80_FR_58852 80 FR 58663 - Freedom of Information Act Regulations

80 FR 58663 - Freedom of Information Act Regulations

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Office of the Secretary

Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 189 (September 30, 2015)

Page Range58663-58669
FR Document2015-24703

This rule would revise the regulations that the Department of the Interior (Department) follows in processing records under the Freedom of Information Act. The revisions clarify and update procedures for requesting information from the Department and procedures that the Department follows in responding to requests from the public.

Federal Register, Volume 80 Issue 189 (Wednesday, September 30, 2015)
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 189 (Wednesday, September 30, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 58663-58669]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2015-24703]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Office of the Secretary

43 CFR Part 2

[13XD4523WS DS10200000 DWSN00000.000000 WBS DP10202]
RIN 1093-AA19


Freedom of Information Act Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This rule would revise the regulations that the Department of 
the Interior (Department) follows in processing records under the 
Freedom of Information Act. The revisions clarify and update procedures 
for requesting information from the Department and procedures that the 
Department follows in responding to requests from the public.

DATES: Comments on the rulemaking must be submitted on or before 
November 30, 2015.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments on the rulemaking by either of the 
methods listed below. Please use Regulation Identifier Number 1093-AA19 
in your message.
    1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions on the Web site for submitting comments.
    2. U.S. mail, courier, or hand delivery: Executive Secretariat--
FOIA regulations, Department of the Interior, 1849 C Street NW., 
Washington, DC 20240.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cindy Cafaro, Office of Executive 
Secretariat and Regulatory Affairs, 202-208-5342.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

[[Page 58664]]

I. Why We're Publishing This Rule and What It Does

    In late 2012, the Department published a final rule updating and 
replacing the Department's previous Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 
regulations. Since that time, in order to maintain the independence of 
the Office of Inspector General (OIG), the Department and the OIG have 
agreed to authorize the OIG to process their own FOIA appeals. 
Additionally, the Department has recently migrated its Web site to a 
new framework, leading to updated links. Finally, the Department has 
received feedback from its FOIA practitioners and requesters and 
identified areas where it would be possible to further update, clarify, 
and streamline the language of some procedural provisions. Therefore, 
the Department is proposing to make the following changes:
     Section 2.1(e) would be amended to identify the 
regulations applicable to Privacy Act requests.
     Section 2.5(d) would be amended to provide more guidance 
on what happens when a request does not reasonably describe the records 
sought.
     Portions of Sec.  2.6 would be amended to make explicit 
that a fee waiver request is a valid way of responding to a request for 
additional fee information and to emphasize fee issues must be resolved 
before processing will begin.
     A sentence would be added to Sec.  2.8(a) to require a 
bureau that cannot readily reproduce the requested record in the form 
or format requested to explain why it cannot.
     Section 2.9(b) would be amended to remove a superfluous 
introductory phrase.
     Section 2.10 would be amended to highlight the 
requirements a requester seeking expedited processing must meet and the 
consequences of not meeting those requirements.
     Section 2.11 would be amended to reduce the suggested 
contact information provided by requesters.
     Section 2.12(c) would be amended to emphasize that 
reasonable efforts must be made to search for requested records and to 
clarify when searching for requested records in electronic form or 
format will not occur.
     A sentence would be added to Sec.  2.15(e) to require 
bureaus to provide more information to requesters when placing them in 
a different processing track than requested.
     Section 2.16(a) would be amended to clarify and streamline 
discussion of when the time period for responding to a request begins 
and ends.
     The introductory language of Sec.  2.19(a) would be 
amended to clarify when bureaus may extend the basic time limit.
     Portions of Sec.  2.20 would be amended to make explicit 
that expedited processing requests are only appropriate before the 
bureau issues its final response; to require bureaus to provide more 
information to requesters when denying expedited processing requests; 
and to clarify that the portion of an appeal that relates to an 
expedited processing denial, rather than the entire appeal, will be 
processed ahead of other appeals.
     Section 2.22(c) and (d) would be amended to clarify when 
records may be released to requesters.
     Section 2.23(a)(3) would be amended to add a clarifying 
phrase.
     Section 2.24(b) would be amended and enlarged to require 
bureaus to provide more information to requesters in denial 
notifications.
     Section 2.25(c) would be amended to clarify what 
information must be provided to requesters, and where, when portions of 
responsive records have been deleted.
     Section 2.26 and Sec.  2.27(a) would be amended to provide 
more information on when submitter notification is required.
     One word in Sec.  2.27(b) would be replaced to more 
closely track the language of Executive Order No. 12600, (52 FR 23781, 
published June 23, 1987).
     Section 2.28(a) would be amended to clarify that a general 
description of the request would suffice for submitter notices 
published under Sec.  2.27(b).
     Section 2.31(a)(1) and (2) would be amended to clarify the 
information a submitter must provide when objecting to the release of 
responsive information under Exemption 4.
     Section 2.37(g) would be added and Sec.  2.49(a)(1) would 
be amended so the concept that requesters generally will not be charged 
if the fee for processing their request is less than $50 is introduced 
sooner.
     Section 2.37(h) would be added to make the consequences of 
failure to pay bills for FOIA-related fees explicit.
     Section 2.37(i) would be added to notify requesters they 
can seek assistance, when considering reformulating their request to 
meet their needs at a lower cost, from the bureau's designated FOIA 
contact or FOIA Public Liaison.
     A sentence would be added to Sec.  2.38(b) to require 
bureaus to provide more information to requesters when placing them in 
a different fee category than requested.
     Section 2.39 would be amended to replace one word for the 
sake of grammatical consistency.
     Section 2.42(d) would be amended to further discuss the 
impact of requester preferences for paper and/or electronic formats.
     Section 2.44(b) would be amended to provide different 
examples of special services a requester might have to pay for.
     The introductory language of Sec. Sec.  2.45(a) and 
2.48(a) would be amended to clarify what a requester must demonstrate 
to be entitled to a fee waiver.
     Section 2.46(b) would be amended to clarify when fee 
waiver requests may be made.
     Minor grammatical changes would be made to Sec.  2.47(a), 
(c), and (d) to allow a new Sec.  2.47(e) to increase clarity and 
require bureaus to provide the requester with notice of anticipated 
fees when denying a request for a fee waiver.
     Section 2.48(a)(2)(v) would be amended to note that 
representatives of the news media will be presumed to have the ability 
and intent to disseminate the requested information to a reasonably 
broad audience of persons interested in the subject.
     Section 2.49(c) would be amended to allow requesters more 
flexibility in resolving fee issues.
     Portions of Sec.  2.50 would be amended to clarify and 
streamline discussion of advance payments.
     Section 2.51(b)(3) would be amended to ensure consistent 
phrasing.
     Section 2.57(a)(5) and (6) would be amended to include 
minor, clarifying additions.
     Section 2.60 would be amended to reflect that the FOIA 
Appeals Officer would no longer be the deciding official for FOIA 
appeals arising from OIG FOIA responses, and small portions of 
Sec. Sec.  2.20(c), 2.24(b)(5), 2.47(d), 2.62, and 2.63 would also be 
amended to reflect this change.
     Section 2.62 would be streamlined to follow the 
requirements of FOIA more closely.
     Section 2.66 would be amended to provide more information 
on the role played by FOIA Public Liaisons.
     A word would be added to the definition of ``multitrack 
processing'' in Section 2.70 to ensure it is consistent with Section 
2.14.
     Section 2.1(d), 2.1(g), 2.3(c), 2.21(a), 2.41(c), 2.59(a), 
2.65, and 2.70 would be amended to reflect updated Web site links.

II. Compliance With Laws and Executive Orders

1. Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)

    Executive Order (E.O) 12866 provides that the Office of Information 
and

[[Page 58665]]

Regulatory Affairs will review all significant rules. The Office of 
Information and Regulatory Affairs has determined that this rule is not 
significant.
    Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 while 
calling for improvements in the nation's regulatory system to promote 
predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, most 
innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends. 
The executive order directs agencies to consider regulatory approaches 
that reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of choice for 
the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and 
consistent with regulatory objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further 
that regulations must be based on the best available science and that 
the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open 
exchange of ideas. We have developed this rule in a manner consistent 
with these requirements.

2. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Department of the Interior certifies that this rule will not 
have a significant economic effect on a substantial number of small 
entities under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.).

3. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act

    This is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business 
Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. This rule:
    a. Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or 
more.
    b. Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for 
consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, or local government 
agencies, or geographic regions.
    c. Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, 
employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of 
U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises.

4. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    This rule does not impose an unfunded mandate on State, local, or 
tribal governments or the private sector of more than $100 million per 
year. This rule does not have a significant or unique effect on State, 
local, or tribal governments or the private sector. A statement 
containing the information required by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act 
(2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) is not required.

5. Takings (E.O. 12630)

    In accordance with Executive Order 12630, this rule does not have 
significant takings implications. A takings implication assessment is 
not required.

6. Federalism (E.O. 13132)

    In accordance with Executive Order 13132, this rule does not have 
sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a 
federalism summary impact statement. It would not substantially and 
directly affect the relationship between the Federal and state 
governments. A federalism summary impact statement is not required.

7. Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)

    In accordance with Executive Order 12988, the Office of the 
Solicitor has determined that this rule does not unduly burden the 
judicial system and meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) 
of the Executive Order.

8. Consultation With Indian Tribes (E.O. 13175)

    Under the criteria in Executive Order 13175, we have evaluated this 
rule and determined that it has no potential effects on federally 
recognized Indian tribes. This rule does not have tribal implications 
that impose substantial direct compliance costs on Indian Tribal 
governments.

9. Paperwork Reduction Act

    This rule does not contain information collection requirements, and 
a submission to the Office of Management and Budget under the Paperwork 
Reduction Act is not required.

9. National Environmental Policy Act

    This rule does not constitute a major Federal action significantly 
affecting the quality of the human environment. A detailed statement 
under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not 
required. Pursuant to Department Manual 516 DM 2.3A(2), Section 1.10 of 
516 DM 2, Appendix 1 excludes from documentation in an environmental 
assessment or impact statement ``policies, directives, regulations and 
guidelines of an administrative, financial, legal, technical or 
procedural nature; or the environmental effects of which are too broad, 
speculative or conjectural to lend themselves to meaningful analysis 
and will be subject late to the NEPA process, either collectively or 
case-by-case.''

