[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 141 (Tuesday, July 23, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 44214-44235]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-17054]



[[Page 44213]]

Vol. 78

Tuesday,

No. 141

July 23, 2013

Part IV





Department of Commerce





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

  Federal Register / Vol. 78 , No. 141 / Tuesday, July 23, 2013 / 
Unified Agenda  

[[Page 44214]]


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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, II, III, VII, VIII, IX, and 
XI

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI


Spring 2013 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

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

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866, entitled 
``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 
as amended, the Department of Commerce (Commerce), in the spring and 
fall of each year, publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of 
regulations under development or review over the next 12 months. 
Rulemaking actions are grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed 
rules, final rules, long-term actions, and rulemaking actions completed 
since the 2012 agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide 
information to the public on regulations that are currently under 
review, being proposed, or issued by Commerce. The agenda is intended 
to facilitate comments and views by interested members of the public.
    Commerce's spring 2013 regulatory agenda includes regulatory 
activities that are expected to be conducted during the period April 1, 
2013, through March 31, 2014.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
    Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory 
actions listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as the 
contact person.
    General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the agenda 
should be directed to Asha Mathew, Chief Counsel for Regulation, Office 
of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation and Regulation, U.S. 
Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230, telephone: 202-482-3151.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Commerce hereby publishes its spring 2013 
Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions pursuant 
to Executive Order 12866 and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 
601 et seq. Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to publish an 
agenda of those regulations that are under consideration pursuant to 
this order. By memorandum of March 28, 2013, the Office of Management 
and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the preparation and 
publication of the spring 2013 Unified Agenda. The Regulatory 
Flexibility Act requires agencies to publish, in the spring and fall of 
each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda that contains a brief 
description of the subject of any rule likely to have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities, and a list 
that identifies those entries that have been selected for periodic 
review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    In this edition of Commerce's regulatory agenda, a list of the most 
important significant regulatory actions and a Statement of Regulatory 
Priorities are included in the Regulatory Plan, which appears in both 
the online Unified Agenda and in part II of the issue of the Federal 
Register that includes the Unified Agenda.
    In addition, beginning with the fall 2007 edition, the Internet 
became the basic means for disseminating the Unified Agenda. The 
complete Unified Agenda is available online at www.reginfo.gov, in a 
format that offers users a greatly enhanced ability to obtain 
information from the Agenda database.
    Because publication in the Federal Register is mandated for the 
regulatory flexibility agendas required by the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act, Commerce's printed agenda entries include only:
    (1) Rules that are in the Agency's regulatory flexibility agenda, 
in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act, because they are 
likely to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities; and
    (2) Rules that the Agency has identified for periodic review under 
section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    Printing of these entries is limited to fields that contain 
information required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act's Agenda 
requirements. Additional information on these entries is available in 
the Unified Agenda published on the Internet. In addition, for fall 
editions of the Agenda, Commerce's entire Regulatory Plan will continue 
to be printed in the Federal Register.
    Within Commerce, the Office of the Secretary and various operating 
units may issue regulations. These operating units, the National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Bureau of Industry 
and Security, and the Patent and Trademark Office, issue the greatest 
share of Commerce's regulations.
    A large number of regulatory actions reported in the Agenda deal 
with fishery management programs of NOAA's National Marine Fisheries 
Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and definitions, as 
well as to provide some understanding of the technical and 
institutional elements of NMFS' programs, an ``Explanation of 
Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries'' is provided below.

Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

    The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (16 
U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (the Act) governs the management of fisheries 
within the Exclusive Economic Zone of the United States (EEZ). The EEZ 
refers to those waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries, 
generally 3 nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles. 
Fishery Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries that 
require conservation and management measures. Regulations implementing 
these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign fishing where 
permitted. Foreign fishing may be conducted in a fishery in which there 
is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery management plan has been issued 
to govern that foreign fishing. Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery 
Management Councils (Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for 
fisheries within their respective areas. In the development of such 
plans or amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils 
are required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and 
to consider the use of alternative means of regulating.
    The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes it 
difficult for NMFS to determine the significance and timing of some 
regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the time the 
semiannual regulatory agenda is published.
    Commerce's spring 2013 regulatory agenda follows.

Cameron F. Kerry,
General Counsel.

[[Page 44215]]



          International Trade Administration--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
40........................  Modification of Regulation         0625-AA94
                             Regarding the Extension
                             of Time Limits.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


          International Trade Administration--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
41........................  Commercial Availability of         0625-AA59
                             Fabric and Yarn.
42........................  Modification of                    0625-AA91
                             Regulations Regarding the
                             Definition of Factual
                             Information and Time
                             Limits for Submission of
                             Factual Information.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


  National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
43........................  Fishery Management Plan            0648-AS65
                             for Regulating Offshore
                             Marine Aquaculture in the
                             Gulf of Mexico.
44........................  American Lobster Fishery;          0648-AT31
                             Fishing Effort Control
                             Measures to Complement
                             Interstate Lobster
                             Management
                             Recommendations by the
                             Atlantic States Marine
                             Fisheries Commission.
45........................  Amendment 14 to the                0648-AY26
                             Atlantic Mackerel, Squid,
                             and Butterfish Fishery
                             Management Plan.
46........................  Amendment 5 to the                 0648-AY47
                             Atlantic Herring Fishery
                             Management Plan.
47........................  Amendment 6 to the                 0648-BA50
                             Monkfish Fishery
                             Management Plan.
48........................  Implement the 2010 Shark           0648-BB02
                             Conservation Act
                             Provisions and Other
                             Regulations in the
                             Atlantic Smoothhound
                             Shark Fishery.
49........................  Amendment 89 to the Gulf           0648-BB76
                             of Alaska Groundfish
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             Area Closures for
                             Chionoecetes bairdi Crab
                             Protection in Gulf of
                             Alaska Groundfish
                             Fisheries.
50........................  Generic Amendment to               0648-BC12
                             Several Fishery
                             Management Plans in the
                             Gulf of Mexico and South
                             Atlantic Regions to
                             Modify Federally-
                             Permitted Seafood Dealer
                             Reporting Requirements.
51........................  Amendment 43 to the FMP            0648-BC34
                             for BSAI King and Tanner
                             Crabs and Amendment 103
                             to the FMP for Groundfish
                             of the BSAI.
52........................  Amendment 95 to the                0648-BC39
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for Groundfish of the
                             Gulf of Alaska.
53........................  Framework Action to Set            0648-BC51
                             the Annual Catch Limit
                             for Vermilion and
                             Yellowtail Snapper, and
                             Modify the Bag Limit for
                             Vermilion Snapper.
54........................  Regulatory Amendment 15 to         0648-BC60
                             the Fishery Management
                             Plan for the Snapper-
                             Grouper Fishery of the
                             South Atlantic Region
                             (Section 610 Review).
55........................  Amendment 28 to the                0648-BC63
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for the Snapper Grouper
                             Fishery of the South
                             Atlantic Region.
56........................  Amendment 3 to the Spiny           0648-BC77
                             Dogfish Fishery
                             Management Plan.
57........................  Amendment 30 to the                0648-BC99
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for the Snapper-Grouper
                             Fishery of the South
                             Atlantic Region.
58........................  Allowing Northeast                 0648-BD09
                             Multispecies Sector
                             Vessels Access to Year
                             Round Closed Areas.
59........................  Amendment 2 to the Fishery         0648-BD15
                             Management Plan for the
                             Queen Conch Resources of
                             Puerto Rico and the USVI:
                             Compatibility of Trip and
                             Bag Limits in the
                             Management Area of St.
                             Croix, USVI.
60........................  Amendment 5b to the Highly         0648-BD22
                             Migratory Species Fishery
                             Management Plan.
61........................  Marine Mammal Protection           0648-AV82
                             Act Permit Regulation
                             Revisions.
62........................  Amendment and Updates to           0648-BB37
                             the Bottlenose Dolphin
                             Take Reduction Plan.
63........................  Designation of Critical            0648-BC76
                             Habitat for the Distinct
                             Population Segments of
                             Yelloweye Rockfish,
                             Canary Rockfish, and
                             Bocaccio.
64........................  Amending the Atlantic              0648-BC90
                             Large Whale Take
                             Reduction Plan.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
65........................  Addendum IV to the                 0648-AY41
                             Weakfish Interstate
                             Management Plan--Bycatch
                             Trip Limit.
66........................  Fisheries off West Coast           0648-BB17
                             States; Pacific Coast
                             Groundfish Fishery; Trawl
                             Rationalization Program;
                             Cost Recovery Program.
67........................  Amendment 18B to the               0648-BB58
                             Snapper Grouper Fishery
                             Management Plan of the
                             South Atlantic Region.
68........................  Amendment to the Vessel            0648-BB78
                             Ownership Requirements of
                             the Individual Fishing
                             Quota Program for Fixed-
                             Gear Pacific halibut and
                             Sablefish Fisheries in
                             and off of Alaska.
69........................  Pacific Coast Groundfish           0648-BC01
                             Trawl Rationalization
                             Program Reconsideration
                             of Allocation of Whiting
                             (Raw 2).
70........................  Amendment 4 to the Fishery         0648-BC20
                             Management Plan for the
                             Reef Fish Fishery of
                             Puerto Rico and the U.S.
                             Virgin Islands:
                             Parrotfish Size Limits.
71........................  Amendment 42 to the                0648-BC25
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for Bering Sea/Aleutian
                             Islands King and Tanner
                             Crabs.
72........................  Framework Adjustment 48 to         0648-BC27
                             the Northeast
                             Multispecies Fishery
                             Management Plan.
73........................  Georges Bank Yellowtail            0648-BC33
                             Flounder Emergency Action
                             to Provide a Partial
                             Exemption from
                             Accountability Measures
                             to the Atlantic Scallop
                             Fishery.
74........................  Management Measures for            0648-BC44
                             Pacific Bluefin Tuna in
                             the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

