82_FR_51571 82 FR 51358 - Migratory Bird Hunting; Approval of Corrosion-Inhibited Copper Shot as Nontoxic for Waterfowl Hunting

82 FR 51358 - Migratory Bird Hunting; Approval of Corrosion-Inhibited Copper Shot as Nontoxic for Waterfowl Hunting

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 213 (November 6, 2017)

Page Range51358-51362
FR Document2017-24117

Having completed our review of the application materials for corrosion-inhibited copper shot, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter Service or we) approves the shot for hunting waterfowl and coots. We have concluded that this type of shot left in terrestrial or aquatic environments is unlikely to adversely affect fish, wildlife, or their habitats. Approving this shot formulation would increase the nontoxic shot options for hunters.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 213 (Monday, November 6, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 213 (Monday, November 6, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 51358-51362]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-24117]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 20

[Docket No. FWS-HQ-MB-2015-0073; FF09M21200-178-FXMB1231099BPP0]
RIN 1018-BB06


Migratory Bird Hunting; Approval of Corrosion-Inhibited Copper 
Shot as Nontoxic for Waterfowl Hunting

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: Having completed our review of the application materials for 
corrosion-inhibited copper shot, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 
(hereinafter Service or we) approves the shot for hunting waterfowl and 
coots. We have concluded that this type of shot left in terrestrial or 
aquatic environments is unlikely to adversely affect fish, wildlife, or 
their habitats. Approving this shot formulation would increase the 
nontoxic shot options for hunters.

DATES: This rule is effective on November 6, 2017.

ADDRESSES: You can view the final environmental assessment by one of 
the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. 
Search for Docket No. FWS-HQ-MB-2015-0073.
     Request a copy by contacting the person listed under FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ron Kokel, Division of Migratory Bird 
Management, at 703-358-1967; [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background

    The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (Act) (16 U.S.C. 703-712 and 
16 U.S.C. 742 a-j) implements migratory bird treaties between the 
United States and Great Britain for Canada (1916 and 1996, as amended), 
Mexico (1936 and 1972, as amended), Japan (1972 and 1974, as amended), 
and Russia (then the Soviet Union, 1978). These treaties protect most 
migratory bird species from take, except as permitted under the Act, 
which authorizes the Secretary of the

[[Page 51359]]

Interior to regulate take of migratory birds in the United States. 
Under this authority, we control the hunting of migratory game birds 
through regulations at title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations 
(CFR) in part 20. We prohibit the use of shot types other than those 
listed at 50 CFR 20.21(j) for hunting waterfowl and coots and any 
species that make up aggregate bag limits.
    Deposition of toxic shot and release of toxic shot components in 
waterfowl hunting locations are potentially harmful to many organisms. 
Research has shown that ingested spent lead shot causes significant 
mortality in migratory birds. Since the mid-1970s, we have sought to 
identify types of shot for waterfowl hunting that are not toxic to 
migratory birds or other wildlife when ingested. Following a process 
set forth at 50 CFR 20.134, we review applications for approval of 
nontoxic shot types and coatings and add those that we approve to the 
migratory bird hunting regulations at 50 CFR 20.21(j).
    We addressed lead poisoning in waterfowl in an environmental impact 
statement (EIS) in 1976, and again in a 1986 supplemental EIS. The 1986 
document provided the scientific justification for a ban on the use of 
lead shot and the subsequent approval of steel shot for hunting 
waterfowl and coots that began that year, with a complete ban of lead 
for waterfowl and coot hunting in 1991. We have continued to consider 
other potential nontoxic shot candidates for approval. We are obligated 
to review applications for approval of alternative shot types as 
nontoxic for hunting waterfowl and coots.
    Many hunters believe that some nontoxic shot types compare poorly 
to lead and may damage some shotgun barrels. A small and decreasing 
percentage of hunters have not complied with nontoxic shot regulations. 
Allowing use of additional nontoxic shot types may encourage greater 
hunter compliance and participation with nontoxic shot requirements and 
discourage the use of lead shot. The use of nontoxic shot for waterfowl 
hunting increased after the ban on lead shot (Anderson et al. 2000), 
but that compliance would continue to increase with the availability 
and approval of other nontoxic shot types. Increased use of nontoxic 
shot will enhance protection of migratory waterfowl and their habitats. 
More important is that the Service is obligated to consider all 
complete nontoxic shot applications submitted to us for approval.

Application

    Environ-Metal, Inc., of Sweet Home, Oregon, seeks approval of 
corrosion-inhibited copper shot as nontoxic. We evaluated the impact of 
approval of this shot type in an environmental assessment (see 
ADDRESSES, above, for information on viewing a copy of the 
environmental assessment). The data from Environ-Metal, Inc., indicate 
that the shot's coating will essentially eliminate copper exposure in 
the environment and to waterfowl if the shot is ingested. We conclude 
that this type of shot if left in the aquatic or terrestrial 
environments will not pose a danger to migratory birds, other wildlife, 
or their habitats.
    We have reviewed the shot under the criteria in Tier 1 of the 
nontoxic shot approval procedures at 50 CFR 20.134 for permanent 
approval of shot and coatings as nontoxic for hunting waterfowl and 
coots. We amend 50 CFR 20.21(j) to add the shot to the list of those 
approved for waterfowl and coot hunting. Details on the evaluations of 
the shot can be found in the environmental assessment.

Corrosion-Inhibited Copper Shot

    Corrosion-inhibited copper shot (CIC shot) consists of commercially 
pure copper that has been surface-treated with benzotriazole (BTA) to 
obtain insoluble, hydrophobic films of BTA-copper complexes (CDA 2009). 
These films are very stable; are highly protective against copper 
corrosion in both salt water and fresh water; and are used extensively 
to protect copper, even in potable water systems. Other high-volume 
applications include deicers for aircraft and dishwasher detergent 
additives, effluents of which may be directly introduced into municipal 
sewer systems, indicative of the exceptionally low environmental impact 
of BTA. ``The corrosion-inhibiting effectiveness of BTA-copper complex 
coating, based on actual testing conducted by the applicants and by 
others, is substantial.''

