82 FR 9349 - Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Adjustments
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 23 (February 6, 2017)
Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement
Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 23 (February 6, 2017)
| Page Range | 9349-9354 | |
| FR Document | 2017-02417 |
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 23 (Monday, February 6, 2017)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 9349-9354] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2017-02417] [[Page 9349]] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement 30 CFR Parts 723, 724, 845, and 846 [Docket ID: OSM-2016-0015; S1D1S SS08011000 SX064A000 178S180110; S2D2S SS08011000 SX064A00 17XS501520] RIN 1029-AC74 Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Adjustments AGENCY: Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Interior. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: Pursuant to the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 (the 2015 Act) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance, this rule adjusts for inflation the level of civil monetary penalties assessed under the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA). DATES: This rule is effective on February 6, 2017. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Kuhns, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, South Interior Building MS-203, 1951 Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20240; Telephone (202) 208-2860. Email: mkuhns@osmre.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Table of Contents I. Background A. The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 B. Calculation of Adjustments C. Effect of the Rule in Federal Program States and on Indian Lands D. Effect of the Rule on Approved State Programs II. Procedural Matters and Required Determinations A. Regulatory Planning and Review (E.O. 12866 and 13563) B. Regulatory Flexibility Act C. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act E. Takings (E.O. 12630) F. Federalism (E.O. 13132) G. Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988) H. Consultation With Indian Tribes (E.O. 13175 and Departmental Policy) I. Paperwork Reduction Act J. National Environmental Policy Act K. Effects on Energy Supply, Distribution, and Use (E.O. 13211) L. Clarity of This Regulation M. Data Quality Act N. Administrative Procedure Act I. Background A. The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 Section 518 of SMCRA, 30 U.S.C. 1268, authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to assess civil monetary penalties (CMPs) for violations of SMCRA. The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) regulations implementing the CMP provisions of section 518 are located in 30 CFR parts 723, 724, 845, and 846. We are adjusting CMPs in four sections--30 CFR 723.14, 724.14, 845.14, and 846.14. On November 2, 2015, the President signed the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 (Sec. 701 of Pub. L. 114-74) (``the 2015 Act'') into law. The 2015 Act requires that Federal agencies promulgate rules to adjust the level of civil monetary penalties (``CMPs'') to account for inflation. In addition to an initial ``catch-up'' adjustment through an interim final rulemaking that was published in the Federal Register on July 8, 2016 (81 FR 44535), which took effect on August 1, 2016, the 2015 Act also requires agencies to make subsequent annual adjustments for inflation. These adjustments are aimed at maintaining the deterrent effect of civil penalties and furthering the policy goals of the statutes which authorize them. Agencies are required to publish annual inflation adjustments in the Federal Register no later than January 15 of each year, starting with the second adjustments in 2017, and no later than January 15 each subsequent year. In accordance with the 2015 Act, for the second adjustments, and each annual adjustment thereafter, agencies must adjust civil monetary penalties notwithstanding section 553 of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 553). The public procedure the APA generally requires--notice, an opportunity for comment, and a delay in the effective date--is not required for agencies to issue regulations implementing the annual adjustment. Pursuant to SMCRA and the 2015 Act, this rule adjusts the following civil penalties: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Current penalty Adjusted penalty CFR citation Points ($) ($) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30 CFR 723.14............................. 1........................... $63 $64 2........................... 127 129 3........................... 190 193 4........................... 253 257 5........................... 316 321 6........................... 380 386 7........................... 443 450 8........................... 506 514 9........................... 569 578 10.......................... 633 643 11.......................... 696 707 12.......................... 759 771 13.......................... 822 835 14.......................... 886 900 15.......................... 949 965 16.......................... 1,012 1,029 17.......................... 1,075 1,093 18.......................... 1,139 1,158 19.......................... 1,202 1,222 20.......................... 1,265 1,286 21.......................... 1,328 1,350 22.......................... 1,392 1,415 23.......................... 1,455 1,479 24.......................... 1,518 1,543 25.......................... 1,581 1,607 26.......................... 1,898 1,929 [[Page 9350]] 27.......................... 2,214 2,250 28.......................... 2,530 2,571 29.......................... 2,725 2,770 30.......................... 3,163 3,215 31.......................... 3,479 3,536 32.......................... 3,795 3,857 33.......................... 4,112 4,179 34.......................... 4,428 4,500 35.......................... 4,744 4,822 36.......................... 5,060 5,143 37.......................... 5,377 5,465 38.......................... 5,693 5,786 39.......................... 6,009 6,107 40.......................... 6,325 6,428 41.......................... 6,642 6,751 42.......................... 6,958 7,072 43.......................... 7,274 7,393 44.......................... 7,591 7,715 45.......................... 7,907 8,036 46.......................... 8,223 8,358 47.......................... 8,539 8,679 48.......................... 8,856 9,001 49.......................... 9,172 9,322 50.......................... 9,488 9,643 51.......................... 9,804 9,964 52.......................... 10,121 10,287 53.......................... 10,437 10,608 54.......................... 10,753 10,929 55.......................... 11,070 11,251 56.......................... 11,386 11,572 57.......................... 11,702 11,893 58.......................... 12,018 12,215 59.......................... 12,335 12,537 60.......................... 12,651 12,858 61.......................... 12,967 13,179 62.......................... 13,284 13,501 63.......................... 13,600 13,823 64.......................... 13,916 14,144 65.......................... 14,232 14,465 66.......................... 14,549 14,787 67.......................... 14,865 15,108 68.......................... 