10. Effects on the Energy Supply (E.O. 13211)

    This rule is not a significant energy action under the definition 
in Executive Order 13211. A Statement of Energy Effects is not 
required. This rule will not have a significant effect on the nation's 
energy supply, distribution, or use.

11. Clarity of This Regulation

    We are required by Executive Orders 12866 and 12988 and by the 
Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, to write all rules in plain 
language. This means that each rule we publish must:
    (a) Be logically organized;
    (b) Use the active voice to address readers directly;
    (c) Use clear language rather than jargon;
    (d) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and
    (e) Use lists and tables wherever possible.
    If you feel that we have not met these requirements, send us 
comments by one of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES section. To 
better help us revise the rule, your comments should be as specific as 
possible. For example, you should tell us the numbers of the sections 
or paragraphs that you find unclear, which sections or sentences are 
too long, the sections where you feel lists or tables would be useful, 
etc.

12. Public Availability of Comments

    Before including your address, phone number, email address, or 
other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be 
aware that your entire comment--including your personal identifying 
information--may be made publicly available at any time. While you can 
ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying 
information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be 
able to do so.

List of Subjects in 43 CFR Part 2

    Freedom of information.

Kristen J. Sarri,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy, Management, and 
Budget.

    For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Department of the 
Interior proposes to amend part 2 of title 43 of the Code of Federal 
Regulations as follows:

PART 2--FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT; RECORDS AND TESTIMONY

0
1. The authority citation for part 2 continues to read as follows:


[[Page 58666]]


    Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301, 552, 552a, 553; 31 U.S.C. 3717; 43 
U.S.C. 1460, 1461.

Subpart A--Introduction

0
2. Amend Sec.  2.1 by:
0
a. In paragraph (d), the second sentence, removing the Web site address 
``http://www.doi.gov/foia/guidance.cfm'' and adding in its place the 
Web site address https://www.doi.gov/foia/news/guidance;
0
b. Revising paragraph (e); and
0
c. In paragraph (g), the first sentence, removing the Web site address 
``http://www.doi.gov/foia/libraries.cfm'' and adding in its place the 
Web site address ``http://www.doi.gov/foia/libraries''.
    The revision reads as follows:


Sec.  2.1  What should you know up front?

* * * * *
    (e) The Department's regulations for requests made under the 
Privacy Act of 1974, 5 U.S.C. 552a, are located at subpart K of this 
part.
* * * * *

Subpart B--How To Make a Request


Sec.  2.3  [Amended]

0
3. Amend Sec.  2.3(c), the second sentence, by:
0
a. Removing the Web site address ``http://www.doi.gov/foia/index.cfm'' 
and adding in its place the Web site address ``https://www.doi.gov/
foia''; and
0
b. Removing the Web site address ``http://www.doi.gov/foia/contacts.cfm'' and adding in its place the Web site address ``http://www.doi.gov/foia/contacts''.
0
4. In Sec.  2.5, revise paragraph (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.5  How should you describe the records you seek?

* * * * *
    (d) If the request does not reasonably describe the records sought, 
the bureau will inform you what additional information you need to 
provide in order to reasonably describe the records that you seek so 
the requested records can be located with a reasonable amount of 
effort. The bureau will also notify you that it will not be able to 
comply with your request unless the additional information it has 
requested is received from you in writing within 20 workdays and that 
you may appeal this determination. If you receive this type of 
notification, you may wish to discuss it with the bureau's designated 
FOIA contact or its FOIA Public Liaison (see Sec.  2.66 of this part). 
If you do not provide the bureau with the additional information as 
discussed above, the bureau will presume that you are no longer 
interested in the records and will close the file on the request.
0
5. Amend Sec.  2.6 by:
0
a. In paragraph (b) introductory text by adding the words ``or request 
a fee waiver'' after the words ``pay processing fees''; and
0
b. Revising paragraphs (b)(3), (d), and (e).
    The revisions read as follows:


Sec.  2.6  How will fee information affect the processing of your 
request?

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (3) That it will not be able to fully comply with your request 
unless you provide a fee waiver request and/or the requested written 
assurance or advance payment.
* * * * *
    (d) If you are seeking a fee waiver, your request must include a 
justification that addresses and meets the criteria in Sec. Sec.  2.45, 
2.48, and 2.56 of this part. Failure to provide sufficient 
justification will result in a denial of the fee waiver request. If you 
are seeking a fee waiver, you may also indicate the amount you are 
willing to pay if the fee waiver is denied. This allows the bureau to 
process the request for records while it considers your fee waiver 
request.
    (e) The bureau will begin processing the request only after all 
issues regarding fees are resolved.
* * * * *
0
6. In Sec.  2.8, add a sentence to the end of paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  2.8  Can you ask for records to be disclosed in a particular form 
or format?

    (a) * * * If the bureau cannot readily reproduce the record in that 
form or format, it must explain why it cannot.
* * * * *
0
7. In Sec.  2.9, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.9  What if your request seeks records about another person?

* * * * *
    (b) The bureau can require you to supply additional information if 
necessary to verify that a particular person has consented to 
disclosure or is deceased.
0
8. Revise Sec.  2.10 to read as follows:


Sec.  2.10  May you ask for the processing of your request to be 
expedited?

    You may ask for the processing of your request to be expedited. If 
you are seeking expedited processing, your request must include a 
justification that addresses and meets the criteria in Sec.  2.20 of 
this part. Failure to provide sufficient justification will result in a 
denial of the expedited processing request.
0
9. Revise Sec.  2.11 to read as follows:


Sec.  2.11  What contact information should your request include?

    A request should include your name and a way (such as a mailing or 
email address) for the bureau to send responsive records to you and to 
request additional information or clarification of your request. You 
may also wish to include a daytime telephone number (or the name and 
telephone number of an appropriate contact).

Subpart C--Processing Requests

0
10. In Sec.  2.12, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.12  What should you know about how bureaus process requests?

* * * * *
    (c) The bureau will make reasonable efforts to search for the 
requested records. As part of its reasonable efforts, the bureau will 
search paper and/or electronic records (for example, emails), as 
appropriate. The bureau will not search for records in an electronic 
form or format if these efforts would significantly interfere with the 
operation of the bureau's automated information system.
* * * * *

Subpart D--Timing of Responses to Requests

0
11. In Sec.  2.15, add a sentence to the end of paragraph (e) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  2.15  What is multitrack processing and how does it affect your 
request?

* * * * *
    (e) * * * If you request placement in a particular processing track 
but the bureau places you in a different processing track, the bureau 
will provide you with an explanation of why you were not placed in the 
processing track you requested.
* * * * *
0
12. In Sec.  2.16, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.16  What is the basic time limit for responding to a request?

    (a) Ordinarily, the bureau has 20 workdays (including the date of 
receipt) to determine whether to comply with a request, but unusual 
circumstances may allow the bureau to take longer than 20 workdays (see 
Sec.  2.19 of this subpart).
* * * * *
0
13. In Sec.  2.19, revise paragraph (a) introductory text to read as 
follows:


Sec.  2.19  When may the bureau extend the basic time limit?

    (a) The bureau may extend the basic time limit, if unusual 
circumstances exist, by notifying you in writing of:
* * * * *

[[Page 58667]]

0
14. In Sec.  2.20, revise paragraphs (c), (f), and (g) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  2.20  When will expedited processing be provided and how will it 
affect your request?

* * * * *
    (c) You may ask for expedited processing of your request by writing 
to the appropriate FOIA contact in the bureau that maintains the 
records requested any time before the bureau issues its final response 
to your request. When making a request for expedited processing of an 
administrative appeal, submit the request to the appropriate deciding 
official for FOIA appeals.
* * * * *
    (f) If expedited processing is denied, the bureau will:
    (1) Inform you of the basis for the denial, including an 
explanation of why the expedited processing request does not meet the 
Department's expedited processing criteria under this section; and
    (2) Notify you of the right to appeal the decision on expedited 
processing in accordance with the procedures in subpart H of this part.
    (g) If you appeal the bureau's expedited processing decision, this 
portion of your appeal (if it is properly formatted under Sec.  2.59 of 
this part) will be processed before appeals that do not challenge 
expedited processing decisions.
* * * * *

Subpart E--Responses to Requests


Sec.  2.21--[Amended]  

0
15. In Sec.  2.21(a), the second sentence, remove the Web site address 
``http://www.doi.gov/foia/news/guidance/index.cfm'' and add in its 
place the Web site address ``https://www.doi.gov/foia/news/guidance''.
0
16. Amend Sec.  2.22 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph (c); and
0
b. In paragraph (d), adding the words ``released or'' after the words 
``the records will be''.
    The revision reads as follows:


Sec.  2.22  How will bureaus grant requests?

* * * * *
    (c) The bureau will release records (or portions of records) to you 
promptly upon payment of any applicable fees (or before then, at its 
discretion).
* * * * *


Sec.  2.23--[Amended]  

0
17. In Sec.  2.23(a)(3), add the words ``and/or control'' after the 
words ``bureau's possession''.
0
18. In Sec.  2.24, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.24  How will the bureau deny requests?

* * * * *
    (b) The denial notification must include:
    (1) The name and title or position of the person responsible for 
the denial, along with an office phone number or email address;
    (2) A statement of the reasons for the denial;
    (3) A reference to any FOIA exemption applied by the bureau to 
withhold records in full or in part;
    (4) An estimate of the volume of any records withheld in full or in 
part (for example, by providing the number of pages or some other 
reasonable form of estimation), unless an estimate would harm an 
interest protected by an exemption used to withhold the records;
    (5) The name and title of the Office of the Solicitor or Office of 
General Counsel attorney consulted (if the bureau is denying a fee 
waiver request or withholding all or part of a requested record); and
    (6) A statement that the denial may be appealed under subpart H of 
this part and a description of the procedures in subpart H of this 
part.
0
19. In Sec.  2.25, revise paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.25  What if the requested records contain both exempt and 
nonexempt material?

* * * * *
    (c) If technically feasible, indicating the FOIA exemption under 
which the deletion of information was made, as required by paragraph 
(b) of this section, at the place in the record where the deletion was 
made.

Subpart F--Handling Confidential Information

0
20. Revise Sec.  2.26 to read as follows:


Sec.  2.26  May submitters of possibly confidential information 
designate confidential information when making Departmental 
submissions?