[[Page 44216]]

 
75........................  Regulatory Amendment to            0648-BC50
                             Implement an Exempted
                             Fishery for the Spiny
                             Dogfish Fishery off Cape
                             Cod, MA.
76........................  Amendment 9 to the Fishery         0648-BC58
                             Management Plan for the
                             Shrimp Fishery of the
                             South Atlantic Region.
77........................  Framework Action to Set            0648-BC64
                             the 2013 Gag Recreational
                             Fishing Season and Bag
                             Limit and Modify the
                             February-March Shallow-
                             Water Grouper Closed
                             Season.
78........................  Pacific Halibut Fisheries;         0648-BC75
                             Catch Sharing Plan.
79........................  2013-2015 Spiny Dogfish            0648-BC85
                             Fishery Specifications.
80........................  International Fisheries;           0648-BC87
                             Western and Central
                             Pacific Fisheries for
                             Highly Migratory Species;
                             Fishing Restrictions in
                             Purse Seine Fisheries for
                             2013 and 2014.
81........................  Emergency Rule to                  0648-BD00
                             Establish Recreational
                             Closure Authority
                             Specific to Federal
                             Waters off Individual
                             States for the Red
                             Snapper Component of the
                             Reef Fish Fishery.
82........................  Revision of Hawaiian Monk          0648-BA81
                             Seal Critical Habitat.
83........................  Eliminate the Expiration           0648-BB20
                             Date Contained in the
                             Final Rule to Reduce the
                             Threat of Ship Collisions
                             with North Atlantic Right
                             Whales.
84........................  Endangered and Threatened          0648-BB30
                             Species: Designation of
                             Critical Habitat for
                             Threatened Lower Columbia
                             River Coho Salmon and
                             Puget Sound Steelhead.
85........................  Framework Adjustment 24 to         0648-BC81
                             the Atlantic Sea Scallop
                             FMP and Framework
                             Adjustment 49 to the
                             Northeast Multispecies
                             FMP.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


   National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
86........................  Magnuson-Stevens Fishery           0648-AV53
                             Conservation and
                             Management
                             Reauthorization Act
                             (MSRA) Environmental
                             Review Procedure.
87........................  Marine Mammal Protection           0648-AW22
                             Act Stranding Regulation
                             Revisions.
88........................  Amendment 22 to the                0648-BA53
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for the Snapper Grouper
                             Fishery of the South
                             Atlantic Region.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


   National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
89........................  Amendment 3 to the Spiny           0648-AY12
                             Dogfish Fishery
                             Management Plan.
90........................  Fisheries in the Western           0648-AY36
                             Pacific; Pelagic
                             Fisheries; Purse Seine
                             Fishing with Fish
                             Aggregation Devices.
91........................  Amendment to Recover the           0648-AY81
                             Administrative Costs of
                             Processing Permit
                             Applications.
92........................  Amendment 21 to the                0648-BA59
                             Snapper-Grouper Fishery
                             Management Plan of the
                             South Atlantic Region.
93........................  Amendment 6 to the Golden          0648-BA60
                             Crab Fishery Management
                             Plan of the South
                             Atlantic.
94........................  Atlantic Highly Migratory          0648-BA64
                             Species; Vessel
                             Monitoring Systems.
95........................  Atlantic Highly Migratory          0648-BA75
                             Species Electronic Dealer
                             Reporting Requirements.
96........................  To Establish a Voluntary           0648-BB06
                             Fishing Capacity
                             Reduction Program in the
                             Longline Catcher
                             Processor Subsector of
                             the Bering Sea and
                             Aleutian Islands
                             Management Area Non-
                             Pollock Groundfish
                             Fishery.
97........................  Framework Adjustment 47 to         0648-BB62
                             the Northeast
                             Multispecies Fishery
                             Management Plan.
98........................  Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish           0648-BB72
                             Amendment 34: Commercial
                             Reef Fish Permit
                             Requirements and Crew
                             Size on Dual-Permitted
                             Vessels.
99........................  2012 Gulf of Mexico Gray           0648-BB90
                             Triggerfish Annual Catch
                             Limits and Annual Catch
                             Targets for the
                             Commercial and
                             Recreational Sectors; and
                             In-Season Accountability
                             Measures for the
                             Recreational Sector.
100.......................  Amendment 35 to the Reef           0648-BB97
                             Fish Fishery Management
                             Plan Addressing Changes
                             to the Greater Amberjack
                             Rebuilding Plan and
                             Adjustments to the Stock
                             Annual Catch Limit in the
                             Gulf of Mexico.
101.......................  Framework Adjustment 6 to          0648-BB99
                             the Atlantic Mackerel,
                             Squid and Butterfish
                             Fishery Management Plan.
102.......................  Regulatory Amendment 12 to         0648-BC03
                             the Fishery Management
                             Plan for the Snapper
                             Grouper Fishery in the
                             South Atlantic.
103.......................  Framework Adjustment 5 to          0648-BC08
                             the Atlantic Mackerel,
                             Squid, and Butterfish
                             Fishery Management Plan.
104.......................  Development of Island-             0648-BC17
                             Specific Fishery
                             Management Plans (FMPs)
                             in the Caribbean:
                             Transition from Species-
                             Specific FMPs to Island-
                             Specific FMPs.
105.......................  Comprehensive Ecosystem            0648-BC22
                             Based Amendment 3.
106.......................  Fisheries Off West Coast           0648-BC28
                             States; West Coast Salmon
                             Fisheries; Amendment 17.
107.......................  Amendment 38 to the                0648-BC37
                             Fishery Management Plan
                             for Reef Fish Resources
                             in the Gulf of Mexico.
108.......................  Amendment 4 to the U.S.            0648-BC38
                             Caribbean Coral FMP:
                             Seagrass Management.
109.......................  2013 Atlantic Mackerel,            0648-BC40
                             Squid, and Butterfish
                             Fishery Specifications
                             and Management Measures.
110.......................  Generic Amendment 4 to             0648-BC47
                             Fishery Management Plans
                             in the Gulf of Mexico:
                             Fixed Petroleum Platforms
                             and Artificial Reefs as
                             Essential Fish Habitat.
111.......................  Interim Final Rule for             0648-BC57
                             2012 Butterfish
                             Specifications.
112.......................  Emergency Rule for a               0648-BC59
                             Temporary Action to
                             Adjust the Commercial ACL
                             for Yellowtail Snapper in
                             the South Atlantic
                             Snapper-Grouper Fishery.
113.......................  Emergency Rule to set the          0648-BC65
                             2012 Annual Catch Limit
                             for the Gulf of Mexico
                             Vermilion Snapper Stock.
114.......................  Reduce Sea Turtle Bycatch          0648-AY61
                             in Atlantic Trawl
                             Fisheries.

[[Page 44217]]

 
115.......................  False Killer Whale Take            0648-BA30
                             Reduction Plan.
116.......................  Mandatory Use of Turtle            0648-BC10
                             Excluder Devices (TEDs)
                             in Skimmer Trawls, Pusher-
                             Head Trawls, and Wing
                             Nets (Butterfly Trawls).
------------------------------------------------------------------------


             Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
117.......................  Setting and Adjusting              0651-AC54
                             Patent Fees.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

International Trade Administration (ITA)

Final Rule Stage

40.  Modification of Regulation Regarding the Extension of Time 
Limits

    Legal Authority: 5 U.S.C. 301; 19 U.S.C. 1202 note; 19 U.S.C. 1303 
note; 19 U.S.C. et seq.; 19 U.S.C. 3538
    Abstract: Requesting comment on a proposed modification to 19 CFR 
351.302, which concerns the extension of time limits for submissions in 
antidumping and countervailing duty proceedings.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule.......................   01/16/13  78 FR 3367
Final Action........................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Charles Vannatta, Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade Administration, 1401 Constitution Ave. 
NW., Washington, DC 20230, Phone: 202 482-4036, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0625-AA94

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

International Trade Administration (ITA)

Completed Actions

41. Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn

    Legal Authority: EO 13191; Pub. L. 106-200, sec 112(b)(5)(B); Pub. 
L. 106-200, sec 211; Pub. L. 107-210, sec 3103
    Abstract: This rule implements certain provisions of the Trade and 
Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Title I of the Act (the African 
Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA), title II of the Act (the United 
States-Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act or CBTPA), and title XXXI 
of the Trade Act of 2002 (the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug 
Eradication Act or ATPDEA) provide for quota- and duty-free treatment 
for qualifying apparel products from designated beneficiary countries. 
AGOA and CBTPA authorize quota- and duty-free treatment for apparel 
articles that are both cut (or knit-to-shape) and sewn or otherwise 
assembled in one or more designated beneficiary countries from yarn or 
fabric that is not formed in the United States or a beneficiary 
country, provided it has been determined that such yarn or fabric 
cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial quantities in 
a timely manner. The President has delegated to the Committee for the 
Implementation of Textile Agreements (the Committee), which is chaired 
by the Department of Commerce, the authority to determine whether yarn 
or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in commercial 
quantities in a timely manner under the AGOA, the ATPDEA, and the 
CBTPA, and has authorized the Committee to extend quota- and duty-free 
treatment to apparel of such yarn or fabric. The rule provides the 
procedure for interested parties to submit a request alleging that a 
yarn or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in 
commercial quantities in a timely manner, the procedure for public 
comments, and relevant factors that will be considered in the 
Committee's determination. The rule also outlines the factors to be 
considered by the Committee in extending quota- and duty-free 
treatment.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   04/17/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen, International Trade Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, Office of 
Textiles and Apparel, 1401 Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20230, Phone: 202 482-4006, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0625-AA59