15,181 15,429 69.......................... 15,497 15,751 70.......................... 15,814 16,073 30 CFR 723.15(b) (Assessment of separate Maximum..................... 2,372 2,411 violations for each day). 30 CFR 724.14(b) (Individual)............. Maximum..................... 17,395 16,073 30 CFR 845.14............................. 1........................... 63 64 2........................... 127 129 3........................... 190 193 4........................... 253 257 5........................... 316 321 6........................... 380 386 7........................... 443 450 8........................... 506 514 9........................... 569 578 10.......................... 633 643 11.......................... 696 707 12.......................... 759 771 13.......................... 822 835 14.......................... 886 900 15.......................... 949 965 16.......................... 1,012 1,029 17.......................... 1,075 1,093 18.......................... 1,139 1,158 19.......................... 1,202 1,222 20.......................... 1,265 1,286 21.......................... 1,328 1,350 22.......................... 1,392 1,415 23.......................... 1,455 1,479 24.......................... 1,518 1,543 25.......................... 1,581 1,607 26.......................... 1,898 1,929 27.......................... 2,214 2,250 [[Page 9351]] 28.......................... 2,530 2,571 29.......................... 2,725 2,770 30.......................... 3,163 3,215 31.......................... 3,479 3,536 32.......................... 3,795 3,857 33.......................... 4,112 4,179 34.......................... 4,428 4,500 35.......................... 4,744 4,822 36.......................... 5,060 5,143 37.......................... 5,377 5,465 38.......................... 5,693 5,786 39.......................... 6,009 6,107 40.......................... 6,325 6,428 41.......................... 6,642 6,751 42.......................... 6,958 7,072 43.......................... 7,274 7,393 44.......................... 7,591 7,715 45.......................... 7,907 8,036 46.......................... 8,223 8,358 47.......................... 8,539 8,679 48.......................... 8,856 9,001 49.......................... 9,172 9,322 50.......................... 9,488 9,643 51.......................... 9,804 9,964 52.......................... 10,121 10,287 53.......................... 10,437 10,608 54.......................... 10,753 10,929 55.......................... 11,070 11,251 56.......................... 11,386 11,572 57.......................... 11,702 11,893 58.......................... 12,018 12,215 59.......................... 12,335 12,537 60.......................... 12,651 12,858 61.......................... 12,967 13,179 62.......................... 13,284 13,501 63.......................... 13,600 13,823 64.......................... 13,916 14,144 65.......................... 14,232 14,465 66.......................... 14,549 14,787 67.......................... 14,865 15,108 68.......................... 15,181 15,429 69.......................... 15,497 15,751 70.......................... 15,814 16,073 30 CFR 845.15(b) (Assessment of separate Maximum..................... 2,372 2,411 violations for each day). 30 CFR 846.14(b) (Individual)............. Maximum..................... 17,395 16,073 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- OSMRE miscalculated the existing $17,395 maximum individual civil penalty rates at Sec. 724.14(b) and Sec. 846.14(b) that it published in the Federal Register on July 8, 2016 (81 FR 44535), and which thereafter became effective on August 1, 2016. The value should have been $15,814, which is the same as the existing maximum civil penalties for permittees. Instances of assessing individual civil penalties are infrequent. Applying the 2017 cost-of-living multiplier of 1.01636 to the corrected value results in a new maximum individual civil penalty rate of $16,073 ($15,814 x 1.01636). The 2017 multiplier is based on the percent change between the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers at two points in time, as explained more fully below in Calculation of Adjustments. B. Calculation of Adjustments The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued guidance on making the 2017 annual adjustments for inflation. See December 16, 2016, Memorandum for the Heads of Executive Departments and Agencies, from Shaun Donovan, Director, Office of Management and Budget, re: Implementation of the 2017 annual adjustment pursuant to the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015. The OMB guidance notes that the 2015 Act defines ``civil monetary penalty'' as ``any penalty, fine, or other sanction that . . . is for a specific monetary amount as provided by Federal law; or . . . has a maximum amount provided for by Federal law; and . . . is assessed or enforced by an agency pursuant to Federal law; and . . . is assessed or enforced pursuant to an administrative proceeding or a civil action in the Federal courts . . . .'' It further instructs that agencies ``are to adjust `the maximum civil monetary penalty or the range of minimum and maximum civil monetary penalties, as applicable, for each civil monetary penalty by the cost-of-living adjustment.' '' See December 16, 2016 OMB memorandum. The 2015 Act and OMB guidance specify the amount of the annual inflation adjustments. The adjustments are based on the percent change between the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers (the CPI-U) published by the Department of Labor for the month of October in the year of the previous adjustment, and the October CPI-U for the year preceding that. The recent OMB guidance specified that the cost-of-living [[Page 9352]] adjustment multiplier for 2017, not seasonally adjusted, is 1.01636 (the October 2016 CPI-U (241.729) divided by the October 2015 CPI-U (237.838) = 1.01636). OSMRE used this guidance to identify applicable civil monetary penalties and calculate the required inflation adjustments. The 2015 Act specifies that any resulting increases in a CMP must be rounded according to a stated rounding formula and that the increased CMPs apply only to violations that occur after the date the increase takes effect. Generally, OSMRE assigns points to a violation as described in 30 CFR 723.13 and 845.13. The CMP owed is based on the number of points received, ranging from one point to seventy points. For example, under our existing regulations in 30 CFR 845.14, a violation totaling 70 points would amount to a $15,814 CMP. To adjust this amount, we multiply $15,814 by the 2017 inflation factor of 1.01636, resulting in a raw adjusted amount of $16,072.72. Because the 2015 Act requires us to round any increase in the CMP amount to the nearest dollar, in this case a violation of 70 points would amount to a new CMP of $16,073. Pursuant to the 2015 Act, the increases in this rule apply to civil penalties assessed after the date the increases take effect, even if the associated violation predates the applicable increase. C. Effect of Rule in Federal Program States and on Indian Lands OSMRE directly regulates surface coal mining and reclamation operations within a State or on Tribal lands if the State or Tribe does not obtain its own approved program pursuant to section 503 of SMCRA. The increases in