    (a) The Department encourages, but does not require, submitters to 
designate confidential information in good faith (in other words, to 
identify specific information as information considered protected from 
disclosure under Exemption 4 of the FOIA, found at 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(4)), 
at the time of submission or reasonably soon thereafter.
    (b) The designations discussed in paragraph (a) of this section 
assist the bureau in determining whether information obtained from the 
submitter is confidential, but are not determinative; these 
designations therefore do not preempt the requirement for bureau-
provided notifications under Sec.  2.27 of this subpart.
0
21. Amend Sec.  2.27 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph (a); and
0
b. In paragraph (b), removing the word ``large'' and adding in its 
place the word ``voluminous''.
    The revision reads as follows:


Sec.  2.27  When will the bureau notify a submitter of a request for 
their possibly confidential information?

    (a) Except as outlined in Sec.  2.29 of this subpart, a bureau must 
promptly notify a submitter in writing when it receives a FOIA request 
if:
    (1) The requested information has been designated by the submitter 
under Sec.  2.26(a) of this subpart; or
    (2) The requested information has not been designated by the 
submitter under Sec.  2.26(a) of this subpart, but the requested 
information may be protected from disclosure under Exemption 4 of the 
FOIA, found at 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(4).
* * * * *
0
22. In Sec.  2.28, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.28  What information will the bureau include when it notifies a 
submitter of a request for their possibly confidential information?

* * * * *
    (a) Either a copy of the request, the exact language of the 
request, or (for notices published under Sec.  2.27(b) of this subpart) 
a general description of the request;
* * * * *
0
23. In Sec.  2.31, revise paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.31  What must a submitter include in a detailed Exemption 4 
objection statement?

    (a) * * *
    (1) Whether the submitter provided the information voluntarily and, 
if so, how disclosure will impair the Government's ability to obtain 
similar information in the future and/or how the information fits into 
a category of information that the submitter does not customarily 
release to the public;
    (2) Whether the Government required the information to be 
submitted, and if so, how disclosure will impair the Government's 
ability to obtain similar information in the future and/or how 
substantial competitive or other business harm would likely result from 
disclosure; and
* * * * *

Subpart G--Fees

    24. In Sec.  2.37, add paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) to read as 
follows:

[[Page 58668]]

Sec.  2.37  What general principles govern fees?

* * * * *
    (g) If the fee for processing your request is less than $50, you 
will not be charged unless multiple requests are aggregated under Sec.  
2.54 of this subpart to an amount that is $50 or more.
    (h) If you fail to pay any FOIA-related fee within 30 calendar days 
of the date of billing, the processing of any new or ongoing requests 
and/or appeals from you shall ordinarily be suspended.
    (i) If you would like to reformulate your request so it will meet 
your needs at a lower cost, you may wish to seek assistance from the 
bureau's designated FOIA contact or its FOIA Public Liaison (see Sec.  
2.66 of this part).
0
25. In Sec.  2.38, add a sentence to the end of paragraph (b) to read 
as follows:


Sec.  2.38  What are the requester fee categories?

* * * * *
    (b) * * * If you request placement in a particular fee category but 
the bureau places you in a different fee category, the bureau will 
provide you with an explanation of why you were not placed in the fee 
category you requested (for example, if you were placed in the 
commercial use requester category rather than the category you 
requested, the bureau will describe how the records would further your 
commercial, trade, or profit interests).
* * * * *


Sec.  2.39--[Amended]  

0
26. In Sec.  2.39, in the table in paragraph (a), remove the word 
``non-commercial'' and add in its place the word ``noncommercial.''


Sec.  2.41--[Amended]  

0
27. In Sec.  2.41(c), remove the Web site address ``http://www.doi.gov/
foia/fees-waivers.cfm'' and add in its place the Web site address 
``http://www.doi.gov/foia/fees-waivers''.
0
28. In Sec.  2.42, revise paragraph (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.42  What duplication fees will you have to pay?

* * * * *
    (d) If the bureau must scan paper records to accommodate your 
preference to receive records in an electronic format or print 
electronic records to accommodate your preference to receive records in 
a paper format, you will pay both the per page amount noted in Appendix 
A to this part and the time spent by personnel scanning or printing the 
requested records. For each quarter hour spent by personnel scanning or 
printing the requested records, the fees will be the same as those 
charged for a search under Sec.  2.41(b) of this subpart.
0
29. In Sec.  2.44, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.44  What fees for other services will you have to pay?

* * * * *
    (b) Examples of these services include providing multiple copies of 
the same record, converting records that are not already maintained in 
a requested format to the requested format, obtaining research data 
under Sec.  2.69 of this part, sending records by means other than 
first class mail, and conducting a search that requires the creation of 
a new computer search program to locate the requested records.
* * * * *


Sec.  2.45  [Amended]

0
30. In Sec.  2.45, in paragraph (a) introductory text, remove the words 
``under the factors'' and add in their place the words ``by addressing 
and meeting each of the criteria''.
0
31. In Sec.  2.46, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.46  When may you ask the bureau for a fee waiver?

* * * * *
    (b) You may submit a fee waiver request at a later time if the 
bureau has not yet completed processing your request.
0
32. Amend Sec.  2.47 by:
0
a. In paragraph (a), removing the period at the end of the paragraph 
and adding in its place a semicolon;
0
b. In paragraph (c), removing the word ``and'' at the end of the 
paragraph;
0
c. In paragraph (d), removing the period at the end of the paragraph 
and adding in its place ``; and''; and
0
d. Adding paragraph (e).
    The addition reads as follows:


Sec.  2.47  How will the bureau notify you if it denies your fee waiver 
request?

* * * * *
    (e) Your anticipated fees, in accordance with Sec.  2.49 of this 
subpart.
0
33. Amend Sec.  2.48 by revising paragraph (a) introductory text and 
adding a sentence to the end of paragraph (a)(2)(v) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.48  How will the bureau evaluate your fee waiver request?

    (a) In deciding whether your fee waiver request meets the 
requirements of Sec.  2.45(a)(1) of this subpart, the bureau will 
consider the criteria listed in paragraphs (a)(1) through (4) of this 
section. You must address and meet each of these criteria in order to 
demonstrate that you are entitled to a fee waiver.
* * * * *
    (2) * * *
    (v)* * * If you are a representative of the news media, we will 
presume you have this ability and intent.
* * * * *
0
34. In Sec.  2.49, revise paragraphs (a)(1) and (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.49  When will you be notified of anticipated fees?

    (a) * * *
    (1) The anticipated fee is less than $50 (see Sec.  2.37(g) of this 
subpart).
* * * * *
    (c) The bureau must receive information from you that resolves any 
fee issues, in accordance with paragraphs (b)(2) and/or (4) of this 
section, within 20 workdays or the bureau will close the request.
* * * * *
0
35. In Sec.  2.50, revise paragraph (a), paragraph (b) introductory 
text, and paragraphs (c) and (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.50  When will the bureau require advance payment?

    (a) When a bureau determines or estimates that the total fee you 
will be charged under this subpart will exceed $250, the bureau may 
require you to make an advance payment up to the amount of the entire 
anticipated fee before the bureau begins, or continues, to process your 
request. If you have a history of prompt payment of FOIA fees, a bureau 
may elect to process your request before collecting fees when you 
provide it with a satisfactory assurance of full payment.
    (b) If the bureau believes that you did not pay a previous FOIA fee 
within 30 calendar days of the date of billing, the bureau will require 
you to either:
* * * * *
    (c) When the bureau notifies you that an advance payment is due 
under paragraph (a) of this section, it will give you an opportunity to 
reduce the fee by modifying the request.
    (d) Your payment of the funds you owe the bureau for work it has 
already completed before records are sent to you is not an advance 
payment under Sec.  2.50(a) of this subpart.
* * * * *


Sec.  2.51  [Amended]

0
36. In Sec.  2.51(b)(3), remove the words ``hears from you'' and add in 
their place the words ``receives a written response from you''.

[[Page 58669]]

Subpart H--Administrative Appeals


Sec.  2.57  [Amended]

0
37. Amend Sec.  2.57 by:
0
a. In paragraph (a)(5), adding the words ``or you have been placed in 
the wrong fee category'' after the word ``calculated''; and
0
b. In paragraph (a)(6), adding the words ``your request for'' after the 
word ``denied''.


Sec.  2.59  [Amended]

0
38. In Sec.  2.59(a), the first sentence, remove the Web site address 
``http://www.doi.gov/foia/appeals.cfm'' and add in its place the Web 
site address ``http://www.doi.gov/foia/appeals''.
0
39. Revise Sec.  2.60 to read as follows:


Sec.  2.60  Who makes decisions on appeals?

    (a) The FOIA Appeals Officer is the deciding official for FOIA 
appeals that do not appeal a decision of the Office of the Inspector 
General.
    (b) The General Counsel is the deciding official for FOIA appeals 
that appeal a decision of the Office of the Inspector General.
    (c) When necessary, the appropriate deciding official for FOIA 
appeals will consult other appropriate offices, including the Office of 
the Solicitor or Office of General Counsel for denials of records and 
fee waivers.
    (d) The deciding official for FOIA appeals normally will not make a 
decision on an appeal if the request becomes a matter of FOIA 
litigation.
0
40. Revise Sec.  2.62 to read as follows:


Sec.  2.62  When can you expect a decision on your appeal?

    (a) The basic time limit for responding to an appeal is 20 workdays 
after receipt of an appeal meeting the requirements of Sec.  2.59 of 
this subpart.
    (b) If the Department is unable to reach a decision on your appeal 
within the given time limit for response, the appropriate deciding 
official for FOIA appeals will notify you of your statutory right to 
seek review in a United States District Court.


Sec.  2.63  [Amended]

0
41. In Sec.  2.63, paragraphs (b) and (c), remove the words ``FOIA 
Appeals Officer'' and add in their place the words ``appropriate 
deciding official for FOIA appeals''.

Subpart I--General Information


Sec.  2.65  [Amended]

0
42. In Sec.  2.65, the first sentence, remove the Web site address 
``http://www.doi.gov/foia/libraries.cfm'' and add in its place the Web 
site address ``http://www.doi.gov/foia/libraries''.
0
43. In Sec.  2.66, revise paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.66  What are public liaisons?