42. Modification of Regulations Regarding the Definition of Factual 
Information and Time Limits for Submission of Factual Information

    Legal Authority: 19 U.S.C. 1202 note; 19 U.S.C. 1303 note; 19 
U.S.C. 1671 et seq.; 19 U.S.C. 3538; 5 U.S.C. 301
    Abstract: This rule will modify the definition of factual 
information for the purposes of antidumping and countervailing duty 
proceedings, and it will also modify the time limits for submission of 
factual information in such proceedings.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/10/12  77 FR 40534
NPRM Comment Period Extended........   08/23/12  77 FR 50963
Final Action........................   04/10/13  78 FR 21246
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Charles Vannatta, Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade Administration, 1401 Constitution Ave. 
NW., Washington, DC 20230, Phone: 202 482-4036, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0625-AA91


[[Page 44218]]



DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Proposed Rule Stage

National Marine Fisheries Service

43. Fishery Management Plan for Regulating Offshore Marine Aquaculture 
in the Gulf of Mexico

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of this fishery management plan is to develop 
a regional permitting process for regulating and promoting 
environmentally sound and economically sustainable aquaculture in the 
Gulf of Mexico exclusive economic zone. This fishery management plan 
consists of ten actions, each with an associated range of management 
alternatives, which would facilitate the permitting of an estimated 5 
to 20 offshore aquaculture operations in the Gulf of Mexico over the 
next 10 years, with an estimated annual production of up to 64 million 
pounds. By establishing a regional permitting process for aquaculture, 
the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council will be positioned to 
achieve their primary goal of increasing maximum sustainable yield and 
optimum yield of federal fisheries in the Gulf of Mexico by 
supplementing harvest of wild caught species with cultured product. 
This rulemaking would outline a regulatory permitting process for 
aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico, including: (1) Required permits; (2) 
duration of permits; (3) species allowed; (4) designation of sites for 
aquaculture; (5) reporting requirements; and (6) regulations to aid in 
enforcement.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability..............   06/04/09  74 FR 26829
NOA comment period end..............   08/03/09  .......................
NPRM................................   10/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AS65

44. American Lobster Fishery; Fishing Effort Control Measures To 
Complement Interstate Lobster Management Recommendations by the 
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.
    Abstract: The action would limit future access in the Lobster 
Conservation Management Area (Area) 2 and Outer Cape Area lobster trap 
fishery based on historic participation criteria, and implement a 
transferable trap program in Area 2, Area 3, and the Outer Cape Area as 
recommended by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. NMFS 
proposes to use the same historic participation data and qualification 
criteria used by state agencies to qualify state lobstermen fishing in 
the State waters of the subject management areas.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   05/10/05  70 FR 24495
ANPRM Comment Period End............   06/09/05  .......................
Notice of Public Meeting............   05/03/10  75 FR 23245
NPRM................................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AT31

45. Amendment 14 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish 
Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 14 is primarily to minimize 
river herring and shad bycatch in the Atlantic mackerel fishery and 
implement an effective program for monitoring river herring and shad 
bycatch in the Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish fisheries. This action 
proposes measures to expand reporting requirements for permit holders; 
increase at-sea observer coverage; and establish a mortality cap on 
river herring and shad in the mackerel fishery. This action is being 
taken because there is concern about the status of river herring and 
shad stocks throughout their range, and a push to reduce all sources of 
stock mortality, including fishing mortality.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent....................   06/09/10  75 FR 32745
NPRM................................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AY26

46. Amendment 5 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801
    Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 5 is to minimize bycatch in the 
Atlantic herring fishery and improve the collection of real time catch 
data. Amendment 5 would increase observer coverage, improve at-sea 
sampling, include measures to reduce net slippage, and include measures 
to address bycatch. This action is being taken to more accurately 
characterize Atlantic herring landings, minimize and monitor bycatch of 
river herring in the Atlantic herring fishery, and to improve 
monitoring of Atlantic herring fishing activity in groundfish closed 
areas.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplemental Notice of Intent.......   12/28/09  74 FR 68576
NPRM................................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AY47

47. Amendment 6 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of Amendment 6 to the Monkfish FMP is to 
consider developing a catch share management program for this fishery. 
This would very likely also involve the development of a referendum for 
such a program, as required under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act.
    Timetable:

[[Page 44219]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent to Prepare an EIS..   11/30/10  75 FR 74005
NPRM................................   01/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BA50

48. Implement the 2010 Shark Conservation Act Provisions and Other 
Regulations in the Atlantic Smoothhound Shark Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This proposed rule considers implementing the provisions 
of the 2010 Shark Conservation Act and other regulations in the 
Atlantic Smoothhound Fishery (which includes smooth dogfish and the 
Florida smoothhound). Specifically, this action would: (1) Modify 
regulations for smooth dogfish as needed to be consistent with the 
Shark Conservation Act; (2) consider other management measures, as 
needed, including the Terms and Conditions of the Endangered Species 
Act Smoothhound Biological Opinion; and, (3) consider revising the 
current smoothhound shark quota based on updated catch data.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB02

49. Amendment 89 to the Gulf of Alaska Groundfish Fishery Management 
Plan Area Closures For Chionoecetes Bairdi Crab Protection in Gulf of 
Alaska Groundfish Fisheries

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1540 ; 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 
3631 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 105-277 ; Pub. L. 106-31
    Abstract: This action would close a portion of Marmot Bay, 
northeast of Kodiak Island, to the use of pot and trawl gear (with the 
exception of pelagic gear used to target pollock) in groundfish 
fisheries year-round and require additional observer coverage (100 
percent for trawl vessels and 30 percent for pot vessels) in two areas 
east of Kodiak Island--the Chiniak Gully and State of Alaska 
Statistical Area 525702. These additional observer coverage 
requirements are expected to be rescinded with the implementation of 
the restructured Observer Program.This action is necessary to protect 
stocks of Tanner crab near Kodiak Islands from the effects of using 
non-pelagic trawl and pot gear used to target groundfish in Marmot Bay 
and to provide improved estimates of the incidental catch of Tanner 
crab in two areas east of Kodiak Island by vessels using non-pelagic 
trawl and pot gear and to accomplish the goals and objectives of the 
Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska. The 
intended effect of this action is to conserve and manage the fishery 
resources in the Gulf of Alaska.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule.......................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: [email protected]
    RIN: 0648-BB76

50. Generic Amendment to Several Fishery Management Plans in the Gulf 
of Mexico and South Atlantic Regions To Modify Federally-Permitted 
Seafood Dealer Reporting Requirements

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: To better ensure commercial landings of managed fish 
stocks do not exceed annual catch limits, improvements are needed to 
the accuracy, completeness, consistency, and timeliness of data 
submitted by federally-permitted seafood dealers. The purpose of the 
generic amendment is to change the current reporting requirements for 
those dealers who purchase fish managed under several of the Gulf of 
Mexico and South Atlantic Fishery Management Council fishery management 
plans. Changes are proposed to the current six dealer permits to 
increase the species that must be reported. Changes are also proposed 
to the method and frequency of dealer reporting. This action will aid 
in achieving the optimum yield from each fishery while reducing (1) 
undue socioeconomic harm to dealers and fishermen and (2) 
administrative burdens to fishery agencies.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC12

51. Amendment 43 to the FMP for BSAI King and Tanner Crabs and 
Amendment 103 to the FMP for Groundfish of the BSAI

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801
    Abstract: This proposed rule would implement both Amendment 43 to 
the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and 
Tanner Crabs and Amendment 103 to the Fishery Management Plan for 
Groundfish of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management Area. 
Amendment 43 revises the current rebuilding plan for Pribilof Islands 
blue king crab (blue king crab) and Amendment 103 implements groundfish 
fishing restrictions. A no-trawl Pribilof Islands Habitat Conservation 
Zone (Zone) was established in 1995 and the directed fishery for blue 
king crab has been closed since 1999. A rebuilding plan was implemented 
in 2003; however, blue king crab remains overfished and the current 
rebuilding plan has not achieved adequate progress towards rebuilding 
the stock by 2014. The proposed rule would close the Zone to all 
Pacific cod pot fishing in addition to the current trawl prohibition. 
This measure would help support blue king crab rebuilding and prevent 
exceeding the overfishing limit of blue king crab by minimizing to the 
extent practical blue king crab bycatch in the groundfish fisheries.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.