civil monetary penalties contained in this rule will apply to the following Federal program states: Arizona, California, Georgia, Idaho, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Washington. The Federal programs for those States appear at 30 CFR parts 903, 905, 910, 912, 921, 922, 933, 937, 939, 941, 942, and 947, respectively. The increase in civil monetary penalties also applies to Indian lands under the Federal program for Indian lands, which appears in 30 CFR 750.18. D. Effect of the Rule on Approved State Programs As a result of litigation, see In re Permanent Surface Mining Regulation Litigation, No. 79-1144, Mem. Op. (D.D.C. May 16, 1980), 19 Env't Rep. Cas. (BNA) 1477, state regulatory programs are not required to mirror all of the penalty provisions of our regulations. Thus, this rule has no effect on CMPs in states with SMCRA primacy. II. Procedural Matters and Required Determinations A. Regulatory Planning and Review (E.O. 12866 and 13563) Executive Order 12866 provides that the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs in the Office of Management and Budget will review all significant rules. The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs has determined that this rule is not significant. Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 while calling for improvements in the nation's regulatory system to promote predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, most innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends. The executive order directs agencies to consider regulatory approaches that reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of choice for the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and consistent with regulatory objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further that regulations must be based on the best available science and that the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open exchange of ideas. We have developed this rule in a manner consistent with these requirements, to the extent permitted by statute. B. Regulatory Flexibility Act The Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) requires an agency to prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis for all rules unless the agency certifies that the rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The RFA applies only to rules for which an agency is required to first publish a proposed rule. See 5 U.S.C. 603(a) and 604(a). The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 requires agencies to adjust civil penalties annually for inflation ``. . . notwithstanding Section 553 [of the Administrative Procedure Act].'' Thus, no proposed rule will be published, and the RFA does not apply to this rulemaking. C. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act This rule is not a major rule under 5 U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. This rule: (a) Does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more. (b) Will not cause a major increase in costs or prices for consumers, individual industries, Federal, State, or local government agencies, or geographic regions. (c) Does not have significant adverse effects on competition, employment, investment, productivity, innovation, or the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to compete with foreign-based enterprises. D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act This rule does not impose an unfunded mandate on State, local, or Tribal governments, or the private sector of more than $100 million per year. The rule does not have a significant or unique effect on State, local, or Tribal governments or the private sector. A statement containing the information required by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) is not required. E. Takings (E.O. 12630) This rule does not effect a taking of private property or otherwise have takings implications under Executive Order 12630. A takings implication assessment is not required. F. Federalism (E.O. 13132) Under the criteria in section 1 of Executive Order 13132, this rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a federalism summary impact statement. A federalism summary impact statement is not required. G. Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988) This rule complies with the requirements of Executive Order 12988. Specifically, this rule: (a) Meets the criteria of section 3(a) requiring that all regulations be reviewed to eliminate errors and ambiguity and be written to minimize litigation; and (b) Meets the criteria of section 3(b)(2) requiring that all regulations be written in clear language and contain clear legal standards. H. Consultation With Indian Tribes (E.O. 13175 and Departmental Policy) The Department of the Interior strives to strengthen its government-to-government relationship with Indian Tribes through a commitment to consultation with Indian Tribes and recognition of their right to self-governance and tribal sovereignty. We have evaluated this rule under the Department's consultation policy and under the criteria in Executive Order 13175 and have determined that it has no substantial direct effects on federally recognized Indian Tribes and that [[Page 9353]] consultation under the Department's tribal consultation policy is not required. I. Paperwork Reduction Act This rule does not contain information collection requirements, and a submission to the Office of Management and Budget under the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.) is not required. 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. J. National Environmental Policy Act This rule does not constitute a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human environment. A detailed statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required because the rule is covered by a categorical exclusion. This rule is excluded from the requirement to prepare a detailed statement because it is a regulation of an administrative nature. (For further information see 43 CFR 46.210(i).) We have also determined that the rule does not involve any of the extraordinary circumstances listed in 43 CFR 46.215 that would require further analysis under NEPA. K. Effects on Energy Supply, Distribution, and Use (E.O. 13211) This rule is not a significant energy action under the definition in Executive Order 13211. A Statement of Energy Effects is not required. L. Clarity of This Regulation We are required by Executive Orders 12866 (section 1(b)(12)), 12988 (section 3(b)(1)(B)), and 13563 (section 1(a)), and by the Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, to write all rules in plain language. This means that each rule we publish must: (a) Be logically organized; (b) Use the active voice to address readers directly; (c) Use common, everyday words and clear language rather than jargon; (d) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and (e) Use lists and tables wherever possible. If you believe that we have not met these requirements in issuing this final rule, please contact the individual listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. Your comments should be as specific as possible in order to help us determine whether any future revisions to the rule are necessary. For example, you should tell us the numbers of the sections or paragraphs that you find unclear, which sections or sentences are too long, the sections where you feel lists or tables would be useful, etc. M. Data Quality Act In developing this rule, we did not conduct or use a study, experiment, or survey requiring peer review under the Data Quality Act (Pub. L. 106-554). N. Administrative Procedure Act We are issuing this final rule without prior public notice or opportunity for public comment. Beginning in 2017, the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act of 2015 requires agencies to publish adjusted penalties annually, no later than January 15 of each year. Under the 2015 Act, the public procedure the Administrative Procedure Act generally requires--notice, an opportunity for comment, and a delay in the effective date--is not required for agencies to issue regulations implementing the annual adjustments required by the 2015 Act. List of Subjects 30 CFR Part 723 Administrative practice and procedure, Penalties, Surface mining, Underground mining. 