    (a) Each bureau has a FOIA Public Liaison who can assist requesters 
who have concerns about the service they received when seeking records 
or who are seeking assistance under Sec.  2.3(d) or Sec.  2.37(i) of 
this part.
* * * * *


Sec.  2.70  [Amended]

0
44. Amend Sec.  2.70 by:
0
a. In the definition of Bureau, removing the Web site address ``http://www.doi.gov/foia/contacts.cfm'' and adding in its place the Web site 
address http://www.doi.gov/foia/contacts; and
0
b. In the definition of Multitrack processing, the second sentence, 
adding the word ``ordinarily'' after the word ``are''.
[FR Doc. 2015-24703 Filed 9-29-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4310-10-P



                                                                      Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 189 / Wednesday, September 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules                                                58663

                                                    information collection requirements that                G. Executive Order 13045: Protection of               resources, Oil pollution, Penalties,
                                                    require approval of the OMB.                            Children From Environmental Health                    Reporting and recordkeeping
                                                                                                            and Safety Risks                                      requirements, Superfund, Water
                                                    C. Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)                                                                           pollution control, Water supply.
                                                                                                               The EPA interprets Executive Order
                                                       I certify that this action will not have             13045 as applying only to those                         Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1321(c)(2); 42 U.S.C.
                                                    a significant economic impact on a                      regulatory actions that concern                       9601–9657; E.O. 13626, 77 FR 56749, 3 CFR,
                                                    substantial number of small entities                    environmental health or safety risks that             2013 Comp., p. 306; E.O. 12777, 56 FR 54757,
                                                                                                            the EPA has reason to believe may                     3 CFR, 1991 Comp., p. 351; E.O. 12580, 52
                                                    under the RFA. This action will not                                                                           FR 2923, 3 CFR, 1987 Comp., p. 193.
                                                    impose any requirements on small                        disproportionately affect children, per
                                                    entities. This rule listing sites on the                the definition of ‘‘covered regulatory                  Dated: September 21, 2015.
                                                    NPL does not impose any obligations on                  action’’ in section 2–202 of the                      Mathy Stanislaus,
                                                    any group, including small entities. This               Executive Order. This action is not                   Assistant Administrator,Office of Solid Waste
                                                    rule also does not establish standards or               subject to Executive Order 13045                      and Emergency Response.
                                                                                                            because this action itself is procedural              [FR Doc. 2015–24318 Filed 9–29–15; 8:45 am]
                                                    requirements that any small entity must
                                                                                                            in nature (adds sites to a list) and does             BILLING CODE 6560–50–P
                                                    meet, and imposes no direct costs on
                                                                                                            not, in and of itself, provide protection
                                                    any small entity. Whether an entity,                    from environmental health and safety
                                                    small or otherwise, is liable for response              risks. Separate future regulatory actions
                                                    costs for a release of hazardous                        are required for mitigation of                        DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
                                                    substances depends on whether that                      environmental health and safety risks.
                                                    entity is liable under CERCLA 107(a).                                                                         Office of the Secretary
                                                    Any such liability exists regardless of                 H. Executive Order 13211: Actions
                                                    whether the site is listed on the NPL                   Concerning Regulations That
                                                                                                            Significantly Affect Energy Supply,                   43 CFR Part 2
                                                    through this rulemaking.
                                                                                                            Distribution, or Use
                                                    D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act                                                                               [13XD4523WS DS10200000
                                                                                                              This action is not subject to Executive             DWSN00000.000000 WBS DP10202]
                                                    (UMRA)                                                  Order 13211, because it is not a
                                                                                                            significant regulatory action under
                                                       This action does not contain any                                                                           RIN 1093–AA19
                                                                                                            Executive Order 12866.
                                                    unfunded mandate as described in
                                                    UMRA, 2 U.S.C. 1531–1538, and does                      I. National Technology Transfer and                   Freedom of Information Act
                                                    not significantly or uniquely affect small              Advancement Act (NTTAA)                               Regulations
                                                    governments. This action imposes no                        This rulemaking does not involve                   AGENCY:    Office of the Secretary, Interior.
                                                    enforceable duty on any state, local or                 technical standards.
                                                                                                                                                                  ACTION:   Proposed rule.
                                                    tribal governments or the private sector.
                                                                                                            J. Executive Order 12898: Federal
                                                    Listing a site on the NPL does not itself                                                                     SUMMARY:   This rule would revise the
                                                                                                            Actions To Address Environmental
                                                    impose any costs. Listing does not mean                 Justice in Minority Populations and                   regulations that the Department of the
                                                    that the EPA necessarily will undertake                 Low-Income Populations                                Interior (Department) follows in
                                                    remedial action. Nor does listing require                                                                     processing records under the Freedom
                                                    any action by a private party, state, local                The EPA believes the human health or
                                                                                                                                                                  of Information Act. The revisions clarify
                                                                                                            environmental risk addressed by this
                                                    or tribal governments or determine                                                                            and update procedures for requesting
                                                                                                            action will not have potential
                                                    liability for response costs. Costs that                                                                      information from the Department and
                                                                                                            disproportionately high and adverse
                                                    arise out of site responses result from                                                                       procedures that the Department follows
                                                                                                            human health or environmental effects
                                                    future site-specific decisions regarding                                                                      in responding to requests from the
                                                                                                            on minority, low-income or indigenous
                                                    what actions to take, not directly from                                                                       public.
                                                                                                            populations because it does not affect
                                                    the act of placing a site on the NPL                    the level of protection provided to                   DATES: Comments on the rulemaking
                                                    E. Executive Order 13132: Federalism                    human health or the environment. As                   must be submitted on or before
                                                                                                            discussed in Section I.C. of the                      November 30, 2015.
                                                      This rule does not have federalism                    preamble to this action, the NPL is a list            ADDRESSES: You may submit comments
                                                    implications. It will not have substantial              of national priorities. The NPL is                    on the rulemaking by either of the
                                                    direct effects on the states, on the                    intended primarily to guide the EPA in                methods listed below. Please use
                                                    relationship between the national                       determining which sites warrant further               Regulation Identifier Number 1093–
                                                    government and the states, or on the                    investigation to assess the nature and                AA19 in your message.
                                                    distribution of power and                               extent of public health and                             1. Federal eRulemaking Portal:
                                                    responsibilities among the various                      environmental risks associated with a                 http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
                                                    levels of government.                                   release of hazardous substances,                      instructions on the Web site for
                                                                                                            pollutants or contaminants. The NPL is                submitting comments.
                                                    F. Executive Order 13175: Consultation                  of only limited significance as it does                 2. U.S. mail, courier, or hand delivery:
                                                    and Coordination With Indian Tribal                     not assign liability to any party. Also,              Executive Secretariat—FOIA
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    Governments                                             placing a site on the NPL does not mean               regulations, Department of the Interior,
                                                                                                            that any remedial or removal action                   1849 C Street NW., Washington, DC
                                                      This action does not have tribal                      necessarily need be taken.                            20240.
                                                    implications as specified in Executive
                                                    Order 13175. Listing a site on the NPL                  List of Subjects in 40 CFR Part 300                   FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                    does not impose any costs on a tribe or                   Environmental protection, Air                       Cindy Cafaro, Office of Executive
                                                    require a tribe to take remedial action.                pollution control, Chemicals, Hazardous               Secretariat and Regulatory Affairs, 202–
                                                    Thus, Executive Order 13175 does not                    substances, Hazardous waste,                          208–5342.
                                                    apply to this action.                                   Intergovernmental relations, Natural                  SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:



                                               VerDate Sep<11>2014   17:54 Sep 29, 2015   Jkt 235001   PO 00000   Frm 00028   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\30SEP1.SGM   30SEP1


                                                    58664             Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 189 / Wednesday, September 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules

                                                    I. Why We’re Publishing This Rule and                   when bureaus may extend the basic                        • Section 2.42(d) would be amended
                                                    What It Does                                            time limit.                                           to further discuss the impact of
                                                       In late 2012, the Department                            • Portions of § 2.20 would be                      requester preferences for paper and/or
                                                    published a final rule updating and                     amended to make explicit that                         electronic formats.
                                                    replacing the Department’s previous                     expedited processing requests are only                   • Section 2.44(b) would be amended
                                                    Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)                       appropriate before the bureau issues its              to provide different examples of special
                                                    regulations. Since that time, in order to               final response; to require bureaus to                 services a requester might have to pay
                                                    maintain the independence of the Office                 provide more information to requesters                for.
                                                    of Inspector General (OIG), the                         when denying expedited processing                        • The introductory language of
                                                    Department and the OIG have agreed to                   requests; and to clarify that the portion             §§ 2.45(a) and 2.48(a) would be
                                                    authorize the OIG to process their own                  of an appeal that relates to an expedited             amended to clarify what a requester
                                                    FOIA appeals. Additionally, the                         processing denial, rather than the entire             must demonstrate to be entitled to a fee
                                                    Department has recently migrated its                    appeal, will be processed ahead of other              waiver.
                                                                                                            appeals.                                                 • Section 2.46(b) would be amended
                                                    Web site to a new framework, leading to
                                                    updated links. Finally, the Department                     • Section 2.22(c) and (d) would be                 to clarify when fee waiver requests may
                                                    has received feedback from its FOIA                     amended to clarify when records may be                be made.
                                                                                                            released to requesters.                                  • Minor grammatical changes would
                                                    practitioners and requesters and
                                                    identified areas where it would be                         • Section 2.23(a)(3) would be                      be made to § 2.47(a), (c), and (d) to allow
                                                                                                            amended to add a clarifying phrase.                   a new § 2.47(e) to increase clarity and
                                                    possible to further update, clarify, and
                                                    streamline the language of some                            • Section 2.24(b) would be amended                 require bureaus to provide the requester
                                                                                                            and enlarged to require bureaus to                    with notice of anticipated fees when
                                                    procedural provisions. Therefore, the
                                                                                                            provide more information to requesters                denying a request for a fee waiver.
                                                    Department is proposing to make the
                                                                                                            in denial notifications.                                 • Section 2.48(a)(2)(v) would be
                                                    following changes:
                                                       • Section 2.1(e) would be amended to                    • Section 2.25(c) would be amended                 amended to note that representatives of
                                                    identify the regulations applicable to                  to clarify what information must be                   the news media will be presumed to
                                                    Privacy Act requests.                                   provided to requesters, and where,                    have the ability and intent to
                                                       • Section 2.5(d) would be amended to                 when portions of responsive records                   disseminate the requested information
                                                    provide more guidance on what                           have been deleted.                                    to a reasonably broad audience of
                                                    happens when a request does not                            • Section 2.26 and § 2.27(a) would be              persons interested in the subject.
                                                    reasonably describe the records sought.                 amended to provide more information                      • Section 2.49(c) would be amended
                                                       • Portions of § 2.6 would be amended                 on when submitter notification is                     to allow requesters more flexibility in
                                                    to make explicit that a fee waiver                      required.                                             resolving fee issues.
                                                    request is a valid way of responding to                    • One word in § 2.27(b) would be                      • Portions of § 2.50 would be
                                                    a request for additional fee information                replaced to more closely track the                    amended to clarify and streamline
                                                    and to emphasize fee issues must be                     language of Executive Order No. 12600,                discussion of advance payments.
                                                                                                            (52 FR 23781, published June 23, 1987).                  • Section 2.51(b)(3) would be
                                                    resolved before processing will begin.
                                                       • A sentence would be added to                          • Section 2.28(a) would be amended                 amended to ensure consistent phrasing.
                                                                                                            to clarify that a general description of                 • Section 2.57(a)(5) and (6) would be
                                                    § 2.8(a) to require a bureau that cannot
                                                                                                            the request would suffice for submitter               amended to include minor, clarifying
                                                    readily reproduce the requested record
                                                                                                            notices published under § 2.27(b).                    additions.
                                                    in the form or format requested to                                                                               • Section 2.60 would be amended to
                                                    explain why it cannot.                                     • Section 2.31(a)(1) and (2) would be
                                                                                                                                                                  reflect that the FOIA Appeals Officer
                                                       • Section 2.9(b) would be amended to                 amended to clarify the information a
                                                                                                            submitter must provide when objecting                 would no longer be the deciding official
                                                    remove a superfluous introductory
                                                                                                            to the release of responsive information              for FOIA appeals arising from OIG FOIA
                                                    phrase.
                                                       • Section 2.10 would be amended to                   under Exemption 4.                                    responses, and small portions of
                                                    highlight the requirements a requester                     • Section 2.37(g) would be added and               §§ 2.20(c), 2.24(b)(5), 2.47(d), 2.62, and
                                                    seeking expedited processing must meet                  § 2.49(a)(1) would be amended so the                  2.63 would also be amended to reflect
                                                    and the consequences of not meeting                     concept that requesters generally will                this change.
                                                                                                            not be charged if the fee for processing                 • Section 2.62 would be streamlined
                                                    those requirements.
                                                       • Section 2.11 would be amended to                   their request is less than $50 is                     to follow the requirements of FOIA
                                                    reduce the suggested contact                            introduced sooner.                                    more closely.
                                                                                                               • Section 2.37(h) would be added to                   • Section 2.66 would be amended to
                                                    information provided by requesters.
                                                       • Section 2.12(c) would be amended                   make the consequences of failure to pay               provide more information on the role
                                                    to emphasize that reasonable efforts                    bills for FOIA-related fees explicit.                 played by FOIA Public Liaisons.
                                                                                                               • Section 2.37(i) would be added to                   • A word would be added to the
                                                    must be made to search for requested
                                                                                                            notify requesters they can seek                       definition of ‘‘multitrack processing’’ in
                                                    records and to clarify when searching
                                                                                                            assistance, when considering                          Section 2.70 to ensure it is consistent
                                                    for requested records in electronic form
                                                                                                            reformulating their request to meet their             with Section 2.14.
                                                    or format will not occur.                                                                                        • Section 2.1(d), 2.1(g), 2.3(c), 2.21(a),
                                                       • A sentence would be added to                       needs at a lower cost, from the bureau’s
                                                                                                            designated FOIA contact or FOIA Public                2.41(c), 2.59(a), 2.65, and 2.70 would be
                                                    § 2.15(e) to require bureaus to provide
                                                                                                                                                                  amended to reflect updated Web site
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    more information to requesters when                     Liaison.
                                                                                                               • A sentence would be added to                     links.
                                                    placing them in a different processing
                                                    track than requested.                                   § 2.38(b) to require bureaus to provide               II. Compliance With Laws and
                                                       • Section 2.16(a) would be amended                   more information to requesters when                   Executive Orders
                                                    to clarify and streamline discussion of                 placing them in a different fee category
                                                    when the time period for responding to                  than requested.                                       1. Regulatory Planning and Review
                                                    a request begins and ends.                                 • Section 2.39 would be amended to                 (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)
                                                       • The introductory language of                       replace one word for the sake of                         Executive Order (E.O) 12866 provides
                                                    § 2.19(a) would be amended to clarify                   grammatical consistency.                              that the Office of Information and


                                               VerDate Sep<11>2014   17:54 Sep 29, 2015   Jkt 235001   PO 00000   Frm 00029   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\30SEP1.SGM   30SEP1


                                                                      Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 189 / Wednesday, September 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules                                             58665

                                                    Regulatory Affairs will review all                      5. Takings (E.O. 12630)                               10. Effects on the Energy Supply (E.O.
                                                    significant rules. The Office of                                                                              13211)
                                                    Information and Regulatory Affairs has                    In accordance with Executive Order
                                                                                                            12630, this rule does not have                          This rule is not a significant energy
                                                    determined that this rule is not                                                                              action under the definition in Executive
                                                    significant.                                            significant takings implications. A
                                                                                                            takings implication assessment is not                 Order 13211. A Statement of Energy
                                                      Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the                   required.                                             Effects is not required. This rule will not
                                                    principles of E.O. 12866 while calling                                                                        have a significant effect on the nation’s
                                                    for improvements in the nation’s                        6. Federalism (E.O. 13132)                            energy supply, distribution, or use.
                                                    regulatory system to promote
                                                    predictability, to reduce uncertainty,                    In accordance with Executive Order                  11. Clarity of This Regulation
                                                    and to use the best, most innovative,                   13132, this rule does not have sufficient                We are required by Executive Orders
                                                    and least burdensome tools for                          federalism implications to warrant the                12866 and 12988 and by the
                                                    achieving regulatory ends. The                          preparation of a federalism summary                   Presidential Memorandum of June 1,
                                                    executive order directs agencies to                     impact statement. It would not                        1998, to write all rules in plain
                                                    consider regulatory approaches that                     substantially and directly affect the                 language. This means that each rule we
                                                    reduce burdens and maintain flexibility                 relationship between the Federal and                  publish must:
                                                    and freedom of choice for the public                    state governments. A federalism                          (a) Be logically organized;
                                                    where these approaches are relevant,                    summary impact statement is not
                                                                                                                                                                     (b) Use the active voice to address
                                                    feasible, and consistent with regulatory                required.
                                                                                                                                                                  readers directly;
                                                    objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes                       7. Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)                     (c) Use clear language rather than
                                                    further that regulations must be based                                                                        jargon;
                                                    on the best available science and that                    In accordance with Executive Order                     (d) Be divided into short sections and
                                                    the rulemaking process must allow for                   12988, the Office of the Solicitor has                sentences; and
                                                    public participation and an open                        determined that this rule does not                       (e) Use lists and tables wherever
                                                    exchange of ideas. We have developed                    unduly burden the judicial system and                 possible.
                                                    this rule in a manner consistent with                   meets the requirements of sections 3(a)                  If you feel that we have not met these
                                                    these requirements.                                     and 3(b)(2) of the Executive Order.                   requirements, send us comments by one
                                                    2. Regulatory Flexibility Act                           8. Consultation With Indian Tribes (E.O.              of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES
                                                                                                            13175)                                                section. To better help us revise the
                                                      The Department of the Interior                                                                              rule, your comments should be as
                                                    certifies that this rule will not have a                   Under the criteria in Executive Order              specific as possible. For example, you
                                                    significant economic effect on a                        13175, we have evaluated this rule and                should tell us the numbers of the
                                                    substantial number of small entities                    determined that it has no potential                   sections or paragraphs that you find
                                                    under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5                 effects on federally recognized Indian                unclear, which sections or sentences are
                                                    U.S.C. 601 et seq.).                                    tribes. This rule does not have tribal                too long, the sections where you feel
                                                                                                            implications that impose substantial                  lists or tables would be useful, etc.
                                                    3. Small Business Regulatory                            direct compliance costs on Indian Tribal
                                                    Enforcement Fairness Act                                governments.                                          12. Public Availability of Comments
                                                       This is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C.                                                                      Before including your address, phone
                                                                                                            9. Paperwork Reduction Act
                                                    804(2), the Small Business Regulatory                                                                         number, email address, or other
                                                    Enforcement Fairness Act. This rule:                      This rule does not contain                          personal identifying information in your
                                                                                                            information collection requirements,                  comment, you should be aware that
                                                       a. Does not have an annual effect on                                                                       your entire comment—including your
                                                    the economy of $100 million or more.                    and a submission to the Office of
                                                                                                            Management and Budget under the                       personal identifying information—may
                                                       b. Will not cause a major increase in                Paperwork Reduction Act is not                        be made publicly available at any time.
                                                    costs or prices for consumers,                          required.                                             While you can ask us in your comment
                                                    individual industries, Federal, State, or                                                                     to withhold your personal identifying
                                                    local government agencies, or                           9. National Environmental Policy Act                  information from public review, we
                                                    geographic regions.                                                                                           cannot guarantee that we will be able to
                                                                                                               This rule does not constitute a major
                                                       c. Does not have significant adverse                                                                       do so.
                                                                                                            Federal action significantly affecting the
                                                    effects on competition, employment,                     quality of the human environment. A                   List of Subjects in 43 CFR Part 2
                                                    investment, productivity, innovation, or                detailed statement under the National
                                                    the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to                                                                          Freedom of information.
                                                                                                            Environmental Policy Act of 1969
                                                    compete with foreign-based enterprises.                 (NEPA) is not required. Pursuant to                   Kristen J. Sarri,
                                                    4. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act                         Department Manual 516 DM 2.3A(2),                     Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for
                                                                                                            Section 1.10 of 516 DM 2, Appendix 1                  Policy, Management, and Budget.
                                                       This rule does not impose an                         excludes from documentation in an                       For the reasons stated in the
                                                    unfunded mandate on State, local, or                    environmental assessment or impact                    preamble, the Department of the Interior
                                                    tribal governments or the private sector                statement ‘‘policies, directives,
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                                                                                  proposes to amend part 2 of title 43 of
                                                    of more than $100 million per year. This                regulations and guidelines of an                      the Code of Federal Regulations as
                                                    rule does not have a significant or                     administrative, financial, legal,                     follows:
                                                    unique effect on State, local, or tribal                technical or procedural nature; or the
                                                    governments or the private sector. A                    environmental effects of which are too                PART 2—FREEDOM OF INFORMATION
                                                    statement containing the information                    broad, speculative or conjectural to lend             ACT; RECORDS AND TESTIMONY
                                                    required by the Unfunded Mandates                       themselves to meaningful analysis and
                                                    Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) is not               will be subject late to the NEPA process,             ■ 1. The authority citation for part 2
                                                    required.                                               either collectively or case-by-case.’’                continues to read as follows:


                                               VerDate Sep<11>2014   17:54 Sep 29, 2015   Jkt 235001   PO 00000   Frm 00030   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\30SEP1.SGM   30SEP1


                                                    58666             Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 189 / Wednesday, September 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules

                                                      Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301, 552, 552a, 553; 31           ■ 5. Amend § 2.6 by:                                  § 2.11 What contact information should
                                                    U.S.C. 3717; 43 U.S.C. 1460, 1461.                      ■ a. In paragraph (b) introductory text               your request include?
                                                                                                            by adding the words ‘‘or request a fee                  A request should include your name
                                                    Subpart A—Introduction                                  waiver’’ after the words ‘‘pay processing             and a way (such as a mailing or email
                                                    ■  2. Amend § 2.1 by:                                   fees’’; and                                           address) for the bureau to send
                                                    ■  a. In paragraph (d), the second                      ■ b. Revising paragraphs (b)(3), (d), and             responsive records to you and to request
                                                    sentence, removing the Web site address                 (e).                                                  additional information or clarification of
                                                    ‘‘http://www.doi.gov/foia/                                 The revisions read as follows:                     your request. You may also wish to
                                                    guidance.cfm’’ and adding in its place                                                                        include a daytime telephone number (or
                                                                                                            § 2.6 How will fee information affect the             the name and telephone number of an
                                                    the Web site address https://
                                                                                                            processing of your request?                           appropriate contact).
                                                    www.doi.gov/foia/news/guidance;
                                                    ■ b. Revising paragraph (e); and                        *     *      *     *     *
                                                    ■ c. In paragraph (g), the first sentence,                (b) * * *                                           Subpart C—Processing Requests
                                                    removing the Web site address ‘‘http://                   (3) That it will not be able to fully
                                                                                                                                                                  ■ 10. In § 2.12, revise paragraph (c) to
                                                    www.doi.gov/foia/libraries.cfm’’ and                    comply with your request unless you
                                                                                                                                                                  read as follows:
                                                    adding in its place the Web site address                provide a fee waiver request and/or the
                                                    ‘‘http://www.doi.gov/foia/libraries’’.                  requested written assurance or advance                § 2.12 What should you know about how
                                                       The revision reads as follows:                       payment.                                              bureaus process requests?
                                                                                                            *     *      *     *     *                            *      *     *    *     *
                                                    § 2.1   What should you know up front?
                                                                                                              (d) If you are seeking a fee waiver,                   (c) The bureau will make reasonable
                                                    *     *    *     *      *                               your request must include a justification             efforts to search for the requested
                                                      (e) The Department’s regulations for                  that addresses and meets the criteria in              records. As part of its reasonable efforts,
                                                    requests made under the Privacy Act of                  §§ 2.45, 2.48, and 2.56 of this part.                 the bureau will search paper and/or
                                                    1974, 5 U.S.C. 552a, are located at                     Failure to provide sufficient justification           electronic records (for example, emails),
                                                    subpart K of this part.                                                                                       as appropriate. The bureau will not
                                                                                                            will result in a denial of the fee waiver
                                                    *     *    *     *      *                               request. If you are seeking a fee waiver,             search for records in an electronic form
                                                                                                            you may also indicate the amount you                  or format if these efforts would
                                                    Subpart B—How To Make a Request                                                                               significantly interfere with the operation
                                                                                                            are willing to pay if the fee waiver is
                                                    § 2.3   [Amended]                                       denied. This allows the bureau to                     of the bureau’s automated information
                                                    ■  3. Amend § 2.3(c), the second                        process the request for records while it              system.
                                                    sentence, by:                                           considers your fee waiver request.                    *      *     *    *     *
                                                    ■ a. Removing the Web site address                        (e) The bureau will begin processing
                                                    ‘‘http://www.doi.gov/foia/index.cfm’’                   the request only after all issues                     Subpart D—Timing of Responses to
                                                    and adding in its place the Web site                    regarding fees are resolved.                          Requests
                                                    address ‘‘https://www.doi.gov/foia’’; and               *     *      *     *     *                            ■ 11. In § 2.15, add a sentence to the end
                                                    ■ b. Removing the Web site address                      ■ 6. In § 2.8, add a sentence to the end              of paragraph (e) to read as follows:
                                                    ‘‘http://www.doi.gov/foia/contacts.cfm’’                of paragraph (a) to read as follows:
                                                    and adding in its place the Web site                                                                          § 2.15 What is multitrack processing and
                                                    address ‘‘http://www.doi.gov/foia/                      § 2.8 Can you ask for records to be                   how does it affect your request?
                                                    contacts’’.                                             disclosed in a particular form or format?             *      *    *      *     *
                                                    ■ 4. In § 2.5, revise paragraph (d) to read               (a) * * * If the bureau cannot readily                 (e) * * * If you request placement in
                                                    as follows:                                             reproduce the record in that form or                  a particular processing track but the
                                                                                                            format, it must explain why it cannot.                bureau places you in a different
                                                    § 2.5 How should you describe the records                                                                     processing track, the bureau will
                                                    you seek?                                               *     *      *     *     *
                                                                                                            ■ 7. In § 2.9, revise paragraph (b) to read           provide you with an explanation of why
                                                    *      *      *    *      *                                                                                   you were not placed in the processing
                                                       (d) If the request does not reasonably               as follows:
                                                                                                                                                                  track you requested.
                                                    describe the records sought, the bureau                 § 2.9 What if your request seeks records
                                                    will inform you what additional                                                                               *      *    *      *     *
                                                                                                            about another person?                                 ■ 12. In § 2.16, revise paragraph (a) to
                                                    information you need to provide in                      *     *    *      *     *                             read as follows:
                                                    order to reasonably describe the records                  (b) The bureau can require you to
                                                    that you seek so the requested records                  supply additional information if                      § 2.16 What is the basic time limit for
                                                    can be located with a reasonable amount                 necessary to verify that a particular                 responding to a request?
                                                    of effort. The bureau will also notify you              person has consented to disclosure or is                 (a) Ordinarily, the bureau has 20
                                                    that it will not be able to comply with                 deceased.                                             workdays (including the date of receipt)
                                                    your request unless the additional                      ■ 8. Revise § 2.10 to read as follows:                to determine whether to comply with a
                                                    information it has requested is received                                                                      request, but unusual circumstances may
                                                    from you in writing within 20 workdays                  § 2.10 May you ask for the processing of              allow the bureau to take longer than 20
                                                    and that you may appeal this                            your request to be expedited?                         workdays (see § 2.19 of this subpart).
                                                    determination. If you receive this type                   You may ask for the processing of                   *      *    *      *     *
                                                    of notification, you may wish to discuss                your request to be expedited. If you are
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                                                                                  ■ 13. In § 2.19, revise paragraph (a)
                                                    it with the bureau’s designated FOIA                    seeking expedited processing, your                    introductory text to read as follows:
                                                    contact or its FOIA Public Liaison (see                 request must include a justification that
                                                    § 2.66 of this part). If you do not provide             addresses and meets the criteria in                   § 2.19 When may the bureau extend the
                                                    the bureau with the additional                          § 2.20 of this part. Failure to provide               basic time limit?
                                                    information as discussed above, the                     sufficient justification will result in a               (a) The bureau may extend the basic
                                                    bureau will presume that you are no                     denial of the expedited processing                    time limit, if unusual circumstances
                                                    longer interested in the records and will               request.                                              exist, by notifying you in writing of:
                                                    close the file on the request.                          ■ 9. Revise § 2.11 to read as follows:                *     *     *     *    *


                                               VerDate Sep<11>2014   17:54 Sep 29, 2015   Jkt 235001   PO 00000   Frm 00031   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\30SEP1.SGM   30SEP1


                                                                      Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 189 / Wednesday, September 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules                                             58667