Shot Coating and Test Device

    CIC shot will have an additional coating that will fluoresce under 
ultraviolet light. The coating is applied by a proprietary process and 
coats the shot so that the layers of coating are visible through the 
translucent shotshell. The coating is environmentally safe and is very 
long-lasting in the shotshells. The sole purpose of fluorescent-coating 
CIC shot is to provide a portable, non-invasive and affordable field-
detection method for use by law enforcement officers to identify this 
non-magnetic shot type as approved for waterfowl and coot hunting.
    ECO Pigments\TM\, manufactured exclusively by DayGlo, Inc. 
(Cleveland, OH), are thermoplastic fluorescent powders free of 
formaldehyde, heavy metals, azo compounds, perfluorooctanoic acid, 
aromatic amines, regulated phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), polyaromatic 
hydrocarbons, substance-of-very-high-concern (SVHC) chemicals, and 
California Proposition 65 chemicals. The pigments were originally 
developed for use as brightly colored ``markers'' to be mixed with 
aerially applied, fire-retardant chemicals used in forest fire 
suppression, because they are more ``environmentally friendly'' than 
even the relatively inert iron-oxide powders formerly applied. They are 
globally approved for a wide variety of uses, including textile dyes, 
paints, and toys. Environ-Metal, Inc., anticipates applying coatings 
approximately 0.001-inch thick, a value that is calculated to add about 
0.13 percent by weight to the mass of a #4-size copper shot.
    Environ-Metal, Inc., will apply the pigment to metallic shot using 
a proprietary process to create a thin, adherent coating of a tough, 
resilient, fluorescent substance. The coating is visually detectable 
through the wall of a shotshell when ultraviolet light is applied to 
the exterior of the shell. To further aid field detection, after 
application of the nontoxic ultraviolet (UV) pigment to CIC shot, the 
shot is loaded into an uncolored (``clear'') hull, with a unique inner 
shot wad printed with the manufacturer and shot material type.
    Law enforcement officers who have reason to suspect that a non-
magnetic shotshell may contain unapproved shot (e.g., toxic lead) need 
only shine the UV light on the side of the translucent shell, which 
will be marked by Environ-Metal, Inc., as containing copper, to 
determine the presence or absence of a visible glow emitted by the shot 
coating.
    Although the shot coating is inherently water-proof, it is further 
protected against environmental degradation by being sealed within two 
layers of polyethylene plastic--the wad and the hull or shell. Environ-
Metal, Inc., has stated that ``potential fading of the thermoplastic UV 
dye could not become significant until after both of the enveloping 
polyethylene cylinders had become embrittled/cracked by excessive 
exposure to direct sunlight, a condition which would essentially render 
the shotshell useless.''

[[Page 51360]]

Positive Effects for Migratory Waterfowl Populations

    Allowing use of additional nontoxic shot types may encourage 
greater hunter compliance and participation with nontoxic shot 
requirements and discourage the use of lead shot. Furnishing additional 
approved nontoxic shot types and nontoxic coatings likely would further 
reduce the use of lead shot. Thus, approving additional nontoxic shot 
types and coatings would likely result in a minor positive long-term 
impact on waterfowl and wetland habitats.

Unlikely Effects on Endangered and Threatened Species

    The impact on endangered and threatened species of approving 
corrosion-inhibited copper shot would be very small, but positive. 
Corrosion-inhibited copper shot is highly unlikely to adversely affect 
animals that consume the shot or habitats in which it might be used. We 
see no potential significant negative effects on endangered or 
threatened species due to approval of the shot type.
    Further, we annually obtain a biological opinion pursuant to 
section 7 of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 
1531 et seq.), prior to establishing the annual migratory bird hunting 
regulations. The migratory bird hunting regulations promulgated as a 
result of this annual consultation remove and alleviate chances of 
conflict between migratory bird hunting and endangered and threatened 
species.

Beneficial Effects on Ecosystems

    Previously approved shot types have been shown in test results to 
be nontoxic to the migratory bird resource, and that they cause no 
adverse impact on ecosystems. There is concern, however, about 
noncompliance with the prohibition on lead shot and potential ecosystem 
effects. The use of lead shot has a negative impact on wetland 
ecosystems due to the erosion of shot, causing sediment/soil and water 
contamination and the direct ingestion of shot by aquatic and predatory 
animals. Though noncompliance is of concern, approval of the shot type 
would have little impact on the resource, except the small positive 
impact of reducing the rate of noncompliance.

Cumulative Impacts

    We foresee no negative cumulative impacts if we approve this shot 
type for waterfowl hunting. Its approval could help to further reduce 
the negative impacts of the use of lead shot for hunting waterfowl and 
coots. We conclude the impacts of the approval for waterfowl hunting in 
the United States should be positive.

Review of Public Comments

    On August 15, 2017, we published in the Federal Register (82 FR 
38664) a proposed rulemaking to approve this group of alloys for 
hunting waterfowl and coots and to make available our draft 
environmental assessment. We accepted public comments on our proposed 
rule and draft environmental assessment for 30 days, ending September 
14, 2017. We received eight comments on the proposed rule. Several 
commenters simply expressed support for the inclusion of CIC shot in 
the list of approved nontoxic shot types and for providing hunters with 
another nontoxic shot option. More specific comments and responses are 
identified below:
    Comment: A commenter believed CIC shot would be better 
environmentally than lead shot but objected to hunting and the use of 
tax dollars to support hunting.
    Service Response: As we stated above, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act 
of 1918 (Act) implements migratory bird treaties between the United 
States and Great Britain for Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Russia. These 
treaties protect most migratory bird species from take, except as 
permitted under the Act, which authorizes the Secretary of the Interior 
to regulate take of migratory birds in the United States. Under this 
authority, we regulate the hunting of migratory game birds through 
regulations at 50 CFR part 20. Furthermore, our long-term objectives 
continue to include providing opportunities to harvest portions of 
certain migratory game bird populations and to limit harvests to levels 
compatible with each population's ability to maintain healthy, viable 
numbers. We annually take into account the zones of temperature and the 
distribution, abundance, economic value, breeding habits, and times and 
lines of flight of migratory birds, before establishing hunting seasons 
that are compatible with the current status of migratory bird 
populations and long-term population goals.
    Comment: A commenter requested further information on whether 
hunters would use CIC shot based on market price and ballistic 
properties of the shot.
    Service Response: Our responsibility is to determine if the shot in 
question is safe for the environment. We conclude that it is safe. We 
have no control over the marketplace. The public will ultimately decide 
whether they support both the price and ballistic properties of CIC 
shot.
    Comment: A commenter had questions regarding the reliability of the 
proposed method for differentiating between CIC shot and illegal lead 
shot in the field.
    Service Response: As discussed above in Shot Coating and Test 
Device, the UV-fluorescent shot coating on CIC shot is encapsulated 
within two separate cylinders of polyethylene: the inner ``wad'' 
containing the shot and the outer ``hull.'' The proposed detection 
method is based on several separate and distinct layers of protection. 
For example, the unique shot coloration would be visibly evident 
through the translucent wad and hull assembly. Second, the inner wad 
cylinder would clearly be printed with the manufacturer and shot type. 
And, finally, and only in the event that the law enforcement officer 
still had reasons to be suspicious of counterfeiting, the officer could 
shine a simple long-wave UV light on the outside of the shotshell 
assembly to observe the very bright UV ``glow'' unique to CIC shot.
    Therefore, as stated in the proposed rule, we reviewed the subject 
shot under the criteria at 50 CFR 20.134, and we add this product to 
the list of those approved for hunting waterfowl and coots at 50 CFR 
20.21(j).