[[Page 44220]]

    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC34

52. Amendment 95 to the Fishery Management Plan for Groundfish of the 
Gulf Of Alaska

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action implements Amendment 95 to the Fishery 
Management Plan for Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska. This action 
modifies halibut prohibited species catch management in the Gulf of 
Alaska to (1) establish the Gulf of Alaska halibut prohibited species 
catch limits in federal regulation; (2) reduce the Gulf of Alaska 
halibut prohibited species catch limits for the trawl, hook and line 
catcher/processor and catcher vessel sectors, and the hook and line 
demersal shelf rockfish fishery in the Southeast Outside District; and 
(3) allow two additional options for vessels to better maintain 
groundfish harvest while achieving the halibut prohibited species catch 
reduction of this action.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC39

53. Framework Action To Set the Annual Catch Limit for Vermilion and 
Yellowtail Snapper, and Modify the Bag Limit for Vermilion Snapper

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The current vermilion snapper annual catch limit (ACL) is 
3.42 million pounds (mp). A 2011 stock assessment indicates vermilion 
snapper are not overfished or undergoing overfishing. Based on the 
assessment, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Councils (Council) 
Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) has recommended an 
acceptable biological catch level much higher than the current ACL (>1 
mp). This framework action evaluates different options for setting the 
ACL and (optionally) an annual catch target consistent with the SSCs 
recommendation while minimizing the risk of overfishing. The Council 
has requested a subsequent emergency rule that will increase the 2012 
ACL to avoid a closure of the vermilion snapper component of the Gulf 
of Mexico reef fish fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC51

54. Regulatory Amendment 15 to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region (Section 610 
Review)

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The regulatory amendment contains the following actions: 
Yellowtail Snapper A new stock assessment for yellowtail snapper 
suggests the yellowtail snapper annual catch limit (ACL) can be 
increased. Based on this information, the Council is considering 
changes to the January 1 commercial fishing year start date and the 
establishment of a commercial spawning season closure. The purposes of 
the actions are to benefit fishermen and fishing communities that 
utilize the yellowtail snapper portion of the snapper-grouper fishery 
by increasing the probability of a year-round fishery and minimizing 
the probability of closures during peak harvest times. The spawning 
season closure would protect fish during spawning periods. In 2009, the 
Council established an accountability measure (AM) for the commercial 
sector that closes the commercial fishery for gag and all other South 
Atlantic shallow water grouper (SASWG) for the remainder of the fishing 
year when the gag ACL is met. SASWG includes gag, black grouper, red 
grouper, scamp, red hind, rock hind, yellowmouth grouper, yellowfin 
grouper, graysby, and coney. The Council is considering changing the AM 
so that only gag is commercially prohibited when the gag commercial ACL 
is met. The purpose of the action is to reduce adverse socioeconomic 
effects to fishermen and fishing communities that utilize the shallow 
water grouper portion of the snapper-grouper fishery. Since 2009, the 
Council and NOAA Fisheries have implemented regulations that most 
likely reduced the discards of gag, including the establishment of ACLs 
and AMs for species that commonly occur with gag.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC60

55. Amendment 28 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper 
Fishery of the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: A limited red snapper fishing season was established in 
2012 through an emergency action under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act. The South Atlantic Fishery Management 
Council (Council) determined that some directed harvest could be 
allowed without compromising the rebuilding of the red snapper stock to 
target levels, and they saw the limited harvest as an opportunity to 
collect additional data on red snapper. Through Amendment 28, the 
Council intends to establish a process that would allow this type of 
limited harvest for red snapper in 2013 and in the future, depending on 
the projected mortalities (landings and discards) for the current 
fishing year and the amount of harvest from the previous year. The 
proposed actions would benefit fishermen and fishing communities that 
utilize the red snapper portion of the snapper grouper fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   03/12/13  78 FR 15672
NPRM................................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue

[[Page 44221]]

South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-
5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC63

56.  Amendment 3 to the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The action would make four modifications to the 
management measures in the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan. These 
include allowing up to 3% of the annual quota to be set aside for 
research purposes (research set-aside), updating the essential fish 
habitat definitions for spiny dogfish, allowing the previous year's 
management measures to be carried over into the subsequent year in the 
case of rulemaking delays, and removing the seasonal allocation of the 
commercial quota. The action is needed to improve the efficiency of the 
Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan, and help reduce misalignment of 
regulations with the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's 
Interstate Fishery Management Plan for spiny dogfish.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC77

57.  Amendment 30 to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Amendment 30 would require commercial vessels harvesting 
snapper-grouper species in the South Atlantic to have onboard an 
operating vessel monitoring system (VMS) approved by the National 
Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). There is a need within the snapper-
grouper fishery to improve enforceability of area fishing restrictions. 
The fishery management plan contains several area-specific regulations 
where snapper-grouper fishing is restricted or prohibited to protect 
habitat, fish populations, and spawning aggregations. Unlike management 
measures such as size, bag, and trip limits, where the catch can be 
monitored onshore when a vessel returns to port, area restrictions 
require at-sea enforcement to be effective. However, at-sea enforcement 
of offshore area restrictions is difficult because of the distance from 
shore and limited number of available patrol vessels. An operating VMS 
would allow NMFS law enforcement personnel and their enforcement 
partners to monitor compliance with area-specific regulations and 
prosecute violations. A VMS requirement would also allow for increased 
accurate tracking and monitoring of locations where snapper-grouper 
vessels land fish.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC99

58.  Allowing Northeast Multispecies Sector Vessels Access to 
Year Round Closed Areas

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action, if approved, would allow Northeast 
Multispecies vessels enrolled in a sector to fish in any of three year-
round closed areas on Georges Bank during select times of the 2013 
fishing year. The three areas under consideration include portions of 
the Nantucket Lightship Closed Area I, Closed Area I, and Closed Area 
II. All gear types would be permitted to fish in the Nantucket 
Lightship Closed Area year-round. Trawl vessels fishing with selective 
gear and vessels using hooks would be permitted to fish in Closed Areas 
I and II for portion of the fishing year. This action is being proposed 
to increase access to underharvest groundfish stocks while reducing 
potential impacts on groundfish stocks that are considered overfished 
or subject to overfishing.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BD09

59.  Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Queen 
Conch Resources of Puerto Rico and the USVI: Compatibility of Trip and 
Bag Limits in the Management Area of St. Croix, USVI

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This regulatory amendment addresses the current 
incompatibility between certain federal and USVI regulations related to 
the harvest of queen conch. Fishing and possessing queen conch in the 
exclusive economic zone is only allowed in the area of Lang Bank, to 
the east of St. Croix, USVI. However, current regulations regarding 
commercial trip limits and recreational bag limits for the harvest of 
queen conch in federal waters are not compatible with USVI regulations. 
The USVI has expressed interest in having federal regulations modified 
to make them compatible with the territorial limits to facilitate 
enforcement efforts, enhance compliance by fishers, and allow for more 
efficient management of queen conch resources in the U.S. Caribbean. In 
this regulatory amendment, the Caribbean Fishery Management Council 
chose to modify the commercial trip limit but leave the recreational 
bag limit unchanged. Thus, the rule would change the commercial trip 
limit from 150 queen conch per licensed commercial fisher per day to 
200 queen conch per vessel per day regardless of the number of licensed 
commercial fishers onboard.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BD15

60.  Amendment 5B to the Highly Migratory Species Fishery 
Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: This rulemaking would propose management measures for

[[Page 44222]]

dusky sharks based on a recent stock assessment, taking into 
consideration comments received on the proposed rule and Draft 
Amendment 5 to the 2006 Consolidated HMS FMP (November 26, 2012, 77 FR 
70522). This rulemaking could consider a range of commercial and 
recreational management measures in both directed and incidental shark 
fisheries including, among other things, gear modifications, time/area 
closures, permitting, shark identification requirements, and reporting 
requirements. NOAA Fisheries determined dusky sharks are still 
overfished and still experiencing overfishing (October 7, 2011, 76 FR 
62331) and originally proposed management measures to end overfishing 
and rebuild dusky sharks in a proposed rule for Draft Amendment 5 to 
the 2006 Consolidated Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery 
Management Plan. That proposed rule also contained management measures 
for scalloped hammerhead, sandbar, blacknose and Gulf of Mexico 
blacktip sharks. During the comment period, NOAA Fisheries received 
numerous comments on the proposed dusky shark measures regarding the 
data sources, and the analyses of these data, and comments requesting 
consideration of approaches to dusky shark fishery management that were 
significantly different from those analyzed in the proposed rule. NOAA 
Fisheries therefore decided to move forward with Draft Amendment 5's 
management measures for scalloped hammerhead, sandbar, blacknose and 
Gulf of Mexico blacktip sharks in a final rule and final amendment that 
will now be referred to as ``Amendment 5a'' to the 2006 Consolidated 
Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fishery Management Plan. Dusky shark 
management measures will be addressed in this separate, but related, 
action and will be referred to as ``Amendment 5b.''
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BD22

61. Marine Mammal Protection Act Permit Regulation Revisions

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1374
    Abstract: This action would consider revisions to the implementing 
regulations governing the issuance of permits for activities under 
Section 104 of the Marine Mammal Protection Act. The intent of this 
action would be to streamline and update (using plain language) the 
general permitting information and the specific requirements for the 
four categories of permits: Scientific research (including the General 
Authorization); enhancement; educational and commercial photography; 
and public display. The revisions would also simplify procedures for 
collection, possession, and transfer of marine mammals parts collected 
before the effective date of the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and also 
clarify reporting requirements for public display facilities holding 
marine mammals.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   09/13/07  72 FR 52339
ANPRM Comment Period Extended.......   10/15/07  72 FR 58279
ANPRM Comment Period End............   11/13/07  72 FR 52339
ANPRM Comment Period End............   12/13/07  72 FR 58279
NPRM................................   04/00/14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AV82

