Report on DOT Significant Rulemakings

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Table of Contents

Federal Aviation Administration

1. Retrofit of Improved Seats in Air Carrier Transport Category Airplanes

2. Drug Enforcement Assistance

3. Aging Aircraft Safety

4. National Air Tour Safety Standards

5. Revision of Emergency Evacuation Demonstration Procedures to Improve Participant Safety

6. Flight Crewmember Duty Limitations and Rest Requirements

7. False and Misleading Statements Regarding Aircraft Parts

8. Noise Limitations for Aircraft Operations in the Vicinity of Grand Canyon National Park

9. Licensing and Safety Requirements for Launch

10. Child Restraint Systems

11. Training in the Recognition of Hazardous Material

12. Revisions to Digital Flight Data Recorder Regulations for B-737 Airplanes and for Part 125 Operators

13. Flight Simulation Device Qualification

14. Transponder Continuous Operation

15. Security Considerations for the Flightdeck on Foreign Operated Transport Category Airplanes

16. Picture Identification Requirements

17. Ineligibility for an Airman Certificate Based on Security Grounds

18. Revisions to Cockpit Voice Recorder and Digital Flight Data Recorder Regulations

19. Flight Deck Security on Large Cargo Airplanes

20. Stage 4 Aircraft Noise Standards

21. Extended Operations (ETOPS) of Multi-engine Airplanes

22. Aging Aircraft Program (Widespread Fatigue Damage)

23. Flightdeck Door Monitoring and Crew Discreet Alerting System

24. Washington, DC, Metropolitan Area Special Flight Rules Area

25. Process for Requesting Waiver of Mandatory Separation Age for Certain Federal Aviation Adminstration (FAA) Air Traffic Controllers

26. Fuel Tank Safety Compliance Extension (Final Rule) and Aging Airplane Program Update (Notice)

27. Transport Airplane Fuel Tank Flammability Reduction

28. Enhanced Airworthiness Program for Airplane Systems (EAPAS) and SFAR 88

29. Aging Aircraft Safety--Development of TC and STC Holder Data

30. Drug Enforcement Assistance

31. Prohibition Against Certain Flights Between the United States and Libya

Federal Highway Administration

32. National Bridge Inspection Standards

33. National Standards for Traffic Control Devices; the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways; Maintaining Traffic Sign Retroreflectivity

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

34. Commercial Driver's License Standards; Biometric Identifier

35. Commercial Learner Permits

36. Qualification of Drivers; Field of Vision

37. Medical Qualification Requirements as Part of the CDL Process

38. Railroad-Highway Grade Crossing Safety

39. Unified Registration System

40. Transportation of Household Goods; Consumer Protection Regulations

41. Application by Certain Mexico-Domiciled Motor Carriers to Operate Beyond U.S. Municipalities and Commercial Zones on the U.S.-Mexico Border

42. Safety Monitoring System and Compliance Initiative for Mexico-Domiciled Motor Carriers Operating in the United States

43. New Entrant Safety Assurance Process

44. Certification of Safety Auditors, Safety Investigators, and Safety Inspectors

45. Certification of Compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS)

46. Limitations on the Issuance of Commercial Driver Licenses with a Hazardous Materials Endorsement

47. Penalties, Inspection, and Decal Display Requirements for Mexico-Domiciled Motor Carriers

48. Hours of Service of Drivers; Supporting Documents

49. Registration Enforcement

50. Brokers of Household Goods Transportation by Motor Vehicle

51. Hours of Service of Drivers - Sleeper Berth Rest Period

52. Inspection, Repair and Maintenance of Intermodal Container Chassis

53. Electronic On-Board Recorders for Hours-of-Service Compliance

Federal Railroad Administration

54. Whistle Bans at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings

55. Standards for Development and Use of Processor-Based Signal and Train Control Systems

56. Locomotive Crashworthiness

57. Locomotive Event Recorders

58. Occupational Noise Exposure for Railroad Operating Employees

Federal Transit Administration

59. Rail Fixed Guideway Systems: State Safety Oversight

Maritime Administration

60. Regulations To Be Followed by All Departments, Agencies and Shippers Having Responsibility To Provide a Preference for U.S.-Flag Vessels in the Shipment of Cargoes on Ocean Vessels: Vessel Types

61. Vessel Documentation: Lease Financing for Vessels Engaged in the Coastwise Trade; Second Rulemaking

62. Trading Restrictions on Vessels Transferred To a Foreign Registry: Amendment of List of Prohibited Countries

63. Maritime Security Program

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

64. Roof Crush Resistance

65. Fuel Economy Standards- Rights and Responsibilities of Manufacturers in the Context of Changes in Corporate Relationships

66. FMVSS: Head Restraints (Height and Distance Requirements)

67. Upgrade Door Retention Performance

68. Frontal Offset Protection

69. Event Data Recorders

70. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, Occupant Crash Protection

71. Side Impact Protection Upgrade - FMVSS No. 214

72. Reforming the Automobile Fuel Economy Standards Program

73. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems

Office of the Secretary

74. Accessibility of Passenger Vessels to Individuals with Disabilities

75. Aviation Data Requirements Review and Modernization Program

76. Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals and other Non-Profit Organizations

77. Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Air Travel

78. Review of Data Filed by Certificated or Commuter Air Carriers to Support Continuing Fitness Determinations Involving Citizenship Issues

79. Petition of the National Air Carrier Association for Rulemaking

80. Navigation of Foreign Civil Aircraft within the United States (14 CFR Part 375)

81. Display of Joint Operations in Carrier-Owned Computer Reservations Systems Regulations (Part 256)

Research and Special Programs Administration

82. Safeguarding Food from Contamination During Transportation

83. Pipeline Safety: Response Plans for Onshore Oil Pipelines

84. Hazardous Materials: Transportation of Oxygen Cylinders and Oxygen Generators Aboard Aircraft

85. Hazardous Materials: Safety Requirements for External Product Piping on Cargo Tanks Transporting Flammable Liquids

86. Hazardous Materials; Transportation of Lithium Batteries

87. Hazardous Materials: Infectious Substances; Harmonization with the United Nations

88. Hazardous Materials: Enhancing Rail Transportation Security of Toxic by Inhalation Materials



Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Aviation Administration
1. 
Retrofit of Improved Seats in Air Carrier Transport Category Airplanes Red
Popular Title: Retrofit of Improved Seats
RIN 2120-AC84
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 05/17/1988; End of Comment Period 10/14/1988; Reopening of Comment Period 10/30/1998; End of Reopened Comment Period 01/09/1999. SNPRM: Publication Date 10/04/2002; End of Comment Period 12/03/2002; Extension of Comment Period 12/03/2002; End of Extended Comment Period 03/03/2003.
Abstract: This action would require that all seats of transport category airplanes used in air carrier operations and in scheduled intrastate service comply with improved crashworthiness standards. The Airport and Airways Safety and Capacity Expansion Act of 1987 directs the Secretary of Transportation to initiate a rulemaking proceeding to consider requiring all seats on board all air carrier aircraft to meet improved crashworthiness standards based upon the best available testing standards. The intended effect of this action is to increase passenger protection and survivability in survivable impact accidents. This rulemaking is considered significant because of its safety implications and statutory requirements.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  NPRM : 04/28/1988
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/30/1987
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 06/25/2004  11/18/2004   
To OMB 07/26/2004  12/17/2004   
OMB Clearance 10/26/2004  03/22/2005   
Publication Date 11/09/2004  04/07/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
2. 
Drug Enforcement Assistance Red
Popular Title: Drug Enforcement Assistance
RIN 2120-AD16
Stage: Withdrawal
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 03/12/1990; End of Comment Period 05/11/1990.
Abstract: The FAA is withdrawing an NPRM to revise certain requirements concerning registration of aircraft, certification of pilots, and penalites for reegistration and certification violations. We are withdrawing the document because the relief that the NPRM would have provided has been achieved by other means or is addressed in an NPRM described elsewhere in the regulatory agenda (RIN 2120-AI43).
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Final Rule : 09/18/1989
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 11/18/1988
Dates for Withdrawal:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/30/2004    08/25/2004 
Publication Approved 10/25/2004     
Publication Date 10/29/2004     
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Withdrawal: None


Federal Aviation Administration
3. 
Aging Aircraft Safety Green
Popular Title: Aging Aircraft
RIN 2120-AE42
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 10/05/1993; End of Comment Period 02/02/1994; Reopening Comment Period 02/08/1994; End of Reopened Comment Period 3/04/1994. NPRM/2: Publication Date 4/02/1999; End of Comment Period 8/02/1999; Reopening of Comment Period 8/18/1999; End of Reopened Comment Period 10/08/1999. Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 12/06/2002; End of Comment Period 02/04/2003. Publication Date for Extension of Comment Period 02/04/2003; End of Extension of Comment Period 05/05/2003.
Abstract: This rulemaking will adopt the interim final rule (IFR) published on December 6, 2002, as a final rule with changes. The IFR imposed statutory requirements for the Aging Aircraft Safety Act of 1991 for certain airplanes to undergo inspections and records reviews after their fourteenth year in service and at specified intervals after that. Also, the rule imposed a requirement to include supplemental inspections by specified deadlines in the maintenance programs for these airplanes. With this action, the FAA would respond to comments to the IFR, further clarify parts of the rule language, and substantially revise the supplemental inspection requirements.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Initiate rulemaking by : 04/24/1992
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 10/28/1991
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 02/11/2005    07/30/2004 
Returned to Mode     09/13/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/2     09/15/2004 
To OMB 03/11/2005  08/27/2004   
OMB Clearance 06/10/2005  11/26/2004   
Publication Date 06/24/2005  11/30/2004   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
4. 
National Air Tour Safety Standards Green
Popular Title: Air Tour Safety
RIN 2120-AF07
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 10/22/03; End of Comment Period 01/20/04; Extension of Comment Period 01/16/04; End of Extension of Comment Period 04/19/04; Extension of Comment Period/2 04/20/04; End of Extension of Comment Period/2 06/18/04.
Abstract: This rulemaking will enact new regulations for air tour and sightseeing operations that are currently allowed to operate under less stringent regulations than those applied to other types of commercial operations. Hot air balloons and gliders would not be included in this amendment.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/25/1994
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 05/26/2005     
OMB Clearance 09/26/2005     
Publication Date 10/03/2005     
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
5. 
Revision of Emergency Evacuation Demonstration Procedures to Improve Participant Safety Red
Popular Title: Emergency Evacuation
RIN 2120-AF21
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 07/18/1995; Correction 08/25/1995; End of Comment Period 10/16/1995.
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend part 25 of the FAR by revising appendix J, Emergency Evacuation, to allow certain alternative procedures in conducting full-scale emergency evacuation demonstrations for transport category airplanes. This is in response to recommendations from the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee. The changes, which are intended to make full-scale emergency evacuation demonstrations safer for participants and to codify existing practices, would also affect manufacturers and operators of transport category airplanes. This action is considered significant because of substantial public interest and safety implications. The FAA is also looking at nonregulatory alternatives.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 05/08/1995
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 12/01/2002  05/28/2004  05/06/2004 
Returned to Mode     06/15/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/2   06/25/2004  06/16/2004 
Returned to Mode/2     07/19/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/3     07/21/2004 
To OMB 01/02/2003  06/25/2004  07/21/2004 
OMB Clearance 04/02/2003  10/21/2004   
Publication Date 04/09/2003  10/28/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
6. 
Flight Crewmember Duty Limitations and Rest Requirements Black
Popular Title: Flight Crewmember Duty Time
RIN 2120-AF63
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 12/20/1995; End of Comment Period 03/19/1996; Comment Period Extended 3/20/1996; End of Extended Comment Period 6/19/1996.
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations on duty period limitations, flight time limitations, and rest requirements for flight crewmembers engaged in air transportation. The FAA proposes additional changes in response to comments received on the NPRM. The changes are necessary to ensure that the rules will continue to provide the minimum level of safety. This rulemaking responds to public and congressional interest in regulating flight crewmember rest requirements, NTSB Safety Recommendations, petitions for rulemaking, and scientific data. This action is considered significant because of substantial public interest.
Effects:
  Economically Significant
Major
Unfunded Mandate
Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 11/28/1995
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
End of Comment Period      
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


