80 FR 77916 - Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2015
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Office of the Secretary Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 240 (December 15, 2015)
Office of the Secretary
Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 240 (December 15, 2015)
| Page Range | 77916-77925 | |
| FR Document | 2015-31019 |
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 240 (Tuesday, December 15, 2015)] [Unknown Section] [Pages 77916-77925] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2015-31019] [[Page 77915]] Vol. 80 Tuesday, No. 240 December 15, 2015 Part III Department of Agriculture ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Semiannual Regulatory Agenda Federal Register / Vol. 80 , No. 240 / Tuesday, December 15, 2015 / Unified Agenda [[Page 77916]] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Office of the Secretary 2 CFR Subtitle B, Ch. IV 5 CFR Ch. LXXIII 7 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I-XI, XIV-XVIII, XX, XXV- XXXVIII, XLII 9 CFR Chs. I-III 36 CFR Ch. II 48 CFR Ch. 4 Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2015 AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA. ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and not significant regulations being developed in agencies of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in conformance with Executive Orders 12866 ``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and 13563 ``Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review.'' The agenda also describes regulations affecting small entities as required by section 602 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act, Public Law 96-354. This agenda also identifies regulatory actions that are being reviewed in compliance with section 610(c) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We invite public comment on those actions as well as any regulation consistent with Executive Order 13563. USDA has attempted to list all regulations and regulatory reviews pending at the time of publication except for minor and routine or repetitive actions, but some may have been inadvertently missed. There is no legal significance to the omission of an item from this listing. Also, the dates shown for the steps of each action are estimated and are not commitments to act on or by the date shown. USDA's complete regulatory agenda is available online at www.reginfo.gov. Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), USDA's printed agenda entries include only: (1) Rules that are likely to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities; and (2) Rules identified for periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. For this edition of the USDA regulatory agenda, the most important significant regulatory actions and a Statement of Regulatory Priorities are included in the Regulatory Plan, which appears in both the online regulatory agenda and in part II of the Federal Register that includes the abbreviated regulatory agenda. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information on any specific entry shown in this agenda, please contact the person listed for that action. For general comments or inquiries about the agenda, please contact Michael Poe, Office of Budget and Program Analysis, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-3257. Dated: September 22, 2015. Michael Poe, Chief, Legislative and Regulatory Staff. Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 140....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD20 Organic Pet Food Standards. 141....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD31 Organic Apiculture Practice Standard, NOP-12- 0063. 142....................... National Organic Program-- 0581-AD34 Organic Aquaculture Standards. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 143....................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD08 Origin of Livestock, NOP- 11-0009. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 144....................... Animal Welfare: Marine 0579-AB24 Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and Interactive Programs. 145....................... Scrapie in Sheep and Goats 0579-AC92 146....................... Plant Pest Regulations; 0579-AC98 Update of General Provisions. 147....................... Bovine Spongiform 0579-AD10 Encephalopathy and Scrapie; Importation of Small Ruminants and Their Germplasm, Products, and Byproducts. 148....................... Brucellosis and Bovine 0579-AD65 Tuberculosis; Update of General Provisions. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 149....................... Importation of Wood 0579-AD28 Packaging Material From Canada. 150....................... Treatment of Firewood and 0579-AD60 Spruce Logs Imported From Canada. 151....................... Establishing a Performance 0579-AD71 Standard for Authorizing the Importation and Interstate Movement of Fruits and Vegetables. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [[Page 77917]] Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 152....................... Introduction of Organisms 0579-AC31 and Products Altered or Produced Through Genetic Engineering. 153....................... Importation of Beef From a 0579-AD41 Region in Brazil. 154....................... Viruses, Serums, Toxins, 0579-AD64 and Analogous Products; Single Label Claim for Veterinary Biological Products. 155....................... User Fees for Agricultural 0579-AD77 Quarantine and Inspection Services. 156....................... Importation of Beef From a 0579-AD92 Region in Argentina (Completion of a Section 610 Review). ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 157....................... Modernizing Supplemental 0584-AE37 Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefit Redemption Systems. 158....................... Supplemental Nutrition 0584-AE39 Assistance Program (SNAP): Electronic Benefits Transfer Requirements for Scanning and Product-Lookup Technology. 159....................... Food and Nutrition Service 0584-AE42 Regulatory Implementation of Office of Management and Budget's Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 160....................... National School Lunch and 0584-AE09 School Breakfast Programs: Nutrition Standards for All Foods Sold in School, as Required by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 (Reg Plan Seq No. 6). 161....................... National School Lunch and 0584-AE11 School Breakfast Programs: School Food Service Account Revenue Amendments Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. 162....................... Child and Adult Care Food 0584-AE18 Program: Meal Pattern Revisions Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 (Reg Plan Seq No. 7). 163....................... Child Nutrition Programs: 0584-AE25 Local School Wellness Policy Implementation Under the Healthy, Hunger- Free Kids Act of 2010. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 164....................... Elimination of Trichina 0583-AD59 Control Regulations and Consolidation of Thermally Processed, Commercially Sterile Regulations. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 165....................... Mandatory Inspection of 0583-AD36 Fish of the Order Siluriformes and Products Derived From Such Fish. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Forest Service--Final Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 166....................... Ski Area--D Clauses: 0596-AD14 Resource and Improvement Protection, Water Facilities, and Water Rights (Directive). ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [[Page 77918]] Forest Service--Long-Term Actions ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 167....................... Management of Surface 0596-AD03 Activities Associated With Outstanding Mineral Rights on National Forest System Lands (Directive). ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Office of Procurement and Property Management--Proposed Rule Stage ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulation Sequence No. Title Identifier No. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 168....................... Designation of Biobased 0599-AA24 Product Categories for Federal Procurement, Round 11. 169....................... Designation of Biobased 0599-AA25 Product Categories for Federal Procurement, Round 12. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Proposed Rule Stage 140. National Organic Program, Organic Pet Food Standards Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 Abstract: The National Organic Program (NOP) establishes national standards governing the marketing of organically produced agricultural products. In 2004, the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) initiated the development of organic pet food standards, which had not been incorporated into the NOP regulations, by forming a task force which included pet food manufacturers, organic consultants, etc. Collectively, these experts drafted organic pet food standards consistent with the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, Food and Drug Administration requirements, and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Model Regulations for Pet and Specialty Pet Food. The AAFCO regulations are scientifically based regulations for voluntary adoption by State jurisdictions to ensure the safety, quality, and effectiveness of feed. In November 2008, the NOSB approved a final recommendation for organic pet food standards incorporating the provisions drafted by the pet food task force. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 04/00/16 Final Action........................ 11/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-3252. RIN: 0581-AD20 141. National Organic Program, Organic Apiculture Practice Standard, NOP-12-0063 Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 Abstract: This action proposes to amend the USDA organic regulations to reflect an October 2010 recommendation submitted to the Secretary by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) concerning the production of organic apicultural (or beekeeping) products. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 05/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-3252. RIN: 0581-AD31 142. National Organic Program--Organic Aquaculture Standards Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6522. Abstract: This action proposes to establish standards for organic production and certification of farmed aquatic animals and their products in the USDA organic regulations. This action would also add aquatic animals as a scope of certification and accreditation under the National Organic Program (NOP). This action is necessary to establish standards for organic farmed aquatic animals and their products which would allow U.S. producers to compete in the organic seafood market. This action is also necessary to address multiple recommendations provided by USDA by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). In 2007 through 2009, the NOSB made five recommendations to establish standards for the certification of organic farmed aquatic animals and their products. Finally, the U.S. currently has organic standards equivalence arrangements with Canada and the European Union (EU). Both Canada and the EU established standards for organic aquaculture products. Because the U.S. does not have organic aquaculture standards, the U.S. is unable to include aquaculture in the scope of these arrangements. Establishing U.S. organic aquaculture may provide a basis for expanding those trade partnerships. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 11/00/15 Final Action........................ 07/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-3252. RIN: 0581-AD34 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Final Rule Stage 143. National Organic Program, Origin of Livestock, NOP-11-0009 Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 Abstract: The current regulations provide two tracks for replacing dairy animals which are tied to how dairy farmers transition to organic production. Farmers who transition an entire distinct herd must thereafter replace dairy animals with livestock that has been under organic management from the last third of gestation. Farmers who do not transition an entire distinct herd [[Page 77919]] may perpetually obtain replacement animals that have been managed organically for 12 months prior to marketing milk or milk products as organic. The proposed action would eliminate the two-track system and require that upon transition, all existing and replacement dairy animals from which milk or milk products are intended to be sold, labeled, or represented as organic must be managed organically from the last third of gestation. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 04/28/15 80 FR 23455 NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/27/15 Final Action........................ 05/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-3252. RIN: 0581-AD08 BILLING CODE 3410-02-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Proposed Rule Stage 144. Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and Interactive Programs Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159 Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the Animal Welfare Act regulations concerning the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of marine mammals in captivity. These proposed changes would affect sections in the regulations relating to variances and implementation dates, indoor facilities, outdoor facilities, space requirements, and water quality. We are also proposing to revise the regulations that relate to swim-with-the-dolphin programs. We believe these actions are necessary to ensure that the minimum standards for the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of marine mammals in captivity are based on current industry and scientific knowledge and experience. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANPRM............................... 