Effective Date of This Rule

    This rule is effective upon publication in the Federal Register. We 
have determined that any further delay in allowing this additional 
nontoxic shot would not be in the public interest, in that a delay 
would preclude hunters an additional nontoxic shot option. Allowing use 
of additional nontoxic shot types may encourage greater hunter 
compliance with nontoxic shot requirements and discourage the use of 
lead shot, which is harmful to the environment. Increased use of 
nontoxic shot will enhance protection of migratory waterfowl and their 
habitats. Furthermore, CIC shot is very similar to other nontoxic shot 
that is already available and in use. We provided a 30-day public 
comment period for the August 15, 2017, proposed rule. This rule 
relieves restrictions by newly approving CIC shot for hunting waterfowl 
and coots. We therefore find that ``good cause'' exists, within the 
terms of 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3) of the Administrative Procedure Act, to 
make these regulations effective immediately upon publication.

[[Page 51361]]

List of References Cited

    A list of the references cited in this rule may be found at 
http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FWS-HQ-MB-2015-0073.

Required Determinations

Executive Order 13771--Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory 
Costs

    This rule is considered to be an Executive Order (E.O.) 13771 
deregulatory action (82 FR 9339, February 3, 2017) because it would 
approve an additional type of nontoxic shot in our regulations at 50 
CFR part 20.

Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)

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

Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.)

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., as 
amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act 
(SBREFA) of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121)), whenever an agency is required to 
publish a notice of rulemaking for any proposed or final rule, it must 
prepare and make available for public comment a regulatory flexibility 
analysis that describes the effect of the rule on small entities (i.e., 
small businesses, small organizations, and small government 
jurisdictions).
    SBREFA amended the Regulatory Flexibility Act to require Federal 
agencies to provide a statement of the factual basis for certifying 
that a rule will not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities. We have examined this rule's 
potential effects on small entities as required by the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act, and have determined that this action would not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
The rule would allow small entities to improve their economic 
viability. However, the rule would not have a significant economic 
impact because it would affect only two companies. We certify that 
because this rule would not have a significant economic effect on a 
substantial number of small entities, a regulatory flexibility analysis 
is not required.
    This rule is not a major rule under the SBREFA (5 U.S.C. 804(2)).
    a. This rule would not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 
million or more.
    b. This rule would not cause a major increase in costs or prices 
for consumers; individual industries; Federal, State, Tribal, or local 
government agencies; or geographic regions.
    c. This rule would not have significant adverse effects on 
competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the 
ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based 
enterprises.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    In accordance with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 
et seq.), we have determined the following:
    a. This rule would not ``significantly or uniquely'' affect small 
governments. A small government agency plan is not required. Actions 
under the rule would not affect small government activities in any 
significant way.
    b. This rule would not produce a Federal mandate of $100 million or 
greater in any year. It would not be a ``significant regulatory 
action'' under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

Takings

    In accordance with E.O. 12630, this rule would not have significant 
takings implications. A takings implication assessment is not required. 
This rule does not contain a provision for taking of private property.

Federalism

    This rule does not have sufficient Federalism effects to warrant 
preparation of a federalism summary impact assessment under E.O. 13132. 
It would not interfere with the ability of States to manage themselves 
or their funds.

Civil Justice Reform

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

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA)

    This rule does not contain any new collections of information that 
require approval by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the 
PRA (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). OMB has approved our collection of 
information associated with applications for approval of nontoxic shot 
(50 CFR 20.134) and assigned OMB Control Number 1018-0067, which 
expires March 31, 2020. We may not conduct or sponsor and you are not 
required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a 
currently valid OMB control number.

National Environmental Policy Act

    Our environmental assessment is part of the administrative record 
for this rule. In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act 
(NEPA, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and part 516 of the U.S. Department of 
the Interior Manual (516 DM), approval of corrosion-inhibited copper 
shot and fluoropolymer coatings would not have a significant effect on 
the quality of the human environment, nor would it involve unresolved 
conflicts concerning alternative uses of available resources. 
Therefore, preparation of an environmental impact statement is not 
required.

Government-to-Government Relationship With Tribes

    In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29 1994, 
``Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal 
Governments'' (59 FR 22951), E.O. 13175, and 512 DM 2, we have 
evaluated potential effects on federally recognized Indian Tribes and 
have determined that there are no potential effects. This rule would 
not interfere with the ability of Tribes to manage themselves or their 
funds or to regulate migratory bird activities on Tribal lands.

Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use (E.O. 13211)

    E.O. 13211 requires agencies to prepare Statements of Energy 
Effects when undertaking certain actions. This rule would not be a 
significant regulatory action under E.O. 12866, nor would it 
significantly affect energy supplies, distribution, or use. This action 
would not be a significant energy

[[Page 51362]]

action, and no Statement of Energy Effects is required.

Compliance With Endangered Species Act Requirements

    Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended 
(16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), requires that ``The Secretary [of the 
Interior] shall review other programs administered by him and utilize 
such programs in furtherance of the purposes of this Act'' (16 U.S.C. 
1536(a)(1)). It further states that the Secretary must ``insure that 
any action authorized, funded, or carried out * * * is not likely to 
jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered species or 
threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification 
of [critical] habitat'' (16 U.S.C. 1536(a)(2)). We have concluded that 
this rule would not affect listed species.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 20

    Exports, Hunting, Imports, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Transportation, Wildlife.

Regulation Promulgation

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, we amend part 20, 
subchapter B, chapter I of title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations 
as follows:

PART 20--MIGRATORY BIRD HUNTING

0
1. The authority citation for part 20 is revised to read as follows:

    Authority:  16 U.S.C. 703-712, and 16 U.S.C. 742a-j.


0
2. Amend Sec.  20.21(j)(1) by:
0
a. Adding a table entry immediately following the entry for ``Copper-
clad iron''; and
0
b. Revising the first table note.
    The addition and revision read as follows:


Sec.  20.21  What hunting methods are illegal?