Federal Aviation Administration
7. 
False and Misleading Statements Regarding Aircraft Parts Green
Popular Title: False Statements Plane Parts
RIN 2120-AG08
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 05/05/2003; End of Comment Period 08/04/2003.
Abstract: This rulemaking would prohibit certain false or misleading statements regarding civil aircraft, airframes, aircraft engines, propellers, appliances, component parts, and materials, including standard parts that are used, or may be used, on civil aircraft. It would also permit increased inspection by the FAA of records regarding the quality of aircraft parts. The additional requirements are needed to help prevent persons from representing parts as suitable for use on civil aircraft when in fact they may not be. The rulemaking is intended to provide assurance that aircraft owners and operators, and persons who maintain aircraft, have truthful information on which to determine whether a part may be used in a given civil aircraft application. This action is significant because of substantial public interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/22/1994
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/27/2004  07/30/2004   
To OMB 08/24/2004  08/27/2004   
OMB Clearance 11/24/2004  11/26/2004   
Publication Date 12/10/2004  12/10/2004   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
8. 
Noise Limitations for Aircraft Operations in the Vicinity of Grand Canyon National Park Red
Popular Title: GCNP Phaseout rule
RIN 2120-AG34
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 12/31/1996; End of Comment Period 03/31/1997. SNPRM: Publication Date 03/24/2003; End of Comment Period 06/23/2003.
Abstract: This action is one part of an overall strategy to reduce further the impact of aircraft noise on the environment of Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) and to help the National Park Service achieve its statutory mandate imposed by Public Law 100-91 to provide for the substantial restoration of natural quiet and experience at GCNP. This rulemaking would establish a reasonably achievable standard for quiet technology to comply with the congressional mandate imposed by section 804 of the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century (Public Law 106-181).
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/31/1996
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 06/30/2004  08/30/2004  08/18/2004 
Returned to Mode     09/08/2004 
Resubmitted to OST     09/08/2004 
Returned to Mode/2     09/10/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/2     09/28/2004 
Returned to Mode/3     10/01/2004 
To OMB 09/29/2004  09/27/2004   
OMB Clearance 12/28/2004  12/27/2004   
Publication Date 01/06/2005  01/07/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
9. 
Licensing and Safety Requirements for Launch Red
Popular Title: Licensing Space Launches
RIN 2120-AG37
Stage: SNPRM/2
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 10/25/2000; End of Comment Period 2/22/2001. SNPRM: Publication Date 07/30/2002; End of Comment Period 10/28/2002.
Abstract: This action would establish requirements for licensing the conduct of a launch from a non-Federal launch site. The law requires anyone who proposes to conduct a launch within the United States, or a U.S. citizen proposing to conduct a launch from a site outside the United States, to obtain a license from DOT. This action would govern obtaining a license to conduct such a launch. Currently, commercial rocket launches take place from Federal Government installations operated by the Department of Defense and NASA. In this action, DOT proposes to implement rules regarding obtaining a license to conduct a launch from a commercial launch site, where DOT, rather than NASA or the military, has primary responsibility. This rulemaking also clarifies the licensing requirements for commercial launches from a federal range.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/17/1999
Dates for SNPRM/2:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 05/21/2003  07/02/2004  07/19/2004 
To OMB 06/20/2003  11/12/2004   
OMB Clearance 09/19/2003  03/11/2005   
Publication Date 09/26/2003  03/25/2005   
End of Comment Period 12/26/2003  06/24/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for SNPRM/2: None


Federal Aviation Administration
10. 
Child Restraint Systems Black
Popular Title: Child Restraints
RIN 2120-AG43
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 02/18/1998; End of Comment Period 6/18/1998.
Abstract: This rulemaking would consider the use of child restraint systems in aircraft during all phases of flight (i.e., taxi, takeoff, landing, or any other time the seat belt sign is illuminated). Specifically, the agency would consider information about existing child restraint systems, the development of new and improved child restraint systems, and the ease with which existing or new child restraint systems can be used. The Department is currently considering and coordinating options for appropriate action.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 10/29/1997
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
End of Comment Period      
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


Federal Aviation Administration
11. 
Training in the Recognition of Hazardous Material Green
Popular Title: Hazmat Training Requirements
RIN 2120-AG75
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 05/08/2003; End of Comment Period 07/07/2003; Extension of Comment Period 07/07/2003; End of Extended Comment Period 09/05/2003.
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the FAA's hazardous materials (hazmat) training requirements for air carriers and commercial operators certificated to operate under part 121 or part 135. In addition, the rulemaking would propose that repair stations certificated under part 145 document for the FAA that persons handling hazmat for transportation have been trained as required by the Department of Transportation's Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMRs). The FAA is updating its regulations because hazmat transport and the aviation industry have changed significantly since the FAA promulgated its current hazmat training standards to ensure uniform compliance with training requirements.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/18/1999
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/12/2004     
To OMB 12/10/2004     
OMB Clearance 03/10/2005     
Publication Date 03/24/2005     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
12. 
Revisions to Digital Flight Data Recorder Regulations for B-737 Airplanes and for Part 125 Operators Red
Popular Title: Digital Flight Data Recorder/B-737
RIN 2120-AG87
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 11/18/1999; End of Comment Period 12/20/1999.
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the digital flight data recorder (DFDR) regulations for transport category airplanes to add a requirement for all Boeing 737 (B-737) series airplanes to record additional flight data parameters. It is based on safety recommendations issued by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) following the investigation of the 1994 USAir FLight 427 accident. This rulemaking is significant because of substantial public interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/15/1999
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 05/29/2000  11/03/2000  10/25/2000 
To OMB 06/28/2000  12/04/2000  12/26/2000 
Returned by OMB     09/18/2001 
Resubmitted to OST/2   04/30/2004  05/04/2004 
Returned to Mode     09/08/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/3   11/01/2004   
Resubmitted to OMB/2   11/12/2004   
OMB Clearance 07/28/2000  02/12/2005   
Publication Date 08/11/2000  02/19/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
13. 
Flight Simulation Device Qualification Red
Popular Title: Simulator Qualification (Part 60)
RIN 2120-AH07
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 09/25/2002; End of Comment Period 12/24/2002; Extension of Comment Period 11/15/2002; End of Extended Comment Period 02/24/2003.
Abstract: This action will amend the regulations establishing flight simulation device qualification requirements for all certificate holders in a new part. The basis of these requirements currently exists in different parts of the FAA's regulation and in advisory circulars. The proposed changes would consolidate and update flight simulation device requirements. This action is significant because of substantial public interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/01/1998
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 08/23/2004  01/18/2005   
To OMB 09/23/2004  02/15/2005   
OMB Clearance 12/23/2004  05/18/2005   
Publication Date 12/30/2004  05/23/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
14. 
Transponder Continuous Operation Red
Popular Title: Transponder Continuous Operation
RIN 2120-AH67
Stage: Withdrawal
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 1/14/2003; End of Comment Period 3/17/2003; Extension of Comment Period 3/18/2003; End of Extended Comment Period 4/18/2003.
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the instrument and equipment requirements for airplanes operated in domestic, flag, and supplemental operations. Specifically, the rulemaking would require affected airplanes to have the capability to help assure immediate activation of the designated air traffic control (ATC) hijack alert code, and continuous transmission of that code to ATC during a hijack situation. This action would respond to the heightened threat to U.S. civil aviation. The FAA believed that this capability would help provide ATC personnel with more time to initiate a national security response to a potential airplane hijack situation. However, following a review of the comments, the FAA is considering withdrawing the NPRM because of uncertainty about whether it is justified.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Secretarial/Head of Operating Administration Decision
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 10/01/2001
Dates for Withdrawal:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 08/08/2003    10/10/2003 
Returned to Mode     10/18/2003 
Returned To OST     02/01/2004 
Returned to Mode/2     02/17/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/3     02/19/2004 
Returned to Mode/3     04/08/2004 
Publication Approved 09/03/2003  11/24/2005   
Publication Date 10/14/2003  12/01/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Withdrawal: None


Federal Aviation Administration
15. 
Security Considerations for the Flightdeck on Foreign Operated Transport Category Airplanes Green
Popular Title: Flightdeck Security (Part 129)
RIN 2120-AH70
Stage: Disposition of Comments
Previous Stage: Final Rule: Publication Date 06/21/2002. Final Rule/2: Publication Date 12/30/2002; End of Comment Period 02/28/2003.
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend earlier rules requiring improved flightdeck security and operational and procedures changes to prevent unauthorized access to the flightdeck on passenger-carrying aircraft operated by foreign carriers under the provisions of part 129. This final rule is intended to ensure that the same flightdeck security enhancements apply to foreign air carriers as apply to U.S. air carriers. Because this rule was issued without prior notice and comment to address imminent security concerns, it contained a request for public comments.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Secretarial/Head of Operating Administration Decision
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/15/2002
Dates for Disposition of Comments:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/16/2004  10/29/2004   
Publication Approved 01/21/2005  11/29/2004   
Publication Date 01/28/2005  12/15/2004   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Disposition of Comments: None


Federal Aviation Administration
16. 
Picture Identification Requirements Green
Popular Title: Picture ID Requirements
RIN 2120-AH76
Stage: Disposition of Comments
Previous Stage: Final Rule with Request for Comments: Publication Date 10/28/2002; End of Comment Period 11/27/2002.
Abstract: This rule would revise the pilot certificate rquirements to require a person to carry a photo identification acceptable to the Administrator when exercising the privileges of a pilot certificate. Additionally, it would require a pilot certificate holder to present a photo identification when requested by the Administrator, an authorized representative of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)), or a law enforcement officer. These measures are intended to address security concerns regarding the identification of pilots. This rulemaking is significant because of safety and substantial public interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/24/2002
Dates for Disposition of Comments:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 08/30/2004  07/02/2004  06/30/2004 
Publication Approved 11/19/2004  09/15/2004  09/03/2004 
Publication Date 11/26/2004  09/22/2004  09/29/2004 
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Disposition of Comments: 69 FR 58231


Federal Aviation Administration
17. 
Ineligibility for an Airman Certificate Based on Security Grounds Green
Popular Title: Cert. Revocation for Security
RIN 2120-AH84
Stage: Disposition of Comments
Previous Stage: Final Rule with Request for Comments: Publication Date 01/24/2003; End of Comment Period 03/25/2003.
Abstract: This action provides the authority to revoke a pilot certificate or deny an application for a pilot certificate based on a written determination by the Transportation Security Administration that an individual poses a security rist related to aviation. This final rule addresses the security concerns of who should hold a pilot certificate issued by the FAA and is necessary to enhance security in air transportation. This rulemaking is significant because of substantial public interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 09/11/2001
Dates for Disposition of Comments:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 08/30/2004    08/16/2004 
Publication Approved 11/30/2004     
Publication Date 12/07/2004     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Disposition of Comments: None


Federal Aviation Administration
18. 
Revisions to Cockpit Voice Recorder and Digital Flight Data Recorder Regulations Red
Popular Title: Cockpit Voice Recorder
RIN 2120-AH88
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the cockpit voice recorder (CVR) and digital flight data recorder (DFDR) regulations for certain air carriers, operators, and aircraft manufacturers. It would increase the duration of CVR and flight data recorder (FDR) recordings; increase the data recording rate of certain DFDR parameters; require physical separation of the DFDR and CVR; improve the reliability of the power supply to both the CVR and DFDR; and, if data-link communication equipment is installed, require that all data-link communications received by an aircraft be recorded.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/30/1999
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 12/03/1999    08/28/2002 
Returned to Mode     09/05/2002 
Resubmitted to OST     10/05/2002 
Returned to Mode/2     02/07/2003 
Resubmitted to OST/2     02/27/2004 
Returned to Mode/3     03/12/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/3     03/17/2004 
Returned to Mode/4     03/18/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/4     03/19/2004 
Returned to Mode/5     03/19/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/5     06/10/2004 
To OMB 11/04/2002  07/12/2004  09/14/2004 
OMB Clearance 02/04/2003  10/12/2004   
Publication Date 02/09/2003  10/19/2004   
End of Comment Period 04/09/2003  12/20/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Aviation Administration
19. 
Flight Deck Security on Large Cargo Airplanes Green
Popular Title: Large Cargo Airplanes
RIN 2120-AH96
Stage: Disposition of Comments
Previous Stage: Final Rule with Request for Comments: Publication Date 07/18/2003; End of Comment Period 09/16/2003.
Abstract: This action would provide an optional means of compliance to operators of all cargo airplanes that are required to have a reinforced security flightdeck door by April 9, 2003. This rule would allow those operators to either install reinforced doors or adopt enhanced procedures approved by the Transportation Security Administration.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Secretarial/Head of Operating Administration Decision
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 11/10/2002
Dates for Disposition of Comments:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/16/2004  10/29/2004   
Publication Approved 01/21/2005  11/29/2004   
Publication Date 01/28/2005  12/15/2004   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Disposition of Comments: None