05/30/02 67 FR 37731 ANPRM Comment Period End............ 07/29/02 NPRM................................ 11/00/15 NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Barbara Kohn, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Animal Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234, Phone: 301 851-3751. RIN: 0579-AB24 145. Scrapie in Sheep and Goats Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317 Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the scrapie regulations by changing the risk groups and categories established for individual animals and for flocks. It would simplify, reduce, or remove certain recordkeeping requirements. This action would provide designated scrapie epidemiologists with more alternatives and flexibility when testing animals in order to determine flock designations under the regulations. It would also make the identification and recordkeeping requirements for goat owners consistent with those for sheep owners. These changes would affect sheep and goat producers and State governments. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 09/10/15 80 FR 54659 NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/09/15 Final Action........................ 07/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Diane Sutton, Sheep, Goat, Cervid, and Equine Health Center; Surveillance, Preparedness, and Response Services, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 43, Riverdale, MD 20737-1235, Phone: 301 851- 3509. RIN: 0579-AC92 146. Plant Pest Regulations; Update of General Provisions Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 2260; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8817; 19 U.S.C. 136; 21 U.S.C. 111; 21 U.S.C. 114a; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701; 42 U.S.C. 4331 and 4332 Abstract: We are proposing to revise our regulations regarding the movement of plant pests. We are proposing criteria regarding the movement and environmental release of biological control organisms, and are proposing to establish regulations to allow the importation and movement in interstate commerce of certain types of plant pests without restriction by granting exceptions from permitting requirements for those pests. We are also proposing to revise our regulations regarding the movement of soil. This proposed rule replaces a previously published proposed rule, which we are withdrawing as part of this document. This proposal would clarify the factors that would be considered when assessing the risks associated with the movement of certain organisms and facilitate the movement of regulated organisms and articles in a manner that also protects U.S. agriculture. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Notice of Intent To Prepare an 10/20/09 74 FR 53673 Environmental Impact Statement. Notice Comment Period End........... 11/19/09 NPRM................................ 04/00/16 NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Shirley Wager-Page, Chief, Pest Permitting Branch, Plant Health Programs, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 131, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236, Phone: 301 851-2323. RIN: 0579-AC98 147. Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and Scrapie; Importation of Small Ruminants and Their Germplasm, Products, and Byproducts Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 1622; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701 Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) and scrapie regulations regarding the importation of live sheep, goats, and wild ruminants and their embryos, semen, products, and byproducts. The proposed scrapie revisions regarding the importation of sheep, goats, and susceptible wild ruminants for other than immediate slaughter are similar to those recommended by the World Organization for Animal Health in [[Page 77920]] restricting the importation of such animals to those from scrapie-free regions or certified scrapie-free flocks. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 03/00/16 NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Langston Hull, Senior Staff Veterinary Medical Officer, Animal Permitting and Negotiating Services, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-3300. RIN: 0579-AD10 148. Brucellosis and Bovine Tuberculosis; Update of General Provisions Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1622; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 15 U.S.C. 1828; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701 Abstract: This rulemaking would consolidate the regulations governing bovine tuberculosis (TB), currently found in 9 CFR part 77, and those governing brucellosis, currently found in 9 CFR part 78. As part of this consolidation, we are proposing to transition the TB and brucellosis programs away from a State status system based on disease prevalence. Instead, States and tribes would implement an animal health plan that identifies sources of the diseases within the State or tribe and specifies mitigations to address the risk posed by these sources. The consolidated regulations also would set forth standards for surveillance, epidemiological investigations, and affected herd management that must be incorporated into each animal health plan, with certain limited exceptions; conditions for the interstate movement of cattle, bison, and captive cervids; and conditions for APHIS approval of tests for bovine TB or brucellosis. Finally, the rulemaking would revise the import requirements for cattle and bison to make these requirements clearer and ensure that they more effectively mitigate the risk of introduction of the diseases into the United States. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 11/00/15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Langston Hull, Senior Staff Veterinary Medical Officer, Animal Permitting and Negotiating Services, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-3300. C. William Hench, Senior Cattle Health Specialist, Cattle Health Center, Surveillance, Preparedness, and Response, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building B-3E20, Fort Collins, CO 80526, Phone: 970 494-7378. RIN: 0579-AD65 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Final Rule Stage 149. Importation of Wood Packaging Material From Canada Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations for the importation of unmanufactured wood articles to remove the exemption that allows wood packaging material from Canada to enter the United States without first meeting the treatment and marking requirements of the regulations that apply to wood packaging material from all other countries. This action is necessary in order to prevent the dissemination and spread of pests via wood packaging material from Canada. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 12/02/10 75 FR 75157 NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/31/11 Final Rule.......................... 03/00/16 Final Action Effective.............. 