* * * * *
    (j)(1) * * *

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Approved shot type *             Percent composition by weight          Field testing device **
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                  * * * * * * *
Corrosion-inhibited copper..............  >=99.9 copper with               Ultraviolet Light.
                                           benzotriazole and
                                           thermoplastic fluorescent
                                           powder coatings.
 
                                                  * * * * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Coatings of copper, nickel, tin, zinc, zinc chloride, zinc chrome, fluoropolymers, and fluorescent
  thermoplastic on approved nontoxic shot types also are approved.
** The information in the ``Field Testing Device'' column is strictly informational, not regulatory.

* * * * *

    Dated: October 25, 2017.
Jason Larrabee,
Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 2017-24117 Filed 11-3-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4333-15-P



                                             51358            Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                             [FR Doc. 2017–24111 Filed 11–3–17; 8:45 am]             of Labor (‘‘Secretary’’) to develop                     Signed this 13th day of October, 2017.
                                             BILLING CODE 6560–50–P                                  guidance to assist agencies in                        R. Alexander Acosta,
                                                                                                     implementing the Order. After notice                  Secretary, U.S. Department of Labor.
                                                                                                     and comment, the final rule and                       [FR Doc. 2017–23588 Filed 11–3–17; 8:45 am]
                                             DEPARTMENT OF LABOR                                     guidance were published on August 25,                 BILLING CODE 4510–HL–P
                                                                                                     2016. 81 FR 58562 (FAR Council’s rule);
                                             Office of the Secretary                                 81 FR 58654 (Secretary’s guidance). On
                                                                                                     October 24, 2016, the United States                   DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
                                             48 CFR Parts 22 and 52                                  District Court for the Eastern District of
                                             ZRIN 1290–ZA02                                          Texas issued a preliminary injunction                 Fish and Wildlife Service
                                                                                                     partially enjoining the FAR Council’s
                                             Guidance for Executive Order 13673,                     rule and the Secretary’s guidance. See                50 CFR Part 20
                                             ‘‘Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces’’                        Associated Builders & Contractors of Se.              [Docket No. FWS–HQ–MB–2015–0073;
                                             AGENCY:  Department of Labor.                           Texas v. Rung, No. 1:16–CV–425, 2016                  FF09M21200–178–FXMB1231099BPP0]
                                                                                                     WL 8188655 (E.D. Tex. Oct. 24, 2016).
                                             ACTION: Final guidance; rescission.                                                                           RIN 1018–BB06
                                                                                                     On October 25, 2016, the FAR Council
                                             SUMMARY:    Under the Congressional                     issued a memorandum directing that all                Migratory Bird Hunting; Approval of
                                             Review Act, Congress has passed, and                    steps necessary be taken to ensure that               Corrosion-Inhibited Copper Shot as
                                             the President has signed, Public Law                    the enjoined provisions of the rule                   Nontoxic for Waterfowl Hunting
                                             115–11, a resolution of disapproval of                  would not be implemented while the
                                             the rule promulgated by the Department                  injunction was in force. On December                  AGENCY:   Fish and Wildlife Service,
                                             of Defense, General Services                            16, 2016, the Department of Defense,                  Interior.
                                             Administration, and National                            General Services Administration, and                  ACTION: Final rule.
                                             Aeronautics and Space Administration                    National Aeronautics and Space
                                             to implement Executive Order 13673,                     Administration, on behalf of the FAR                  SUMMARY:    Having completed our review
                                             Fair Pay and Safe Workplaces, as                        Council, amended the FAR Council’s                    of the application materials for
                                             amended (the ‘‘Order’’). Additionally,                                                                        corrosion-inhibited copper shot, the
                                                                                                     rule to conform to the district court’s
                                             the President has issued an Executive                                                                         U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
                                                                                                     injunction. 81 FR 91636.
                                             Order revoking the Order, and directing                                                                       (hereinafter Service or we) approves the
                                                                                                        On March 27, 2017, President Donald                shot for hunting waterfowl and coots.
                                             all executive departments and agencies,
                                                                                                     Trump signed Public Law 115–11, a                     We have concluded that this type of
                                             as appropriate and to the extent
                                                                                                     resolution of disapproval of the FAR                  shot left in terrestrial or aquatic
                                             consistent with law, to consider
                                                                                                     Council’s rule under the Congressional                environments is unlikely to adversely
                                             promptly rescinding any orders, rules,
                                             regulations, guidance, guidelines, or                   Review Act, 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq. The                  affect fish, wildlife, or their habitats.
                                             policies implementing or enforcing the                  resolution had previously passed the                  Approving this shot formulation would
                                             Order. Accordingly, the Department of                   House of Representatives on February 2,               increase the nontoxic shot options for
                                             Labor is rescinding its guidance on the                 2017 and the Senate on March 6, 2017.                 hunters.
                                             Order, published on August 25, 2016.                    See 163 Cong. Rec. S1601 (daily ed.                   DATES: This rule is effective on
                                                                                                     Mar. 6, 2017); 163 Cong. Rec. H907                    November 6, 2017.
                                             DATES: Effective November 6, 2017.
                                                                                                     (daily ed. Feb. 2, 2017). Under the
                                             FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                                                                              ADDRESSES: You can view the final
                                                                                                     Congressional Review Act, a rule shall
                                             Stephanie Swirsky, Deputy Assistant                                                                           environmental assessment by one of the
                                                                                                     not take effect or continue if a joint                following methods:
                                             Secretary for Policy, U.S. Department of
                                                                                                     resolution of disapproval of the rule is                • Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://
                                             Labor, Room S–2312, 200 Constitution
                                                                                                     enacted. 5 U.S.C. 801(b)(1).                          www.regulations.gov. Search for Docket
                                             Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20210;
                                                                                                     Additionally, on March 27, 2017,                      No. FWS–HQ–MB–2015–0073.
                                             telephone: (202) 693–5959 (this is not a
                                             toll-free number). Copies of this notice                President Trump issued Executive                        • Request a copy by contacting the
                                             may be obtained in alternative formats                  Order 13782, revoking Executive Order                 person listed under FOR FURTHER
                                             (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc),             13673, section 3 of Executive Order                   INFORMATION CONTACT.
                                             upon request, by calling (202) 693–5959                 13683, and Executive Order 13738, and                 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ron
                                             (this is not a toll-free number). TTY/                  directing all executive departments and               Kokel, Division of Migratory Bird
                                             TDD callers may dial toll-free [1–877–                  agencies, ‘‘as appropriate and to the                 Management, at 703–358–1967; ronald_
                                             889–5627] to obtain information or                      extent consistent with law, [to] consider             kokel@fws.gov.
                                             request materials in alternative formats.               promptly rescinding any orders, rules,
                                                                                                                                                           SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                             SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On July                      regulations, guidance, guidelines, or
                                             31, 2014, President Barack Obama                        policies implementing or enforcing the                Background
                                             issued Executive Order 13673, Fair Pay                  revoked Executive Orders and revoked                     The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918
                                             and Safe Workplaces. 79 FR 45309.                       provision[.]’’ 82 FR 15607. Accordingly,              (Act) (16 U.S.C. 703–712 and 16 U.S.C.
                                             Executive Order 13673 was amended                       the Secretary is hereby rescinding the                742 a–j) implements migratory bird
                                             twice, first by section 3 of Executive                  guidance on Fair Pay and Safe                         treaties between the United States and
                                             Order 13683 on December 11, 2014, 79                    Workplaces, published on August 25,                   Great Britain for Canada (1916 and
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                                             FR 75041, and again by Executive Order                  2016. In a separate entry published in                1996, as amended), Mexico (1936 and
                                             13738 on August 23, 2016, 81 FR 58807.                  today’s Federal Register, the                         1972, as amended), Japan (1972 and
                                             The Order directed the Federal                          Department of Defense, General Services               1974, as amended), and Russia (then the
                                             Acquisition Regulatory Council (‘‘FAR                   Administration, and National                          Soviet Union, 1978). These treaties
                                             Council’’) to amend its regulations                     Aeronautics and Space Administration,                 protect most migratory bird species from
                                             consistent with the Order’s                             on behalf of the FAR Council, are                     take, except as permitted under the Act,
                                             requirements, and directed the Secretary                rescinding the FAR Council’s rule.                    which authorizes the Secretary of the