Federal Aviation Administration
20. 
Stage 4 Aircraft Noise Standards Green
Popular Title: Stage 4
RIN 2120-AH99
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 12/01/2003; End of Comment Period 03/01/2004.
Abstract: This rulemaking would establish a new noise standard for subsonic jet airplanes and subsonic transport category large airplanes. This noise standard would ensure that the latest available noise reduction technology is incorporated into new aircraft designs. This noise standard, Stage 4, would apply to any person submitting an application for a new airplane type design on and after January 1, 2006. The standard could be chosen voluntarily prior to that date. This noise standard is intended to provide uniform noise certification standards for Stage 4 airplanes certificated in the United States and those airplanes that meet the new International Civil Aviation Organization Annex 16 Chapter 4 noise standard.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: International Agreement
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/28/2002
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/27/2004  10/04/2004   
To OMB 10/27/2004  11/01/2004   
OMB Clearance 01/27/2005  02/02/2005   
Publication Date 03/18/2005  02/18/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
21. 
Extended Operations (ETOPS) of Multi-engine Airplanes Yellow
Popular Title: ETOPS
RIN 2120-AI03
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 11/17/03; End of Comment Period 1/13/04; Publication Date of Extension of Comment Period 1/6/04; End of Extension of Comment Period 3/15/04.
Abstract: This rulemaking would govern the design, maintenance, and operation of airplanes and engines for flights that go certain long distances beyond an adequate airport. This rulemaking would extend some requirements that previously applied only to two-engine airplanes to airplanes with more than two-engines. This rulemaking would implement existing best practices and policy, industry recommendations and international standards to assure that long-range flight will operate safely.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/10/2000
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 12/15/2004  01/31/2005   
To OMB 01/12/2005  02/28/2005   
OMB Clearance 04/18/2005  06/01/2005   
Publication Date 04/29/2005  06/10/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
22. 
Aging Aircraft Program (Widespread Fatigue Damage) Yellow
Popular Title: Aging Aircraft Widespread Fatigue
RIN 2120-AI05
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: The FAA proposes to require incorporation of a program to preclude widespread fatigue damage into the FAA-approved maintenance program of each operator of large transport category airplanes. This action is the result of concern for the continued operational safety of airplanes that are approaching or have exceeded their design service goal. This proposed rulemaking would require a limit of validity in flight cycles or hours of the structural maintenance program, where the operator must incorporate added inspections and/or modification/replacement actions into its maintenance program to allow continued operation.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 06/15/1999
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/01/2004  12/06/2004   
To OMB 11/29/2004  01/13/2005   
OMB Clearance 03/01/2005  04/13/2005   
Publication Date 03/15/2005  04/20/2005   
End of Comment Period 05/13/2005  06/20/2005   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Aviation Administration
23. 
Flightdeck Door Monitoring and Crew Discreet Alerting System Red
Popular Title: Crew Monitoring
RIN 2120-AI16
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would require passenger-carrying transport category airplanes used in domestic, flag, and supplemental operations to have a means to allow the flightcrew to visually monitor the door area outside the flightdeck. This would allow the flightcrew to identify persons requesting entry into the flightdeck, and to detect suspicious behavior or potential threats. In addition, operations requiring the presence of flight attendants, the rulemaking would require that the flight attendants have a means to discreetly notify the flightcrew of suspicious activity or security breaches in the cabin. The rulemaking would address standards adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organization following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: International Agreement
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/22/2002
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 06/14/2003  04/01/2004  03/25/2004 
Returned to Mode     06/15/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/2     06/25/2004 
To OMB 08/19/2003  09/15/2004   
OMB Clearance 10/18/2003  12/16/2004   
Publication Date 10/29/2003  12/23/2004   
End of Comment Period 12/29/2003  02/23/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Other, higher priorities
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Aviation Administration
24. 
Washington, DC, Metropolitan Area Special Flight Rules Area Red
Popular Title: DC Flight Rules
RIN 2120-AI17
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would replace certain temporary restrictions that were implemented for national security reasons on operations in the airspace that will codify existing Notices to Airmen and the current Special Federal Aviation Regulation 94 that restrict operations in the Washington, DC, metropolitan area.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/18/2003
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/27/2003  10/08/2004   
To OMB 02/24/2004  11/05/2004   
OMB Clearance 05/21/2004  02/09/2005   
Publication Date 06/04/2004  02/18/2005   
End of Comment Period 08/04/2004  05/18/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Aviation Administration
25. 
Process for Requesting Waiver of Mandatory Separation Age for Certain Federal Aviation Adminstration (FAA) Air Traffic Controllers Red
Popular Title: Air Traffic Controller Waivers
RIN 2120-AI18
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking will adopt procedures under which individual air traffic controllers could submit application for an exemption allowing the controller to delay mandatory retirement (age 55) until the employee reaches no later than 61 years of age. Congress has established the mandatory retirement age, as well as giving the Secretary of Transportation the authority to grant exemptions for controllers with exceptional skill and experience. The Secretary is not obligated to grant any exemptions. The rule is inteneded to clariy the means by which requests may be submitted and considered. This rule is significant because of substantial public interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/12/2003
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 03/12/2004    03/12/2004 
Returned to Mode     04/28/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/2     06/14/2004 
Returned to Mode/2     06/16/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/3     06/28/2004 
Returned to Mode/3     07/14/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/4     08/27/2004 
Publication Approved 07/16/2004  09/27/2004  09/23/2004 
Publication Date 07/20/2004  10/04/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Aviation Administration
26. 
Fuel Tank Safety Compliance Extension (Final Rule) and Aging Airplane Program Update (Notice) Green
Popular Title: Aging Airplane
RIN 2120-AI20
Stage: Final Rule with Request for Comments
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This action extends the compliance dates for operators to comply with special maintenance program requirements for transport airplane fuel tank systems. This extension is from December 6, 2004 to December 30, 2007. This action is necessary to allow affected operators enough time, after receipt of fuel tank systems maintenance programs from manufacturers, to incorporate necessary revisions into their maintenance programs. In addition, this action will tell the public about the findings of the FAA's review of our Aging Airplane Program and the resulting rulemaking projects. This rulemaking was upgraded from nonsignificant.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/04/2003
Dates for Final Rule with Request for Comments:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 06/10/2004    06/10/2004 
To OMB 07/12/2004    06/30/2004 
OMB Clearance 10/12/2004  09/30/2004  07/14/2004 
Publication Date 10/19/2004  10/08/2004  07/30/2004 
End of Comment Period 12/20/2004  08/30/2004  08/30/2004 
Extension of Comment Period     08/23/2004 
End of Extended Comment Period     09/29/2004 
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule with Request for Comments: 69 FR 45936


Federal Aviation Administration
27. 
Transport Airplane Fuel Tank Flammability Reduction Red
Popular Title: Fuel Tank Flammability/Inerting
RIN 2120-AI23
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking will require that flammability reduction means be incorporated into existing airplanes, newly manufactured airplanes, and new designs. It proposes new design standards for future and pending applications for type certification as well as new operating rules for retrofitting existing airplanes.
Effects:
  Economically Significant
Major
Unfunded Mandate
Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/17/2004
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/22/2004  11/23/2004   
To OMB 10/22/2004  12/21/2004   
OMB Clearance 01/21/2005  03/21/2005   
Publication Date 01/28/2005  03/28/2005   
End of Comment Period 03/28/2005  05/28/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Aviation Administration
28. 
Enhanced Airworthiness Program for Airplane Systems (EAPAS) and SFAR 88 Green
Popular Title: EAPAS
RIN 2120-AI31
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would change wiring system and fuel tank system requirements for transport category airplanes. It would organize and clarify design requirements for wire systems by moving existing regulatory references to wiring into a single section of the regulations specifically for wiring and adding new certification rules to address aging issues in wire systems. This rulemaking would require holders of type certificates for certain transport category airplanes to conduct analyses and make necessary changes to existing Instruction for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) to improve maintenance procedures for wire systems. It would require operators to incorporate those ICA for wiring into their maintenance or inspections programs. It would also clairfy requirements of certain existing operational rules for operators to incorporate ICA for fuel tank systems into their maintenance or inspection programs. The intent of this rule is to help ensure the continued safety of commercial airplanes by improving the design, installation, and maintenance of their electrical wiring systems as well as by aligning those requirements as closely as possible with the requirements for fuel tank system safety.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 05/28/2001
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 10/27/2004  11/18/2004   
To OMB 11/27/2004  12/16/2004   
OMB Clearance 03/01/2005  03/16/2005   
Publication Date 03/18/2005  03/23/2005   
End of Comment Period 05/18/2005  05/23/2005   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Aviation Administration
29. 
Aging Aircraft Safety--Development of TC and STC Holder Data Green
Popular Title: STC Holder Data
RIN 2120-AI32
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would require type certificate holders and supplemental type certificate holders of certain transport category airplanes to develop data to support damage-tolerance-based inspections and procedures for their airplanes' baseline structure, including repairs, alterations and modifications to the baseline structure. It would also help ensure that maintenance of the airplanes age sensitive parts and components have been adequate and timely. These actions are needed to assure that 14 CFR Part 121 certificate holders have the necessary data to comply with the damage tolerance requirements of the Aging Airplane Safety rule.
Effects:
  Economically Significant
Major
Unfunded Mandate
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/17/2004
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 10/29/2004  04/11/2005   
To OMB 11/26/2004  05/19/2005   
OMB Clearance 02/25/2005  08/18/2005   
Publication Date 03/17/2005  09/07/2005   
End of Comment Period 06/17/2005  12/30/2005   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Aviation Administration
30. 
Drug Enforcement Assistance Red
Popular Title: Drug Enf Assistance
RIN 2120-AI43
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would change the pilot certification and aircraft registration requirements. Pilots would have two years to replace their paper certificates with upgraded, counterfeit-resistant certificates. Student pilots would not be affected. Others who hold airman certificates, such as flight engineers and mechanics, would have five years. Those who transfer ownership of U.S.-registered aircraft would have five days from the transaction to notify the FAA Aircraft Registry. Those who apply for aircraft registration would have to include their printed or typed name with their signature. These changes are necessary to complete FAA's implementation of the FAA Drug Enforcement Assistance Act. The purpose of the changes is to assist Federal, State, and local agencies to enforce the Nation's drug laws.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Final Rule : 09/18/1989
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 11/18/1988
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 10/01/2004    08/25/2004 
Returned to Mode     08/26/2004 
Resubmitted to OST     08/27/2004 
To OMB 11/01/2004     
OMB Clearance 01/03/2005     
Publication Date 01/10/2005     
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Aviation Administration
31. 
Prohibition Against Certain Flights Between the United States and Libya Green
Popular Title: Libya
RIN 2120-AI46
Stage: Withdrawal
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This action would remove Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) No. 65-1. SFAR 65-1 prohibits, with certain exceptions, the takeoff from, landing in, or overflight of the territory of the United States by any aircraft on a flight from or to any intermediate destination, if the flight's origin or ultimate destination is Libya. The FAA is removing SFAR 65-1 in response to the decision by the President of the United State to withdraw Executive Order 12801, which serves as the basis for SFAR 65-1. This final rule informs the public that the restrictions on flights between the United State and Libya, which are contained in SFAR 65-1, are removed.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 06/01/2004
Dates for Withdrawal:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/29/2004    09/29/2004 
Publication Approved 10/05/2004     
Publication Date 10/12/2004     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Withdrawal: None


