82_FR_14897 82 FR 14842 - Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of 4-Fluoroisobutyryl Fentanyl Into Schedule I

82 FR 14842 - Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of 4-Fluoroisobutyryl Fentanyl Into Schedule I

DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Drug Enforcement Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 55 (March 23, 2017)

Page Range14842-14845
FR Document2017-05728

The Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration is issuing this notice of intent to issue a temporary order to schedule the synthetic opioid, N-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-(1-phenethylpiperidin-4- yl)isobutyramide (4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl or para-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl), into Schedule I pursuant to the temporary scheduling provisions of the Controlled Substances Act. This action is based on a finding by the Administrator that the placement of this synthetic opioid into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act is necessary to avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety. When it is issued, the temporary scheduling order will impose the administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions and regulatory controls applicable to Schedule I controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act on the manufacture, distribution, reverse distribution, possession, importation, exportation, research, and conduct of instructional activities, and chemical analysis of this synthetic opioid.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 55 (Thursday, March 23, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 55 (Thursday, March 23, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14842-14845]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-05728]


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DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Drug Enforcement Administration

21 CFR Part 1308

[Docket No. DEA-452]


Schedules of Controlled Substances: Temporary Placement of 4-
Fluoroisobutyryl Fentanyl Into Schedule I

AGENCY: Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Justice.

ACTION: Notice of intent.

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

SUMMARY: The Administrator of the Drug Enforcement Administration is 
issuing this notice of intent to issue a temporary order to schedule 
the synthetic opioid, N-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-(1-phenethylpiperidin-4-
yl)isobutyramide (4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl or para-fluoroisobutyryl 
fentanyl), into Schedule I pursuant to the temporary scheduling 
provisions of the Controlled Substances Act. This action is based on a 
finding by the Administrator that the placement of this synthetic 
opioid into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act is necessary to 
avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety. When it is issued, the 
temporary scheduling order will impose the administrative, civil, and 
criminal sanctions and regulatory controls applicable to Schedule I 
controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act on the 
manufacture, distribution, reverse distribution, possession, 
importation, exportation, research, and conduct of instructional 
activities, and chemical analysis of this synthetic opioid.

DATES: The date of this notice of intent is March 23, 2017.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael J. Lewis, Diversion Control 
Division, Drug Enforcement Administration; Mailing Address: 8701 
Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia 22152; Telephone: (202) 598-
6812.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This notice of intent is issued pursuant to 
the temporary scheduling provisions of 21 U.S.C. 811(h). DEA intends to 
issue a temporary order to add 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl to Schedule 
I

[[Page 14843]]

under the Controlled Substances Act.\1\ The temporary scheduling order 
will be published in the Federal Register, but that order will not be 
issued before April 24, 2017.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ Though DEA has used the term ``final order'' with respect to 
temporary scheduling orders in the past, this notice of intent 
adheres to the statutory language of 21 U.S.C. 811(h), which refers 
to a ``temporary scheduling order.'' No substantive change is 
intended.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Legal Authority

    The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) implements and enforces 
titles II and III of the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and 
Control Act of 1970, as amended. 21 U.S.C. 801-971. Titles II and III 
are referred to as the ``Controlled Substances Act'' and the 
``Controlled Substances Import and Export Act,'' respectively, and are 
collectively referred to as the ``Controlled Substances Act'' or the 
``CSA'' for the purpose of this action. The DEA publishes the 
implementing regulations for these statutes in title 21 of the Code of 
Federal Regulations (CFR), chapter II. The CSA and its implementing 
regulations are designed to prevent, detect, and eliminate the 
diversion of controlled substances and listed chemicals into the 
illicit market while providing for the legitimate medical, scientific, 
research, and industrial needs of the United States. Controlled 
substances have the potential for abuse and dependence and are 
controlled to protect the public health and safety.
    Under the CSA, each controlled substance is classified into one of 
five schedules based upon its potential for abuse, its currently 
accepted medical use in treatment in the United States, and the degree 
of dependence the drug or other substance may cause. 21 U.S.C. 812. The 
initial schedules of controlled substances established by Congress are 
found at 21 U.S.C. 812(c), and the current list of all scheduled 
substances is published at 21 CFR part 1308.
    Section 201 of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811, provides the Attorney 
General with the authority to temporarily place a substance into 
Schedule I of the CSA for two years without regard to the requirements 
of 21 U.S.C. 811(b) if he finds that such action is necessary to avoid 
imminent hazard to the public safety. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1). In addition, 
if proceedings to control a substance are initiated under 21 U.S.C. 
811(a)(1), the Attorney General may extend the temporary scheduling for 
up to one year. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(2).
    Where the necessary findings are made, a substance may be 
temporarily scheduled if it is not listed in any other schedule under 
section 202 of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 812, or if there is no exemption or 
approval in effect for the substance under section 505 of the Federal 
Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), 21 U.S.C. 355. 21 U.S.C. 
811(h)(1); 21 CFR part 1308. The Attorney General has delegated 
scheduling authority under 21 U.S.C. 811 to the Administrator of the 
DEA. 28 CFR 0.100.

Background

    Section 201(h)(4) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(4), requires the 
Administrator to notify the Secretary of the Department of Health and 
Human Services (HHS) of his intention to temporarily place a substance 
into Schedule I of the CSA.\2\ The Administrator transmitted notice of 
his intent to place 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in Schedule I on a 
temporary basis to the Assistant Secretary by letter dated January 5, 
2017. The Assistant Secretary responded to this notice by letter dated 
January 17, 2017, and advised that based on a review by the Food and 
Drug Administration (FDA), there are currently no investigational new 
drug applications or approved new drug applications for 4-
fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl. The Assistant Secretary also stated that the 
HHS has no objection to the temporary placement of 4-fluoroisobutyryl 
fentanyl into Schedule I of the CSA. 4-Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl is not 
currently listed in any schedule under the CSA, and no exemptions or 
approvals are in effect for 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl under section 
505 of the FDCA, 21 U.S.C. 355. The DEA has found that the control of 
4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in Schedule I on a temporary basis is 
necessary to avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ As discussed in a memorandum of understanding entered into 
by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institute 
on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the FDA acts as the lead agency within the HHS 
in carrying out the Secretary's scheduling responsibilities under 
the CSA, with the concurrence of NIDA. 50 FR 9518, Mar. 8, 1985. The 
Secretary of the HHS has delegated to the Assistant Secretary for 
Health of the HHS the authority to make domestic drug scheduling 
recommendations. 58 FR 35460, July 1, 1993.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    To find that placing a substance temporarily into Schedule I of the 
CSA is necessary to avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety, the 
Administrator is required to consider three of the eight factors set 
forth in 21 U.S.C. 811(c): The substance's history and current pattern 
of abuse; the scope, duration and significance of abuse; and what, if 
any, risk there is to the public health. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(3). 
Consideration of these factors includes actual abuse, diversion from 
legitimate channels, and clandestine importation, manufacture, or 
distribution. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(3).
    A substance meeting the statutory requirements for temporary 
scheduling may only be placed in Schedule I. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1). 
Substances in Schedule I are those that have a high potential for 
abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United 
States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical 
supervision. 21 U.S.C. 812(b)(1).