30 CFR Part 724 Administrative practice and procedure, Penalties, Surface mining, Underground mining. 30 CFR Part 845 Administrative practice and procedure, Law enforcement, Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Surface mining, Underground mining. 30 CFR Part 846 Administrative practice and procedure, Penalties, Surface mining, Underground mining. Dated: January 27, 2017. Richard T. Cardinale, Acting Assistant Secretary, Land and Minerals Management. 0 For the reasons given in the preamble, the Department of the Interior amends 30 CFR parts 723, 724, 845 and 846 as set forth below. PART 723--CIVIL PENALTIES 0 1. The authority citation for part 723 continues to read as follows: Authority: 28 U.S.C. 2461, 30 U.S.C. 1201 et seq., and 31 U.S.C. 3701. 0 2. Section 723.14 is amended by revising the table to read as follows: Sec. 723.14 Determination of amount of penalty. * * * * * ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Points Dollars ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1.......................................................... 64 2.......................................................... 129 3.......................................................... 193 4.......................................................... 257 5.......................................................... 321 6.......................................................... 386 7.......................................................... 450 8.......................................................... 514 9.......................................................... 578 10......................................................... 643 11......................................................... 707 12......................................................... 771 13......................................................... 835 14......................................................... 900 15......................................................... 965 16......................................................... 1,029 17......................................................... 1,093 18......................................................... 1,158 19......................................................... 1,222 20......................................................... 1,286 21......................................................... 1,350 22......................................................... 1,415 23......................................................... 1,479 24......................................................... 1,543 25......................................................... 1,607 26......................................................... 1,929 27......................................................... 2,250 28......................................................... 2,571 29......................................................... 2,770 30......................................................... 3,215 31......................................................... 3,536 32......................................................... 3,857 33......................................................... 4,179 34......................................................... 4,500 35......................................................... 4,822 36......................................................... 5,143 37......................................................... 5,465 38......................................................... 5,786 39......................................................... 6,107 40......................................................... 6,428 41......................................................... 6,751 42......................................................... 7,072 43......................................................... 7,393 44......................................................... 7,715 45......................................................... 8,036 46......................................................... 8,358 47......................................................... 8,679 48......................................................... 9,001 49......................................................... 9,322 50......................................................... 9,643 51......................................................... 9,964 52......................................................... 10,287 53......................................................... 10,608 54......................................................... 10,929 55......................................................... 11,251 56......................................................... 11,572 57......................................................... 11,893 58......................................................... 12,215 59......................................................... 12,537 60......................................................... 12,858 61......................................................... 13,179 62......................................................... 13,501 63......................................................... 13,823 64......................................................... 14,144 65......................................................... 14,465 66......................................................... 14,787 67......................................................... 15,108 68......................................................... 15,429 69......................................................... 15,751 70......................................................... 16,073 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [[Page 9354]] 0 3. Section 723.15 is amended by revising paragraph (b) introductory text to read as follows: Sec. 723.15 Assessment of separate violations for each day. * * * * * (b) In addition to the civil penalty provided for in paragraph (a) of this section, whenever a violation contained in a notice of violation or cessation order has not been abated within the abatement period set in the notice or order or as subsequently extended pursuant to section 521(a) of the Act, 30 U.S.C. 1271(a), a civil penalty of not less than $2,411 will be assessed for each day during which such failure to abate continues, except that: * * * * * PART 724--INDIVIDUAL CIVIL PENALTIES 0 4. The authority citation for part 724 continues to read as follows: Authority: 28 U.S.C. 2461, 30 U.S.C. 1201 et seq., and 31 U.S.C. 3701. 