Federal Highway Administration
Federal Highway Administration
32. 
National Bridge Inspection Standards Yellow
Popular Title: National Bridge Inspection
RIN 2125-AE86
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 9/26/2001; End of Comment Period 12/26/2001. NPRM: Publication Date 9/9/2003; End of Comment Period 11/10/2003.
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend and update the regulation on National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS). The FHWA asked in an ANPRM whether there is a need to update the regulations to incorporate current, state-of-the-art bridge inspection practices which public authorities may be using. The primary purpose of the NBIS is to identify bridges that need work to ensure the safety of the traveling public. The FHWA proposed a revision of its regulation on the NBIS to address perceived ambiguities in the NBIS since it was last updated in 1987. The changes would clarify the NBIS language that is vague or ambiguous; reorganize the NBIS into a more logical sequence; and make the regulation easier to read and understand, not only by the inspector in the field, but also by those administering the highway bridge inspection programs at the State and Federal level. This rulemaking is significant because of the public and congressional interest in bridge safety.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/31/2001
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 06/15/2004    06/29/2004 
To OMB 07/16/2004  07/29/2004  09/16/2004 
OMB Clearance 10/15/2004  12/16/2004   
Publication Date 10/23/2004  12/23/2004   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Highway Administration
33. 
National Standards for Traffic Control Devices; the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices for Streets and Highways; Maintaining Traffic Sign Retroreflectivity Red
Popular Title: Retroreflectivity of Road Signs
RIN 2125-AE98
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This action would update the standards for retroreflectivity of traffic signs. Section 406(a) of the Department of Transportation and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 1993, requires the Secretary of Transportation to revise the MUTCD to include a standard for a minimum level of retroreflectivity that must be maintained for traffic signs. The FHWA is interested in establishing standards for nighttime visibility of traffic signs. The FHWA will develop these standards by considering the results of research, engineering practices and comments received in response to this notice of proposed amendments.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 05/07/2003
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 02/05/2004  03/08/2004  03/10/2004 
To OMB 03/05/2004  04/08/2004  05/24/2004 
OMB Clearance 06/04/2004  08/24/2004  07/20/2004 
Publication Date 05/26/2004  07/28/2004  07/30/2004 
End of Comment Period 07/26/2004    10/28/2004 
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: 69 FR 45623