4-Fluoroisobutyryl Fentanyl

    The chemical structure of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl was first 
described in 1999 in the scientific literature. No approved medical use 
has been identified for 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, nor has it been 
approved by the FDA for human consumption. The recent identification of 
4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in drug evidence and the identification of 
this substance in association with fatal overdose events indicate that 
this substance is being abused for its opioid properties.
    Available data and information for 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, 
summarized below, indicate that this synthetic opioid has a high 
potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use in treatment in 
the United States, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical 
supervision. The DEA's three-factor analysis is available in its 
entirety under ``Supporting and Related Material'' of the public docket 
for this action at www.regulations.gov under Docket Number DEA-452.

Factor 4. History and Current Pattern of Abuse

    The recreational abuse of fentanyl-like substances continues to be 
a significant concern. These substances are distributed to users, often 
with unpredictable outcomes. 4-Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has recently 
been encountered by law enforcement and public health officials and the 
adverse health effects and outcomes are demonstrated by fatal overdose 
cases. The documented negative effects of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl 
are consistent with those of other opioids. On October 1, 2014, the DEA 
implemented STARLiMS (a web-based, commercial laboratory information 
management system) to replace the System to Retrieve Information from 
Drug Evidence (STRIDE) as its laboratory drug evidence data system of 
record. DEA laboratory data submitted after September 30, 2014, are 
reposited in STARLiMS. Data from STRIDE and

[[Page 14844]]

STARLiMS were queried on December 21, 2016. STARLiMS registered 21 
reports containing 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, all reported in 2016, 
from Florida, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and 
the District of Columbia. According to STARLiMS, the first laboratory 
submission of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl occurred in March 2016 in 
Maryland. The DEA is not aware of any laboratory identifications of 4-
fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl prior to 2016.
    The National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS) is a 
national drug forensic laboratory reporting system that systematically 
collects results from drug chemistry analyses conducted by other 
federal, state and local forensic laboratories across the country. 
According to NFLIS, the only report of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl from 
state or local forensic laboratories was recorded in August 2016 in 
Pennsylvania. Due to normal lag time in reporting, NFLIS data from 
August through November 2016 is incomplete.\3\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ Information was obtained from NFLIS on December 21, 2016.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Evidence suggests that the pattern of abuse of fentanyl analogues, 
including 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, parallels that of heroin and 
prescription opioid analgesics. Seizures of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl 
have been encountered in powder form and packaged similar to that of 
heroin. 4-Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has been encountered as a single 
substance as well as in combination with other substances of abuse, 
including heroin, fentanyl, furanyl fentanyl, methamphetamine, and 
cocaine. 4-Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has been connected to fatal 
overdoses, in which insufflation and intravenous routes of 
administration are documented.

Factor 5. Scope, Duration and Significance of Abuse

    Reports collected by the DEA demonstrate 4-fluoroisobutyryl 
fentanyl is being abused for its opioid properties. This abuse of 4-
fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has resulted in morbidity and mortality (see 
DEA 3-Factor Analysis for full discussion). The DEA has received 
reports for at least 62 confirmed fatalities associated with 4-
fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl. Information on these deaths, occurring as 
early as August 2016, was collected from post-mortem toxicology and 
medical examiner reports by the DEA. These deaths were reported from, 
and occurred in, Maryland. NFLIS and STARLiMS have a total of 22 drug 
reports in which 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl was identified in drug 
exhibits submitted to forensic laboratories in 2016 from law 
enforcement encounters in Florida, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey, 
New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and the District of Columbia. It is 
likely that the prevalence of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in opioid 
analgesic-related emergency room admissions and deaths is underreported 
as standard immunoassays may not differentiate this substance from 
fentanyl.
    The population likely to abuse 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl overlaps 
with the population abusing prescription opioid analgesics and heroin. 
This is evidenced by the routes of drug administration and drug use 
history documented in 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl fatal overdose cases. 
Because abusers of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl are likely to obtain 
this substance through unregulated sources, the identity, purity, and 
quantity are uncertain and inconsistent, thus posing significant 
adverse health risks to the end user. Individuals who initiate (i.e. 
use a drug for the first time) 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl abuse are 
likely to be at risk of developing substance use disorder, overdose, 
and death similar to that of other opioid analgesics (e.g., fentanyl, 
morphine, etc.).

Factor 6. What, if Any, Risk There Is to the Public Health

    4-Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl exhibits pharmacological profiles 
similar to that of fentanyl and other [mu]-opioid receptor agonists. 
The toxic effects of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in humans are 
demonstrated by overdose fatalities involving this substance. Abusers 
of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl may not know the origin, identity, or 
purity of this substance, thus posing significant adverse health risks 
when compared to abuse of pharmaceutical preparations of opioid 
analgesics, such as morphine and oxycodone.
    Based on information received by the DEA, the abuse of 4-
fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl leads to the same qualitative public health 
risks as heroin, fentanyl and other opioid analgesic substances. As 
with any non-medically approved opioid, the health and safety risks for 
users are great. The public health risks attendant to the abuse of 
heroin and opioid analgesics are well established and have resulted in 
large numbers of drug treatment admissions, emergency department 
visits, and fatal overdoses.
    4-Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has been associated with numerous 
fatalities. At least 62 confirmed overdose deaths involving 4-
fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl abuse have been reported from Maryland in 
2016. As the data demonstrates, the potential for fatal and non-fatal 
overdoses exists for 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl and 4-fluoroisobutyryl 
fentanyl poses an imminent hazard to the public safety.