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                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                          51359

                                             Interior to regulate take of migratory                  Application                                           identify this non-magnetic shot type as
                                             birds in the United States. Under this                     Environ-Metal, Inc., of Sweet Home,                approved for waterfowl and coot
                                             authority, we control the hunting of                    Oregon, seeks approval of corrosion-                  hunting.
                                             migratory game birds through                            inhibited copper shot as nontoxic. We                    ECO PigmentsTM, manufactured
                                             regulations at title 50 of the Code of                  evaluated the impact of approval of this              exclusively by DayGlo, Inc. (Cleveland,
                                             Federal Regulations (CFR) in part 20.                   shot type in an environmental                         OH), are thermoplastic fluorescent
                                             We prohibit the use of shot types other                 assessment (see ADDRESSES, above, for                 powders free of formaldehyde, heavy
                                             than those listed at 50 CFR 20.21(j) for                information on viewing a copy of the                  metals, azo compounds,
                                             hunting waterfowl and coots and any                     environmental assessment). The data                   perfluorooctanoic acid, aromatic
                                             species that make up aggregate bag                      from Environ-Metal, Inc., indicate that               amines, regulated phthalates, bisphenol
                                             limits.                                                 the shot’s coating will essentially                   A (BPA), polyaromatic hydrocarbons,
                                                Deposition of toxic shot and release of              eliminate copper exposure in the                      substance-of-very-high-concern (SVHC)
                                             toxic shot components in waterfowl                      environment and to waterfowl if the                   chemicals, and California Proposition
                                             hunting locations are potentially                       shot is ingested. We conclude that this               65 chemicals. The pigments were
                                             harmful to many organisms. Research                     type of shot if left in the aquatic or                originally developed for use as brightly
                                             has shown that ingested spent lead shot                 terrestrial environments will not pose a              colored ‘‘markers’’ to be mixed with
                                             causes significant mortality in migratory               danger to migratory birds, other                      aerially applied, fire-retardant
                                             birds. Since the mid-1970s, we have                     wildlife, or their habitats.                          chemicals used in forest fire
                                             sought to identify types of shot for                       We have reviewed the shot under the                suppression, because they are more
                                             waterfowl hunting that are not toxic to                 criteria in Tier 1 of the nontoxic shot               ‘‘environmentally friendly’’ than even
                                             migratory birds or other wildlife when                  approval procedures at 50 CFR 20.134                  the relatively inert iron-oxide powders
                                             ingested. Following a process set forth                 for permanent approval of shot and                    formerly applied. They are globally
                                             at 50 CFR 20.134, we review                             coatings as nontoxic for hunting                      approved for a wide variety of uses,
                                             applications for approval of nontoxic                   waterfowl and coots. We amend 50 CFR                  including textile dyes, paints, and toys.
                                             shot types and coatings and add those                   20.21(j) to add the shot to the list of               Environ-Metal, Inc., anticipates
                                             that we approve to the migratory bird                   those approved for waterfowl and coot                 applying coatings approximately 0.001-
                                             hunting regulations at 50 CFR 20.21(j).                 hunting. Details on the evaluations of                inch thick, a value that is calculated to
                                                We addressed lead poisoning in                       the shot can be found in the                          add about 0.13 percent by weight to the
                                             waterfowl in an environmental impact                    environmental assessment.                             mass of a #4-size copper shot.
                                             statement (EIS) in 1976, and again in a
                                                                                                     Corrosion-Inhibited Copper Shot                          Environ-Metal, Inc., will apply the
                                             1986 supplemental EIS. The 1986
                                                                                                                                                           pigment to metallic shot using a
                                             document provided the scientific                           Corrosion-inhibited copper shot (CIC               proprietary process to create a thin,
                                             justification for a ban on the use of lead              shot) consists of commercially pure                   adherent coating of a tough, resilient,
                                             shot and the subsequent approval of                     copper that has been surface-treated                  fluorescent substance. The coating is
                                             steel shot for hunting waterfowl and                    with benzotriazole (BTA) to obtain                    visually detectable through the wall of
                                             coots that began that year, with a                      insoluble, hydrophobic films of BTA-                  a shotshell when ultraviolet light is
                                             complete ban of lead for waterfowl and                  copper complexes (CDA 2009). These                    applied to the exterior of the shell. To
                                             coot hunting in 1991. We have                           films are very stable; are highly                     further aid field detection, after
                                             continued to consider other potential                   protective against copper corrosion in                application of the nontoxic ultraviolet
                                             nontoxic shot candidates for approval.                  both salt water and fresh water; and are              (UV) pigment to CIC shot, the shot is
                                             We are obligated to review applications                 used extensively to protect copper, even              loaded into an uncolored (‘‘clear’’) hull,
                                             for approval of alternative shot types as               in potable water systems. Other high-                 with a unique inner shot wad printed
                                             nontoxic for hunting waterfowl and                      volume applications include deicers for               with the manufacturer and shot material
                                             coots.                                                  aircraft and dishwasher detergent                     type.
                                                Many hunters believe that some                       additives, effluents of which may be
                                             nontoxic shot types compare poorly to                   directly introduced into municipal                       Law enforcement officers who have
                                             lead and may damage some shotgun                        sewer systems, indicative of the                      reason to suspect that a non-magnetic
                                             barrels. A small and decreasing                         exceptionally low environmental impact                shotshell may contain unapproved shot
                                             percentage of hunters have not                          of BTA. ‘‘The corrosion-inhibiting                    (e.g., toxic lead) need only shine the UV
                                             complied with nontoxic shot                             effectiveness of BTA-copper complex                   light on the side of the translucent shell,
                                             regulations. Allowing use of additional                 coating, based on actual testing                      which will be marked by Environ-Metal,
                                             nontoxic shot types may encourage                       conducted by the applicants and by                    Inc., as containing copper, to determine
                                             greater hunter compliance and                           others, is substantial.’’                             the presence or absence of a visible glow
                                             participation with nontoxic shot                                                                              emitted by the shot coating.
                                             requirements and discourage the use of                  Shot Coating and Test Device                             Although the shot coating is
                                             lead shot. The use of nontoxic shot for                    CIC shot will have an additional                   inherently water-proof, it is further
                                             waterfowl hunting increased after the                   coating that will fluoresce under                     protected against environmental
                                             ban on lead shot (Anderson et al. 2000),                ultraviolet light. The coating is applied             degradation by being sealed within two
                                             but that compliance would continue to                   by a proprietary process and coats the                layers of polyethylene plastic—the wad
                                             increase with the availability and                      shot so that the layers of coating are                and the hull or shell. Environ-Metal,
                                             approval of other nontoxic shot types.                  visible through the translucent                       Inc., has stated that ‘‘potential fading of
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                                             Increased use of nontoxic shot will                     shotshell. The coating is                             the thermoplastic UV dye could not
                                             enhance protection of migratory                         environmentally safe and is very long-                become significant until after both of the
                                             waterfowl and their habitats. More                      lasting in the shotshells. The sole                   enveloping polyethylene cylinders had
                                             important is that the Service is obligated              purpose of fluorescent-coating CIC shot               become embrittled/cracked by excessive
                                             to consider all complete nontoxic shot                  is to provide a portable, non-invasive                exposure to direct sunlight, a condition
                                             applications submitted to us for                        and affordable field-detection method                 which would essentially render the
                                             approval.                                               for use by law enforcement officers to                shotshell useless.’’