0 5. Section 724.14 is amended by revising the first sentence of paragraph (b) to read as follows: Sec. 724.14 Amount of individual civil penalty. * * * * * (b) The penalty will not exceed $16,073 for each violation. * * * PART 845--CIVIL PENALTIES 0 6. The authority citation for part 845 continues to read as follows: Authority: 28 U.S.C. 2461, 30 U.S.C. 1201 et seq., 31 U.S.C. 3701, Pub. L. 100-202, and Pub. L. 100-446. 0 7. Section 845.14 is amended by revising the table to read as follows: Sec. 845.14 Determination of amount of penalty. * * * * * ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Points Dollars ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1.......................................................... 64 2.......................................................... 129 3.......................................................... 193 4.......................................................... 257 5.......................................................... 321 6.......................................................... 386 7.......................................................... 450 8.......................................................... 514 9.......................................................... 578 10......................................................... 643 11......................................................... 707 12......................................................... 771 13......................................................... 835 14......................................................... 900 15......................................................... 965 16......................................................... 1,029 17......................................................... 1,093 18......................................................... 1,158 19......................................................... 1,222 20......................................................... 1,286 21......................................................... 1,350 22......................................................... 1,415 23......................................................... 1,479 24......................................................... 1,543 25......................................................... 1,607 26......................................................... 1,929 27......................................................... 2,250 28......................................................... 2,571 29......................................................... 2,770 30......................................................... 3,215 31......................................................... 3,536 32......................................................... 3,857 33......................................................... 4,179 34......................................................... 4,500 35......................................................... 4,822 36......................................................... 5,143 37......................................................... 5,465 38......................................................... 5,786 39......................................................... 6,107 40......................................................... 6,428 41......................................................... 6,751 42......................................................... 7,072 43......................................................... 7,393 44......................................................... 7,715 45......................................................... 8,036 46......................................................... 8,358 47......................................................... 8,679 48......................................................... 9,001 49......................................................... 9,322 50......................................................... 9,643 51......................................................... 9,964 52......................................................... 10,287 53......................................................... 10,608 54......................................................... 10,929 55......................................................... 11,251 56......................................................... 11,572 57......................................................... 11,893 58......................................................... 12,215 59......................................................... 12,537 60......................................................... 12,858 61......................................................... 13,179 62......................................................... 13,501 63......................................................... 13,823 64......................................................... 14,144 65......................................................... 14,465 66......................................................... 14,787 67......................................................... 15,108 68......................................................... 15,429 69......................................................... 15,751 70......................................................... 16,073 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 0 8. Section 845.15 is amended by revising paragraph (b) introductory text to read as follows: Sec. 845.15 Assessment of separate violations for each day. * * * * * (b) In addition to the civil penalty provided for in paragraph (a) of this section, whenever a violation contained in a notice of violation or cessation order has not been abated within the abatement period set in the notice or order or as subsequently extended pursuant to section 521(a) of the Act, 30 U.S.C. 1271(a), a civil penalty of not less than $2,411 will be assessed for each day during which such failure to abate continues, except that: * * * * * PART 846--INDIVIDUAL CIVIL PENALTIES 0 9. The authority citation for part 846 continues to read as follows: Authority: 28 U.S.C. 2461, 30 U.S.C. 1201 et seq., and 31 U.S.C. 3701. 0 10. Section 846.14 is amended by revising the first sentence of paragraph (b) to read as follows: Sec. 846.14 Amount of individual civil penalty. * * * * * (b) The penalty will not exceed $16,073 for each violation. * * * [FR Doc. 2017-02417 Filed 2-3-17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-05-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 23 / Monday, February 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 9349
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR A. The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation On November 2, 2015, the President
Adjustment Act Improvements Act of signed the Federal Civil Penalties
Office of Surface Mining Reclamation 2015 Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements
and Enforcement B. Calculation of Adjustments
C. Effect of the Rule in Federal Program
Act of 2015 (Sec. 701 of Pub. L. 114–74)
States and on Indian Lands (‘‘the 2015 Act’’) into law. The 2015 Act
30 CFR Parts 723, 724, 845, and 846 D. Effect of the Rule on Approved State requires that Federal agencies
Programs promulgate rules to adjust the level of
[Docket ID: OSM–2016–0015; S1D1S II. Procedural Matters and Required civil monetary penalties (‘‘CMPs’’) to