Finding of Necessity of Schedule I Placement To Avoid Imminent Hazard 
to Public Safety

    In accordance with 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(3), based on the available data 
and information, summarized above, the continued uncontrolled 
manufacture, distribution, reverse distribution, importation, 
exportation, conduct of research and chemical analysis, possession, and 
abuse of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl poses an imminent hazard to the 
public safety. The DEA is not aware of any currently accepted medical 
uses for 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in the United States. A substance 
meeting the statutory requirements for temporary scheduling, 21 U.S.C. 
811(h)(1), may only be placed in Schedule I. Substances in Schedule I 
are those that have a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted 
medical use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted 
safety for use under medical supervision. Available data and 
information for 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl indicate that this 
substance has a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical 
use in treatment in the United States, and a lack of accepted safety 
for use under medical supervision. As required by section 201(h)(4) of 
the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(4), the Administrator, through a letter dated 
January 5, 2017, notified the Assistant Secretary of the DEA's 
intention to temporarily place this substance in Schedule I.

Conclusion

    This notice of intent initiates a temporary scheduling process and 
provides the 30-day notice pursuant to section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 
U.S.C. 811(h), of DEA's intent to issue a temporary scheduling order. 
In accordance with the provisions of section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 
U.S.C. 811(h), the Administrator considered available data and 
information, herein set forth the grounds for his determination that it 
is necessary to temporarily schedule 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in 
Schedule I of the CSA, and finds that placement of this synthetic 
opioid substance into Schedule I of the CSA is necessary in order to 
avoid an imminent hazard to the public safety.
    The temporary placement of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl into 
schedule I

[[Page 14845]]

of the CSA will take effect upon publication of a temporary scheduling 
order, which will not be issued before April 24, 2017. Because the 
Administrator hereby finds that it is necessary to temporarily place 4-
fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl into Schedule I to avoid an imminent hazard 
to the public safety, the temporary order scheduling this substance 
will be effective on the date that order is published in the Federal 
Register, and will be in effect for a period of two years, with a 
possible extension of one additional year, pending completion of the 
regular (permanent) scheduling process. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1) and (2). It 
is the intention of the Administrator to issue a temporary scheduling 
order as soon as possible after the expiration of 30 days from the date 
of publication of this notice. Upon publication of the temporary order, 
4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl will then be subject to the regulatory 
controls and administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions applicable 
to the manufacture, distribution, reverse distribution, importation, 
exportation, research, conduct of instructional activities and chemical 
analysis, and possession of a Schedule I controlled substance.
    The CSA sets forth specific criteria for scheduling a drug or other 
substance. Regular scheduling actions in accordance with 21 U.S.C. 
811(a) are subject to formal rulemaking procedures done ``on the record 
after opportunity for a hearing'' conducted pursuant to the provisions 
of 5 U.S.C. 556 and 557. 21 U.S.C. 811. The regular scheduling process 
of formal rulemaking affords interested parties with appropriate 
process and the government with any additional relevant information 
needed to make a determination. Final decisions that conclude the 
regular scheduling process of formal rulemaking are subject to judicial 
review. 21 U.S.C. 877. Temporary scheduling orders are not subject to 
judicial review. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(6).

Regulatory Matters

    Section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811(h), provides for a 
temporary scheduling action where such action is necessary to avoid an 
imminent hazard to the public safety. As provided in this subsection, 
the Attorney General may, by order, schedule a substance in Schedule I 
on a temporary basis. Such an order may not be issued before the 
expiration of 30 days from (1) the publication of a notice in the 
Federal Register of the intention to issue such order and the grounds 
upon which such order is to be issued, and (2) the date that notice of 
the proposed temporary scheduling order is transmitted to the Assistant 
Secretary of HHS. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1).
    Inasmuch as section 201(h) of the CSA directs that temporary 
scheduling actions be issued by order and sets forth the procedures by 
which such orders are to be issued, the DEA believes that the notice 
and comment requirements of section 553 of the Administrative Procedure 
Act (APA), 5 U.S.C. 553, do not apply to this notice of intent. In the 
alternative, even assuming that this notice of intent might be subject 
to section 553 of the APA, the Administrator finds that there is good 
cause to forgo the notice and comment requirements of section 553, as 
any further delays in the process for issuance of temporary scheduling 
orders would be impracticable and contrary to the public interest in 
view of the manifest urgency to avoid an imminent hazard to the public 
safety.
    Although the DEA believes this notice of intent to issue a 
temporary scheduling order is not subject to the notice and comment 
requirements of section 553 of the APA, the DEA notes that in 
accordance with 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(4), the Administrator will take into 
consideration any comments submitted by the Assistant Secretary with 
regard to the proposed temporary scheduling order.
    Further, the DEA believes that this temporary scheduling action is 
not a ``rule'' as defined by 5 U.S.C. 601(2), and, accordingly, is not 
subject to the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA). 
The requirements for the preparation of an initial regulatory 
flexibility analysis in 5 U.S.C. 603(a) are not applicable where, as 
here, the DEA is not required by section 553 of the APA or any other 
law to publish a general notice of proposed rulemaking.
    Additionally, this action is not a significant regulatory action as 
defined by Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review), 
section 3(f), and, accordingly, this action has not been reviewed by 
the Office of Management and Budget.
    This action will not have substantial direct effects on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government. Therefore, in accordance with Executive Order 
13132 (Federalism) it is determined that this action does not have 
sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a 
Federalism Assessment.

List of Subjects in 21 CFR Part 1308

    Administrative practice and procedure, Drug traffic control, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    For the reasons set out above, the DEA proposes to amend 21 CFR 
part 1308 as follows:

PART 1308--SCHEDULES OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

0
1. The authority citation for part 1308 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  21 U.S.C. 811, 812, 871(b), 956(b), unless otherwise 
noted.

0
2. In Sec.  1308.11, add paragraph (h)(10) to read as follows:


Sec.  1308.11  Schedule I.