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
34. 
Commercial Driver's License Standards; Biometric Identifier Red
Popular Title: CDL - Biometric Identifier
RIN 2126-AA01
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 5/15/89; End of Comment Period 7/14/89; Information Notice 3/08/1991.
Abstract: This rulemaking would establish minimum uniform standards for a biometric identification system for CMV operators, as directed by section 9105 of the Truck and Bus Safety and Regulatory Reform Act of 1988. In 1989, the FHWA published an ANPRM soliciting comments on a pilot demonstration project using biometric identifiers that included retinal eye scans and fingerprint technologies. After reviewing the comments, FHWA determined at the time that technology had not progressed to where a nationwide identification system could be cost-effective and provide the benefits for which a system was intended. In 1991 the FHWA published a Notice of Information, summarizing results of the pilot study and the comments on the ANPRM, to demonstrate how the technologies studied fell short of the demands in the commercial licensing environment at the time. Section 4011(c) of the TEA-21, which amended 49 USC 31308, requires each CDL issued by the States after January 1, 2001, to have unique identifiers (which may include biometric identifiers). The FMCSA established a pilot study to collect over 16,000 sample digital facial images and sets of fingerprints from volunteers in California, Georgia and West Virginia. California provided the lead for this study. The pilot study was completed, and a final report was issued in December 2002. FMCSA is considering setting biometric storage and transmission standards which States would use if they voluntarily wish to store fingerprint images and transmit such images to other States upon request. Action on this rulemaking is on hold pending action by the Department of Homeland Security on determining a biometric convention. This action is considered significant because of substantial public interest and national security.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Final rule : 12/31/1990
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 11/18/1988
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/14/2003  12/14/2004   
To OMB 08/14/2003  01/14/2005   
OMB Clearance 11/14/2003  04/14/2005   
Publication Date 11/28/2003  04/30/2005   
End of Comment Period 01/28/2004  06/30/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated impacts requiring further analysis
Other, higher priorities
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
35. 
Commercial Learner Permits Green
Popular Title: Commercial Permits
RIN 2126-AA03
Stage: SNPRM
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 8/22/1990; End of Comment Period 10/22/90. Comment Period Extended: Publication Date 10/23/90; End of Extended Comment Period 11/30/90.
Abstract: This rulemaking would establish Federal minimum standards for States to issue commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). The Federal Highway Administration issued an NPRM on 08/22/90. This supplemental NPRM is intended to account for subsequent changes in the CDL program.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/06/1990
Dates for SNPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 03/30/2005     
To OMB 04/29/2005     
OMB Clearance 07/29/2005     
Publication Date 08/15/2005     
End of Comment Period 10/15/2005     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for SNPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
36. 
Qualification of Drivers; Field of Vision Red
Popular Title: Field of Vision
RIN 2126-AA05
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 2/28/92; End of Comment Period 4/28/92. Notice of Information: Publication Date 6/05/96.
Abstract: As part of a review of the medical qualification standards applicable to interstate CMV drivers, the Federal Highway Administration issued an ANPRM in February of 1992 to consider whether to amend the driver qualification requirements regarding the vision standard. A temporary waiver program was initiated to permit the agency to observe and collect data on the driving experience of a group of vision-deficient drivers who met certain preconditions, and was concluded on March 31, 1996. The agency considered further research to develop comprehensive performance-based visual standards for all commercial drivers. Information about the proposed research plan and public hearing on the subject was published on June 5, 1996, at 61 FR 28547. The agency contracted with a medical center to develop medically-based recommendations for amending the current Federal vision requirements. Recommendations were delivered in October 1998. The FMCSA, after further evaluating and considering these recommendations, has decided to proceed with a NPRM to amend its regulation governing the visual field requirement in the vision standard.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/01/1991
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 02/15/2003  09/20/2004  09/15/2004 
To OMB 03/15/2003  10/20/2004   
OMB Clearance 06/15/2003  01/21/2005   
Publication Date 06/30/2003  01/28/2005   
End of Comment Period 08/30/2003  03/28/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated impacts requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
37. 
Medical Qualification Requirements as Part of the CDL Process Red
Popular Title: Medical CDL
RIN 2126-AA10
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 7/15/94; End of Comment Period 11/14/94.
Abstract: This rulemaking would provide for a Federal medical certification as part of the commercial driver's license (CDL) program, and implement Section 215 of the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act. Incorporating medical qualification verification and documentation into State-administered CDL procedures will improve highway safety by preventing medically-unqualified individuals from obtaining a CDL. It will also eliminate the requirement for CDL operators to carry their medical certificate in addition to their CDL.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 07/15/1993
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/30/2002  10/14/2004   
To OMB 11/01/2002  11/15/2004   
OMB Clearance 02/01/2003  02/21/2005   
Publication Date 02/15/2003  03/05/2005   
End of Comment Period 04/15/2003  05/05/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
38. 
Railroad-Highway Grade Crossing Safety Black
Popular Title: Rail-Highway Crossing
RIN 2126-AA18
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 7/30/98; End of Comment Period 11/27/98.
Abstract: This rulemaking would prohibit operators of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) from driving onto a railroad grade crossing unless there is sufficient space to drive completely through the crossing without stopping. This rulemaking action is required by the Hazardous Materials Transportation Authorization Act of 1994. It is intended to reduce the incidence of collisions between trains and CMVs. This action is considered significant because of substantial public interest and safety issues.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Complete Final Rule : 02/16/1995
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/26/1994
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
39. 
Unified Registration System Red
Popular Title: URS
RIN 2126-AA22
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 8/26/96; End of Comment Period 10/25/96.
Abstract: FMCSA is developing this rulemaking to consider replacing four current identification and registration systems-- USDOT number system, single State registration system, registration/licensing system, and financial responsibility system--with a unified registration system, and to implement sec. 103 of the ICC Termination Act of 1995. It will consolidate and simplify current Federal registration processes and increase public accessibility to data about interstate and foreign motor carriers, property brokers, and freight forwarders.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Final Rule : 01/01/1998
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/01/1996
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 02/15/2002  09/13/2002  10/16/2002 
Returned to Mode     11/26/2002 
Resubmitted to OST 08/30/2003  09/27/2004  10/04/2004 
To OMB 03/15/2002  10/27/2004   
OMB Clearance 04/24/2002  01/25/2005   
Publication Date 04/30/2002  01/31/2005   
End of Comment Period 07/01/2002  03/31/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
40. 
Transportation of Household Goods; Consumer Protection Regulations Green
Popular Title: Household Goods
RIN 2126-AA32
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 5/15/98; End of Comment Period 7/14/98; Extension and Reopening of Comment Period 8/12/98; End of Comment Period 10/13/98. Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 6/11/2003; End of Comment Period 8/11/2003. IFR Compliance Date Delayed: Publication Date 9/30/2003. IFR Technical Amendments: Publication Date 03/05/2004. Technical Amendments Clarified and New Compliance Date: Publication Date 4/02/2004.
Abstract: This rule would make final the interim regulations governing interstate transportation of household goods, which specify how motor carriers that transport household goods must assist individual customers who ship household goods. The agency received several petitions for reconsideration of the Interim Final Rule (IFR) and made technical amendments to the IFR to address the concerns of petitioners.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/01/1998
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/01/2004     
To OMB 12/01/2004     
OMB Clearance 03/01/2005     
Publication Date 03/08/2005     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
41. 
Application by Certain Mexico-Domiciled Motor Carriers to Operate Beyond U.S. Municipalities and Commercial Zones on the U.S.-Mexico Border Red
Popular Title: Mexico-Domiciled Motor Carriers
RIN 2126-AA34
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 05/03/2001; End of Comment Period 07/02/2001. Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 03/19/2002; End of Comment Period 04/18/2002.
Abstract: This rulemaking changes FMCSA regulations to govern applications by Mexican carriers to operate beyond municipalities and commercial zones at the United State-Mexico border. It also revises the application form, OP-1MX, to be filed by these Mexican motor carriers. The revised form requires additional information about the applicant's business and operating practices to allow the FMCSA to determine if the applicant can meet the safety standards established for operating in interstate commerce in the United States. Carriers that had previously submitted an application would have to submit the updated form. These changes are needed to implement part of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). On January 16, 2003, the Ninth Circuit Court remanded this rule, along with two other NAFTA-related rules, to the agency, requiring a full environmental impact statement and an analysis required by the Clean Air Act. On June 7, 2004, the Supreme Court reversed the Ninth Circuit and remanded the case, holding that FMCSA is not required to prepare the environmental documents as ruled by the Ninth Circuit. FMCSA is currently deciding what its next action should be.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: International Agreement
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/07/2001
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/14/2003     
To OMB 08/14/2003     
OMB Clearance 11/14/2003     
Publication Date 11/28/2003     
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
42. 
Safety Monitoring System and Compliance Initiative for Mexico-Domiciled Motor Carriers Operating in the United States Red
Popular Title: Safety Monitoring
RIN 2126-AA35
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 05/03/2001; End of Comment Period 07/02/2001. Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 03/19/2002; End of Comment Period 04/18/2002.
Abstract: This rule would implement a safety monitoring system and compliance initiative designed to evaluate the continuing safety fitness of all Mexico-domiciled carriers within 18 months after receiving a provisional Certificate of Registration or provisional authority to operate in the United States. It also would establish suspension and revocation procedures for provisional Certificates of Registration and operating authority, and incorporate criteria to be used by FMCSA in evaluating whether Mexico-domiciled carriers exercise basic safety management controls. The interim rule included requirements that were not proposed in the NPRM but which are necessary to comply with the FY-2002 DOT Appropriations Act. On January 16, 2003, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals remanded this rule, along with two other NAFTA-related rules, to the agency, requiring a full environmental impact statement and an analysis required by the Clean Air Act. On June 7, 2004, the Supreme Court reversed the Ninth Circuit and remanded the case, holding that FMCSA is not required to prepare the environmental documents. The agency is currently considering what its next action should be.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Federalism
EIS
Prompting action: International Agreement
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/07/2001
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/14/2003     
To OMB 08/14/2003     
OMB Clearance 11/14/2003     
Publication Date 11/28/2003     
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated impacts requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
43. 
New Entrant Safety Assurance Process Red
Popular Title: New Entrant
RIN 2126-AA59
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 05/13/2002; End of Comment Period 7/12/2002; IFR Effective Date 01/01/2003.
Abstract: This rulemaking would establish minimum requirements for new entrant motor carriers to ensure that they are knowledgeable about applicable Federal motor carrier safety standards. After ensuring that they are knowledgeable, the new entrants would be able to operate for 18 months in which time they must pass a safety review in order to receive permanent operating authority. An NPRM is necessary to clarify that all foreign motor carriers planning to operate in interstate commerce (except Mexico-domiciled motor carriers who are covered under the NAFTA rules) will be subject to these requirements.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/09/1999
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 08/17/2004  11/22/2004   
To OMB 09/17/2004  12/22/2004   
OMB Clearance 12/17/2004  03/22/2005   
Publication Date 12/31/2004  03/29/2005   
End of Comment Period 02/28/2005  05/27/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
44. 
Certification of Safety Auditors, Safety Investigators, and Safety Inspectors Red
Popular Title: Safety Auditors Certification
RIN 2126-AA64
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 03/19/2002; End of Comment Period 05/20/2002; Extension of Compliance 06/17/02; End of Extended Compliance 07/17/02. IFR Extension of Statutory Compliance Date: Publication Date 7/28/2003. Notice of Environmental Assessment: Publication Date 10/02/2003; End of Comment Period 11/03/2003. Notice of Statutory Compliance Date: Publication Date 12/23/2003; Compliance Date 1/01/2004.
Abstract: This interim final rulemaking requires that any safety inspection, audit, or review be conducted by a certified investigator. It gives the FMCSA authority to decertify an investigator, including a third-party investigator, for failure to meet the prescribed certification standards. It is required by section 211 of the Motor Carrier Safety Improvement Act. In response to comments on the IFR, the agency will issue an NPRM that address issues not raised in the IFR.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Complete NPRM : 12/09/2000
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/09/1999
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/08/2005     
To OMB 08/08/2005     
OMB Clearance 11/07/2005     
Publication Date 11/14/2005     
End of Comment Period 01/13/2006     
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
45. 
Certification of Compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) Red
Popular Title: FMVSS Certification
RIN 2126-AA69
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 03/19/2002; End of Comment Period 05/20/2002.
Abstract: This rulemaking would require motor carriers to ensure that each CMV they operate in interstate commerce displays a label certifying that the vehicle complies with all applicable FMVSSs in effect on the date of manufacture. It would also ensure that all motor carriers operating CMVs in the United States use only vehicles that were certified by the manufacturer as meeting all applicable Federal safety performance requirements.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/01/2001
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/15/2003  06/02/2004  06/07/2004 
To OMB 12/15/2003  07/02/2004  09/09/2004 
OMB Clearance 03/15/2004  10/01/2004   
Publication Date 03/30/2004  10/08/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Other, higher priorities
Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
46. 
Limitations on the Issuance of Commercial Driver Licenses with a Hazardous Materials Endorsement Black
Popular Title: USA PATRIOT Act Rule
RIN 2126-AA70
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage: Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 05/05/2003; End of Comment Period 07/07/2003. IFR Delay of Compliance Date: Publication Date 11/07/2003; End of Comment Period 01/06/2004. IFR Delay of Compliance Date: Publication Date 08/19/2004; Interim Final Rule/3: Publication Approved 07/21/2004;Publication Date 08/19/2004.
Abstract: This rulemaking would prohibit States from issuing, renewing, transferring or upgrading a commercial driver's license (CDL) with a hazardous materials endorsement, unless the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has first conducted a background check on the applicant and determined the applicant does not pose a security risk warranting denial of the hazardous materials endorsement. FMCSA and TSA simultaneously published interim final rules. This rulemaking is currently on hold awaiting next TSA action. This action is considered significant because of substantial public and congressional interest, and national security.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 10/26/2001
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
47. 
Penalties, Inspection, and Decal Display Requirements for Mexico-Domiciled Motor Carriers Red
Popular Title: CVSA decals
RIN 2126-AA72
Stage: Interim Final Rule/2
Previous Stage:
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend part 396 of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) to incorporate requirements, as codified in parts 365 and 385, that all CMVs operated by Mexico-domiciled motor carriers holding authority to transport property or passengers beyond the commercial zones of U.S. municipalities on the United States-Mexico border must display a Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) decal issued by a certified inspector. Adding this requirement to part 396 will enable FMCSA to assess civil penalties against Mexico-domiciled long-haul motor carriers that operate vehicles without the necessary CVSA decal. This rulemaking would also clarify that carriers will be required to obtain the necessary inspection decal before proceeding beyond border ports of entry or the nearby CMV safety inspection facility. By providing for more effective enforcement of the inspection decal requirements, this rule will help ensure that these motor carriers operate safe vehicles in the United States. The agency planned to publish as NPRM by 12/20/04
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/09/2002
Dates for Interim Final Rule/2:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 12/24/2004     
To OMB 01/24/2005     
OMB Clearance 04/25/2005     
Publication Date 04/29/2005     
End of Comment Period 06/29/2005     
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Interim Final Rule/2: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
48. 
Hours of Service of Drivers; Supporting Documents Red
Popular Title: Supporting Documents
RIN 2126-AA76
Stage: SNPRM
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 4/20/1998; End of Comment Period 6/19/1998.
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the hours-of-service recordkeeping requirements to clarify what supporting documents motor carriers must have to validate hours of service records. It will clarify: That the duty of motor carriers is to verify the accuracy of drivers' hours of service (HOS) and records of duty status (RODS) if including automatic on-board records; that the driver's duty is to collect and submit to the motor carrier all supporting documents with the RODS; that carriers are required to maintain supporting documents with the RODS; and that a supporting document based on a self-monitoring system is required to be the primary method for ensuring compliance with the HOS regulations. It would allow the use of electronic documents as a supplement to, and in certain instances in lieu of, paper supporting documents in recognition of developing technologies. It would clarify the definitions of "supporting documents," "employee," and "driver," and the current requirement that each motor carrier use a self-monitoring system to verify HOS and RODS. This rulemaking is considered significant because of substantial industry interest and safety.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Rule to be issued and become effective : 02/26/1996
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/26/1994
Dates for SNPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/15/2002  01/26/2004  01/14/2004 
Returned to Mode     05/13/2004 
Returned To OST   06/15/2004  06/16/2004 
To OMB 01/03/2003  07/05/2004  06/29/2004 
OMB Clearance 04/03/2003  10/05/2004  09/28/2004 
Publication Date 04/10/2003  10/12/2004   
End of Comment Period 06/10/2003  12/13/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for SNPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
49. 
Registration Enforcement Red
Popular Title: Registration Enforcement
RIN 2126-AA78
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 08/28/2002; End of Comment Period 10/28/2002.
Abstract: This rulemaking would require that a motor carrier who is subject to registration requirements at 49 U.S.C. 13902 may not operate a CMV in interstate commerce unless it has registered with FMCSA. It also would prohibit motor carriers from operating beyond the scope of their registered authorization. Moreover, if vehicles are discovered operating in violation of such registration requirements, they would be placed out-of-service, and the carrier may be subject to additional penalties. This action makes State enforcement of registration requirements a condition of MCSAP eligibility.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 07/29/2002
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/14/2003  01/27/2005   
To OMB 08/14/2003  02/28/2005   
OMB Clearance 11/14/2003  05/27/2005   
Publication Date 11/28/2003  06/03/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
50. 
Brokers of Household Goods Transportation by Motor Vehicle Red
Popular Title: Household Goods Brokers
RIN 2126-AA84
Stage: ANPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: The agency has granted the American Moving and Storage Association's petition for rulemaking. The FMCSA will determine in this rulemaking whether the general property broker regulations under Part 371 need to be amended to protect consumers of household goods.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 05/12/2003
Dates for ANPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 05/17/2004  09/03/2004  09/08/2004 
To OMB 06/17/2004  10/08/2004   
OMB Clearance 09/17/2004  01/03/2005   
Publication Date 09/30/2004  01/10/2005   
End of Comment Period 11/30/2004  03/10/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for ANPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
51. 
Hours of Service of Drivers - Sleeper Berth Rest Period Red
Popular Title: Sleeper Berth
RIN 2126-AA85
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: The rulemaking will consider whether to permit sleeper berth rest periods to extend maximum on-duty time limits when followed by 10 hours off-duty, and will address the complex issues surrounding sleeper berth rest periods, off-duty requirements, and related matters. On November 3, 2003, FMCSA received a petition for rulemaking from the American Trucking Associations (ATA), and FMCSA has granted ATA's petition. The agency's next action is undetermined because of a recent court decision. This rulemaking is considered significant because of substantial industry interest and safety implications. The agency had scheduled an NPRM to be published by 3/28/05.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/24/2004
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
52. 
Inspection, Repair and Maintenance of Intermodal Container Chassis Red
Popular Title: Intermodal Container Chassis
RIN 2126-AA86
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would require entities that offer intermodal container chassis for transportation in interstate commerce to: file a Motor Carrier Identification Report (Form MCS-150); display a USDOT identification number on each chassis offered for such transportation; establish a systematic inspection, repair and maintenance program to ensure the safe operating condition of each chassis offered for transportation and maintain documentation of the program; and provide a means for effectively responding to driver and motor carrier complaints about the condition of intermodal container chassis. The rulemaking is considered significant because of substantial industry and congressional interest and because it involves other departmental modes.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/26/2004
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/15/2004  12/20/2004   
To OMB 10/15/2004  01/19/2005   
OMB Clearance 01/15/2005  04/19/2005   
Publication Date 01/31/2005  04/25/2005   
End of Comment Period 03/30/2005  06/25/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
53. 
Electronic On-Board Recorders for Hours-of-Service Compliance Green
Popular Title: Electronic On-Board Recorders
RIN 2126-AA89
Stage: ANPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking is considering potential amendments to FMCSA regulations concerning the use of electronic on-board recording devices as a way to document compliance with the Federal hours-of-service rules. The agency is seeking information on issues to be considered in the development of improved performance specifications for these recording devices. This will help ensure that future requirements for the use of on-board recorders are appropriate when applied to emerging technologies. This action is considered significant because of substantial industry and public interest and its importance in responding to a recent court decision.
Effects:
  Economically Significant
Major
Unfunded Mandate
Prompting action: Court Action
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/09/2004
Dates for ANPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST     08/24/2004 
To OMB     08/27/2004 
OMB Clearance     08/27/2004 
Publication Date 09/01/2004    09/01/2004 
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for ANPRM: 69 FR 53386