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                                             51360            Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                             Positive Effects for Migratory                          hunting waterfowl and coots. We                       they support both the price and ballistic
                                             Waterfowl Populations                                   conclude the impacts of the approval for              properties of CIC shot.
                                               Allowing use of additional nontoxic                   waterfowl hunting in the United States                   Comment: A commenter had
                                             shot types may encourage greater hunter                 should be positive.                                   questions regarding the reliability of the
                                             compliance and participation with                       Review of Public Comments                             proposed method for differentiating
                                             nontoxic shot requirements and                                                                                between CIC shot and illegal lead shot
                                             discourage the use of lead shot.                           On August 15, 2017, we published in
                                                                                                     the Federal Register (82 FR 38664) a                  in the field.
                                             Furnishing additional approved
                                             nontoxic shot types and nontoxic                        proposed rulemaking to approve this                      Service Response: As discussed above
                                             coatings likely would further reduce the                group of alloys for hunting waterfowl                 in Shot Coating and Test Device, the
                                             use of lead shot. Thus, approving                       and coots and to make available our                   UV-fluorescent shot coating on CIC shot
                                             additional nontoxic shot types and                      draft environmental assessment. We                    is encapsulated within two separate
                                             coatings would likely result in a minor                 accepted public comments on our                       cylinders of polyethylene: the inner
                                             positive long-term impact on waterfowl                  proposed rule and draft environmental                 ‘‘wad’’ containing the shot and the outer
                                             and wetland habitats.                                   assessment for 30 days, ending                        ‘‘hull.’’ The proposed detection method
                                                                                                     September 14, 2017. We received eight                 is based on several separate and distinct
                                             Unlikely Effects on Endangered and                      comments on the proposed rule. Several                layers of protection. For example, the
                                             Threatened Species                                      commenters simply expressed support                   unique shot coloration would be visibly
                                               The impact on endangered and                          for the inclusion of CIC shot in the list             evident through the translucent wad
                                             threatened species of approving                         of approved nontoxic shot types and for               and hull assembly. Second, the inner
                                             corrosion-inhibited copper shot would                   providing hunters with another                        wad cylinder would clearly be printed
                                             be very small, but positive. Corrosion-                 nontoxic shot option. More specific                   with the manufacturer and shot type.
                                             inhibited copper shot is highly unlikely                comments and responses are identified                 And, finally, and only in the event that
                                             to adversely affect animals that consume                below:
                                                                                                                                                           the law enforcement officer still had
                                             the shot or habitats in which it might be                  Comment: A commenter believed CIC
                                             used. We see no potential significant                                                                         reasons to be suspicious of
                                                                                                     shot would be better environmentally
                                             negative effects on endangered or                                                                             counterfeiting, the officer could shine a
                                                                                                     than lead shot but objected to hunting
                                             threatened species due to approval of                                                                         simple long-wave UV light on the
                                                                                                     and the use of tax dollars to support
                                             the shot type.                                                                                                outside of the shotshell assembly to
                                                                                                     hunting.
                                               Further, we annually obtain a                                                                               observe the very bright UV ‘‘glow’’
                                                                                                        Service Response: As we stated above,
                                             biological opinion pursuant to section 7                                                                      unique to CIC shot.
                                                                                                     the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918
                                             of the Endangered Species Act of 1973,                  (Act) implements migratory bird treaties                 Therefore, as stated in the proposed
                                             as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.),                    between the United States and Great                   rule, we reviewed the subject shot under
                                             prior to establishing the annual                        Britain for Canada, Mexico, Japan, and                the criteria at 50 CFR 20.134, and we
                                             migratory bird hunting regulations. The                 Russia. These treaties protect most                   add this product to the list of those
                                             migratory bird hunting regulations                      migratory bird species from take, except              approved for hunting waterfowl and
                                             promulgated as a result of this annual                  as permitted under the Act, which                     coots at 50 CFR 20.21(j).
                                             consultation remove and alleviate                       authorizes the Secretary of the Interior
                                             chances of conflict between migratory                   to regulate take of migratory birds in the            Effective Date of This Rule
                                             bird hunting and endangered and                         United States. Under this authority, we
                                             threatened species.                                                                                              This rule is effective upon publication
                                                                                                     regulate the hunting of migratory game                in the Federal Register. We have
                                             Beneficial Effects on Ecosystems                        birds through regulations at 50 CFR part              determined that any further delay in
                                               Previously approved shot types have                   20. Furthermore, our long-term                        allowing this additional nontoxic shot
                                             been shown in test results to be                        objectives continue to include providing              would not be in the public interest, in
                                             nontoxic to the migratory bird resource,                opportunities to harvest portions of
                                                                                                                                                           that a delay would preclude hunters an
                                             and that they cause no adverse impact                   certain migratory game bird populations
                                                                                                                                                           additional nontoxic shot option.
                                             on ecosystems. There is concern,                        and to limit harvests to levels
                                                                                                                                                           Allowing use of additional nontoxic
                                             however, about noncompliance with the                   compatible with each population’s
                                                                                                                                                           shot types may encourage greater hunter
                                             prohibition on lead shot and potential                  ability to maintain healthy, viable
                                                                                                     numbers. We annually take into account                compliance with nontoxic shot
                                             ecosystem effects. The use of lead shot                                                                       requirements and discourage the use of
                                             has a negative impact on wetland                        the zones of temperature and the
                                                                                                     distribution, abundance, economic                     lead shot, which is harmful to the
                                             ecosystems due to the erosion of shot,                                                                        environment. Increased use of nontoxic
                                             causing sediment/soil and water                         value, breeding habits, and times and
                                                                                                     lines of flight of migratory birds, before            shot will enhance protection of
                                             contamination and the direct ingestion                                                                        migratory waterfowl and their habitats.
                                             of shot by aquatic and predatory                        establishing hunting seasons that are
                                                                                                     compatible with the current status of                 Furthermore, CIC shot is very similar to
                                             animals. Though noncompliance is of
                                                                                                     migratory bird populations and long-                  other nontoxic shot that is already
                                             concern, approval of the shot type
                                                                                                     term population goals.                                available and in use. We provided a 30-
                                             would have little impact on the
                                                                                                        Comment: A commenter requested                     day public comment period for the
                                             resource, except the small positive
                                                                                                     further information on whether hunters                August 15, 2017, proposed rule. This
                                             impact of reducing the rate of
                                             noncompliance.                                          would use CIC shot based on market                    rule relieves restrictions by newly
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                                                                                                     price and ballistic properties of the shot.           approving CIC shot for hunting
                                             Cumulative Impacts                                         Service Response: Our responsibility               waterfowl and coots. We therefore find
                                               We foresee no negative cumulative                     is to determine if the shot in question               that ‘‘good cause’’ exists, within the
                                             impacts if we approve this shot type for                is safe for the environment. We                       terms of 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3) of the
                                             waterfowl hunting. Its approval could                   conclude that it is safe. We have no                  Administrative Procedure Act, to make
                                             help to further reduce the negative                     control over the marketplace. The                     these regulations effective immediately
                                             impacts of the use of lead shot for                     public will ultimately decide whether                 upon publication.