* * * * *
    (h) * * *
    (10) N-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-(1-phenethylpiperidin-4-yl)isobutyramide, 
its isomers, esters, ethers, salts and salts of isomers, esters and 
ethers (Other names: 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, para-fluoroisobutyryl 
fentanyl). . . . . (9824).

    Dated: March 16, 2017.
Chuck Rosenberg,
Acting Administrator.
[FR Doc. 2017-05728 Filed 3-22-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4410-09-P



                                                  14842                  Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 55 / Thursday, March 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules

                                                  be modified to within a 6.7-mile radius                 The Proposed Amendment                                    Issued in Seattle, Washington, on March 3,
                                                  of Bishop Airport, with a 7.2-mile wide                                                                         2017.
                                                  segment extending to 11.5 miles                           Accordingly, pursuant to the                          Richard Roberts,
                                                  northeast of the airport. Also, the Class               authority delegated to me, the Federal                  Manager, Operations Support Group, Western
                                                  E airspace extending upward from 1,200                  Aviation Administration proposes to                     Service Center.
                                                  feet above the surface would be reduced                 amend 14 CFR part 71 as follows:                        [FR Doc. 2017–05172 Filed 3–22–17; 8:45 am]
                                                  to a small area southeast of the airport                                                                        BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                  as the current configuration largely                    PART 71—DESIGNATION OF CLASS A,
                                                  duplicates the Coaldale, NV, Class E en                 B, C, D, AND E AIRSPACE AREAS; AIR
                                                  route airspace area. Additionally, Class                TRAFFIC SERVICE ROUTES; AND
                                                  E airspace extending upward from                        REPORTING POINTS                                        DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
                                                  12,500 feet MSL would be removed, as
                                                  this airspace supports no current IFR                   ■ 1. The authority citation for 14 CFR                  Drug Enforcement Administration
                                                  operations.                                             part 71 continues to read as follows:
                                                     These airspace modifications are                       Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 106(g), 40103,           21 CFR Part 1308
                                                  necessary for the safety and                            40113, 40120; E.O. 10854, 24 FR 9565, 3 CFR,
                                                  management of IFR operations in                         1959–1963 Comp., p. 389.                                [Docket No. DEA–452]
                                                  standard instrument approach and
                                                  departure procedures at the airport. The                § 71.1       [Amended]                                  Schedules of Controlled Substances:
                                                  airport name would be changed to be in                  ■ 2. The incorporation by reference in                  Temporary Placement of 4-
                                                  concert with the FAA’s aeronautical                     14 CFR 71.1 of FAA Order 7400.11A,                      Fluoroisobutyryl Fentanyl Into
                                                  database.                                               Airspace Designations and Reporting                     Schedule I
                                                     Class E airspace designations are                    Points, dated August 3, 2016, and
                                                  published in paragraph 6002, 6004, and                                                                          AGENCY: Drug Enforcement
                                                                                                          effective September 15, 2016, is                        Administration, Department of Justice.
                                                  6005, respectively, of FAA Order                        amended as follows:
                                                  7400.11A, dated August 3, 2016, and                                                                             ACTION: Notice of intent.
                                                  effective September 15, 2016, which is                  Paragraph 6002 Class E Airspace Areas
                                                  incorporated by reference in 14 CFR                     Designated as a Surface Area.
                                                                                                                                                                  SUMMARY:   The Administrator of the Drug
                                                  71.1. The Class E airspace designations                                                                         Enforcement Administration is issuing
                                                                                                          *        *      *       *      *                        this notice of intent to issue a temporary
                                                  listed in this document will be
                                                  published subsequently in the Order.                    AWP CA E2           Bishop, CA [Modified]               order to schedule the synthetic opioid,
                                                                                                          Bishop Airport, CA                                      N-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-(1-
                                                  Regulatory Notices and Analyses                           (Lat. 37°22′23″ N., long. 118°21′49″ W.)              phenethylpiperidin-4-yl)isobutyramide
                                                     The FAA has determined that this                       Within a 5-mile radius of Bishop Airport.
                                                                                                                                                                  (4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl or para-
                                                  regulation only involves an established                                                                         fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl), into
                                                  body of technical regulations for which                 Paragraph 6004 Class E Airspace Areas                   Schedule I pursuant to the temporary
                                                                                                          Designated as an Extension to a Class D or              scheduling provisions of the Controlled
                                                  frequent and routine amendments are                     Class E Surface Area.