SS08011000 SX064A000 178S180110; Determinations account for inflation. In addition to an
S2D2S SS08011000 SX064A00 17XS501520] A. Regulatory Planning and Review (E.O. initial ‘‘catch-up’’ adjustment through
12866 and 13563)
RIN 1029–AC74 an interim final rulemaking that was
B. Regulatory Flexibility Act
C. Small Business Regulatory Enforcement published in the Federal Register on
Civil Monetary Penalty Inflation Fairness Act July 8, 2016 (81 FR 44535), which took
Adjustments D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act effect on August 1, 2016, the 2015 Act
E. Takings (E.O. 12630) also requires agencies to make
AGENCY: Office of Surface Mining F. Federalism (E.O. 13132) subsequent annual adjustments for
Reclamation and Enforcement, Interior. G. Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988) inflation. These adjustments are aimed
ACTION: Final rule. H. Consultation With Indian Tribes (E.O. at maintaining the deterrent effect of
13175 and Departmental Policy)
I. Paperwork Reduction Act
civil penalties and furthering the policy
SUMMARY: Pursuant to the Federal Civil goals of the statutes which authorize
Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act J. National Environmental Policy Act
K. Effects on Energy Supply, Distribution, them. Agencies are required to publish
Improvements Act of 2015 (the 2015 annual inflation adjustments in the
and Use (E.O. 13211)
Act) and Office of Management and L. Clarity of This Regulation Federal Register no later than January
Budget (OMB) guidance, this rule M. Data Quality Act 15 of each year, starting with the second
adjusts for inflation the level of civil N. Administrative Procedure Act adjustments in 2017, and no later than
monetary penalties assessed under the January 15 each subsequent year. In
Surface Mining Control and I. Background
accordance with the 2015 Act, for the
Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA). A. The Federal Civil Penalties Inflation second adjustments, and each annual
DATES: This rule is effective on February Adjustment Act Improvements Act of adjustment thereafter, agencies must
6, 2017. 2015 adjust civil monetary penalties
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Section 518 of SMCRA, 30 U.S.C. notwithstanding section 553 of the
Michael Kuhns, Office of Surface 1268, authorizes the Secretary of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5
Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, Interior to assess civil monetary U.S.C. 553). The public procedure the
South Interior Building MS–203, 1951 penalties (CMPs) for violations of APA generally requires—notice, an
Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, SMCRA. The Office of Surface Mining opportunity for comment, and a delay in
DC 20240; Telephone (202) 208–2860. Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) the effective date—is not required for
Email: mkuhns@osmre.gov. regulations implementing the CMP agencies to issue regulations
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: provisions of section 518 are located in implementing the annual adjustment.
30 CFR parts 723, 724, 845, and 846. We Pursuant to SMCRA and the 2015 Act,
Table of Contents are adjusting CMPs in four sections—30 this rule adjusts the following civil
I. Background CFR 723.14, 724.14, 845.14, and 846.14. penalties:
Current penalty Adjusted penalty
CFR citation Points ($) ($)
30 CFR 723.14 ............................................................................................. 1 .................................... $63 $64
2 .................................... 127 129
3 .................................... 190 193
4 .................................... 253 257
5 .................................... 316 321
6 .................................... 380 386
7 .................................... 443 450
8 .................................... 506 514
9 .................................... 569 578
10 .................................. 633 643
11 .................................. 696 707
12 .................................. 759 771
13 .................................. 822 835
14 .................................. 886 900
15 .................................. 949 965
16 .................................. 1,012 1,029
17 .................................. 1,075 1,093
18 .................................. 1,139 1,158
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19 .................................. 1,202 1,222
20 .................................. 1,265 1,286
21 .................................. 1,328 1,350
22 .................................. 1,392 1,415
23 .................................. 1,455 1,479
24 .................................. 1,518 1,543
25 .................................. 1,581 1,607
26 .................................. 1,898 1,929
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![9352 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 23 / Monday, February 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
adjustment multiplier for 2017, not regulations. Thus, this rule has no effect (b) Will not cause a major increase in
seasonally adjusted, is 1.01636 (the on CMPs in states with SMCRA costs or prices for consumers,
October 2016 CPI–U (241.729) divided primacy. individual industries, Federal, State, or
by the October 2015 CPI–U (237.838) = local government agencies, or
II. Procedural Matters and Required
1.01636). OSMRE used this guidance to geographic regions.
Determinations
identify applicable civil monetary (c) Does not have significant adverse
penalties and calculate the required A. Regulatory Planning and Review effects on competition, employment,
inflation adjustments. The 2015 Act (E.O. 12866 and 13563) investment, productivity, innovation, or
specifies that any resulting increases in the ability of U.S.-based enterprises to
Executive Order 12866 provides that
a CMP must be rounded according to a compete with foreign-based enterprises.
the Office of Information and Regulatory
stated rounding formula and that the
Affairs in the Office of Management and D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
increased CMPs apply only to violations
Budget will review all significant rules. This rule does not impose an
that occur after the date the increase
The Office of Information and unfunded mandate on State, local, or
takes effect.
Generally, OSMRE assigns points to a Regulatory Affairs has determined that Tribal governments, or the private sector
violation as described in 30 CFR 723.13 this rule is not significant. of more than $100 million per year. The
and 845.13. The CMP owed is based on Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the rule does not have a significant or
the number of points received, ranging principles of E.O. 12866 while calling unique effect on State, local, or Tribal
from one point to seventy points. For for improvements in the nation’s governments or the private sector. A
example, under our existing regulations regulatory system to promote statement containing the information
in 30 CFR 845.14, a violation totaling 70 predictability, to reduce uncertainty, required by the Unfunded Mandates
points would amount to a $15,814 CMP. and to use the best, most innovative, Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) is not
To adjust this amount, we multiply and least burdensome tools for required.