62. Amendment and Updates to the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
    Abstract: NMFS proposes a rule to amend regulations under the 
Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan (Plan). The regulations are to 
reduce bottlenose dolphin serious injuries and mortalities incidental 
to the Virginia Pound net fishery. The Plan recommended the year-round 
use of modified leaders for offshore pound nets within parts of the 
Chesapeake Bay and Virginia coastal waters. Regulations for Virginia 
Pound Nets are currently implemented under the Endangered Species Act 
for sea turtle conservation. The Plan recommended similar regulations 
to those currently enacted under the Endangered Species Act; however, 
the proposed regulations under the Plan will offer greater conservation 
benefits to both bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles. Because the 
proposed regulations may affect current sea turtle regulations, a 
joint-rulemaking will be conducted under both the Marine Mammal 
Protection Act and Endangered Species Act to amend: (1) The Plan under 
the Marine Mammal Protection Act, proposing Virginia pound net 
requirements; and (2) current federal sea turtle regulations for 
Virginia pound nets under the Endangered Species Act to ensure 
consistency between regulations.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB37

63.  Designation of Critical Habitat for the Distinct 
Population Segments of Yelloweye Rockfish, Canary Rockfish, and 
Bocaccio

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
    Abstract: This action proposes to designate critical habitat under 
the Endangered Species Act for three Distinct Population Segments of 
rockfish in the Puget Sound/Georgia Basin: (1) The threatened Distinct 
Population Segments of yelloweye rockfish; (2) the threatened Distinct 
Population Segments of canary rockfish; and (3) the endangered Distinct 
Population Segments of bocaccio. The proposed specific areas for canary 
rockfish and bocaccio comprise approximately 505 hectares (1,249 acres) 
of marine habitat in Puget Sound. The proposed areas for yelloweye 
rockfish comprise approximately of 245 hectares (606 acres) of marine 
habitat in Puget Sound.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No.

[[Page 44223]]

    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC76

64.  Amending the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.
    Abstract: NMFS is proposes to amend the Atlantic Large Whale Take 
Reduction Plan. These changes are designed to address ongoing right, 
humpback, and fin whale entanglements resulting in serious injury or 
mortality. In 2009, the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Team (Team) 
agreed on a schedule to develop conservation measures for reducing the 
risk of serious injury and mortality of large whales that become 
entangled in vertical lines. In an August 2012 American Lobster 
Biological Opinion, NMFS committed to publishing a proposed rule to 
address vertical line entanglements in 2013 and to publish a final rule 
by April 2014. Unlike the broad-scale management approach taken to 
address entanglement risks associated with groundlines (rope between 
trap/pots), the approach for the vertical line rulemaking will focus on 
reducing the risk of vertical line entanglements in finer-scale high 
impact areas. Using fishing gear characterization data and whale 
sightings per unit effort data, NMFS developed a model to determine the 
co-occurrence of fishing gear density and whale density to serve as a 
guide in the identification of these high risk areas. Potential 
measures include: Expanding the gear marking scheme to require larger 
and more frequent marks along the buoy line; increasing the number of 
traps per trawl based on area fished and miles fished from shore in the 
northeast; establishing several closures in the northeast for trap/pot 
fisheries; modifying weak link and breaking strength requirements of 
buoy lines; and requiring the use of one buoy line with one trap in the 
southeast.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400. 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC90

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Final Rule Stage

NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE

65. Addendum IV to the Weakfish Interstate Management Plan--Bycatch 
Trip Limit

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 5101
    Abstract: This action would modify management restrictions in the 
Federal weakfish fishery in a manner consistent with the Atlantic 
States Marine Fisheries Commission Interstate Plan. The proposed change 
would decrease the incidental catch allowance for weakfish in the 
exclusive economic zone in non-directed fisheries using smaller mesh 
sizes, from 150 pounds to no more than 100 pounds per day or trip, 
whichever is longer in duration. In addition, it would impose a one 
fish possession limit on recreational fishers.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/12/10  75 FR 26703
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/11/10
NPRM Comment Period Re-opened.......   06/16/10  75 FR 34092
Comment Period End..................   06/30/10
Final Action........................   12/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13362, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910, Phone: 301 713-2334, Fax: 301 713-0596, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AY41

66. Fisheries Off West Coast States; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; 
Trawl Rationalization Program; Cost Recovery Program

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1853
    Abstract: This action would implement cost recovery for the Pacific 
Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program. Following final action 
on Amendment 20 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan 
by the Pacific Fishery Management Council, NMFS implemented the trawl 
rationalization program on January 11, 2011. In accordance with the 
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the Secretary 
of Commerce is required to collect a fee to recover the actual costs 
directly related to the management, data collection, and enforcement of 
any limited access privilege program (LAPP), which includes the trawl 
rationalization program. The fee will not exceed 3% of the ex-vessel 
value of the fish harvested under the LAPP.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/01/13  78 FR 7371
Final Action........................   11/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 48115-
0070, Phone: 206 526-6150, Fax: 206 526-6426, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB17

67. Amendment 18B to the Snapper Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the 
South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The South Atlantic Council intends to limit participation 
in the golden tilefish component of the snapper-grouper fishery. This 
amendment proposes to establish a longline endorsement program for 
golden tilefish, establish golden tilefish allocations for the hook and 
line and longline sectors, and modify golden tilefish trip limits.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   10/26/12  77 FR 65356
NPRM................................   12/19/12  77 FR 75093
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB58

[[Page 44224]]

68. Amendment to the Vessel Ownership Requirements of the Individual 
Fishing Quota Program for Fixed-Gear Pacific Halibut and Sablefish 
Fisheries in and Off of Alaska

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 3631 et seq.; 16 
U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 108-447
    Abstract: This action proposes a regulatory amendment to the vessel 
ownership requirements of the Individual Fishing Quota Program for 
fixed-gear Pacific halibut and sablefish fisheries in and off of 
Alaska. This action proposes to require initial recipients of certain 
classes of quota share to have held a minimum of 20 percent ownership 
interest in the vessel for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the 
submission of an application to hire a master for the purposes of 
fishing an Individual Fishing Quota permit. This proposed action also 
would temporarily exempt from the 12-month ownership requirement an 
initial recipient whose vessel has been totally lost, as by sinking or 
fire, or so damaged that the vessel would require at least 60 days of 
shipyard time to be repaired. This action is necessary to maintain a 
predominantly owner-operated fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/31/12  77 FR 65843
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB78

69. Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl Rationalization Program 
Reconsideration of Allocation of Whiting (RAW 2)

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: On February 21, 2012, Judge Henderson issued the remedy 
order in Pacific Dawn, LLC v. Bryson, No. C10-4829 TEH (N.D. Cal.). The 
Order remands the regulations addressing the initial allocation of 
whiting for the shorebased individual fishing quota (IFQ) fishery and 
the at-sea mothership fishery of the Pacific Coast Groundfish Trawl 
Rationalization Program (program) for further consideration consistent 
with the courts December 22, 2011 summary judgment ruling, the 
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA), and all 
other governing law. Further, the Order requires that the National 
Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) implement revised regulations before 
the 2013 Pacific whiting fishing season begins on April 1, 2013. This 
action implements revised regulations, as appropriate, including a 
reallocation of whiting and potentially some related species. This 
action may include a Paperwork Reduction Act package to clear 
application forms, and any other necessary documentation.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   04/04/12  77 FR 20337
Proposed Rule.......................   01/02/13  78 FR 72
Final Rule..........................   03/28/13  78 FR 18879
Final Action........................   08/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526-6142, Fax: 206 526-
6736, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC01

70. Amendment 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish 
Fishery of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands: Parrotfish Size 
Limits.

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The purpose of the plan amendment is to implement size 
limits for parrotfish harvest in the U.S. Caribbean exclusive economic 
zone. Size limits are intended to allow juvenile parrotfish to mature 
into reproductively active females, and to have a chance to spawn prior 
to harvest. Reproductively active females are a necessary component of 
a healthy, sustainable population.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/11/13  78 FR 15338
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC20

71. Amendment 42 to the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian 
Islands King and Tanner Crabs

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; Pub. L. 109-241; Pub. L. 
109-479
    Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement Amendment 42 to 
the Fishery Management Plan for Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and 
Tanner Crabs (FMP). Amendment 42 revises the annual economic data 
reports currently required from catcher vessels, catcher/processors, 
shoreside processors, and stationary floating crab processors 
participating in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Crab 
Rationalization Program. The economic data reports include cost, 
revenue, ownership, and employment data in order to study the economic 
impacts of the Crab Rationalization Program on harvesters, processors, 
and affected communities. Amendment 42 will eliminate redundant 
reporting requirements, standardize reporting across respondents, and 
reduce costs associated with the data collection.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   03/12/13  78 FR 15677
NPRM................................   03/21/13  78 FR 17341
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC25

72. Framework Adjustment 48 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery 
Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The proposed action would implement Framework Adjustment 
48 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan. Framework 48 
would set specifications for groundfish stocks for fishing years 2013 
through 2015. This action would also adopt the total allowable catches 
for the U.S./Canada Management Area consistent with the U.S./Canada 
Resource Understanding. The Georges Bank yellowtail flounder quota is 
expected to be substantially reduced through this action, potentially 
limiting fishing for more valuable species and resulting in economic 
losses for the groundfish and scallop industries. Quotas for Gulf of 
Maine and