                                                  necessary to keep them operationally                                                                            Substances Act. This action is based on
                                                  current, is non-controversial and                       *        *      *       *      *                        a finding by the Administrator that the
                                                  unlikely to result in adverse or negative               AWP CA E4           Bishop, CA [New]                    placement of this synthetic opioid into
                                                  comments. It, therefore: (1) Is not a                                                                           Schedule I of the Controlled Substances
                                                                                                          Bishop Airport, CA
                                                  ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under                                                                         Act is necessary to avoid an imminent
                                                                                                            (Lat. 37°22′23″ N., long. 118°21′49″ W.)
                                                  Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a                                                                             hazard to the public safety. When it is
                                                                                                            That airspace extending upward from the               issued, the temporary scheduling order
                                                  ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT                          surface within 1.2 miles each side of a 315°
                                                  Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44                                                                          will impose the administrative, civil,
                                                                                                          bearing from Bishop Airport extending from
                                                  FR 11034; February 26, 1979); and (3)                                                                           and criminal sanctions and regulatory
                                                                                                          the 5-mile radius of the airport to 6.9 miles
                                                  does not warrant preparation of a                       northwest of the airport, and within 1.2 miles
                                                                                                                                                                  controls applicable to Schedule I
                                                  regulatory evaluation as the anticipated                each side of a 337° bearing from the airport            controlled substances under the
                                                  impact is so minimal. Since this is a                   extending from the 5 mile radius of the                 Controlled Substances Act on the
                                                  routine matter that will only affect air                airport to 9.6 miles northwest of the airport.          manufacture, distribution, reverse
                                                  traffic procedures and air navigation, it                                                                       distribution, possession, importation,
                                                                                                          Paragraph 6005 Class E Airspace Areas                   exportation, research, and conduct of
                                                  is certified that this rule, when                       Extending Upward From 700 Feet or More
                                                  promulgated, would not have a                                                                                   instructional activities, and chemical
                                                                                                          Above the Surface of the Earth.
                                                  significant economic impact on a                                                                                analysis of this synthetic opioid.
                                                                                                          *        *      *       *      *
                                                  substantial number of small entities                                                                            DATES: The date of this notice of intent
                                                  under the criteria of the Regulatory                    AWP CA E5           Bishop, CA [Modified]               is March 23, 2017.
                                                  Flexibility Act.                                        Bishop Airport, CA                                      FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                  Environmental Review                                      (Lat. 37°22′23″ N., long. 118°21′49″ W.)              Michael J. Lewis, Diversion Control
                                                                                                            That airspace upward from 700 feet above              Division, Drug Enforcement
                                                     This proposal will be subject to an                  the surface within a 6.7-mile radius of Bishop          Administration; Mailing Address: 8701
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                  environmental analysis in accordance                    Airport, and within 4 miles west and 3.2                Morrissette Drive, Springfield, Virginia
                                                  with FAA Order 1050.1F,                                 miles east of a 337° bearing from the airport           22152; Telephone: (202) 598–6812.
                                                  ‘‘Environmental Impacts: Policies and                   extending from the 6.7-mile radius of the               SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This
                                                  Procedures’’ prior to any FAA final                     airport to 15.2 miles northwest of the airport.
                                                  regulatory action.                                                                                              notice of intent is issued pursuant to the
                                                                                                          That airspace upward from 1,200 feet above
                                                                                                          the surface within 3 miles southwest and
                                                                                                                                                                  temporary scheduling provisions of 21
                                                  List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 71                                                                              U.S.C. 811(h). DEA intends to issue a
                                                                                                          11.5 miles northeast of a 157° bearing from
                                                    Airspace, Incorporation by reference,                 the Bishop Airport extending from the airport           temporary order to add 4-
                                                  Navigation (air).                                       to 10.4 miles southeast of the airport.                 fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl to Schedule I