                                                    ■ 14. In § 2.20, revise paragraphs (c), (f),            § 2.24   How will the bureau deny requests?           requirement for bureau-provided
                                                    and (g) to read as follows:                             *     *     *      *     *                            notifications under § 2.27 of this
                                                                                                              (b) The denial notification must                    subpart.
                                                    § 2.20 When will expedited processing be
                                                                                                            include:                                              ■ 21. Amend § 2.27 by:
                                                    provided and how will it affect your
                                                    request?                                                  (1) The name and title or position of               ■ a. Revising paragraph (a); and
                                                                                                            the person responsible for the denial,                ■ b. In paragraph (b), removing the word
                                                    *       *    *     *    *                               along with an office phone number or                  ‘‘large’’ and adding in its place the word
                                                       (c) You may ask for expedited                        email address;                                        ‘‘voluminous’’.
                                                    processing of your request by writing to                  (2) A statement of the reasons for the                 The revision reads as follows:
                                                    the appropriate FOIA contact in the                     denial;
                                                    bureau that maintains the records                         (3) A reference to any FOIA                         § 2.27 When will the bureau notify a
                                                    requested any time before the bureau                    exemption applied by the bureau to                    submitter of a request for their possibly
                                                    issues its final response to your request.              withhold records in full or in part;                  confidential information?
                                                    When making a request for expedited                       (4) An estimate of the volume of any                   (a) Except as outlined in § 2.29 of this
                                                    processing of an administrative appeal,                 records withheld in full or in part (for              subpart, a bureau must promptly notify
                                                    submit the request to the appropriate                   example, by providing the number of                   a submitter in writing when it receives
                                                    deciding official for FOIA appeals.                     pages or some other reasonable form of                a FOIA request if:
                                                    *       *    *     *    *                               estimation), unless an estimate would                    (1) The requested information has
                                                       (f) If expedited processing is denied,               harm an interest protected by an                      been designated by the submitter under
                                                    the bureau will:                                        exemption used to withhold the records;               § 2.26(a) of this subpart; or
                                                       (1) Inform you of the basis for the                    (5) The name and title of the Office of                (2) The requested information has not
                                                    denial, including an explanation of why                 the Solicitor or Office of General                    been designated by the submitter under
                                                    the expedited processing request does                   Counsel attorney consulted (if the                    § 2.26(a) of this subpart, but the
                                                    not meet the Department’s expedited                     bureau is denying a fee waiver request                requested information may be protected
                                                    processing criteria under this section;                 or withholding all or part of a requested             from disclosure under Exemption 4 of
                                                    and                                                     record); and                                          the FOIA, found at 5 U.S.C. 552(b)(4).
                                                       (2) Notify you of the right to appeal                  (6) A statement that the denial may be              *      *    *      *     *
                                                    the decision on expedited processing in                 appealed under subpart H of this part                 ■ 22. In § 2.28, revise paragraph (a) to
                                                    accordance with the procedures in                       and a description of the procedures in                read as follows:
                                                    subpart H of this part.                                 subpart H of this part.
                                                       (g) If you appeal the bureau’s                       ■ 19. In § 2.25, revise paragraph (c) to              § 2.28 What information will the bureau
                                                    expedited processing decision, this                     read as follows:                                      include when it notifies a submitter of a
                                                    portion of your appeal (if it is properly                                                                     request for their possibly confidential
                                                    formatted under § 2.59 of this part) will               § 2.25 What if the requested records                  information?
                                                    be processed before appeals that do not                 contain both exempt and nonexempt                     *     *     *      *     *
                                                                                                            material?                                               (a) Either a copy of the request, the
                                                    challenge expedited processing
                                                    decisions.                                              *      *      *    *     *                            exact language of the request, or (for
                                                                                                               (c) If technically feasible, indicating            notices published under § 2.27(b) of this
                                                    *       *    *     *    *
                                                                                                            the FOIA exemption under which the                    subpart) a general description of the
                                                    Subpart E—Responses to Requests                         deletion of information was made, as                  request;
                                                                                                            required by paragraph (b) of this section,            *     *     *      *     *
                                                    § 2.21—[Amended]                                        at the place in the record where the                  ■ 23. In § 2.31, revise paragraphs (a)(1)
                                                    ■  15. In § 2.21(a), the second sentence,               deletion was made.                                    and (2) to read as follows:
                                                    remove the Web site address ‘‘http://
                                                    www.doi.gov/foia/news/guidance/                         Subpart F—Handling Confidential                       § 2.31 What must a submitter include in a
                                                    index.cfm’’ and add in its place the Web                Information                                           detailed Exemption 4 objection statement?
                                                    site address ‘‘https://www.doi.gov/foia/                ■   20. Revise § 2.26 to read as follows:               (a) * * *
                                                    news/guidance’’.                                                                                                (1) Whether the submitter provided
                                                    ■ 16. Amend § 2.22 by:                                  § 2.26 May submitters of possibly                     the information voluntarily and, if so,
                                                    ■ a. Revising paragraph (c); and                        confidential information designate                    how disclosure will impair the
                                                    ■ b. In paragraph (d), adding the words                 confidential information when making                  Government’s ability to obtain similar
                                                    ‘‘released or’’ after the words ‘‘the                   Departmental submissions?
                                                                                                                                                                  information in the future and/or how
                                                    records will be’’.                                         (a) The Department encourages, but                 the information fits into a category of
                                                       The revision reads as follows:                       does not require, submitters to designate             information that the submitter does not
                                                                                                            confidential information in good faith                customarily release to the public;
                                                    § 2.22   How will bureaus grant requests?               (in other words, to identify specific                   (2) Whether the Government required
                                                    *     *    *      *     *                               information as information considered                 the information to be submitted, and if
                                                      (c) The bureau will release records (or               protected from disclosure under                       so, how disclosure will impair the
                                                    portions of records) to you promptly                    Exemption 4 of the FOIA, found at 5                   Government’s ability to obtain similar
                                                    upon payment of any applicable fees (or                 U.S.C. 552(b)(4)), at the time of                     information in the future and/or how
                                                    before then, at its discretion).                        submission or reasonably soon
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                                                                                  substantial competitive or other
                                                    *     *    *      *     *                               thereafter.                                           business harm would likely result from
                                                                                                               (b) The designations discussed in                  disclosure; and
                                                    § 2.23—[Amended]                                        paragraph (a) of this section assist the
                                                    ■  17. In § 2.23(a)(3), add the words                   bureau in determining whether                         *     *    *     *     *
                                                    ‘‘and/or control’’ after the words                      information obtained from the submitter               Subpart G—Fees
                                                    ‘‘bureau’s possession’’.                                is confidential, but are not
                                                    ■ 18. In § 2.24, revise paragraph (b) to                determinative; these designations                       24. In § 2.37, add paragraphs (g), (h),
                                                    read as follows:                                        therefore do not preempt the                          and (i) to read as follows:


                                               VerDate Sep<11>2014   17:54 Sep 29, 2015   Jkt 235001   PO 00000   Frm 00032   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\30SEP1.SGM   30SEP1


                                                    58668             Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 189 / Wednesday, September 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules

                                                    § 2.37   What general principles govern                 will be the same as those charged for a               demonstrate that you are entitled to a
                                                    fees?                                                   search under § 2.41(b) of this subpart.               fee waiver.
                                                    *       *     *     *     *                             ■ 29. In § 2.44, revise paragraph (b) to              *     *     *      *     *
                                                       (g) If the fee for processing your                   read as follows:                                        (2) * * *
                                                    request is less than $50, you will not be
                                                    charged unless multiple requests are                    § 2.44 What fees for other services will you            (v)* * * If you are a representative of
                                                    aggregated under § 2.54 of this subpart                 have to pay?                                          the news media, we will presume you
                                                    to an amount that is $50 or more.                       *     *     *     *     *                             have this ability and intent.
                                                       (h) If you fail to pay any FOIA-related                (b) Examples of these services include              *     *     *      *     *
                                                    fee within 30 calendar days of the date                 providing multiple copies of the same                 ■ 34. In § 2.49, revise paragraphs (a)(1)
                                                    of billing, the processing of any new or                record, converting records that are not               and (c) to read as follows:
                                                    ongoing requests and/or appeals from                    already maintained in a requested
                                                    you shall ordinarily be suspended.                      format to the requested format,                       § 2.49 When will you be notified of
                                                       (i) If you would like to reformulate                 obtaining research data under § 2.69 of               anticipated fees?
                                                    your request so it will meet your needs                 this part, sending records by means                     (a) * * *
                                                    at a lower cost, you may wish to seek                   other than first class mail, and                        (1) The anticipated fee is less than $50
                                                    assistance from the bureau’s designated                 conducting a search that requires the                 (see § 2.37(g) of this subpart).
                                                    FOIA contact or its FOIA Public Liaison                 creation of a new computer search
                                                                                                            program to locate the requested records.              *     *     *      *     *
                                                    (see § 2.66 of this part).
                                                    ■ 25. In § 2.38, add a sentence to the end              *     *     *     *     *                               (c) The bureau must receive
                                                    of paragraph (b) to read as follows:                                                                          information from you that resolves any
                                                                                                            § 2.45   [Amended]                                    fee issues, in accordance with
                                                    § 2.38 What are the requester fee                                                                             paragraphs (b)(2) and/or (4) of this
                                                                                                            ■  30. In § 2.45, in paragraph (a)
                                                    categories?                                                                                                   section, within 20 workdays or the
                                                                                                            introductory text, remove the words
                                                    *      *    *      *    *                               ‘‘under the factors’’ and add in their                bureau will close the request.
                                                       (b) * * * If you request placement in                place the words ‘‘by addressing and                   *     *     *      *     *
                                                    a particular fee category but the bureau                meeting each of the criteria’’.                       ■ 35. In § 2.50, revise paragraph (a),
                                                    places you in a different fee category,                 ■ 31. In § 2.46, revise paragraph (b) to              paragraph (b) introductory text, and
                                                    the bureau will provide you with an                     read as follows:                                      paragraphs (c) and (d) to read as follows:
                                                    explanation of why you were not placed
                                                    in the fee category you requested (for                  § 2.46 When may you ask the bureau for a              § 2.50 When will the bureau require
                                                    example, if you were placed in the                      fee waiver?                                           advance payment?
                                                    commercial use requester category                       *      *     *    *      *                               (a) When a bureau determines or
                                                    rather than the category you requested,                    (b) You may submit a fee waiver                    estimates that the total fee you will be
                                                    the bureau will describe how the                        request at a later time if the bureau has             charged under this subpart will exceed
                                                    records would further your commercial,                  not yet completed processing your                     $250, the bureau may require you to
                                                    trade, or profit interests).                            request.                                              make an advance payment up to the
                                                    *      *    *      *    *                               ■ 32. Amend § 2.47 by:                                amount of the entire anticipated fee
                                                    § 2.39—[Amended]                                        ■ a. In paragraph (a), removing the                   before the bureau begins, or continues,
                                                                                                            period at the end of the paragraph and                to process your request. If you have a
                                                    ■  26. In § 2.39, in the table in paragraph             adding in its place a semicolon;                      history of prompt payment of FOIA fees,
                                                    (a), remove the word ‘‘non-commercial’’                                                                       a bureau may elect to process your
                                                                                                            ■ b. In paragraph (c), removing the word
                                                    and add in its place the word                                                                                 request before collecting fees when you
                                                                                                            ‘‘and’’ at the end of the paragraph;
                                                    ‘‘noncommercial.’’                                                                                            provide it with a satisfactory assurance
                                                                                                            ■ c. In paragraph (d), removing the
                                                    § 2.41—[Amended]                                        period at the end of the paragraph and                of full payment.
                                                    ■ 27. In § 2.41(c), remove the Web site                 adding in its place ‘‘; and’’; and                       (b) If the bureau believes that you did
                                                    address ‘‘http://www.doi.gov/foia/fees-                 ■ d. Adding paragraph (e).                            not pay a previous FOIA fee within 30
                                                    waivers.cfm’’ and add in its place the                     The addition reads as follows:                     calendar days of the date of billing, the
                                                    Web site address ‘‘http://www.doi.gov/                                                                        bureau will require you to either:
                                                    foia/fees-waivers’’.                                    § 2.47 How will the bureau notify you if it
                                                                                                                                                                  *      *      *    *    *
                                                                                                            denies your fee waiver request?
                                                    ■ 28. In § 2.42, revise paragraph (d) to                                                                         (c) When the bureau notifies you that
                                                    read as follows:                                        *     *    *     *      *
                                                                                                                                                                  an advance payment is due under
                                                                                                              (e) Your anticipated fees, in                       paragraph (a) of this section, it will give
                                                    § 2.42 What duplication fees will you have              accordance with § 2.49 of this subpart.
                                                    to pay?                                                                                                       you an opportunity to reduce the fee by
                                                                                                            ■ 33. Amend § 2.48 by revising                        modifying the request.
                                                    *     *      *    *    *                                paragraph (a) introductory text and
                                                      (d) If the bureau must scan paper                     adding a sentence to the end of                          (d) Your payment of the funds you
                                                    records to accommodate your preference                  paragraph (a)(2)(v) to read as follows:               owe the bureau for work it has already
                                                    to receive records in an electronic                                                                           completed before records are sent to you
                                                    format or print electronic records to                   § 2.48 How will the bureau evaluate your              is not an advance payment under
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                    accommodate your preference to receive                  fee waiver request?                                   § 2.50(a) of this subpart.
                                                    records in a paper format, you will pay                   (a) In deciding whether your fee                    *      *      *    *    *
                                                    both the per page amount noted in                       waiver request meets the requirements
                                                                                                                                                                  § 2.51   [Amended]
                                                    Appendix A to this part and the time                    of § 2.45(a)(1) of this subpart, the bureau
                                                    spent by personnel scanning or printing                 will consider the criteria listed in                  ■  36. In § 2.51(b)(3), remove the words
                                                    the requested records. For each quarter                 paragraphs (a)(1) through (4) of this                 ‘‘hears from you’’ and add in their place
                                                    hour spent by personnel scanning or                     section. You must address and meet                    the words ‘‘receives a written response
                                                    printing the requested records, the fees                each of these criteria in order to                    from you’’.