04/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John Tyrone Jones, Trade Director, Forestry Products, Phytosanitary Issues Management, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 140, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-2344. RIN: 0579-AD28 150. Treatment of Firewood and Spruce Logs Imported From Canada Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations to require firewood of all species imported from Canada, including treated lumber (furniture scraps) sold as kindling, and all spruce logs imported from Nova Scotia to be heat-treated and to be accompanied by either a certificate of treatment or an attached commercial treatment label. This action is necessary on an immediate basis to prevent the artificial spread of pests, including emerald ash borer, Asian longhorned beetle, gypsy moth, European spruce bark beetle, and brown spruce longhorn beetle to noninfested areas of the United States, and to prevent further introduction of these pests into the United States. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Interim Final Rule.................. 02/00/16 Interim Final Rule Comment Period 04/00/16 End. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: John Tyrone Jones, Trade Director, Forestry Products, Phytosanitary Issues Management, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 140, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-2344. RIN: 0579-AD60 151. Establishing a Performance Standard for Authorizing the Importation And Interstate Movement of Fruits and Vegetables Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a Abstract: This rulemaking will amend our regulations governing the importations of fruits and vegetables by broadening our existing performance standard to provide for consideration of all new fruits and vegetables for importation into the United States using a notice-based process. Rather than authorizing new imports through proposed and final rules and specifying import conditions in the regulations, the notice- based process uses Federal Register notices to make risk analyses available to the public for review and comment, with authorized commodities and their conditions of entry subsequently being listed on the Internet. It also will remove the region- or commodity-specific phytosanitary [[Page 77921]] requirements currently found in these regulations. Likewise, we are proposing an equivalent revision of the performance standard in our regulations governing the interstate movements of fruits and vegetables from Hawaii and the U.S. territories (Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and the removal of commodity- specific phytosanitary requirements from those regulations. This action will allow for the consideration of requests to authorize the importation or interstate movement of new fruits and vegetables in a manner that enables a more flexible and responsive regulatory approach to evolving pest situations in both the United States and exporting countries. It will not, however, alter the science-based process in which the risk associated with importation or interstate movement of a given fruit or vegetable is evaluated or the manner in which risks associated with the importation or interstate movement of a fruit or vegetable are mitigated. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 09/09/14 79 FR 53346 NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/10/14 NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 12/04/14 79 FR 71973 NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/09/15 NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 02/06/15 80 FR 6665 NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/10/15 Final Rule.......................... 03/00/16 Final Rule Effective................ 05/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Nicole Russo, Assistant Director, Regulatory Coordination and Compliance, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 133, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236, Phone: 301 851-2159. RIN: 0579-AD71 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Completed Actions 152. Introduction of Organisms and Products Altered or Produced Through Genetic Engineering Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 31 U.S.C. 9701 Abstract: We are withdrawing a proposed rule that would have amended the regulations regarding the introduction (importation, interstate movement, and environmental release (field testing)) of certain genetically engineered organisms. We are doing this because of the experience we have gained over the past 28 years, continuing advances in biotechnology, and comments we received on the rule. We will begin a fresh stakeholder engagement to explore alternative policy approaches. This engagement will begin with a series of webinars that will provide the stakeholder community an opportunity to provide initial feedback. Information on these webinars will be announced in the coming month. Completed: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Reason Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM--Withdrawn..................... 03/04/15 80 FR 11598 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Chessa Huff-Woodard, Phone: 301 851-3943. RIN: 0579-AC31 153. Importation of Beef From a Region In Brazil Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701 Abstract: This rulemaking amends the regulations governing the importation of certain animals, meat, and other animal products by allowing, under certain conditions, the importation of fresh (chilled or frozen) beef from a region in Brazil (the States of Bahia, Distrito Federal, Esp[iacute]rito Santo, Goi[aacute]s, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Paran[aacute], Rio Grande do Sul, Rio de Janeiro, Rond[ocirc]nia, S[atilde]o Paulo, Sergipe, and Tocantins). Based on the evidence in a recent risk assessment, we have determined that fresh (chilled or frozen) beef can be safely imported from those Brazilian States provided certain conditions are met. This action provides for the importation of beef from the designated region in Brazil into the United States while continuing to protect the United States against the introduction of foot-and-mouth disease. Completed: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Reason Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Final Rule.......................... 07/02/15 80 FR 37923 Final Rule Effective................ 08/31/15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Silvia Kreindel, Phone: 301 851-3313. RIN: 0579-AD41 154. Viruses, Serums, Toxins, and Analogous Products; Single Label Claim for Veterinary Biological Products Legal Authority: 21 U.S.C. 151 to 159 Abstract: This rulemaking amends the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act regulations to provide for the use of a simpler labeling format that would better communicate product performance to the user. Under this rulemaking, the previous label format, which reflected any of four different levels of effectiveness, is replaced with a single, uniform label format. We are also requiring biologics licensees to provide a standardized summary, with confidential business information removed, of the efficacy and safety data submitted to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service in support of the issuance of a full product license or conditional license. A simpler label format, along with publicly available safety and efficacy data, will help biologics producers to more clearly communicate product performance to their customers. Completed: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Reason Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Final Rule.......................... 07/10/15 80 FR 39669 Final Rule Effective................ 