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                                                                          Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 55 / Thursday, March 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules                                            14843

                                                  under the Controlled Substances Act.1                   schedule under section 202 of the CSA,                actual abuse, diversion from legitimate
                                                  The temporary scheduling order will be                  21 U.S.C. 812, or if there is no                      channels, and clandestine importation,
                                                  published in the Federal Register, but                  exemption or approval in effect for the               manufacture, or distribution. 21 U.S.C.
                                                  that order will not be issued before                    substance under section 505 of the                    811(h)(3).
                                                  April 24, 2017.                                         Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act                    A substance meeting the statutory
                                                                                                          (FDCA), 21 U.S.C. 355. 21 U.S.C.                      requirements for temporary scheduling
                                                  Legal Authority                                                                                               may only be placed in Schedule I. 21
                                                                                                          811(h)(1); 21 CFR part 1308. The
                                                     The Drug Enforcement                                 Attorney General has delegated                        U.S.C. 811(h)(1). Substances in
                                                  Administration (DEA) implements and                     scheduling authority under 21 U.S.C.                  Schedule I are those that have a high
                                                  enforces titles II and III of the                       811 to the Administrator of the DEA. 28               potential for abuse, no currently
                                                  Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention                     CFR 0.100.                                            accepted medical use in treatment in the
                                                  and Control Act of 1970, as amended. 21                                                                       United States, and a lack of accepted
                                                  U.S.C. 801–971. Titles II and III are                   Background                                            safety for use under medical
                                                  referred to as the ‘‘Controlled                            Section 201(h)(4) of the CSA, 21                   supervision. 21 U.S.C. 812(b)(1).
                                                  Substances Act’’ and the ‘‘Controlled                   U.S.C. 811(h)(4), requires the
                                                  Substances Import and Export Act,’’                     Administrator to notify the Secretary of              4-Fluoroisobutyryl Fentanyl
                                                  respectively, and are collectively                      the Department of Health and Human                       The chemical structure of 4-
                                                  referred to as the ‘‘Controlled                         Services (HHS) of his intention to                    fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl was first
                                                  Substances Act’’ or the ‘‘CSA’’ for the                 temporarily place a substance into                    described in 1999 in the scientific
                                                  purpose of this action. The DEA                         Schedule I of the CSA.2 The                           literature. No approved medical use has
                                                  publishes the implementing regulations                  Administrator transmitted notice of his               been identified for 4-fluoroisobutyryl
                                                  for these statutes in title 21 of the Code              intent to place 4-fluoroisobutyryl                    fentanyl, nor has it been approved by
                                                  of Federal Regulations (CFR), chapter II.               fentanyl in Schedule I on a temporary                 the FDA for human consumption. The
                                                  The CSA and its implementing                            basis to the Assistant Secretary by letter            recent identification of 4-
                                                  regulations are designed to prevent,                    dated January 5, 2017. The Assistant                  fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in drug
                                                  detect, and eliminate the diversion of                  Secretary responded to this notice by                 evidence and the identification of this
                                                  controlled substances and listed                        letter dated January 17, 2017, and                    substance in association with fatal
                                                  chemicals into the illicit market while                 advised that based on a review by the                 overdose events indicate that this
                                                  providing for the legitimate medical,                   Food and Drug Administration (FDA),                   substance is being abused for its opioid
                                                  scientific, research, and industrial needs              there are currently no investigational                properties.
                                                  of the United States. Controlled                        new drug applications or approved new                    Available data and information for 4-
                                                  substances have the potential for abuse                 drug applications for 4-fluoroisobutyryl              fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, summarized
                                                  and dependence and are controlled to                    fentanyl. The Assistant Secretary also                below, indicate that this synthetic
                                                  protect the public health and safety.                   stated that the HHS has no objection to               opioid has a high potential for abuse, no
                                                     Under the CSA, each controlled                       the temporary placement of 4-                         currently accepted medical use in
                                                  substance is classified into one of five                fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl into Schedule               treatment in the United States, and a
                                                  schedules based upon its potential for                  I of the CSA. 4-Fluoroisobutyryl                      lack of accepted safety for use under
                                                  abuse, its currently accepted medical                   fentanyl is not currently listed in any               medical supervision. The DEA’s three-
                                                  use in treatment in the United States,                  schedule under the CSA, and no                        factor analysis is available in its entirety
                                                  and the degree of dependence the drug                   exemptions or approvals are in effect for             under ‘‘Supporting and Related
                                                  or other substance may cause. 21 U.S.C.                 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl under                     Material’’ of the public docket for this
                                                  812. The initial schedules of controlled                section 505 of the FDCA, 21 U.S.C. 355.               action at www.regulations.gov under
                                                  substances established by Congress are                  The DEA has found that the control of                 Docket Number DEA–452.
                                                  found at 21 U.S.C. 812(c), and the                      4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in Schedule
                                                                                                                                                                Factor 4. History and Current Pattern of
                                                  current list of all scheduled substances                I on a temporary basis is necessary to
                                                                                                                                                                Abuse
                                                  is published at 21 CFR part 1308.                       avoid an imminent hazard to the public
                                                     Section 201 of the CSA, 21 U.S.C. 811,               safety.                                                  The recreational abuse of fentanyl-like
                                                  provides the Attorney General with the                     To find that placing a substance                   substances continues to be a significant
                                                  authority to temporarily place a                        temporarily into Schedule I of the CSA                concern. These substances are
                                                  substance into Schedule I of the CSA for                is necessary to avoid an imminent                     distributed to users, often with
                                                  two years without regard to the                         hazard to the public safety, the                      unpredictable outcomes. 4-
                                                  requirements of 21 U.S.C. 811(b) if he                  Administrator is required to consider                 Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has recently
                                                  finds that such action is necessary to                  three of the eight factors set forth in 21            been encountered by law enforcement
                                                  avoid imminent hazard to the public                     U.S.C. 811(c): The substance’s history                and public health officials and the
                                                  safety. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1). In addition,               and current pattern of abuse; the scope,              adverse health effects and outcomes are
                                                  if proceedings to control a substance are               duration and significance of abuse; and               demonstrated by fatal overdose cases.
                                                  initiated under 21 U.S.C. 811(a)(1), the                what, if any, risk there is to the public             The documented negative effects of 4-
                                                  Attorney General may extend the                         health. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(3).                          fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl are consistent
                                                  temporary scheduling for up to one                      Consideration of these factors includes               with those of other opioids. On October
                                                  year. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(2).                                                                                    1, 2014, the DEA implemented
                                                     Where the necessary findings are                       2 As discussed in a memorandum of                   STARLiMS (a web-based, commercial
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                                                  made, a substance may be temporarily                    understanding entered into by the Food and Drug       laboratory information management
                                                                                                          Administration (FDA) and the National Institute on
                                                  scheduled if it is not listed in any other              Drug Abuse (NIDA), the FDA acts as the lead agency
                                                                                                                                                                system) to replace the System to
                                                                                                          within the HHS in carrying out the Secretary’s        Retrieve Information from Drug
                                                     1 Though DEA has used the term ‘‘final order’’       scheduling responsibilities under the CSA, with the   Evidence (STRIDE) as its laboratory
                                                  with respect to temporary scheduling orders in the      concurrence of NIDA. 50 FR 9518, Mar. 8, 1985.        drug evidence data system of record.
                                                  past, this notice of intent adheres to the statutory    The Secretary of the HHS has delegated to the
                                                  language of 21 U.S.C. 811(h), which refers to a         Assistant Secretary for Health of the HHS the
                                                                                                                                                                DEA laboratory data submitted after
                                                  ‘‘temporary scheduling order.’’ No substantive          authority to make domestic drug scheduling            September 30, 2014, are reposited in
                                                  change is intended.                                     recommendations. 58 FR 35460, July 1, 1993.           STARLiMS. Data from STRIDE and