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                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                         51361

                                             List of References Cited                                entities. We have examined this rule’s                Civil Justice Reform
                                                                                                     potential effects on small entities as                  In accordance with E.O. 12988, the
                                               A list of the references cited in this rule           required by the Regulatory Flexibility
                                             may be found at http://www.regulations.gov                                                                    Office of the Solicitor has determined
                                                                                                     Act, and have determined that this                    that this rule does not unduly burden
                                             in Docket No. FWS–HQ–MB–2015–0073.                      action would not have a significant                   the judicial system and meets the
                                                                                                     economic impact on a substantial                      requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2)
                                             Required Determinations
                                                                                                     number of small entities. The rule                    of E.O. 12988.
                                             Executive Order 13771—Reducing                          would allow small entities to improve
                                             Regulation and Controlling Regulatory                   their economic viability. However, the                Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA)
                                             Costs                                                   rule would not have a significant                       This rule does not contain any new
                                               This rule is considered to be an                      economic impact because it would                      collections of information that require
                                             Executive Order (E.O.) 13771                            affect only two companies. We certify                 approval by the Office of Management
                                             deregulatory action (82 FR 9339,                        that because this rule would not have a               and Budget (OMB) under the PRA (44
                                             February 3, 2017) because it would                      significant economic effect on a                      U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). OMB has approved
                                             approve an additional type of nontoxic                  substantial number of small entities, a               our collection of information associated
                                             shot in our regulations at 50 CFR part                  regulatory flexibility analysis is not                with applications for approval of
                                             20.                                                     required.                                             nontoxic shot (50 CFR 20.134) and
                                                                                                        This rule is not a major rule under the            assigned OMB Control Number 1018–
                                             Regulatory Planning and Review                          SBREFA (5 U.S.C. 804(2)).                             0067, which expires March 31, 2020.
                                             (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)                         a. This rule would not have an annual              We may not conduct or sponsor and you
                                               Executive Order 12866 provides that                   effect on the economy of $100 million                 are not required to respond to a
                                             OIRA will review all significant rules.                 or more.                                              collection of information unless it
                                             OIRA has determined that this rule is                                                                         displays a currently valid OMB control
                                                                                                        b. This rule would not cause a major               number.
                                             not significant.                                        increase in costs or prices for
                                               Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the                   consumers; individual industries;                     National Environmental Policy Act
                                             principles of E.O. 12866 while calling                  Federal, State, Tribal, or local                         Our environmental assessment is part
                                             for improvements in the nation’s                        government agencies; or geographic                    of the administrative record for this
                                             regulatory system to promote                            regions.                                              rule. In accordance with the National
                                             predictability, to reduce uncertainty,                     c. This rule would not have                        Environmental Policy Act (NEPA, 42
                                             and to use the best, most innovative,                   significant adverse effects on                        U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and part 516 of the
                                             and least burdensome tools for                          competition, employment, investment,                  U.S. Department of the Interior Manual
                                             achieving regulatory ends. The                          productivity, innovation, or the ability              (516 DM), approval of corrosion-
                                             executive order directs agencies to                     of U.S.-based enterprises to compete                  inhibited copper shot and
                                             consider regulatory approaches that                     with foreign-based enterprises.                       fluoropolymer coatings would not have
                                             reduce burdens and maintain flexibility                                                                       a significant effect on the quality of the
                                             and freedom of choice for the public                    Unfunded Mandates Reform Act                          human environment, nor would it
                                             where these approaches are relevant,                       In accordance with the Unfunded                    involve unresolved conflicts concerning
                                             feasible, and consistent with regulatory                Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 et                 alternative uses of available resources.
                                             objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes                       seq.), we have determined the following:              Therefore, preparation of an
                                             further that regulations must be based                                                                        environmental impact statement is not
                                             on the best available science and that                     a. This rule would not ‘‘significantly
                                                                                                     or uniquely’’ affect small governments.               required.
                                             the rulemaking process must allow for
                                             public participation and an open                        A small government agency plan is not                 Government-to-Government
                                             exchange of ideas. We have developed                    required. Actions under the rule would                Relationship With Tribes
                                             this rule in a manner consistent with                   not affect small government activities in
                                                                                                                                                              In accordance with the President’s
                                             these requirements.                                     any significant way.
                                                                                                                                                           memorandum of April 29 1994,
                                                                                                        b. This rule would not produce a                   ‘‘Government-to-Government Relations
                                             Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601                Federal mandate of $100 million or
                                             et seq.)                                                                                                      with Native American Tribal
                                                                                                     greater in any year. It would not be a                Governments’’ (59 FR 22951), E.O.
