448. SERVICING OF WATER PROGRAMS LOANS AND GRANTS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005 [[Page 73029]] CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1782; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1956 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service, an agency delivering the United States Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Utilities Programs, consolidates and amends the regulations utilized to service water and waste loan and grant programs. Unnecessary and burdensome requirements for water and waste loan and grant servicing under the program will be eliminated. The streamlining will allow the agency to provide better service to entities needing assistance in resolving financial and economic problems in their communities and in general improve the quality of life in rural areas. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 11/15/04 69 FR 65546 NPRM Comment Period End 01/14/05 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Acting Director, Program Development and Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Stop 1522, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@usda.gov RIN: 0572-AB59 _______________________________________________________________________ 449. PUBLIC TELEVISION STATION DIGITAL TRANSITION GRANT PROGRAM Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: PL 108-447 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1740 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission had required all television broadcasters to initiate the broadcast of a digital television signal and to cease analog television broadcasts. To assist stations with the transition, Congress recognized the need to facilitate the digital transition in public television stations that serve rural areas. This grant program will assist rural public television to finance the conversion of television services to digital broadcasting. To continue this program in FY 2005, Congress provided $10 million for grant funds in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005 (Pub. L. 108-447). Congress also authorized additional purposes, which were specifically excluded in the NOFA. This regulation will incorporate the new statutory requirements and updates this competitive grant program for FY 2005. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 01/20/06 71 FR 3205 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 03/31/06 Final Action 02/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AC02 _______________________________________________________________________ 450. RURAL AREA DEFINITIONS FOR RUS WEP PROGRAMS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1775; 7 CFR 1778; 7 CFR 1779; 7 CFR 1780; 7 CFR 1783 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: RUS is issuing a regulation to standardize the definition of ``rural'' and ``rural area'' to implement section 6020 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, to amend section 343(13)(B) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, which defines the term ``rural'' and ``rural area'' for the purpose of water and waste disposal grants, and direct and guarantee loans provided under paragraphs (1), (2), and (24) of section 306(a). This rule will create a standard definition of ``rural'' and ``rural area'' with respect to RUS Water and Environmental Programs in 7 CFR 1775, 1778, 1779, 1780, and 1783. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Direct Final Rule 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250 Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AC04 _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions Rural Utilities Service (RUS) _______________________________________________________________________ 451. SPECIAL EQUIPMENT CONTRACT (NOT INCLUDING INSTALLATION), RUS FORM 398 Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 08/10/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AB76 [[Page 73030]] _______________________________________________________________________ 452. EXEMPTION OF CERTAIN BORROWERS FROM CONTROLS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 08/11/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AB85 _______________________________________________________________________ 453. ELIMINATION OF SUBPART M: OPERATIONAL CONTROLS Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 08/11/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AB97 _______________________________________________________________________ 454. TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1753 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 08/10/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AB98 _______________________________________________________________________ 455. SEISMIC SAFETY Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1792 Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 10/16/06 71 FR 60672 Direct Final Rule 10/16/06 71 FR 60657 Direct Final Rule Effective 11/30/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Richard Annan Phone: 202 720-0784 Fax: 202 720-4120 Email: richard.annan@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0572-AC01 BILLING CODE 3410--15--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Final Rule Stage Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) _______________________________________________________________________ 456. CONSERVATION SECURITY PROGRAM Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801. Legal Authority: 16 USC 3838 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1470 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Under the Conservation Security Program (CSP) NRCS is authorized to provide financial and technical assistance to owners and operators of agricultural operations to promote conservation and improvement of the quality of soil, water, air, energy, plant and animal life, and other conservation purposes. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM 01/02/04 69 FR 193 NPRM Comment Period End 03/02/04 Interim Final Rule 06/21/04 69 FR 34502 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 09/20/04 Interim Final Rule 03/25/05 70 FR 15201 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 07/25/05 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Harry Slawter, Resource Conservationist, Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, P.O. Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013 Phone: 202 720-1845 Fax: 202 720-4265 Email: harry.slawter@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0578-AA36 _______________________________________________________________________ 457. GRASSLAND RESERVE PROGRAM Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: PL 107-171; 16 USC 3838 CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1415 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Under Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) the Department enters into easement or rental agreements with owners of grazing land to protect and restore such lands. The Department will designate payment for cost share to restore the functions and values of grasslands. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 05/21/04 69 FR 29173 Interim Final Rule Comment Period End 07/20/04 Final Action 12/00/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Floyd Wood, Easement Program Division, Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Washington, DC 20013 Phone: 202 720-0242 Fax: 202 720-9689 Email: floyd.wood@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0578-AA38 [[Page 73031]] _______________________________________________________________________ 458. CONFIDENTIALITY OF CONSERVATION PROGRAM INFORMATION Priority: Other Significant Legal Authority: 5 USC 552(b)(3) CFR Citation: 7 CFR 609 Legal Deadline: None Abstract: Section 1244 of the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended by the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, prohibits the release and disclosure of proprietary information unless certain exceptions apply. Once implemented, the regulations will ensure program participant confidence that proprietary information will not be released and disclosed and will ensure that the public benefits provided by the conservation programs will not be undermined. Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Interim Final Rule 07/00/07 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Government Levels Affected: State Agency Contact: Brown Kevin, Deputy Chief for Management, Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, PO Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013 Phone: 202 720-6297 Fax: 202 720-2588 Email: kevin.brown@wdc.usda.gov RIN: 0578-AA40 BILLING CODE 3410--16--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Completed Actions National Agricultural Statistical Service (NASS) _______________________________________________________________________ 459. DAIRY PRODUCT MANDATORY REPORTING Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Completed: ________________________________________________________________________ Reason Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ Withdrawn 08/23/06 Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No Small Entities Affected: No Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Dan Kerestes Phone: 202 720-3570 Email: dan--kerestes@nass.usda.gov RIN: 0535-AA00 BILLING CODE 3410--20--S _______________________________________________________________________ Department of Agriculture (USDA) Long-Term Actions Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM) _______________________________________________________________________ 460. AGRICULTURE ACQUISITION REGULATION (AGAR): USE OF BIOBASED MATERIALS Priority: Other Significant CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined Timetable: ________________________________________________________________________ Action Date FR Cite ________________________________________________________________________ NPRM To Be Determined Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined Small Entities Affected: Businesses Government Levels Affected: None Agency Contact: Joseph J. Daragan Phone: 202 720-5729 Fax: 202 720-5729 Email: joe.daragan@usda.gov RIN: 0599-AA12 [FR Doc. 06-7543 Filed 12-08-06; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-98-S