[[Page 44225]]

Georges Bank cod are also expected to also be substantially reduced. 
This action also includes measures to allow fishing in areas that have 
been previously closed. This action is necessary to end overfishing and 
continue rebuilding of certain groundfish stocks and improve the 
profitability of the groundfish fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent....................   06/21/12  77 FR 37387
NPRM................................   03/25/13  78 FR 18187
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC27

73. Georges Bank Yellowtail Flounder Emergency Action to Provide a 
Partial Exemption From Accountability Measures to the Atlantic Scallop 
Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This proposed action, requested by the New England 
Fishery Management Council, would exempt the Atlantic sea scallop 
fishery from any accountability measure for catch of Georges Bank 
yellowtail flounder exceeding the revised sub-annual catch limit of 
156.9 mt up to the initial sub-annual catch limit level of 307.5 mt. By 
exempting the scallop fleet from accountability measures at the lower 
revised 156.9 mt sub-ACL, but maintaining accountability at the 307.5 
mt level initially set for the fishing year, there remains a need for 
the scallop fleet to mitigate yellowtail flounder catch but to do so 
within the context of the initial level established for the fishing 
year. This specific accountability measure is not needed to comply with 
Magnuson Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requirements 
because there is an accountability measure at the fishery level that 
remains unchanged by this proposed action. Any overage of the fishery 
level ACL is repaid pound-for-pound in a subsequent fishing year.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/01/12  77 FR 59883
NPRM Comment Period End                10/31/12
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC33

74. Management Measures for Pacific Bluefin Tuna in the Eastern Pacific 
Ocean

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 951-961 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule would restrict U.S. commercial fishing in the 
eastern Pacific Ocean for 2012 and 2013 by preventing further 
commercial retention of bluefin tuna after (1) the commercial catch of 
bluefin tuna by the international fleet reaches 10,000 metric tons; (2) 
the commercial catch of bluefin tuna by the international fleet reaches 
5,600 metric tons during the year 2012. Notwithstanding these 
restrictions, the United States commercial fishery may catch up to 500 
metric tons of pacific bluefin tuna in 2012 and 2013. This regulation 
would be issued under the authority of the Tuna Conventions Act, as 
amended to implement recommendations of the Inter-American Tropical 
Tuna Commission (IATTC). At the annual IATTC meeting in June 2012, the 
IATTC adopted Resolution C-12-09, Conservation and Management Measure 
for Bluefin Tuna in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. This rulemaking would 
ensure that the United States is satisfying its obligations as a party 
to the IATTC Convention. It is not anticipated that as a result of 
implementing Resolution C-12-09 that there would be any economic 
effect, or very limited economic effect. No commercial vessels 
specialize in harvesting Pacific Bluefin. Pacific Bluefin is caught 
commercially by small coastal purse seine vessels operating in the 
Southern California Bight with limited additional landings by the drift 
gillnet fleet that targets swordfish. The Pacific bluefin commercial 
catch limitations are not expected to result in a closure of the United 
States fishery because catches from recent years have not reached the 
500 metric ton limit. The last time the United States exceeded 500 
metric tons was in 1998.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/12/12  77 FR 73969
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Mark Helvey, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 501 West Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 
90802, Phone: 562 980-4040, Fax: 562 980-4047, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC44

75. Regulatory Amendment to Implement an Exempted Fishery for the Spiny 
Dogfish Fishery Off Cape Cod, MA

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action establishes an exempted fishery because it 
has been determined that the directed fishery for spiny dogfish does 
not catch more than a small amount of groundfish. Implementing this 
action would allow vessels to target spiny dogfish without having to 
their declared days-at-sea or sector groundfish trips affected. This 
action would exempt the groundfish sectors from having a groundfish 
discard rate applied to these trips, which means the sectors would not 
use their groundfish allocations as fast. Specifically, this rule would 
create an exempted fishery for vessels using gillnet and longline gear 
from June through December and handline gear from June through August 
in an area off Cape Cod, MA where less than five percent of their catch 
is groundfish.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   10/19/12  77 FR 64305
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC50

76. Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery 
of the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the 
South Atlantic Region (FMP) includes a process for a state to request a 
concurrent closure to the harvest of penaeid shrimp in adjacent federal 
waters during a cold weather event. The

[[Page 44226]]

South Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) is concerned the 
current process is administratively burdensome and may unintentionally 
hinder protections for the overwintering shrimp stock affected by the 
cold weather and protected by the closure. Amendment 9 would modify the 
criteria and process used for South Atlantic states to request 
concurrent closure of federal waters to penaeid shrimp fishing to 
protect overwintering shrimp stocks. The amendment would add a 
temperature threshold that could be used as triggering criterion for 
states to request a concurrent closure of federal waters, in lieu of, 
or in addition to, the current abundance criterion. Additionally, 
Shrimp Amendment 9 would streamline the administrative process by 
allowing states to request a concurrent closure which would eliminate 
the Council review of requests.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   03/14/13  78 FR 14069
NPRM................................   03/20/13  78 FR 17178
Final Action........................   07/00/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC58

77. Framework Action to Set the 2013 Gag Recreational Fishing Season 
and Bag Limit and Modify the February-March Shallow-Water Grouper 
Closed Season

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Gulf of Mexico gag is overfished and the stock currently 
in a rebuilding plan. The rebuilding plan is scheduled to increase the 
recreational annual catch target from 1.031 to 1.287 million pounds 
(mp) in 2013. The current recreational gag season is July 1 to October 
31 and was designed to limit the harvest to the 2012 recreational 
annual catch target while providing the longest possible recreational 
season. This framework action proposes to establish a 2013 gag 
recreational fishing season consistent with the increased 1.287 mp 
annual catch target that modifies the season opening to provide greater 
socioeconomic benefits to the recreational community. Moving the season 
to a time when there is greater fishing effort will reduce the number 
of days available to fish. To counteract this, this framework action 
also considers a one-gag rather than two-gag bag limit. The current 
recreational shallow-water grouper closed season of February 1 through 
March 31 was developed partly to protect gag spawning aggregations. 
However, because a separate recreational gag season has been developed 
as part of the gag rebuilding plan and other shallow-water grouper 
stocks are considered healthy, the utility of the shallow-water grouper 
closure has been questioned. Therefore, this framework action also 
evaluates the shallow-water grouper recreational closure to see if it 
should be modified or eliminated.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/12/13  78 FR 12012
Final Action........................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC64

78.  Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.
    Abstract: Each year, the Pacific Fishery Management Council 
(Council) reviews and receives public comment on its Pacific Halibut 
Catch Sharing Plan (Plan) to determine whether revisions are needed to 
achieve management objectives for any of the West Coast halibut 
fisheries. As recommended by the Council, for 2013 and beyond, this 
action implements minor changes to the portion of the Plan covering the 
sport fisheries and the salmon troll commercial fishery that 
incidentally catches halibut. For the Columbia River subarea sport 
fishery the changes increase the early season percentage, decrease the 
late season percentage, and decrease the days of the week. This change 
was recommended to more fully attain this subarea's quota. This action 
eliminates the summer all depth season and transferring the summer 
quota to the spring and nearshore fisheries, for the Oregon Central 
coast subarea, which may be triggered by a U.S. West Coast TAC of 
700,000 lbs. Additionally in this area for the nearshore fishery, there 
will be a reduction to the number of open days from seven to three. 
Finally, the start date for halibut retention in the salmon troll 
fishery will be changed from May 1 to April 1 each year.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/11/13  78 FR 9660
Final Rule..........................   03/15/13  78 FR 16423
Final Action........................   08/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Frank Lockhart, Program Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115, Phone: 206 526-6142, Fax: 206 526-
6736, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC75

79.  2013-2015 Spiny Dogfish Fishery Specifications

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The proposed action would implement annual catch limits 
for the spiny dogfish fishery for the 2013-2015 fishing years. The New 
England and Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Councils have jointly 
recommended the Annual catch limits and commercial quotas for FYs 2013-
2015. 2013: ACL = 54.295 million lb; commercial quota = 40.842 million 
lb (+14% from 2012) 2014: ACL = 55.277 million lb; commercial quota = 
41.784 million lb (+17% from 2012) 2015: ACL = 55.063 million lb; 
commercial quota = 41.578 million lb (+16% from 2012). The Councils 
have also recommended an increase in the spiny dogfish possession limit 
from 3,000 lb to 4,000 lb per trip in each year. The Councils have 
recommended the possession limit increase to help improve the 
likelihood of fully harvesting the proposed quotas, which have 
increased significantly in recent years, and therefore increase trip-
level spiny dogfish revenues. At the current rate of landings, with a 
3,000-lb possession limit, the fishery may be unable to land the 
current year's commercial quota.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/12/13  78 FR 15674
Final Action........................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic

[[Page 44227]]

Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 978 281-9287, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC85

80.  International Fisheries; Western and Central Pacific 
Fisheries for Highly Migratory Species; Fishing Restrictions in Purse 
Seine Fisheries for 2013 and 2014