                                                Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act                 ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under               13175, and 512 DM 2, we have
                                             (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., as amended by the                the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.                     evaluated potential effects on federally
                                             Small Business Regulatory Enforcement                   Takings                                               recognized Indian Tribes and have
                                             Fairness Act (SBREFA) of 1996 (Pub. L.                                                                        determined that there are no potential
                                             104–121)), whenever an agency is                          In accordance with E.O. 12630, this                 effects. This rule would not interfere
                                             required to publish a notice of                         rule would not have significant takings               with the ability of Tribes to manage
                                             rulemaking for any proposed or final                    implications. A takings implication                   themselves or their funds or to regulate
                                             rule, it must prepare and make available                assessment is not required. This rule                 migratory bird activities on Tribal lands.
                                             for public comment a regulatory                         does not contain a provision for taking
                                             flexibility analysis that describes the                 of private property.                                  Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use
                                             effect of the rule on small entities (i.e.,                                                                   (E.O. 13211)
                                                                                                     Federalism
                                             small businesses, small organizations,                                                                          E.O. 13211 requires agencies to
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                                             and small government jurisdictions).                      This rule does not have sufficient                  prepare Statements of Energy Effects
                                                SBREFA amended the Regulatory                        Federalism effects to warrant                         when undertaking certain actions. This
                                             Flexibility Act to require Federal                      preparation of a federalism summary                   rule would not be a significant
                                             agencies to provide a statement of the                  impact assessment under E.O. 13132. It                regulatory action under E.O. 12866, nor
                                             factual basis for certifying that a rule                would not interfere with the ability of               would it significantly affect energy
                                             will not have a significant economic                    States to manage themselves or their                  supplies, distribution, or use. This
                                             impact on a substantial number of small                 funds.                                                action would not be a significant energy


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                                             51362              Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 213 / Monday, November 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                             action, and no Statement of Energy                        the destruction or adverse modification                PART 20—MIGRATORY BIRD
                                             Effects is required.                                      of [critical] habitat’’ (16 U.S.C.                     HUNTING
                                                                                                       1536(a)(2)). We have concluded that this
                                             Compliance With Endangered Species                                                                               ■ 1. The authority citation for part 20 is
                                                                                                       rule would not affect listed species.
                                             Act Requirements                                                                                                 revised to read as follows:
                                                                                                       List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 20
                                               Section 7 of the Endangered Species                                                                              Authority: 16 U.S.C. 703–712, and 16
                                             Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended (16                           Exports, Hunting, Imports, Reporting                 U.S.C. 742a–j.
                                             U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), requires that ‘‘The                 and recordkeeping requirements,                        ■ 2. Amend § 20.21(j)(1) by:
                                             Secretary [of the Interior] shall review                  Transportation, Wildlife.                              ■ a. Adding a table entry immediately
                                             other programs administered by him                                                                               following the entry for ‘‘Copper-clad
                                             and utilize such programs in                              Regulation Promulgation                                iron’’; and
                                             furtherance of the purposes of this Act’’                                                                        ■ b. Revising the first table note.
                                                                                                         For the reasons discussed in the
                                             (16 U.S.C. 1536(a)(1)). It further states                                                                           The addition and revision read as
                                                                                                       preamble, we amend part 20, subchapter
                                             that the Secretary must ‘‘insure that any                                                                        follows:
                                             action authorized, funded, or carried out                 B, chapter I of title 50 of the Code of
                                             * * * is not likely to jeopardize the                     Federal Regulations as follows:                        § 20.21    What hunting methods are illegal?
                                             continued existence of any endangered                                                                            *       *     *        *    *
                                             species or threatened species or result in                                                                           (j)(1) * * *

                                                    Approved shot type *                                                 Percent composition by weight                                   Field testing device **


                                                      *                      *                        *                    *                    *                   *                                 *
                                             Corrosion-inhibited copper ...........     ≥99.9 copper with benzotriazole and thermoplastic fluorescent powder coatings .......            Ultraviolet Light.

                                                        *                        *                       *                       *                       *                       *                    *
                                               * Coatings of copper, nickel, tin, zinc, zinc chloride, zinc chrome, fluoropolymers, and fluorescent thermoplastic on approved nontoxic shot
                                             types also are approved.
                                               ** The information in the ‘‘Field Testing Device’’ column is strictly informational, not regulatory.


                                             *      *       *       *      *                             Dated: October 25, 2017.
                                                                                                       Jason Larrabee,
                                                                                                       Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and
                                                                                                       Wildlife and Parks.
                                                                                                       [FR Doc. 2017–24117 Filed 11–3–17; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                       BILLING CODE 4333–15–P
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Document Created: 2017-11-07 10:30:30
Document Modified: 2017-11-07 10:30:30
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis rule is effective on November 6, 2017.
ContactRon Kokel, Division of Migratory Bird Management, at 703-358-1967; [email protected]
FR Citation82 FR 51358 
RIN Number1018-BB06
CFR AssociatedExports; Hunting; Imports; Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements; Transportation and Wildlife

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