09/08/15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Donna L. Malloy, Phone: 301 851-3426. RIN: 0579-AD64 155. User Fees for Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection Services Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 49 U.S.C. 80503 Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the user fee regulations by adding new fee categories and adjusting current fees charged for certain agricultural quarantine and inspection services that are provided in connection with certain [[Page 77922]] commercial vessels, commercial trucks, commercial railroad cars, commercial aircraft, and international passengers arriving at ports in the customs territory of the United States. It also will adjust the fee caps associated with commercial vessels, commercial trucks, and commercial railcars. Based on the conclusions of a third party assessment of the user fee program and on other considerations, we have determined that revised user fee categories and revised user fees are necessary to recover the costs of the current level of activity, to account for actual and projected increases in the cost of doing business, and to more accurately align fees with the costs associated with each fee service. Completed: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Reason Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Final Rule.......................... 10/29/15 80 FR 66747 Final Rule Effective................ 12/28/15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: William E. Thomas, Phone: 301 851-2306, Kris Caraher, Phone: 301 851-2384. RIN: 0579-AD77 156. Importation of Beef From a Region in Argentina (Completion of a Section 610 Review) Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701 Abstract: This rulemaking amends the regulations governing the importation of certain animals, meat, and other animal products to allow, under certain conditions, the importation of fresh (chilled or frozen) beef from a region in Argentina located north of Patagonia South and Patagonia North B, referred to as Northern Argentina. Based on the evidence in a recent risk analysis, we have determined that fresh (chilled or frozen) beef can be safely imported from Northern Argentina, subject to certain conditions. This action provides for the importation of beef from Northern Argentina into the United States, while continuing to protect the United States against the introduction of foot-and-mouth disease. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 08/29/14 79 FR 51508 NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/28/14 NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 10/31/14 79 FR 64687 NPRM Comment Period Reopened End.... 12/29/14 Final Rule.......................... 07/02/15 80 FR 37935 Final Rule Effective................ 09/01/15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Silvia Kreindel, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Regionalization Evaluation Services Staff, NIES, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 38, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-3313. RIN: 0579-AD92 BILLING CODE 3410-34-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) Proposed Rule Stage 157. Modernizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefit Redemption Systems Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79 Abstract: The Agricultural Act of 2014 (Pub. L. 113-79, the Farm Bill) amended the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (the FNA) to include new requirements regarding the acceptance and processing of SNAP client benefits by all non-exempt retailers participating in SNAP. Statutory changes will modernize EBT systems and ensure greater program integrity. The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) also plans to revise certain SNAP regulations for which multiple State agencies have sought and received approval of waivers. The revisions will streamline program administration, offer greater flexibility to State agencies, and improve customer service. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 03/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Regulatory Review Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email: charles.watford@fns.usda.gov. Lynnette M. Thomas, Chief, Planning and Regulatory Affairs Branch, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email: lynnette.thomas@fns.usda.gov. RIN: 0584-AE37 158. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Electronic Benefits Transfer Requirements for Scanning and Product-Lookup Technology Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79 Abstract: This rule will align program regulations with changes made by section 4002 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (Pub. L. 113-79, the Farm Bill), which introduces new technical requirements for point- of-sale (POS) devices in the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system in section 7(h)(2)(C) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (the FNA). The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) will propose to revise existing regulations both to codify these statutory requirements as well as to provide for their effective implementation and enforcement through the clarification of the technical specifications and capabilities required of this equipment and by addressing methods for ensuring compliance. In addition, the Department will define what constitutes an area that has significantly limited access to food to determine who is exempt from this requirement. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 05/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Regulatory Review Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email: charles.watford@fns.usda.gov. Lynnette M. Thomas, Chief, Planning and Regulatory Affairs Branch, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email: lynnette.thomas@fns.usda.gov. RIN: 0584-AE39 159. Food and Nutrition Service Regulatory Implementation of Office of Management and Budget's Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards Legal Authority: OMB Guidance, ``Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards'' [[Page 77923]] Abstract: This proposed regulation will implement the final guidance Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards published by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on December 26, 2013. USDA implementation of the guidance will occur in December 2014 with the OMB joint interim final rule. This Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) rule will update references to the OMB final guidance throughout the FNS rules. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 11/00/15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James F. Herbert, Regulatory Review Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 305-2572, Email: james.herbert@fns.usda.gov. Lynnette M. Thomas, Chief, Planning and Regulatory Affairs Branch, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email: lynnette.thomas@fns.usda.gov. RIN: 0584-AE42 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) Final Rule Stage 160. National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: Nutrition Standards for all Foods Sold in School, as Required by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 6 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AE09 161. National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: School Food Service Account Revenue Amendments Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296 Abstract: This rule amends National School Lunch Program (NSLP) regulations to conform to requirements contained in the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 regarding equity in school lunch pricing and revenue from non-program foods sold in schools. This rule requires school food authorities (SFAs) participating in the NSLP to provide the same level of financial support for lunches served to students who are not eligible for free or reduced price lunches as is provided for lunches served to students eligible for free lunches. This rule also requires that all food sold in a school and purchased with funds from the nonprofit school food service account other than meals and supplements reimbursed by the Department of Agriculture must generate revenue at least proportionate to the cost of such foods. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Interim Final Rule.................. 06/17/11 76 FR 35301 Interim Final Rule Effective........ 07/01/11 Interim Final Rule Comment Period 09/15/11 End. Final Action........................ 05/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James F. Herbert, Regulatory Review Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 305-2572, Email: james.herbert@fns.usda.gov. Lynnette M. Thomas, Chief, Planning and Regulatory Affairs Branch, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email: lynnette.thomas@fns.usda.gov. RIN: 0584-AE11 162. Child and Adult Care Food Program: Meal Pattern Revisions Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 7 in part II of this issue of the Federal Register. RIN: 0584-AE18 163. Child Nutrition Programs: Local School Wellness Policy Implementation Under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296 Abstract: This final rule codifies a provision of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act (Pub. L. 111-296; the Act) under 7 CFR parts 210 and 220. Section 204 of the Act requires each local educational agency (LEA) to establish, for all schools under its jurisdiction, a local school wellness policy. The Act requires that the wellness policy include goals for nutrition, nutrition education, physical activity, and other school-based activities that promote student wellness. In addition, the Act requires that local educational agencies ensure stakeholder participation in development of their local school wellness policies, and periodically assess compliance with the policies, and disclose information about the policies to the public. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 02/26/14 79 FR 10693 NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/28/14 Final Action........................ 03/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: James F. Herbert, Regulatory Review Specialist, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 305-2572, Email: james.herbert@fns.usda.gov. Lynnette M. Thomas, Chief, Planning and Regulatory Affairs Branch, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email: lynnette.thomas@fns.usda.gov. RIN: 0584-AE25 BILLING CODE 3410-30-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) Proposed Rule Stage 164.Elimination of Trichina Control Regulations and Consolidation of Thermally Processed, Commercially Sterile Regulations Legal Authority: Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA); Poultry Products Inspection Act (PPIA) Abstract: Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations to eliminate the requirements for both ready-to-eat (RTE) and not-ready-to-eat (NRTE) pork and pork products to be treated to destroy trichina (Trichinella spiralis) because the regulations are inconsistent with the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulations, and these prescriptive regulations are no longer necessary. If this supplemental proposed rule is finalized, FSIS will end its Trichinella Approved Laboratory Program (TALP program) for the evaluation and approval of non-Federal laboratories that use the pooled sample digestion [[Page 77924]] technique to analyze samples for the presence of trichina. FSIS is also proposing to consolidate the regulations on thermally processed, commercially sterile meat and poultry products (i.e., canned food products containing meat or poultry). Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 03/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ .Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Assistant Administrator, Office of Policy and Program Development, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., 349-E JWB, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205-0495, Fax: 202 720-2025, Email: daniel.engeljohn@fsis.usda.gov. RIN: 0583-AD59 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) Final Rule Stage 165. Mandatory Inspection of Fish of the Order Siluriformes and Products Derived From Such Fish Legal Authority: Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) (21 U.S.C. 601 to 695); Pub. L. 110-246, sec 11016; Pub. L. 113-79, sec 12106 Abstract: The 2008 Farm Bill (Pub. L. 110-246, sec. 11016), amended the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) to make ``catfish'' a species amenable to the FMIA and, therefore, subject to Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) inspection. In addition, the 2008 Farm Bill gave FSIS the authority to define the term ``catfish.'' On February 24, 2011, FSIS published a proposed rule that outlined a mandatory catfish inspection program and presented two options for defining ``catfish.'' The 2014 Farm Bill (Pub. L. 113-79, sec. 12106), amended the FMIA to remove the term ``catfish'' and to make ``all fish of the order Siluriformes'' subject to FSIS jurisdiction and inspection. As a result, FSIS inspection of Siluriformes is mandated by law and non- discretionary. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 02/24/11 76 FR 10434 NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/24/11 Final Action........................ 