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 6901 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule would establish requirements for U.S. purse 
seine vessels pursuant to a decision made by the Western and Central 
Pacific Fisheries Commission, which is intended to reduce or otherwise 
control the fishing mortality rates on three stocks of tuna (Bigeye, 
Yellowfin, and Skipjack Tuna). Member States of the Commission, 
including the United States, are obligated to establish specific 
requirements in their fisheries for highly migratory fish stocks in the 
western and central Pacific Ocean. Pursuant to the Western and Central 
Pacific Fisheries Convention Implementation Act, 16 U.S.C. 6901, et 
seq., the Secretary of Commerce is authorized to implement regulations 
to carry out the obligations of the United States under the Western and 
Central Pacific Fisheries Convention (Convention), including the 
implementation of Commission decisions such as CMM 2012-01. This rule 
would implement the requirements for U.S. purse seine vessels. The rule 
would include limits for calendar years 2013 and 2014 on U.S. purse 
seine fishing effort on the high seas and in the U.S. exclusive 
economic zone in the Convention Area. It proposes to set controls on 
the use of fish aggregating devices by U.S. purse seine vessels during 
2013 and 2014, including periods during which purse seine fishing may 
not be done on schools aggregated in association with fish aggregating 
devices. Finally, this action would implement a requirement, if 
necessary, for U.S. purse seine vessels to carry observers on all 
fishing trips in the Convention Area.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/07/13  78 FR 14755
Correction..........................   03/25/13  78 FR 17919
Final Action........................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Tom Graham, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 
1110, Honolulu, HI 96814-4700, Phone: 808 944-2219.
    RIN: 0648-BC87

81.  Emergency Rule to Establish Recreational Closure Authority 
Specific to Federal Waters Off Individual States for the Red Snapper 
Component of the Reef Fish Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Prior to the June 1 opening each year, NMFS determines 
the recreational red snapper fishing season length based on landings 
projections, which evaluate catch rates and the average weight of red 
snapper landed in previous years. Those projections also account for 
any excess fish that will be harvested in waters of states that adopt 
inconsistent regulations. This means that the recreational season in 
the entire Gulf of Mexico EEZ has been shortened to account for harvest 
occurring in state waters when federal waters are closed. To reduce the 
impact of inconsistent state regulations on all Gulf Coast states and 
provide for a more equitable allocation of red snapper harvest, the 
Council requested that NMFS implement an emergency rule that provides 
the authority to shorten the federal season only off those states that 
adopt inconsistent regulations. The federal seasons off those states 
would be shortened by the amount needed to correct for the additional 
harvest that would occur as a result of their regulations.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   03/25/13  78 FR 17882
Final Action--Extension.............   09/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BD00

82. Revision of Hawaiian Monk Seal Critical Habitat

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1533
    Abstract: NOAA Fisheries is developing a final rule to designate 
critical habitat for the Hawaiian monk seal in the main and 
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. In response to a 2008 petition from the 
Center for Biological Diversity, Kahea, and the Ocean Conservancy to 
revise Hawaiian monk seal critical habitat, NOAA Fisheries published a 
proposed rule in June 2011 to revise Hawaiian monk seal critical 
habitat by adding critical habitat in the main Hawaiian Islands and 
extending critical habitat in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. 
Proposed critical habitat includes both marine and terrestrial habitats 
(e.g., foraging areas to 500 meter depth, pupping beaches, etc.). To 
address public comments on the proposed rule, NOAA Fisheries is 
augmenting its prior economic analysis to better describe the 
anticipated costs of the designation. NOAA Fisheries is analyzing new 
tracking data to assess monk seal habitat use in the main Hawaiian 
Islands. That may lead to some reduction in foraging area critical 
habitat for the main Hawaiian Islands to better reflect where preferred 
foraging features may be found.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/02/11  76 FR 32026
Notice of Public Meetings              07/14/11  76 FR 41446
Other...............................   06/25/12  77 FR 37867
Final Action........................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BA81

83. Eliminate the Expiration Date Contained in the Final Rule to Reduce 
the Threat of Ship Collisions With North Atlantic Right Whales

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
    Abstract: In 2008 NMFS promulgated a regulation designed to reduce 
the likelihood of deaths and serious injuries to endangered North 
Atlantic right whales that result from collisions with ships. The rule 
implemented speed restrictions of no more than 10 knots applying to all 
vessels 65 ft long or greater in certain locations and times of the 
year along the east coast of the United States. To resolve controversy 
over the rule, NMFS agreed to incorporate a sunset clause under which 
the rule would expire on December 9, 2013. NMFS has been monitoring 
compliance and effectiveness of the rule and has detected a 
considerable increase in the rate of compliance with the rule in the 
third year. There are only approximately 400 remaining North Atlantic 
right whales and the rate of encounter is relatively low, so detecting

[[Page 44228]]

a trend in the rate of ship-strike mortalities will require several 
additional years of data, and soliciting comment on an alternative to 
extend the sunset provision. NMFS is proposing a rule that would remove 
the sunset provision and allow the rule to remain in place. Based on an 
evaluation of recent information, NMFS estimated economic impacts to be 
considerably less than was originally thought.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/06/13  78 FR 34024
Final Action........................   11/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB20

84. Endangered and Threatened Species: Designation of Critical Habitat 
for Threatened Lower Columbia River Coho Salmon and Puget Sound 
Steelhead

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531-1544
    Abstract: This action will designate critical habitat for lower 
Columbia River coho salmon and Puget Sound steelhead, currently listed 
as threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The specific 
areas proposed for designation in for lower Columbia River coho include 
approximately 2,288 mi (3,681 km) of freshwater and estuarine habitat 
in Oregon and Washington. The specific areas proposed for designation 
for Puget Sound steelhead include approximately 1,880 mi (3,026 km) of 
freshwater and estuarine habitat in Puget Sound, Washington.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/14/13  78 FR 2725
Final Action........................   12/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB30

85.  Framework Adjustment 24 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop FMP 
and Framework Adjustment 49 to the Northeast Multispecies FMP

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Framework 24 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop FMP will set 
management measures for the scallop fishery for the 2013 fishing year, 
including the annual catch limits for the limited access and limited 
access general category fleets, as well as days-at-sea allocations and 
sea scallop access area trip allocations. In addition, it adjusts the 
Georges Bank scallop access area closure schedule, refines the 
management of yellowtail flounder accountability measures in the 
scallop fishery, makes adjustments to the industry-funded observer 
program, and provides more flexibility in the management of the 
individual fishing quota program. Because Framework 24 includes an 
alternative to modify the Georges Bank scallop access area seasonal 
restrictions, this action is also a joint framework with the Northeast 
Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (Framework 49).
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/15/13  78 FR 16573
Final Action........................   07/00/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC81

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Long-Term Actions

National Marine Fisheries Service

86. Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Reauthorization Act (MSRA) Environmental Review Procedure

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule revises and updates the NMFS procedures for 
complying with NEPA in the context of fishery management actions 
developed pursuant to MSRA.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/14/08  73 FR 27998
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/13/08  .......................
Next Stage Undetermined.............   07/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Steve Leathery, Phone: 301 713-2239, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AV53

87. Marine Mammal Protection Act Stranding Regulation Revisions

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1379; 16 U.S.C. 1382; 16 U.S.C. 1421
    Abstract: NMFS intends to clarify the requirements and procedures 
for responding to stranded marine mammals and for determining the 
disposition of rehabilitated marine mammals, which includes the 
procedures for the placement of non-releasable animals and for 
authorizing the retention of releasable rehabilitated marine mammals 
for scientific research, enhancement, or public display.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   01/31/08  73 FR 5786
ANPRM...............................   01/31/08  73 FR 5786
ANPRM Comment Period Extended.......   03/28/08  73 FR 16617
NPRM................................   07/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Phone: 301 427-8400, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AW22

88. Amendment 22 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper Grouper 
Fishery of the South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The red snapper stock in the South Atlantic was assessed 
through the Southeast, Data, Assessment, and Review process in 2008 and 
2010. The assessments indicate that the stock is experiencing 
overfishing and is overfished. As a result of the 2008 assessment, 
fishing for red snapper has been prohibited in federal waters off the 
south Atlantic states since January 4, 2010. In Amendment 22, the 
National Marine Fisheries Service and the South Atlantic Fishery 
Management Council are considering alternatives to change the current 
harvest restrictions on red snapper as the stock increases in biomass. 
Examples of measures under

[[Page 44229]]

consideration include the implementation of red snapper trip limits, 
bag limits, a catch share program, tag program, temporal and spatial 
closures including those to protect spawning stocks, and gear 
prohibitions.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent....................   01/03/11  76 FR 101
Notice of Intent Comment Period End    02/14/11  .......................
NPRM................................   07/00/14  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Phone: 727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-
5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BA53

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

Completed Actions

89. Amendment 3 to the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801
    Abstract: The New England and Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management 
Councils are preparing, in cooperation with NMFS, and Environmental 
Impact Statement in accordance with the National Environmental Policy 
Act to assess potential effects on the human environment of alternative 
measures to address several issues regarding the Spiny Dogfish Fishery 
Management Plan. Issues that may be addressed include: Initiating a 
Research-Set-Aside provision; specifying the spiny dogfish quota and/or 
possession limits by sex; adding a recreational fishery to the Fishery 
Management Plan; identifying commercial quota allocation alternatives; 
and establishing a limited access fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent....................   08/05/09  74 FR 39063
Notice of Intent to prepare an         08/05/09  74 FR 30963
 Environmental Impact Statement.
Comment Period End..................   09/04/09  .......................
Notice of Intent....................   05/13/10  75 FR 26920
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AY12