Federal Railroad Administration
Federal Railroad Administration
54. 
Whistle Bans at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings Red
Popular Title: Whistle Bans
RIN 2130-AA71
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 01/13/2000; End of Comment Period 05/26/2000. Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 12/18/2003; End of Comment Period 02/17/2004; Extension of Comment Period 02/13/2004; End of Extended Comment Period 04/19/2004.
Abstract: This action would govern when train whistles at public grade crossings must be sounded. FRA has found that failing to use the locomotive horn can significantly increase the number of collisions with motorists using the crossing. This action is considered significant because of substantial public interest. This action is being taken pursuant to statutory mandate. Pub. Law 103-440 requires the Secretary to prohibit local whistle bans, except where there is no significant risk of accidents, alternative safety measures are adequate, or where use of a horn as a warning is impractical. After publishing an NPRM, FRA participated in extensive public hearings to gather comments and issued an interim final rule to implement the statute.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
EIS
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Final Rule : 11/02/1996
In 2000,Congress passed legislation prohibiting final rule publication before : 07/01/2001
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 11/02/1994
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/28/2004  09/30/2004  10/04/2004 
To OMB 08/28/2004  11/04/2004   
OMB Clearance 10/25/2004  01/03/2005   
Publication Date 10/28/2004  01/10/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Awaiting development of additional data
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Railroad Administration
55. 
Standards for Development and Use of Processor-Based Signal and Train Control Systems Red
Popular Title: Positive Train Control
RIN 2130-AA94
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 08/10/2001; End of Comment Period 11/08/2001.
Abstract: This rulemaking would govern the development, testing and approval of Micro-processor Based Signal and Train Control Systems. FRA has determined through the joint-fact-finding efforts of the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC) that performance standards would facilitate the introduction of advanced technology, including systems that support the core functions of Positive Train Control (PTC). This rulemaking addresses technical standards for all processor-based signal and train control products, amending 49 CFR Part 236.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Negotiated Rulemaking
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 11/28/1995
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 06/14/2002  09/30/2003  09/29/2003 
Returned to Mode     10/31/2003 
Resubmitted to OST   12/22/2003  12/22/2003 
To OMB 07/08/2002  01/22/2004  01/14/2004 
Withdrawn from OMB     04/08/2004 
Resubmitted to OMB     04/16/2004 
Withdrawn from OMB/2     07/09/2004 
Returned To OST   09/10/2004  08/13/2004 
Returned to Mode/2     08/19/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/3   09/30/2004  09/30/2004 
Resubmitted to OMB/2   10/07/2004  10/01/2004 
OMB Clearance 10/15/2002  11/30/2004   
Publication Date 10/18/2002  12/15/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated impacts requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Federal Railroad Administration
56. 
Locomotive Crashworthiness Red
Popular Title: Locomotive Crashworthiness
RIN 2130-AB23
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would address the crashworthiness of locomotives pursuant to the Rail Safety Enforcement and Review Act of (1992). FRA investigated locomotive crashworthiness, as well as a variety of locomotive working conditions (See RIN 2130-AA89) and reported its finding to Congress. On October 31, 1996, the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC) accepted a preliminary planning task to schedule handling of these issues. The Locomotive Crew Safety Working Group met on January 23, 1997, to develop task statements that were forwarded to the full RSAC and accepted on June 24, 1997. The RSAC Locomotive Crashworthiness Working Group last met in January 2002, to consider specific recommendations for regulatory action. The Working Group reached consensus on proposed rule language on March 19, 2004. On April 14, 2004, the full RSAC voted to concur with the Working Group's recommendations. FRA is currently developing an NPRM in response to the RSAC's recommendations.
Effects:
  Negotiated Rulemaking
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Rule or Report to Congress : 03/03/1995
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/27/1998
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 04/27/2004  05/26/2004  05/27/2004 
Returned to Mode     06/17/2004 
Resubmitted to OST     06/18/2004 
To OMB 05/27/2004  07/18/2004  07/20/2004 
OMB Clearance 08/27/2004  10/18/2004   
Publication Date 09/05/2004  10/24/2004   
End of Comment Period 11/08/2004  12/24/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Federal Railroad Administration
57. 
Locomotive Event Recorders Red
Popular Title: Train Event Recorders
RIN 2130-AB34
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 06/30/04; End of Comment Period 08/31/04.
Abstract: This rulemaking would improve the crashworthiness of railroad locomotive event recorders and would enhance the quality of information available for post-accident investigations. It would amend its existing regulations in four major ways: (1) by requiring that new locomotives have event recorders with hardened memory modules, proven by a requirement that the memory modules preserve stored data throughout a sequence of prescribed tests; (2) by requiring that new locomotives have an event recorder that collects certain additional types of information; (3) by simplifying standards for inspecting, testing, and maintaining event recorders; and (4) by requiring the phasing out, over a six-year period, of event recorders that use magnetic tape as a data storage medium. This rulemaking was originally designated as nonsignificant.
Effects:
  Negotiated Rulemaking
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 06/24/1997
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 12/24/2003    12/22/2003 
To OMB 01/23/2004    03/18/2004 
OMB Clearance 04/23/2004  06/18/2004  06/16/2004 
Publication Date 04/30/2004  06/25/2004  06/30/2004 
End of Comment Period 06/30/2004  08/31/2004  08/31/2004 
Extension of Comment Period     09/08/2004 
End of Extended Comment Period     10/11/2004 
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: 69 FR 39773


Federal Railroad Administration
58. 
Occupational Noise Exposure for Railroad Operating Employees Red
Popular Title: Occupational Noise
RIN 2130-AB56
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend FRA occupational noise standards for railroad employees whose predominant noise exposure occurs in the locomotive cab. FRA existing standard (issued in 1980) limits cab employee noise exposure to certain levels based on the duration of employee exposure. This rulemaking would modify that standard and also set out additional requirements. The rulemaking would require railroads to conduct noise monitoring and to implement a hearing conservation program, which would include hearing tests (audiograms), training, and monitoring. The rulemaking would also establish design, build, and maintenance standards for new locomotives and maintenance requirements for existing locomotives. FRA expects that this rulemaking would reduce the likelihood of noise-induced hearing loss for railroad operating employees.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Negotiated Rulemaking
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 06/24/1997
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 12/22/2003    12/22/2003 
To OMB 01/23/2004    03/08/2004 
OMB Clearance 04/23/2004  06/08/2004  06/04/2004 
Publication Date 04/30/2004  06/15/2004  06/23/2004 
End of Comment Period 07/23/2004  08/16/2004  09/21/2004 
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: 69 FR 35145


Federal Transit Administration
Federal Transit Administration
59. 
Rail Fixed Guideway Systems: State Safety Oversight Green
Popular Title: State Safety Oversight
RIN 2132-AA76
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 03/09/04; End of Comment Period 06/07/04.
Abstract: In 1995, under RIN 2132-AA39, FTA issued the final rule entitled, Rail Fixed Guideway Systems; State Safety Oversight. On December 23, 1996, under RIN 2132-AA57, FTA issued technical amendments to the final rule. Then in 2002, under RIN 2132-AA69, FTA issued a direct final rule amending the definition of accident. Because FTA received an adverse comment, the direct final rule was withdrawn and the next action was listed as undetermined while the next course of action was determined. FTA now intends to amend the rule, and has closed out RIN 2132-AA69, and opened RIN 2132-AA76, for this action. This rulemaking would add safety standards or guidance and significantly update existing rules in light of the increase in the number of state safety oversight agencies since the original FTA rule was issued.
Effects:
  Federalism
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 06/23/2003
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 01/31/2005     
Publication Approved 05/09/2005     
Publication Date 05/16/2005     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Maritime Administration
Maritime Administration
60. 
Regulations To Be Followed by All Departments, Agencies and Shippers Having Responsibility To Provide a Preference for U.S.-Flag Vessels in the Shipment of Cargoes on Ocean Vessels: Vessel Types Red
Popular Title: Cargo Preference: Vessel Types
RIN 2133-AB37
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 1/28/99; End of Comment Period 3/29/99; End of Extended Comment Period 4/28/1999.
Abstract: This rulemaking would update and clarify the cargo preference regulations to increase regulatory compliance. MARAD issued the cargo preference regulations to implement the requirements of section 901 of the Merchant Marine Act, 1936, as amended. Departments, agencies, and shippers who must comply with the Act must follow the cargo preference regulations.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/01/1996
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST     02/17/2000 
To OMB     06/30/2004 
Withdrawn from OMB     02/01/2001 
Returned to Mode     02/01/2001 
Resubmitted to OST 05/08/2002  11/01/2002  10/24/2002 
Resubmitted to OMB   11/29/2002  03/18/2003 
Returned by OMB     06/13/2003 
Returned to Mode/2     06/13/2003 
Resubmitted to OMB/2   10/15/2003  11/06/2003 
Returned by OMB/2     02/12/2004 
Returned to Mode/3     02/12/2004 
Version 2 Submitted to OST     02/26/2004 
Returned to Mode/4     03/26/2004 
Resubmitted to OST     05/05/2004 
Resubmitted to OMB/4   07/27/2004  06/29/2004 
Withdrawn from OMB/2     07/13/2004 
OMB Clearance 09/04/2002  09/29/2004   
Publication Date 09/11/2002  10/06/2004   
End of Comment Period 11/13/2002  12/06/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Awaiting development of additional data
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Maritime Administration
61. 
Vessel Documentation: Lease Financing for Vessels Engaged in the Coastwise Trade; Second Rulemaking Red
Popular Title: Joint Lease Financing
RIN 2133-AB51
Stage: Withdrawal
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 02/04/04; End of Comment Period 05/04/04.
Abstract: On February 4, 2004, the Maritime Administration (MARAD) published a joint rulemaking with the U.S. Coast Guard which proposed to change MARAD's lease financing regulations. On August 9, 2004, Pub. L. 108-293, the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004 was enacted, which contained provisions that materially affect the proposed changes outlined in the joint rulemaking. Therefore, the joint rulemaking will be withdrawn.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 03/04/2003
Dates for Withdrawal:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 10/22/2004     
Publication Approved 11/22/2004     
Publication Date 11/29/2004     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Withdrawal: None


Maritime Administration
62. 
Trading Restrictions on Vessels Transferred To a Foreign Registry: Amendment of List of Prohibited Countries Green
Popular Title: Prohibited Countries
RIN 2133-AB55
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: MARAD currently prohibits the foreign transfer of an interest in or control of certain U.S.-documented or previously U.S.-documented vessels to an entity in the foreign countries listed in the Department of Commerce's list of prohibited countries. MARAD's regulations listed individual countries set forth in an outdated version of the Department of Commerce's list of countries. This rulemaking amends MARAD's regulations to incorporate the Department of Commerce's list by reference, in lieu of listing the individual countries, to prevent the need for future rulemakings to keep MARAD's regulations current.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Secretarial/Head of Operating Administration Decision
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/12/2003
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 04/14/2004    04/14/2004 
To OMB 05/20/2004    06/15/2004 
OMB Clearance 08/20/2004    08/30/2004 
Publication Date 08/25/2004    09/08/2004 
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: 69 FR 54247