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                                                  14844                  Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 55 / Thursday, March 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules

                                                  STARLiMS were queried on December                       reports in which 4-fluoroisobutyryl                   abuse have been reported from
                                                  21, 2016. STARLiMS registered 21                        fentanyl was identified in drug exhibits              Maryland in 2016. As the data
                                                  reports containing 4-fluoroisobutyryl                   submitted to forensic laboratories in                 demonstrates, the potential for fatal and
                                                  fentanyl, all reported in 2016, from                    2016 from law enforcement encounters                  non-fatal overdoses exists for 4-
                                                  Florida, Maryland, Mississippi, New                     in Florida, Maryland, Mississippi, New                fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl and 4-
                                                  Jersey, New York, Texas, and the                        Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas,                fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl poses an
                                                  District of Columbia. According to                      and the District of Columbia. It is likely            imminent hazard to the public safety.
                                                  STARLiMS, the first laboratory                          that the prevalence of 4-fluoroisobutyryl
                                                                                                                                                                Finding of Necessity of Schedule I
                                                  submission of 4-fluoroisobutyryl                        fentanyl in opioid analgesic-related
                                                                                                                                                                Placement To Avoid Imminent Hazard
                                                  fentanyl occurred in March 2016 in                      emergency room admissions and deaths
                                                                                                                                                                to Public Safety
                                                  Maryland. The DEA is not aware of any                   is underreported as standard
                                                  laboratory identifications of 4-                        immunoassays may not differentiate this                  In accordance with 21 U.S.C.
                                                  fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl prior to 2016.                substance from fentanyl.                              811(h)(3), based on the available data
                                                     The National Forensic Laboratory                        The population likely to abuse 4-                  and information, summarized above, the
                                                  Information System (NFLIS) is a                         fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl overlaps with               continued uncontrolled manufacture,
                                                  national drug forensic laboratory                       the population abusing prescription                   distribution, reverse distribution,
                                                  reporting system that systematically                    opioid analgesics and heroin. This is                 importation, exportation, conduct of
                                                  collects results from drug chemistry                    evidenced by the routes of drug                       research and chemical analysis,
                                                  analyses conducted by other federal,                    administration and drug use history                   possession, and abuse of 4-
                                                  state and local forensic laboratories                   documented in 4-fluoroisobutyryl                      fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl poses an
                                                  across the country. According to NFLIS,                 fentanyl fatal overdose cases. Because                imminent hazard to the public safety.
                                                  the only report of 4-fluoroisobutyryl                   abusers of 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl                The DEA is not aware of any currently
                                                  fentanyl from state or local forensic                   are likely to obtain this substance                   accepted medical uses for 4-
                                                  laboratories was recorded in August                     through unregulated sources, the                      fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in the United
                                                  2016 in Pennsylvania. Due to normal lag                 identity, purity, and quantity are                    States. A substance meeting the
                                                  time in reporting, NFLIS data from                      uncertain and inconsistent, thus posing               statutory requirements for temporary
                                                  August through November 2016 is                         significant adverse health risks to the               scheduling, 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1), may
                                                  incomplete.3                                            end user. Individuals who initiate (i.e.              only be placed in Schedule I.
                                                     Evidence suggests that the pattern of                use a drug for the first time) 4-                     Substances in Schedule I are those that
                                                  abuse of fentanyl analogues, including                  fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl abuse are                   have a high potential for abuse, no
                                                  4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl, parallels                  likely to be at risk of developing                    currently accepted medical use in
                                                  that of heroin and prescription opioid                  substance use disorder, overdose, and                 treatment in the United States, and a
                                                  analgesics. Seizures of 4-                              death similar to that of other opioid                 lack of accepted safety for use under
                                                  fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl have been                     analgesics (e.g., fentanyl, morphine,                 medical supervision. Available data and
                                                  encountered in powder form and                          etc.).                                                information for 4-fluoroisobutyryl
                                                  packaged similar to that of heroin. 4-                                                                        fentanyl indicate that this substance has
                                                                                                          Factor 6. What, if Any, Risk There Is to              a high potential for abuse, no currently
                                                  Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has been                      the Public Health
                                                  encountered as a single substance as                                                                          accepted medical use in treatment in the
                                                  well as in combination with other                          4-Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl exhibits               United States, and a lack of accepted
                                                  substances of abuse, including heroin,                  pharmacological profiles similar to that              safety for use under medical
                                                  fentanyl, furanyl fentanyl,                             of fentanyl and other m-opioid receptor               supervision. As required by section
                                                  methamphetamine, and cocaine. 4-                        agonists. The toxic effects of 4-                     201(h)(4) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.
                                                  Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has been                      fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl in humans are               811(h)(4), the Administrator, through a
                                                  connected to fatal overdoses, in which                  demonstrated by overdose fatalities                   letter dated January 5, 2017, notified the
                                                  insufflation and intravenous routes of                  involving this substance. Abusers of 4-               Assistant Secretary of the DEA’s
                                                  administration are documented.                          fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl may not know                intention to temporarily place this
                                                                                                          the origin, identity, or purity of this               substance in Schedule I.
                                                  Factor 5. Scope, Duration and                           substance, thus posing significant
                                                  Significance of Abuse                                   adverse health risks when compared to                 Conclusion
                                                     Reports collected by the DEA                         abuse of pharmaceutical preparations of                  This notice of intent initiates a
                                                  demonstrate 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl                 opioid analgesics, such as morphine and               temporary scheduling process and
                                                  is being abused for its opioid properties.              oxycodone.                                            provides the 30-day notice pursuant to
                                                  This abuse of 4-fluoroisobutyryl                           Based on information received by the               section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.
                                                  fentanyl has resulted in morbidity and                  DEA, the abuse of 4-fluoroisobutyryl                  811(h), of DEA’s intent to issue a
                                                  mortality (see DEA 3-Factor Analysis for                fentanyl leads to the same qualitative                temporary scheduling order. In
                                                  full discussion). The DEA has received                  public health risks as heroin, fentanyl               accordance with the provisions of
                                                  reports for at least 62 confirmed                       and other opioid analgesic substances.                section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.
                                                  fatalities associated with 4-                           As with any non-medically approved                    811(h), the Administrator considered
                                                  fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl. Information                  opioid, the health and safety risks for               available data and information, herein
                                                  on these deaths, occurring as early as                  users are great. The public health risks              set forth the grounds for his
                                                                                                          attendant to the abuse of heroin and                  determination that it is necessary to
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                                                  August 2016, was collected from post-
                                                  mortem toxicology and medical                           opioid analgesics are well established                temporarily schedule 4-fluoroisobutyryl
                                                  examiner reports by the DEA. These                      and have resulted in large numbers of                 fentanyl in Schedule I of the CSA, and
                                                  deaths were reported from, and                          drug treatment admissions, emergency                  finds that placement of this synthetic
                                                  occurred in, Maryland. NFLIS and                        department visits, and fatal overdoses.               opioid substance into Schedule I of the
                                                  STARLiMS have a total of 22 drug                           4-Fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl has been               CSA is necessary in order to avoid an
                                                                                                          associated with numerous fatalities. At               imminent hazard to the public safety.
                                                    3 Information was obtained from NFLIS on              least 62 confirmed overdose deaths                       The temporary placement of 4-
                                                  December 21, 2016.                                      involving 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl                 fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl into schedule I


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                                                                         Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 55 / Thursday, March 23, 2017 / Proposed Rules                                                 14845