$15,814 by the 2017 inflation factor of achieving regulatory ends. The
1.01636, resulting in a raw adjusted executive order directs agencies to E. Takings (E.O. 12630)
amount of $16,072.72. Because the 2015 consider regulatory approaches that This rule does not effect a taking of
Act requires us to round any increase in reduce burdens and maintain flexibility private property or otherwise have
the CMP amount to the nearest dollar, and freedom of choice for the public takings implications under Executive
in this case a violation of 70 points where these approaches are relevant, Order 12630. A takings implication
would amount to a new CMP of feasible, and consistent with regulatory assessment is not required.
$16,073. Pursuant to the 2015 Act, the objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes
increases in this rule apply to civil further that regulations must be based F. Federalism (E.O. 13132)
penalties assessed after the date the on the best available science and that Under the criteria in section 1 of
increases take effect, even if the the rulemaking process must allow for Executive Order 13132, this rule does
associated violation predates the public participation and an open not have sufficient federalism
applicable increase. exchange of ideas. We have developed implications to warrant the preparation
this rule in a manner consistent with of a federalism summary impact
C. Effect of Rule in Federal Program these requirements, to the extent statement. A federalism summary
States and on Indian Lands permitted by statute. impact statement is not required.
OSMRE directly regulates surface coal
B. Regulatory Flexibility Act G. Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)
mining and reclamation operations
within a State or on Tribal lands if the The Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) This rule complies with the
State or Tribe does not obtain its own requires an agency to prepare a requirements of Executive Order 12988.
approved program pursuant to section regulatory flexibility analysis for all Specifically, this rule:
503 of SMCRA. The increases in civil rules unless the agency certifies that the (a) Meets the criteria of section 3(a)
monetary penalties contained in this rule will not have a significant requiring that all regulations be
rule will apply to the following Federal economic impact on a substantial reviewed to eliminate errors and
program states: Arizona, California, number of small entities. The RFA ambiguity and be written to minimize
Georgia, Idaho, Massachusetts, applies only to rules for which an litigation; and
Michigan, North Carolina, Oregon, agency is required to first publish a (b) Meets the criteria of section 3(b)(2)
Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, proposed rule. See 5 U.S.C. 603(a) and requiring that all regulations be written
and Washington. The Federal programs 604(a). The Federal Civil Penalties in clear language and contain clear legal
for those States appear at 30 CFR parts Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements standards.
903, 905, 910, 912, 921, 922, 933, 937, Act of 2015 requires agencies to adjust
H. Consultation With Indian Tribes
939, 941, 942, and 947, respectively. civil penalties annually for inflation
(E.O. 13175 and Departmental Policy)
The increase in civil monetary penalties ‘‘. . . notwithstanding Section 553 [of
also applies to Indian lands under the the Administrative Procedure Act].’’ The Department of the Interior strives
Federal program for Indian lands, which Thus, no proposed rule will be to strengthen its government-to-
appears in 30 CFR 750.18. published, and the RFA does not apply government relationship with Indian
to this rulemaking. Tribes through a commitment to
D. Effect of the Rule on Approved State consultation with Indian Tribes and
Programs C. Small Business Regulatory recognition of their right to self-
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As a result of litigation, see In re Enforcement Fairness Act governance and tribal sovereignty. We
Permanent Surface Mining Regulation This rule is not a major rule under 5 have evaluated this rule under the
Litigation, No. 79–1144, Mem. Op. U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business Department’s consultation policy and
(D.D.C. May 16, 1980), 19 Env’t Rep. Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act. under the criteria in Executive Order
Cas. (BNA) 1477, state regulatory This rule: 13175 and have determined that it has
programs are not required to mirror all (a) Does not have an annual effect on no substantial direct effects on federally
of the penalty provisions of our the economy of $100 million or more. recognized Indian Tribes and that
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![9354 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 23 / Monday, February 6, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
■ 3. Section 723.15 is amended by Points Dollars PART 846—INDIVIDUAL CIVIL
revising paragraph (b) introductory text PENALTIES
to read as follows: 20 .............................................. 1,286
21 .............................................. 1,350 ■ 9. The authority citation for part 846
§ 723.15 Assessment of separate 22 .............................................. 1,415 continues to read as follows:
violations for each day. 23 .............................................. 1,479 Authority: 28 U.S.C. 2461, 30 U.S.C. 1201
* * * * * 24 .............................................. 1,543 et seq., and 31 U.S.C. 3701.
(b) In addition to the civil penalty 25 .............................................. 1,607
26 .............................................. 1,929 ■ 10. Section 846.14 is amended by
provided for in paragraph (a) of this
27 .............................................. 2,250 revising the first sentence of paragraph
section, whenever a violation contained 28 .............................................. 2,571 (b) to read as follows:
in a notice of violation or cessation 29 .............................................. 2,770
order has not been abated within the 30 .............................................. 3,215 § 846.14 Amount of individual civil penalty.