Maritime Administration
63. 
Maritime Security Program Green
Popular Title: Maritime Security
RIN 2133-AB62
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 07/20/04; Extension of Comment Period 08/24/04; End of Comment Period 08/30/04.
Abstract: This rulemaking provides procedures to implement the provisions of the Maritime Security Act of 2003 (MSA 2003). The MSA 2003 authorizes payments for fiscal years (FYs) 2006 through 2015 for a new Maritime Security Program (MSP). The MSP supports a fleet of active, commercially viable, privately owned vessels to meet national defense and other security requirements and to maintain a United States presence in international commercial shipping.
Effects:
  Economically Significant
Major
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/01/2003
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 04/25/2005     
To OMB 05/31/2005     
OMB Clearance 08/31/2005     
Publication Date 09/08/2005     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
64. 
Roof Crush Resistance Green
Popular Title: Roof Crush Resistance
RIN 2127-AG51
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: Request for Comments: Publication Date 10/22/01; End of Comment Period 12/06/01.
Abstract: Mitigation of rollover fatal and serious injuries is one of the agency's highest priorities. Rollover crashes constitute about 3% of passenger vehicle crashes, but about 1/3 of the fatalities. Since light trucks are more prone to rollover, and as their percentage of the U.S. fleet continues to increase, this crash mode continues to constitute a disproportionate segment of the Nation's highway safety problem. As part of the agency's comprehensive approach to rollover, and in response to a petition for rulemaking, the agency is considering whether an upgrade to the roof crush requirements is warranted. This rulemaking is significant because of public interest in vehicle safety.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 05/20/1996
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 09/28/2004  10/29/2004   
To OMB 10/28/2004  11/29/2004   
OMB Clearance 01/28/2005  02/28/2005   
Publication Date 02/04/2005  03/07/2005   
End of Comment Period 04/04/2005  05/09/2005   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
65. 
Fuel Economy Standards- Rights and Responsibilities of Manufacturers in the Context of Changes in Corporate Relationships Red
Popular Title: Fuel Economy Standards
RIN 2127-AG97
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 01/22/2001; End of Comment Period 3/22/2001.
Abstract: This rulemaking clarifies when and how predecessor and successor automobile manufacturers may use the fuel economy credits of the predecessor or successor. The use of carry forward or carry back credits is specified for manufacturers that merge. This action is considered significant because it affects the treatment of the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) penalties.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/27/1998
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 02/15/2003    09/30/2003 
Returned to Mode     01/06/2004 
Resubmitted to OST 06/01/2004  06/01/2004  07/12/2004 
To OMB 03/17/2003  09/12/2004  09/07/2004 
OMB Clearance 06/17/2003  12/12/2004   
Publication Date 07/01/2003  12/26/2004   
End of Comment Period 09/01/2003  02/26/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
66. 
FMVSS: Head Restraints (Height and Distance Requirements) Red
Popular Title: Head Restraints (Height and Distance Req)
RIN 2127-AH09
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 01/04/2001; End of Comment Period 03/05/2001.
Abstract: This rulemaking would upgrade the current head restraint requirements to increase safety. The upgraded proposed performance requirements are intended to assure that the head restraint, if adjusted, will offer good protection to occupants. This rulemaking is significant because of public interest in motor vehicle safety due to its potential to mitigate whiplash injuries.
Effects:
  Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 03/01/2001
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 02/01/2003  06/30/2004  05/21/2004 
To OMB 03/03/2003  07/30/2004  07/21/2004 
OMB Clearance 06/03/2003  10/29/2004   
Publication Date 06/08/2003  11/08/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
67. 
Upgrade Door Retention Performance Green
Popular Title: Retention Performance
RIN 2127-AH34
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: None
Abstract: As part of the agency's comprehensive approach to rollover, and to harmonize with the first global technical regulation, this rulemaking would upgrade the door retention requirements, add test requirements for sliding doors, add secondary latch requirements for doors other than hinged side doors and back doors, and provide a new test procedure for assessing inertial forces.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 07/07/1998
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/01/2004     
To OMB 12/17/2004     
OMB Clearance 03/17/2005     
Publication Date 03/24/2005     
End of Comment Period 05/24/2005     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
68. 
Frontal Offset Protection Red
Popular Title: Frontal Offset
RIN 2127-AH73
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage: Request for Comments: Publication Date 02/03/2004; End of Comment Period 04/05/2004.
Abstract: This rulemaking would establish a Federal motor vehicle safety standard for high-speed frontal offset crash testing. The frontal offset test is a crash test for automobiles and light trucks in which the subject vehicles are run into a deformable honeycomb barrier. The barrier contacts only 40 percent of the front of the vehicle, simulating an off-center frontal collision. The agency is considering adding the high speed offset test to the frontal occupant protection standard to measure vehicle structural integrity and reduce the number and severity of lower-body injuries. NHTSA is examining whether implementing a new offset test might create disbenefits to occupants of other vehicles. The agency originally scheduled the publication of an NPRM by 10/08/03.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 11/22/1999
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated impacts requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
69. 
Event Data Recorders Black
Popular Title: Event Data Recorders
RIN 2127-AI72
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage: Request for Comments: Publication Date 10/11/2002; End of Comment Period 01/09/2003. NPRM: Publication Date 06/14/04; End of Comment Period 08/13/04.
Abstract: In the past several years, there has been considerable interest from the safety community in establishing requirements for event data recorders (EDRs). The agency is considering what role NHTSA should take in implementing EDRs in motor vehicles. This rulemaking would establish requirements for EDRs in new vehicles if an EDR is in the vehicle. The requirement would include a minimum set of data to be collected and enhanced survivability in crashes. This rule is significant because of public interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 07/12/2002
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
Concurrences Due to OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
70. 
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, Occupant Crash Protection Green
Popular Title: Occupant Crash Protection
RIN 2127-AI91
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 08/06/2003; End of Comment Period 10/06/2003.
Abstract: In response to Anton's Law, the agency is developing an amendment to its occupant protection standard, FMVSS No. 208, to require the installation of integral lap/shoulder belts for all rear non-outboard designated seating positions (DSPs) other than side facing seats in passenger cars, trucks, and multipurpose passenger vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 4,536 kg (10,000 lbs.) or less.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/07/2002
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 08/27/2004    07/27/2004 
To OMB 09/24/2004    09/29/2004 
OMB Clearance 12/24/2004     
Publication Date 12/31/2004     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
71. 
Side Impact Protection Upgrade - FMVSS No. 214 Red
Popular Title: Side Impact Protection Upgrade
RIN 2127-AJ10
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: Two Federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) -- No. 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact" and No. 214, "Side Impact Protection" -- specify requirements for side impact protection. At present, FMVSS No. 214 specifies a moving deformable barrier (MDB) test addressing mainly the chest injury problem. The head injury reduction is partially addressed in FMVSS No. 201. This rulemaking would require in FMVSS No. 214 a vehicle-to-pole impact test to reduce the number of fatal and serious head injuries, which is not addressed in FMVSS No. 201.
Effects:
  Economically Significant
Major
Unfunded Mandate
Regulatory Flexibility Act
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 06/28/2002
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/14/2003    11/03/2003 
To OMB 12/12/2003    02/10/2004 
OMB Clearance 03/12/2004  05/10/2004  05/10/2004 
Publication Date 03/22/2004  05/17/2004  05/17/2004 
End of Comment Period 05/22/2004    10/14/2004 
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: 69 FR 27990


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
72. 
Reforming the Automobile Fuel Economy Standards Program Black
Popular Title: Reforming CAFE
RIN 2127-AJ17
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 12/29/03; End of Comment Period 4/27/04.
Abstract: This rulemaking would address various issues relating to the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) program. In particular, it addresses possible enhancements to the program that will assist in furthering fuel conservation while protecting motor vehicle safety and American jobs. The agency is particularly interested in improvements to the structure of the CAFE program authorized under current statutory authority.
Effects:
  Economically Significant
Major
Unfunded Mandate
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/01/2003
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
End of Comment Period      
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
73. 
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Red
Popular Title: Tire Pressure Monitoring
RIN 2127-AJ23
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: The Transportation Recall Enhancement Accountability and Documentation (TREAD) Act required the Secretary of Transportation to initiate rulemaking to require a warning system in new motor vehicles to indicate to the operator when a tire is significantly under-inflated. The agency issued a final rule for tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS)(establishing FMVSS No. 138) on June 5, 2002; however, the final rule establishing the standard was vacated by a decision issued by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit in August 2003. The agency will take action in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act to re-establish FMVSS No. 138, in a manner consistent with the court's decision, and also provide a new phase-in period.
Effects:
  Economically Significant
Major
Unfunded Mandate
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  NPRM : 11/01/2001
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 08/06/2003
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 02/27/2004  04/06/2004  04/06/2004 
To OMB 03/26/2004  05/06/2004  07/01/2004 
OMB Clearance 06/25/2004  10/01/2004  09/07/2004 
Publication Date 07/05/2004  10/08/2004  09/16/2004 
End of Comment Period 09/06/2004  12/08/2004  11/15/2004 
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: 69 FR 55895


Office of the Secretary
Office of the Secretary
74. 
Accessibility of Passenger Vessels to Individuals with Disabilities Green
Popular Title: Accessibility-passenger vessels
RIN 2105-AB87
Stage: ANPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: The Department's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) final rule, published September 6, 1991, reserved portions of the rule concerning passenger vessels. The ADA covers passenger vessels, but issuing accessibility requirements for vessels involves complex issues unlike those affecting land transportation. This rulemaking would address these issues and propose feasible requirements to make passenger vessels accessible to, and usable by, individuals with disabilities. Timing of this rulemaking is dependent on action by the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board) to adopt accessibility guidelines for passenger vessels. The Access Board plans to publish an ANPRM and Notice of Availability in the summer of 2004. DOT is preparing a concurrent ANPRM.
Effects:
  Federalism
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 07/26/1990
Dates for ANPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/30/2004    08/12/2004 
To OMB 08/30/2004  09/13/2004  09/14/2004 
OMB Clearance 09/13/2004  09/18/2004   
Publication Date 09/22/2004  09/25/2004   
End of Comment Period 12/21/2004  11/25/2004   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for ANPRM: None


Office of the Secretary
75. 
Aviation Data Requirements Review and Modernization Program Red
Popular Title: Aviation Data
RIN 2105-AC71
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 07/15/1998; End of Comment Period 09/14/1998; End of Reply Comment Period 10/13/1998.
Abstract: This rulemaking requested public comments from reporting carriers and aviation data users on the nature, scope, source, and means for collecting, processing, and distributing airline traffic, fare, and financial data. Specifically, it invited comments on whether existing airline traffic, fare, and financial data should be amended, supplemented, or replaced; whether selected forms and reports should be retained, modified, or eliminated; whether the Department should require all aviation data to be filed electronically; and how the aviation data system should be reengineered to enhance efficiency and to reduce costs for both the Department and the airline industry.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/15/1998
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 01/30/2004  05/31/2004  05/31/2004 
Returned to Mode     06/15/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/2   07/12/2004  07/26/2004 
To OMB 03/04/2004  09/07/2004  09/29/2004 
OMB Clearance 06/04/2004  12/07/2004   
Publication Date 06/12/2004  12/15/2004   
End of Comment Period 08/12/2004  02/15/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated impacts requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Office of the Secretary
76. 
Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and Agreements with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals and other Non-Profit Organizations Yellow
Popular Title: Uniform Administrative Requirements
RIN 2105-AC83
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 03/16/2000; End of Comment Period 05/15/2000.
Abstract: This rulemaking action implemented changes to OMB Circular A-110 that were issued by OMB on October 8, 1999, providing uniform guidance for administering grants to institutions of higher education, hospitals, and other nonprofit organizations. The change provides guidance on making data produced under awards available to the public. The regulation is essentially a word-for-word issuance of the requirements in OMB Circular A-110. An Interim Final Rule was issued because of the limited ability to change the requirements from those in the Circular.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 12/01/1999
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/01/2004    06/27/2004 
Publication Approved     09/24/2004 
Publication Date 11/09/2004  10/04/2004   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Office of the Secretary
77. 
Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Air Travel Green
Popular Title: ACAA - Foreign Carriers
RIN 2105-AC97
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would add coverage under the Air Carrier Access Act to foreign air carriers and comprehensively update and revise 14 CFR Part 382. It would also clarify or propose new provisions in such areas as movable aisle armrests, preboarding announcements, and accessibility of carrier web sites. This rulemaking has been upgraded to significant.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/05/2000
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 04/26/2004    04/26/2004 
To OMB 06/15/2004  06/25/2004  06/28/2004 
OMB Clearance 09/15/2004  09/28/2004  09/24/2004 
Publication Date 09/22/2004  10/07/2004   
End of Comment Period 11/22/2004  01/07/2005   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Office of the Secretary
78. 
Review of Data Filed by Certificated or Commuter Air Carriers to Support Continuing Fitness Determinations Involving Citizenship Issues Black
Popular Title: Fitness
RIN 2105-AD25
Stage: Undetermined
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 7/30/03; End of Comment Period 9/29/03.
Abstract: In response to a report by the Inspector General of the Department of Transportation, the Department is asking for comments on two issues relating to air carrier continuing fitness determinations involving citizenship issues. First, the Inspector General identified a list of criteria the Department typically uses to determine actual control of an air carrier when evaluating the citizenship of an air carrier during a continuing fitness review. The Department is seeking comment on whether there are any other factors or criteria the Department routinely considers in its evaluations that should be added to this list. Second, the Department seeks comments on the need for a regulatory change to the requirements of 14 CFR part 204 applicable to certificated and commuter air carriers proposing to undergo a substantial change in operations, ownership, or management that may impact their U.S. citizenship status. The Inspector General found that the Department's informal process is not well-suited to complex, contentious, and controversial cases involving citizenship determinations and suggested that the Department allow greater transparency and public participation in such matters, including public notice when such a review is initiated and completed, as well as public access to information filed with the Department during such reviews. There is no next stage at this point because OST is currently reviewing filed comments. The Department is considering what, if any, additional action to take in this rulemaking.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 02/13/2003
Dates for Undetermined:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST      
To OMB      
OMB Clearance      
Publication Date      
End of Comment Period      
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for Undetermined: None