                                               VerDate Sep<11>2014   17:54 Sep 29, 2015   Jkt 235001   PO 00000   Frm 00033   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\30SEP1.SGM   30SEP1


                                                                      Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 189 / Wednesday, September 30, 2015 / Proposed Rules                                          58669

                                                    Subpart H—Administrative Appeals                        ■ 43. In § 2.66, revise paragraph (a) to                 Æ Regulations.gov: http://
                                                                                                            read as follows:                                      www.regulations.gov. Submit comments
                                                    § 2.57   [Amended]                                                                                            via the Federal eRulemaking portal by
                                                    ■  37. Amend § 2.57 by:                                 § 2.66   What are public liaisons?                    entering ‘‘DFARS Case 2015–D017’’
                                                    ■  a. In paragraph (a)(5), adding the                     (a) Each bureau has a FOIA Public                   under the heading ‘‘Enter keyword or
                                                    words ‘‘or you have been placed in the                  Liaison who can assist requesters who                 ID’’ and selecting ‘‘Search.’’ Select the
                                                    wrong fee category’’ after the word                     have concerns about the service they                  link ‘‘Submit a Comment’’ that
                                                    ‘‘calculated’’; and                                     received when seeking records or who                  corresponds with ‘‘DFARS Case 2015–
                                                    ■ b. In paragraph (a)(6), adding the                    are seeking assistance under § 2.3(d) or              D017.’’ Follow the instructions provided
                                                    words ‘‘your request for’’ after the word               § 2.37(i) of this part.                               at the ‘‘Submit a Comment’’ screen.
                                                    ‘‘denied’’.                                             *     *      *     *    *                             Please include your name, company
                                                    § 2.59   [Amended]
                                                                                                                                                                  name (if any), and ‘‘DFARS Case 2015–
                                                                                                            § 2.70   [Amended]
                                                                                                                                                                  D017’’ on your attached document.
                                                    ■ 38. In § 2.59(a), the first sentence,                 ■  44. Amend § 2.70 by:                                  Æ Email: osd.dfars@mail.mil. Include
                                                    remove the Web site address ‘‘http://                   ■  a. In the definition of Bureau,                    DFARS Case 2015–D017 in the subject
                                                    www.doi.gov/foia/appeals.cfm’’ and add                  removing the Web site address ‘‘http://               line of the message.
                                                    in its place the Web site address ‘‘http://             www.doi.gov/foia/contacts.cfm’’ and                      Æ Fax: 571–372–6094.
                                                    www.doi.gov/foia/appeals’’.                             adding in its place the Web site address                 Æ Mail: Defense Acquisition
                                                    ■ 39. Revise § 2.60 to read as follows:                 http://www.doi.gov/foia/contacts; and                 Regulations System, Attn: Ms. Julie
                                                                                                            ■ b. In the definition of Multitrack                  Hammond, OUSD(AT&L)DPAP/DARS,
                                                    § 2.60   Who makes decisions on appeals?
                                                                                                            processing, the second sentence, adding               Room 3B941, 3060 Defense Pentagon,
                                                      (a) The FOIA Appeals Officer is the                   the word ‘‘ordinarily’’ after the word
                                                    deciding official for FOIA appeals that                                                                       Washington, DC 20301–3060.
                                                                                                            ‘‘are’’.                                                 Comments received generally will be
                                                    do not appeal a decision of the Office                  [FR Doc. 2015–24703 Filed 9–29–15; 8:45 am]
                                                    of the Inspector General.                                                                                     posted without change to http://
                                                      (b) The General Counsel is the
                                                                                                            BILLING CODE 4310–10–P                                www.regulations.gov, including any
                                                    deciding official for FOIA appeals that                                                                       personal information provided. To
                                                    appeal a decision of the Office of the                                                                        confirm receipt of your comment(s),
                                                    Inspector General.                                      DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE                                 please check www.regulations.gov,
                                                      (c) When necessary, the appropriate                                                                         approximately two to three days after
                                                                                                            Defense Acquisition Regulations                       submission to verify posting (except
                                                    deciding official for FOIA appeals will                 System
                                                    consult other appropriate offices,                                                                            allow 30 days for posting of comments
                                                    including the Office of the Solicitor or                                                                      submitted by mail).
                                                                                                            48 CFR Parts 219 and 252                              FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms.
                                                    Office of General Counsel for denials of
                                                    records and fee waivers.                                [Docket No. DARS 2015–0044]                           Julie Hammond, telephone 571–372–
                                                      (d) The deciding official for FOIA                    RIN 0750–AI68
                                                                                                                                                                  6174.
                                                    appeals normally will not make a                                                                              SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                    decision on an appeal if the request                    Defense Federal Acquisition
                                                    becomes a matter of FOIA litigation.                    Regulation Supplement: Clauses With                   I. Background
                                                    ■ 40. Revise § 2.62 to read as follows:                 Alternates—Small Business Programs                       DoD is issuing this proposed rule to
                                                                                                            (DFARS Case 2015–D017)                                clarify, in the small business programs
                                                    § 2.62 When can you expect a decision on
                                                    your appeal?                                                                                                  clause prescriptions, the appropriate use
                                                                                                            AGENCY:  Defense Acquisition                          of the basic clause and its alternate
                                                       (a) The basic time limit for responding              Regulations System, Department of                     clause. This rule does not substantively
                                                    to an appeal is 20 workdays after receipt               Defense (DoD).                                        change the text of any clause (basic or
                                                    of an appeal meeting the requirements                   ACTION: Proposed rule.                                alternate) nor does it change the
                                                    of § 2.59 of this subpart.
                                                                                                                                                                  requirement for use of any clause.
                                                       (b) If the Department is unable to                   SUMMARY:    DoD is proposing to amend
                                                    reach a decision on your appeal within                  the Defense Federal Acquisition                       II. Discussion and Analysis
                                                    the given time limit for response, the                  Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to                         This proposed rule addresses one
                                                    appropriate deciding official for FOIA                  clarify clauses and their prescriptions               DFARS part 219 clause that has an
                                                    appeals will notify you of your statutory               for small business programs and to                    alternate and one clause that is an
                                                    right to seek review in a United States                 create a basic and alternate clause                   alternate to a FAR clause. The affected
                                                    District Court.                                         structured in a manner to facilitate use              clauses are 252.219–7003, Small
                                                                                                            of automated contract writing systems.                Business Subcontracting Plan (DoD
                                                    § 2.63   [Amended]                                      The rule also includes the full text of
                                                    ■ 41. In § 2.63, paragraphs (b) and (c),                                                                      Contracts), with one alternate, and
                                                                                                            the alternate, rather than only providing             252.219–7010, Alternate A.
                                                    remove the words ‘‘FOIA Appeals                         the paragraphs that differ from the basic
                                                    Officer’’ and add in their place the                                                                             This proposed rule provides a basic
                                                                                                            clause. The rule also clarifies one clause            clause in full text and the alternate to
                                                    words ‘‘appropriate deciding official for               that is an alternate to a Federal
                                                    FOIA appeals’’.                                                                                               the basic clause in full text for DFARS
                                                                                                            Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clause.                  clause 252.219–7003 instead of only
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                            DATES: Comments on the proposed rule                  providing the paragraphs that are
                                                    Subpart I—General Information
                                                                                                            should be submitted in writing to the                 changed in the alternate. Each clause
                                                    § 2.65   [Amended]                                      address shown below on or before                      (basic and alternate) will have a separate
                                                    ■  42. In § 2.65, the first sentence,                   November 30, 2015, to be considered in                prescription, stating the applicability of
                                                    remove the Web site address ‘‘http://                   the formation of a final rule.                        the clause. A separate DFARS clause has
                                                    www.doi.gov/foia/libraries.cfm’’ and                    ADDRESSES: Submit comments                            been modified to incorporate FAR
                                                    add in its place the Web site address                   identified by DFARS Case 2015–D017,                   clause 52.219–18 and its two alternates
                                                    ‘‘http://www.doi.gov/foia/libraries’’.                  using any of the following methods:                   into 252.219–7010, now titled


                                               VerDate Sep<11>2014   17:54 Sep 29, 2015   Jkt 235001   PO 00000   Frm 00034   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\30SEP1.SGM   30SEP1



Document Created: 2015-12-15 09:32:22
Document Modified: 2015-12-15 09:32:22
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionProposed rule.
DatesComments on the rulemaking must be submitted on or before November 30, 2015.
ContactCindy Cafaro, Office of Executive Secretariat and Regulatory Affairs, 202-208-5342.
FR Citation80 FR 58663 
RIN Number1093-AA19

2024 Federal Register | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
USC | CFR | eCFR