12/00/15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Assistant Administrator, Office of Policy and Program Development, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., 349-E JWB, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205-0495, Fax: 202 720-2025, Email: daniel.engeljohn@fsis.usda.gov. RIN: 0583-AD36 BILLING CODE 3410-DM-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Forest Service (FS) Final Rule Stage 166. Ski Area--D Clauses: Resource and Improvement Protection, Water Facilities, and Water Rights (Directive) Legal Authority: FSH 2709.11 Abstract: On November 8, 2011, the Forest Service issued an interim directive (FSH 2709.11-2011-3) including a revised clause to address the ownership of water rights developed on National Forest System (NFS) lands for use by ski area permit holders. On March 6, 2012, a second interim directive (FSH 2709.11-2012-1) for the revised ski area water rights clause was issued, superseding the 2011 version. The National Ski Areas Association filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado on March 12, 2012, opposing use of the revised clause. On December 19, 2012, the court ruled that the Forest Service had erred in not providing an opportunity for notice and comment on the interim directive and that the agency needed to conduct a Regulatory Flexibility Act analysis of the impact of the directive on small business entities that hold ski area permits. The court vacated the interim directive and enjoined enforcement of the 2011 and 2012 clauses in permits containing them. The proposed directive would address the development of water facilities on NFS lands; the ownership of preexisting and future water rights; mechanisms to ensure sufficient water remains for ski areas on NFS lands; and measures necessary to protect NFS lands and resources. The Forest Service published the proposed ski area water rights clause in the Federal Register for public notice and comment. To identify interests and views from a diverse group of stakeholders regarding a revised water rights clause for ski areas, the Forest Service held four stakeholder meetings in April 2013. The input from the stakeholder sessions was considered in the development of the final water rights clause for ski areas. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Proposed Directive.................. 06/23/14 79 FR 35513 Proposed Directive Comment Period 08/22/14 End. Final Directive..................... 03/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: LaRenda C. King, Assistant Director, Directives and Regulations, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0003, Phone: 202 205-6560, Email: larendacking@fs.fed.us. RIN: 0596-AD14 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Forest Service (FS) Long-Term Actions 167. Management of Surface Activities Associated With Outstanding Mineral Rights on National Forest System Lands (Directive) Legal Authority: EPA 1992 Abstract: Close to 11,000,000 acres (approximately 6 percent) of National Forest System (NFS) lands overlie severed (split) mineral estates owned by a party other than the Federal Government. More than 75 percent of these lands are in the Eastern Region (Forest Service Regions 8 and 9). There are two kinds of severed mineral estates, generally known as ``private rights'': Reserved and outstanding. Reserved mineral rights are those retained by a grantor in a deed conveying land to the United States. Outstanding mineral rights are those owned by a party other than the surface owner at the time the surface was conveyed to the United States. Because these are non- Federal mineral interests, the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management has no authority for or role in managing development activities associated with such interests. States have the authority and responsibility for regulating development of the private mineral estate. [[Page 77925]] Various Secretary's Rules and Regulations (years of 1911, 1937, 1938, 1939, 1947, 1950, and 1963) and Forest Service regulations at 36 CFR 251.15 provide direction for the use of NFS lands for mineral development activities associated with the exercise of reserved mineral rights. These existing rules for reserved minerals development activities also include requirements for protection of NFS resources. Currently, there are no formal regulations governing the use of NFS lands for activities associated with the exercise of outstanding mineral rights underlying those lands. The Energy Policy Act of 1992, section 2508, directed the Secretary of Agriculture to apply specified terms and conditions to surface-disturbing activities related to development of oil and gas on certain lands with outstanding mineral rights on the Allegheny National Forest, and promulgate regulations implementing that section. The Forest Service initiated rulemaking for the use of NFS lands for development activities associated with both reserved and outstanding minerals rights with an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) in the Federal Register on December 29, 2008. Comments from the public in response to the ANPRM conveyed a high level of concern about the broad scope of the rule, along with a high level of concern about effects of a broad rule on small businesses and local economies. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANPRM............................... 12/29/08 73 FR 79424 ANPRM Comment Period End............ 02/27/09 ----------------------------------- NPRM................................ To Be Determined ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: LaRenda C. King, Phone: 202 205-6560, Email: larendacking@fs.fed.us. RIN: 0596-AD03 BILLING CODE 3410-11-P DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA) Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM) Proposed Rule Stage 168. Designation of Biobased Product Categories for Federal Procurement, Round 11 Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79 Abstract: This proposed rule will designate, for preferred procurement under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement Program, approximately 10 intermediate ingredient or feedstock product categories. An intermediate ingredient or feedstock is defined by the BioPreferred Program as a material or compound made in whole or in significant part from biological products. Typical intermediate ingredient or feedstock product categories will include renewable chemicals; plastic resins; chemical binders; oils, fats, and waxes; and fibers and fabrics. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 02/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Ron Buckhalt, Manager, BioPreferred Program, Office of Procurement and Property Management, Department of Agriculture, Office of Procurement and Property Management, 361 Reporters Building, 300 7th Street SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205-4008, Fax: 202 720-8972, Email: ronb.buckhalt@dm.usda.gov. RIN: 0599-AA24 169. Designation of Biobased Product Categories for Federal Procurement, Round 12 Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79 Abstract: This proposed rule will designate, for preferred procurement under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement Program, approximately eight complex assembly product categories. A complex assembly is defined by the BioPreferred program as a system of distinct materials and components assembled to create a finished product with specific functional intent where some or all of the system inputs contain some amount of biobased material or feedstock. Typical complex assembly product categories will include products such as upholstered office chairs and other office furniture; mattresses; backpacks; boots; and other camping gear. The specific product categories to be included in this rulemaking are under investigation by the Office of Procurement and Property Management, but technical information is expected to be available to support the designation of about eight product categories. Timetable: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Action Date FR Cite ------------------------------------------------------------------------ NPRM................................ 08/00/16 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes. Agency Contact: Ron Buckhalt, Manager, BioPreferred Program, Office of Procurement and Property Management, Department of Agriculture, Office of Procurement and Property Management, 361 Reporters Building, 300 7th Street SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205-4008, Fax: 202 720-8972, Email: ronb.buckhalt@dm.usda.gov. RIN: 0599-AA25 [FR Doc. 2015-31019 Filed 12-14-15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-98-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 240 / Tuesday, December 15, 2015 / Unified Agenda 77925
Various Secretary’s Rules and RIN: 0596–AD03 169. • Designation of Biobased Product
Regulations (years of 1911, 1937, 1938, BILLING CODE 3410–11–P
Categories for Federal Procurement,
1939, 1947, 1950, and 1963) and Forest Round 12
Service regulations at 36 CFR 251.15
provide direction for the use of NFS Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113–79
lands for mineral development activities DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Abstract: This proposed rule will
associated with the exercise of reserved (USDA) designate, for preferred procurement
mineral rights. These existing rules for Office of Procurement and Property under the Federal Biobased Products
reserved minerals development Management (OPPM) Preferred Procurement Program,
activities also include requirements for approximately eight complex assembly
protection of NFS resources. Proposed Rule Stage product categories. A complex assembly
Currently, there are no formal is defined by the BioPreferred program
168. • Designation of Biobased Product
regulations governing the use of NFS as a system of distinct materials and
Categories for Federal Procurement,
lands for activities associated with the components assembled to create a
Round 11
exercise of outstanding mineral rights finished product with specific
underlying those lands. The Energy Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113–79 functional intent where some or all of
Policy Act of 1992, section 2508, Abstract: This proposed rule will the system inputs contain some amount
directed the Secretary of Agriculture to designate, for preferred procurement of biobased material or feedstock.
apply specified terms and conditions to under the Federal Biobased Products Typical complex assembly product
surface-disturbing activities related to Preferred Procurement Program, categories will include products such as
development of oil and gas on certain approximately 10 intermediate upholstered office chairs and other
lands with outstanding mineral rights ingredient or feedstock product office furniture; mattresses; backpacks;
on the Allegheny National Forest, and categories. An intermediate ingredient boots; and other camping gear. The
promulgate regulations implementing or feedstock is defined by the specific product categories to be
that section. BioPreferred Program as a material or included in this rulemaking are under
The Forest Service initiated compound made in whole or in investigation by the Office of
rulemaking for the use of NFS lands for significant part from biological Procurement and Property Management,
development activities associated with products. Typical intermediate but technical information is expected to
both reserved and outstanding minerals ingredient or feedstock product be available to support the designation
rights with an Advance Notice of categories will include renewable of about eight product categories.
Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) in the
chemicals; plastic resins; chemical Timetable:
Federal Register on December 29, 2008.
binders; oils, fats, and waxes; and fibers
Comments from the public in response
and fabrics. Action Date FR Cite
to the ANPRM conveyed a high level of
concern about the broad scope of the Timetable:
NPRM .................. 08/00/16
rule, along with a high level of concern
Action Date FR Cite
about effects of a broad rule on small
businesses and local economies. Regulatory Flexibility Analysis
NPRM .................. 02/00/16
Timetable: Required: Yes.
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Agency Contact: Ron Buckhalt,
Action Date FR Cite Manager, BioPreferred Program, Office
Required: Yes.
of Procurement and Property
ANPRM ............... 12/29/08 73 FR 79424 Agency Contact: Ron Buckhalt,
ANPRM Comment 02/27/09 Management, Department of
Manager, BioPreferred Program, Office
Period End. Agriculture, Office of Procurement and
of Procurement and Property
Property Management, 361 Reporters
Management, Department of
NPRM .................. To Be Determined Building, 300 7th Street SW.,
Agriculture, Office of Procurement and
Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205–
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Property Management, 361 Reporters
4008, Fax: 202 720–8972, Email:
Required: Yes. Building, 300 7th Street SW.,
ronb.buckhalt@dm.usda.gov.
Agency Contact: LaRenda C. King, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205–
Phone: 202 205–6560, Email: 4008, Fax: 202 720–8972, Email: RIN: 0599–AA25
larendacking@fs.fed.us. ronb.buckhalt@dm.usda.gov. [FR Doc. 2015–31019 Filed 12–14–15; 8:45 am]
RIN: 0599–AA24 BILLING CODE 3410–98–P
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Document Created: 2018-03-02 09:15:18
Document Modified: 2018-03-02 09:15:18
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Unknown Section | |
| Action | Semiannual regulatory agenda. | |
| Contact | For further information on any specific entry shown in this agenda, please contact the person listed for that action. For general comments or inquiries about the agenda, please contact Michael Poe, Office of Budget and Program Analysis, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-3257. | |
| FR Citation | 80 FR 77916 | |
| CFR Citation | 36 Title 36 CFR Chapter II 48 Title 48 CFR Chapter 4 5 Title 5 CFR Chapter LXXIII |
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