Office of the Secretary
79. 
Petition of the National Air Carrier Association for Rulemaking Green
Popular Title: NACA Petition for Rulemaking
RIN 2105-AD38
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: The Department seeks comment on a proposal to revise its rules on charter operations. This proposal arises from a petition filed by the National Air Carrier Association (NACA). NACA seeks to make changes to the definitions and standards the Department uses to determine whether to grant or deny foreign air carrier requests to conduct certain types of international charter flights in 14 CFR Part 212. The Department grants NACA's petition, and proposes to make some, but not all of the changes sought by NACA. The Department proposes to make revisions to definitions in Part 212 relating to charter types, and to modify the Department's current charter application form so as to require updated reciprocity information as well as numbers of U.S.-homeland services vs. U.S.-non-homeland services. The Department does not anticipate adopting NACA's requests to impose a reciprocity standard that ensures substantially equivalent opportunities for U.S. carriers in the homeland of the applicant, or to accord U.S. carriers a right of first refusal over foreign carrier requests to conduct certain U.S.-originating charter operations. At the request of OMB, this rulemaking has been reclassified as significant.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 03/21/2002
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 04/19/2004    04/19/2004 
Returned to Mode     05/03/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/2     06/21/2004 
Returned to Mode/2     07/02/2004 
To OMB 07/26/2004    09/14/2004 
OMB Clearance 10/26/2004     
Publication Date 11/02/2004     
End of Comment Period 01/03/2005     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Office of the Secretary
80. 
Navigation of Foreign Civil Aircraft within the United States (14 CFR Part 375) Yellow
Popular Title: Foreign Civil Aircraft
RIN 2105-AD39
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: Part 375 of the Department's regulations, 14 CFR Part 375 provides for the operation in the United States of foreign civil aircraft that are not engaged in common carriage. Persons or entities seeking to operate foreign civil aircraft within the United States involving the carriage of persons, property and mail for remuneration or hire must obtain a foreign aircraft permit from the Department under that Part. On May 16, 2003, the National Business Aircraft Association (NBAA), a trade association that represents many business aircraft operators throughout the United States, wrote to the Department requesting a policy determination that certain types of operations that its representative companies might perform using U.S.-registered foreign civil aircraft (such as carriage of a company's own officials and guests, or aircraft time-sharing, interchange or joint ownership arrangements between companies) do not, in fact, constitute operations for remuneration or hire within the meaning of Part 375. The NBAA noted that a favorable response would eliminate the need for the companies involved to secure a permit for such operations. This rulemaking would amend 14 CFR Part 375 to clarify those circumstances under which companies operating U.S.-registered foreign civil aircraft are not deemed to be involved in air commerce for remuneration or hire and, therefore, are not required under Part 375 to obtain a foreign aircraft permit. At the request of OMB, this rulemaking has been reclassified as significant.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 05/16/2003
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 03/22/2004    03/29/2004 
Returned to Mode     06/15/2004 
Resubmitted to OST   07/02/2004  06/30/2004 
To OMB 05/26/2004  07/30/2004  07/21/2004 
OMB Clearance 08/26/2004  11/01/2004   
Publication Date 09/09/2004  11/08/2004   
End of Comment Period 11/10/2004  01/10/2005   
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Office of the Secretary
81. 
Display of Joint Operations in Carrier-Owned Computer Reservations Systems Regulations (Part 256) Green
Popular Title: Huey Rule
RIN 2105-AD44
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: None
Abstract: This rulemaking would terminate rules prohibiting airlines that own, control, or operate a computer reservations system from denying access to the system to two or more airlines whose flights share a single designator code and from discriminating against any airline because the airline uses the same designator code as another airline. This action would be consistent with the Department's determination that its comprehensive rules governing the operation of airline computer reservations systems should be terminated (see 69 Fed. Reg. 976 (January 7, 2004)).
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/31/2004
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 07/23/2004    07/22/2004 
To OMB 09/21/2004    09/14/2004 
OMB Clearance 12/21/2004     
Publication Date 12/28/2004     
End of Comment Period 02/28/2005     
Explanation for any delay: N/A
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Research and Special Programs Administration
Research and Special Programs Administration
82. 
Safeguarding Food from Contamination During Transportation Red
Popular Title: Sanitary Food
RIN 2137-AC00
Stage: SNPRM
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 02/20/1991; End of Comment Period 03/26/1991. NPRM: Publication Date 05/21/1993; End of Comment Period 10/18/1993.
Abstract: The Sanitary Food Transportation Act of 1990 (49 USC 5701 et seq.) requires the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Secretaries of Agriculture and Health and Human Services and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to issue regulations concerning the transportation of food, food additives, drugs, devices, and cosmetics in motor and rail vehicles also used to transport nonfood products that could pose an unreasonable danger to human or animal health when so transported. This rulemaking proposes to implement the statutory requirements. This rulemaking is significant because of substantial public and congressional interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, 08/01/1991. : 08/01/1991
Final rule due by : 08/01/1991
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 10/21/1990
Dates for SNPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 04/02/2004    04/02/2004 
To OMB 04/23/2004  06/11/2004  06/29/2004 
OMB Clearance 07/23/2004  09/29/2004   
Publication Date 07/30/2004  10/06/2004   
End of Comment Period 08/30/2004  12/06/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for SNPRM: None


Research and Special Programs Administration
83. 
Pipeline Safety: Response Plans for Onshore Oil Pipelines Red
Popular Title: Oil Pipeline Response
RIN 2137-AC30
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: Interim Final Rule: Publication Date 01/05/1993; End of Comment Period 02/19/1993; Notice of Public Meeting 06/15/1994; Notice of Public Hearing 1/21/1997.
Abstract: This rulemaking would establish regulations requiring response plans for certain onshore oil pipelines. Those regulations are mandated by the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101-380). The purpose of these requirements is to improve response capabilities and minimize the impact of onshore oil spills from pipelines. This rule is significant because of substantial public and congressional interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Statute
Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory : 08/18/1992
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/12/1992
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 05/07/2002  09/30/2003  09/15/2003 
Returned to Mode     09/16/2003 
Resubmitted to OST   09/16/2003  09/16/2003 
Returned to Mode/2     10/07/2003 
Resubmitted to OST/2   02/24/2004  03/12/2004 
Returned to Mode/2     03/16/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/3     03/25/2004 
Returned to Mode/3     04/27/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/4   09/01/2004  08/27/2004 
Returned to Mode/5     09/10/2004 
Resubmitted to OST/5 09/24/2004     
To OMB 06/03/2002  10/21/2004   
OMB Clearance 09/06/2002  01/21/2005   
Publication Date 09/13/2002  01/31/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Unanticipated issues requiring further analysis
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Research and Special Programs Administration
84. 
Hazardous Materials: Transportation of Oxygen Cylinders and Oxygen Generators Aboard Aircraft Red
Popular Title: Oxygen Cylinders
RIN 2137-AD33
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: This rulemaking would require oxygen cylinders and oxygen generators, when transported aboard aircraft, to be packed in an outer packaging that meets prescribed thermal and heat resistance requirements. These requirements would increase the level of safety associated with transportation of oxidizing gases by air. This rule has no impact on the use of passenger-owned oxygen cylinders. This rule is significant due to public interest.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 03/01/2000
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 11/21/2003    11/17/2003 
To OMB 12/22/2003    01/28/2004 
OMB Clearance 03/22/2004  04/28/2004  04/27/2004 
Publication Date 03/29/2004  05/06/2004  05/06/2004 
End of Comment Period 05/27/2004  07/06/2004  08/13/2004 
Extension of Comment Period     08/04/2004 
End of Extended Comment Period     12/13/2004 
Explanation for any delay: Awaiting development of additional data
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: 69 FR 25470


Research and Special Programs Administration
85. 
Hazardous Materials: Safety Requirements for External Product Piping on Cargo Tanks Transporting Flammable Liquids Red
Popular Title: Wetlines Rule
RIN 2137-AD36
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: ANPRM: Publication Date 02/10/2003; End of Comment Period 06/10/2003.
Abstract: This rulemaking would address requirements to reduce the risks associated with the retention of flammable liquid in unprotected product piping on a cargo tank motor vehicle during transportation (wetlines). It responds to an NTSB recommendation. It is significant because of industry concerns about its cost implications.
Effects:
  EIS
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 01/19/2000
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 12/05/2003  03/23/2004  03/17/2004 
To OMB 01/05/2004  07/08/2004  07/13/2004 
OMB Clearance 04/05/2004  10/13/2004   
Publication Date 04/12/2004  10/22/2004   
End of Comment Period 06/12/2004  12/22/2004   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Research and Special Programs Administration
86. 
Hazardous Materials; Transportation of Lithium Batteries Red
Popular Title: Lithium Batteries
RIN 2137-AD48
Stage: Final Rule
Previous Stage: NPRM: Publication Date 4/02/2002; End of Comment Period 6/02/2002.
Abstract: This rulemaking would revise requirements applicable to lithium batteries for consistency with international requirements. This rulemaking also responds to NTSB recommendations.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 04/02/2002
Dates for Final Rule:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 03/05/2003  03/05/2003  03/05/2003 
To OMB 04/09/2003  06/09/2003  06/06/2003 
Returned by OMB     08/22/2003 
Resubmitted to OST   02/04/2005   
Resubmitted to OMB/2   02/11/2005   
OMB Clearance 07/09/2003  02/25/2005   
Publication Date 07/16/2003  03/01/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Final Rule: None


Research and Special Programs Administration
87. 
Hazardous Materials: Infectious Substances; Harmonization with the United Nations Red
Popular Title: Infectious Substance; Harmonization
RIN 2137-AD93
Stage: NPRM
Previous Stage: None
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) to harmonize the current requirements for the Transport of Dangerous Goods with UN standards which revised the classification criteria for infectious substances, based on risk evaluations conductd by the World Health Organization and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It would also relax transportation requirements for certain infectious substances based on the level of risk associated with their transportation.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: None
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 03/01/2003
Dates for NPRM:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 06/30/2004  10/29/2004   
To OMB 08/03/2004  12/02/2004   
OMB Clearance 11/01/2004  03/02/2005   
Publication Date 11/08/2004  03/09/2005   
End of Comment Period 01/10/2005  05/05/2005   
Explanation for any delay: Awaiting development of additional data
Federal Register Citation for NPRM: None


Research and Special Programs Administration
88. 
Hazardous Materials: Enhancing Rail Transportation Security of Toxic by Inhalation Materials Red
Popular Title: TIH Rule
RIN 2137-AE02
Stage: Request for Comments
Previous Stage:None
Abstract: The Department of Transportation and the Department of Homeland Security are examining the need for enhanced security requirements for the rail transportation of hazardous materials that are toxic by inhalation. The two departments are seeking comments on the feasibility of initiating specific security enhancements and the potential costs and benefits of doing so. Security measures being considered include improvements to security plans, modifications of methods used to identify shipments, ehhanced requirements for temporary storage, strenghtened tank car integrity, and implemention of tracking and communication systems.
Effects:
  None
Prompting action: Presidential Direction
Legal Deadline:  None
Rulemaking Project Initiated: 05/01/2004
Dates for Request for Comments:
Milestone Originally
Scheduled
Date		 New
Projected
Date		 Actual
Date
To OST 05/27/2004    06/14/2004 
To OMB 06/02/2004  06/24/2004  06/29/2004 
OMB Clearance 06/07/2004  07/06/2004  07/26/2004 
Publication Date 06/14/2004  07/30/2004  08/16/2004 
End of Comment Period 08/16/2004  09/30/2004  10/18/2004 
Explanation for any delay: Additional coordination necessary
Federal Register Citation for Request for Comments: 69 FR 50987