abatement period set in the notice or 31 .............................................. 3,536 * * * * *
order or as subsequently extended 32 .............................................. 3,857 (b) The penalty will not exceed
pursuant to section 521(a) of the Act, 30 33 .............................................. 4,179 $16,073 for each violation. * * *
U.S.C. 1271(a), a civil penalty of not less 34 .............................................. 4,500
35 .............................................. 4,822 [FR Doc. 2017–02417 Filed 2–3–17; 8:45 am]
than $2,411 will be assessed for each
36 .............................................. 5,143 BILLING CODE 4310–05–P
day during which such failure to abate
37 .............................................. 5,465
continues, except that: 38 .............................................. 5,786
* * * * * 39 .............................................. 6,107
LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
40 .............................................. 6,428
PART 724—INDIVIDUAL CIVIL 41 .............................................. 6,751
Copyright Office
PENALTIES 42 .............................................. 7,072
43 .............................................. 7,393
■ 4. The authority citation for part 724 44 .............................................. 7,715 37 CFR Parts 201, 202, 203, 204, 205,
continues to read as follows: 45 .............................................. 8,036 210, 211, 212, 253, 254, 255, 256, 258,
Authority: 28 U.S.C. 2461, 30 U.S.C. 1201 46 .............................................. 8,358 260, 261, 262, 263, and 270
et seq., and 31 U.S.C. 3701. 47 .............................................. 8,679
48 .............................................. 9,001 [Docket No. 2016–5]
■ 5. Section 724.14 is amended by 49 .............................................. 9,322
revising the first sentence of paragraph 50 .............................................. 9,643 Copyright Office Technical
(b) to read as follows: 51 .............................................. 9,964 Amendments
52 .............................................. 10,287
§ 724.14 Amount of individual civil penalty. 53 .............................................. 10,608
AGENCY: U.S. Copyright Office, Library
54 .............................................. 10,929 of Congress.
* * * * *
(b) The penalty will not exceed 55 .............................................. 11,251 ACTION: Final rule.
$16,073 for each violation. * * * 56 .............................................. 11,572
57 .............................................. 11,893 SUMMARY: The U.S. Copyright Office is
PART 845—CIVIL PENALTIES 58 .............................................. 12,215 amending its regulations governing
59 .............................................. 12,537 registration, recordation, licensing, and
■ 6. The authority citation for part 845 60 .............................................. 12,858 other services that the Office provides.
continues to read as follows: 61 .............................................. 13,179 The amendments will improve the
62 .............................................. 13,501
Authority: 28 U.S.C. 2461, 30 U.S.C. 1201 quality of the Office’s regulations by
63 .............................................. 13,823
et seq., 31 U.S.C. 3701, Pub. L. 100–202, and 64 .............................................. 14,144 updating cross-references to the
Pub. L. 100–446. 65 .............................................. 14,465 Copyright Act and the Office’s
■ 7. Section 845.14 is amended by 66 .............................................. 14,787 regulations, replacing outdated
revising the table to read as follows: 67 .............................................. 15,108 terminology, reflecting structural
68 .............................................. 15,429 changes to the Office and its senior
§ 845.14 Determination of amount of 69 .............................................. 15,751
penalty.
management, eliminating expired or
70 .............................................. 16,073 obsolete provisions, and correcting
* * * * * nonsubstantive errors.
■ 8. Section 845.15 is amended by
Points Dollars DATES: Effective March 8, 2017.
revising paragraph (b) introductory text
to read as follows: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
1 ................................................ 64 Sarang V. Damle, General Counsel and
2 ................................................ 129 § 845.15 Assessment of separate Associate Register of Copyrights, sdam@
3 ................................................ 193 violations for each day. loc.gov; Regan A. Smith, Deputy General
4 ................................................ 257 * * * * *
5 ................................................ 321
Counsel, resm@loc.gov; or Erik Bertin,
(b) In addition to the civil penalty Deputy Director of Registration Policy
6 ................................................ 386
7 ................................................ 450
provided for in paragraph (a) of this and Practice, ebertin@loc.gov. Each
8 ................................................ 514 section, whenever a violation contained person can be reached by telephone at
9 ................................................ 578 in a notice of violation or cessation 202–707–8040.
10 .............................................. 643 order has not been abated within the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
11 .............................................. 707 abatement period set in the notice or
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12 .............................................. 771 order or as subsequently extended I. Background
13 .............................................. 835 pursuant to section 521(a) of the Act, 30 On October 3, 2016, the U.S.
14 .............................................. 900 U.S.C. 1271(a), a civil penalty of not less
15 .............................................. 965 Copyright Office (‘‘Office’’) published a
than $2,411 will be assessed for each Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
16 .............................................. 1,029
17 .............................................. 1,093
day during which such failure to abate (‘‘NPRM’’) setting forth proposed
18 .............................................. 1,158 continues, except that: regulatory amendments designed to
19 .............................................. 1,222 * * * * * improve the quality of the Office’s
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Document Created: 2017-02-04 00:25:06
Document Modified: 2017-02-04 00:25:06
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This rule is effective on February 6, 2017. | |
| Contact | Michael Kuhns, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement, South Interior Building MS-203, 1951 Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20240; Telephone (202) 208-2860. Email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 82 FR 9349 | |
| RIN Number | 1029-AC74 | |
| CFR Citation | 30
CFR
723 30 CFR 724 30 CFR 845 30 CFR 846 | |
| CFR Associated | Administrative Practice and Procedure; Penalties; Surface Mining; Underground Mining; Law Enforcement and Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements |
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