                                                  of the CSA will take effect upon                        scheduling order is transmitted to the                List of Subjects in 21 CFR Part 1308
                                                  publication of a temporary scheduling                   Assistant Secretary of HHS. 21 U.S.C.                   Administrative practice and
                                                  order, which will not be issued before                  811(h)(1).                                            procedure, Drug traffic control,
                                                  April 24, 2017. Because the                                Inasmuch as section 201(h) of the                  Reporting and recordkeeping
                                                  Administrator hereby finds that it is                   CSA directs that temporary scheduling                 requirements.
                                                  necessary to temporarily place 4-                       actions be issued by order and sets forth
                                                  fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl into Schedule                                                                         For the reasons set out above, the DEA
                                                                                                          the procedures by which such orders are               proposes to amend 21 CFR part 1308 as
                                                  I to avoid an imminent hazard to the                    to be issued, the DEA believes that the
                                                  public safety, the temporary order                                                                            follows:
                                                                                                          notice and comment requirements of
                                                  scheduling this substance will be                       section 553 of the Administrative                     PART 1308—SCHEDULES OF
                                                  effective on the date that order is                     Procedure Act (APA), 5 U.S.C. 553, do                 CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
                                                  published in the Federal Register, and                  not apply to this notice of intent. In the
                                                  will be in effect for a period of two                   alternative, even assuming that this                  ■ 1. The authority citation for part 1308
                                                  years, with a possible extension of one                 notice of intent might be subject to                  continues to read as follows:
                                                  additional year, pending completion of                  section 553 of the APA, the
                                                  the regular (permanent) scheduling                                                                              Authority: 21 U.S.C. 811, 812, 871(b),
                                                                                                          Administrator finds that there is good                956(b), unless otherwise noted.
                                                  process. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(1) and (2). It                cause to forgo the notice and comment
                                                  is the intention of the Administrator to                                                                      ■ 2. In § 1308.11, add paragraph (h)(10)
                                                                                                          requirements of section 553, as any
                                                  issue a temporary scheduling order as                                                                         to read as follows:
                                                                                                          further delays in the process for
                                                  soon as possible after the expiration of                issuance of temporary scheduling orders               § 1308.11   Schedule I.
                                                  30 days from the date of publication of                 would be impracticable and contrary to
                                                  this notice. Upon publication of the                                                                          *      *    *     *     *
                                                                                                          the public interest in view of the                       (h) * * *
                                                  temporary order, 4-fluoroisobutyryl
                                                                                                          manifest urgency to avoid an imminent                    (10) N-(4-fluorophenyl)-N-(1-
                                                  fentanyl will then be subject to the
                                                                                                          hazard to the public safety.                          phenethylpiperidin-4-yl)isobutyramide,
                                                  regulatory controls and administrative,
                                                  civil, and criminal sanctions applicable                   Although the DEA believes this notice              its isomers, esters, ethers, salts and salts
                                                  to the manufacture, distribution, reverse               of intent to issue a temporary                        of isomers, esters and ethers (Other
                                                  distribution, importation, exportation,                 scheduling order is not subject to the                names: 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl,
                                                  research, conduct of instructional                      notice and comment requirements of                    para-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl). . . . .
                                                  activities and chemical analysis, and                   section 553 of the APA, the DEA notes                 (9824).
                                                  possession of a Schedule I controlled                   that in accordance with 21 U.S.C.                       Dated: March 16, 2017.
                                                  substance.                                              811(h)(4), the Administrator will take
                                                                                                                                                                Chuck Rosenberg,
                                                     The CSA sets forth specific criteria for             into consideration any comments
                                                                                                                                                                Acting Administrator.
                                                  scheduling a drug or other substance.                   submitted by the Assistant Secretary
                                                                                                          with regard to the proposed temporary                 [FR Doc. 2017–05728 Filed 3–22–17; 8:45 am]
                                                  Regular scheduling actions in
                                                  accordance with 21 U.S.C. 811(a) are                    scheduling order.                                     BILLING CODE 4410–09–P

                                                  subject to formal rulemaking procedures                    Further, the DEA believes that this
                                                  done ‘‘on the record after opportunity                  temporary scheduling action is not a
                                                  for a hearing’’ conducted pursuant to                   ‘‘rule’’ as defined by 5 U.S.C. 601(2),               ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
                                                  the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 556 and 557.                 and, accordingly, is not subject to the               AGENCY
                                                  21 U.S.C. 811. The regular scheduling                   requirements of the Regulatory
                                                  process of formal rulemaking affords                                                                          40 CFR Part 52
                                                                                                          Flexibility Act (RFA). The requirements
                                                  interested parties with appropriate                     for the preparation of an initial                     [EPA–R06–OAR–2013–0167; FRL–9958–59–
                                                  process and the government with any                     regulatory flexibility analysis in 5 U.S.C.           Region 6]
                                                  additional relevant information needed                  603(a) are not applicable where, as here,
                                                  to make a determination. Final                          the DEA is not required by section 553                Approval and Promulgation of
                                                  decisions that conclude the regular                     of the APA or any other law to publish                Implementation Plans; Louisiana;
                                                  scheduling process of formal                            a general notice of proposed                          Volatile Organic Compounds Rule
                                                  rulemaking are subject to judicial                      rulemaking.                                           Revision and Stage II Vapor Recovery
                                                  review. 21 U.S.C. 877. Temporary                                                                              AGENCY:  Environmental Protection
                                                                                                             Additionally, this action is not a
                                                  scheduling orders are not subject to                                                                          Agency (EPA).
                                                                                                          significant regulatory action as defined
                                                  judicial review. 21 U.S.C. 811(h)(6).
                                                                                                          by Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory                  ACTION: Proposed rule.
                                                  Regulatory Matters                                      Planning and Review), section 3(f), and,
                                                    Section 201(h) of the CSA, 21 U.S.C.                  accordingly, this action has not been                 SUMMARY:   The Environmental Protection
                                                  811(h), provides for a temporary                        reviewed by the Office of Management                  Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve
                                                  scheduling action where such action is                  and Budget.                                           revisions submitted by the State of
                                                  necessary to avoid an imminent hazard                      This action will not have substantial              Louisiana controlling emissions of
                                                  to the public safety. As provided in this               direct effects on the States, on the                  volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and
                                                  subsection, the Attorney General may,                   relationship between the national                     changes to the Stage II gasoline vapor
                                                  by order, schedule a substance in                       government and the States, or on the                  recovery rule as part of the Louisiana
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                                                  Schedule I on a temporary basis. Such                   distribution of power and                             State Implementation Plan (SIP).
                                                  an order may not be issued before the                   responsibilities among the various                    DATES: Written comments should be
                                                  expiration of 30 days from (1) the                      levels of government. Therefore, in                   received on or before April 24, 2017.
                                                  publication of a notice in the Federal                  accordance with Executive Order 13132                 ADDRESSES: Submit your comments,
                                                  Register of the intention to issue such                 (Federalism) it is determined that this               identified by EPA–R06–OAR–2013–
                                                  order and the grounds upon which such                   action does not have sufficient                       0167, at http://www.regulations.gov or
                                                  order is to be issued, and (2) the date                 federalism implications to warrant the                via email to Donaldson.Tracie@epa.gov.
                                                  that notice of the proposed temporary                   preparation of a Federalism Assessment.               For additional information on how to


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Document Created: 2017-03-23 02:45:34
Document Modified: 2017-03-23 02:45:34
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
ActionNotice of intent.
DatesThe date of this notice of intent is March 23, 2017.
ContactMichael J. Lewis, Diversion Control
FR Citation82 FR 14842 
CFR AssociatedAdministrative Practice and Procedure; Drug Traffic Control and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements

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