90. Fisheries in the Western Pacific; Pelagic Fisheries; Purse Seine 
Fishing With Fish Aggregation Devices

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The Western Pacific Council is amending the Pelagics 
Fishery Ecosystem Plan (FEP) to (1) define fish aggregating devices 
(FADs) as purposefully-deployed or instrumented floating objects; (2) 
require FADs to be registered; and (3) prohibit purse seine fishing 
using FADs in the US EEZ of the western Pacific. The objective of this 
action is to appropriately balance the needs and concerns of the 
western Pacific pelagic fishing fleets and associated fishing 
communities with the conservation of tuna stocks in the western 
Pacific.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814, Phone: 808 944-2207, Fax: 808 973-2941, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AY36

91. Amendment to Recover the Administrative Costs of Processing Permit 
Applications

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 1853; 16 U.S.C. 
1854; 16 U.S.C. 3631 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 773 et seq.; Pub. L. 108-447
    Abstract: This action amends the fishery management plans of the 
North Pacific Fishery Management Council and revises federal 
regulations at 50 CFR 679 to recover the administrative costs of 
processing applications for permits required under those plans.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: James Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 709 West Ninth Street, Juneau, AK 99801, Phone: 907 
586-7221, Fax: 907 586-7465, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AY81

92. Amendment 21 to the Snapper-Grouper Fishery Management Plan of the 
South Atlantic Region

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Amendment 21 examines measures to limit participation in 
the snapper grouper fishery including endorsements, trip limits, and 
catch share programs.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   11/03/11  76 FR 100
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BA59

93. Amendment 6 to the Golden Crab Fishery Management Plan of the South 
Atlantic

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Golden Crab Amendment 6 examines alternatives for a catch 
share program to limit participation in the golden crab fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent....................   01/03/11  76 FR 98
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BA60

94. Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Vessel Monitoring Systems

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.; 16 U.S.C. 971 et seq.
    Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) will require 
replacement of currently required Mobile Transmitting Unit (MTU) Vessel

[[Page 44230]]

Monitoring System (VMS) units with Enhanced Mobile Transmitting Unit 
(E-MTU) VMS units in Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) fisheries, 
implement a declaration system that requires vessels to declare target 
fishery and gear type(s) possessed on board, and require that a 
qualified marine electrician install all E-MTU VMS units. This 
rulemaking removes dated MTU VMS units from service in Atlantic HMS 
fisheries, makes Atlantic HMS VMS requirements consistent with other 
VMS monitored Atlantic fisheries, provides the National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration Office of Law Enforcement (NMFS) with 
enhanced communication with HMS vessels at sea, and could increase the 
level of safety at sea for HMS fishery participants. This rule affects 
all HMS pelagic longline (PLL), bottom longline (BLL), and shark 
gillnet fishermen who are currently required to have VMS onboard their 
vessels.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/21/11  76 FR 36071
NPRM Correction.....................   06/29/11  76 FR 38107
Notice of Additional Public Meetings   07/01/11  76 FR 38598
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/01/11  .......................
Final Rule..........................   12/02/11  76 FR 75492
Final Action........................   10/11/12  77 FR 61727
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Supervisory Fish Management 
Officer, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 
301 713-0234, Fax: 301 713-1917, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BA64

95. Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Electronic Dealer Reporting 
Requirements

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This rule implements an electronic dealer reporting 
system for dealers that handle sharks, swordfish, and bigeye, albacore, 
yellowfin, and skipjack tunas. This rule does not alter dealer 
reporting for bluefin tuna. The rule requires dealers to report 
electronically on a weekly basis. Dealers who currently use other 
electronic reporting methods (e.g., SAFIS in the Northeast) may 
continue using those other systems.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/28/11  76 FR 37750
Public Workshop Notice..............   06/29/12  77 FR 38722
Public Workshop Notice..............   07/30/12  77 FR 44592
Final Rule..........................   08/08/12  77 FR 47303
Public Workshop Notice..............   10/02/12  77 FR 60108
Final Action--Correction............   12/07/12  77 FR 72993
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Margo Schulze-Haugen, Supervisory Fish Management 
Officer, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 
301 713-0234, Fax: 301 713-1917, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BA75

96. To Establish a Voluntary Fishing Capacity Reduction Program in the 
Longline Catcher Processor Subsector of the Bering Sea and Aleutian 
Islands Management Area Non-Pollock Groundfish Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1279 ; 46 U.S.C. 1279; Pub. L. 108-199; 
Pub. L. 108-447
    Abstract: This regulation implements a second fishing capacity 
reduction program (also commonly known as buyback) and an industry fee 
system to repay a $2.7 million loan for a single latent permit within 
the Longline Catcher Processor Subsector of the Bering Sea and Aleutian 
Islands non-pollock groundfish fishery (Reduction Fishery). The purpose 
of this action is to permanently reduce the greatest amount of fishing 
capacity at the least cost.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/30/12  77 FR 44572
Final Action........................   09/27/12  77 FR 58775
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Gary C. Reisner, Director, Office of Management and 
Budget, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 
301 713-2259, Fax: 301 713-1464, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB06

97. Framework Adjustment 47 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery 
Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The proposed action would implement Framework Adjustment 
47 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FW 47). FW 47 
would set specifications for groundfish stocks for fishing years (FYs) 
2012 through 2014. This action would also adopt the FY 2012 total 
allowable catches (TACs) for the U.S./Canada Management Area consistent 
with the U.S./Canada Resource Understanding. As a result of the 
International Fisheries Agreement Clarification Act, draft measures of 
this action also include revising the rebuilding program for Georges 
Bank (GB) yellowtail flounder. This action would also revise the status 
determination criteria for the three winter flounder stocks and Gulf of 
Maine (GOM) cod based on the updated assessments for each of the 
stocks. Other draft measures includes modification of management 
measures for Southern New England/Mid-Atlantic winter flounder, 
modification of accountability measures for five stocks, modification 
of restrictions on the catch of yellowtail flounder by the scallop 
fishery in the GB access areas, and adjustments to the administration 
of the scallop fishery yellowtail flounder catch limits.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule.......................   03/27/12  77 FR 18176
Final Rule..........................   05/02/12  77 FR 26104
Interim Final Rule..................   06/25/12  77 FR 37816
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Daniel Morris, Acting Northeast Regional 
Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9311, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB62

98. Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish Amendment 34: Commercial Reef Fish Permit 
Requirements and Crew Size on Dual-Permitted Vessels

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Reef Fish Amendment 34 eliminates the earned income 
qualification requirement for the renewal of Gulf of Mexico commercial 
reef fish permits and increases the maximum crew size for dual-
permitted vessels. The existing earned income requirement in the reef 
fish fishery is believed to be easily circumvented, and

[[Page 44231]]

no longer necessary. Maximum crew size regulations stipulate that dual-
permitted vessels without a certificate of inspection are limited to a 
three person crew when fishing commercially. The increase to four crew 
members most directly benefits commercial spear fishermen. This allows 
two persons to remain aboard while there are two divers in the water, 
thereby increasing the safety of commercial diving operations.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability..............   07/10/12  77 FR 40561
NPRM................................   07/18/12  77 FR 42251
Final Action........................   10/19/12  77 FR 64237
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB72

99. 2012 Gulf of Mexico Gray Triggerfish Annual Catch Limits and Annual 
Catch Targets for the Commercial and Recreational Sectors; and In-
Season Accountability Measures for the Recreational Sector

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801
    Abstract: This interim rule adjusts recreational and commercial 
quotas for the 2012 season. In addition, the rule establishes an 
accountability measure for the recreational sector based on projections 
of when the adjusted recreational quota will be met. The intended 
effect of the rule is to maintain the rebuilding plan targets for the 
overfished gray triggerfish and meet the regulatory requirements 
established in Amendment 30A to the Fishery Management Plan.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule..........................   05/14/12  77 FR 28308
Final Action........................   11/09/12  77 FR 67303
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB90

100. Amendment 35 to the Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan Addressing 
Changes to the Greater Amberjack Rebuilding Plan and Adjustments to the 
Stock Annual Catch Limit in the Gulf of Mexico

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This rulemaking adjusts the greater amberjack rebuilding 
plan proposed by the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council through 
Amendment 35 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of 
the Gulf of Mexico in response to new scientific information. 
Adjustments include a revised annual catch limit, accountability 
measures, and other regulations designed to rebuild the greater 
amberjack stock in the Gulf of Mexico.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Availability..............   07/03/12  77 FR 39460
NPRM................................   07/19/12  77 FR 42476
Final Action........................   11/13/12  77 FR 67574
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB97

101. Framework Adjustment 6 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid and 
Butterfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This framework adjustment clarifies the Mid-Atlantic 
Fishery Management Councils (Council) risk policy, which is used by the 
Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) in conjunction with 
acceptable biological catch (ABC) control rules. The risk policy 
ensures that the Councils preferred tolerance for risk of overfishing 
(40 percent or lower) is addressed in the ABC development and 
recommendation process. The regulations that implement the Councils 
risk policy went into effect on October 31, 2011, as part of the 
Councils Omnibus Amendment to implement annual catch limits and 
accountability measures. One component of the risk policy states that, 
``If an overfishing limit (OFL) cannot be determined from the stock 
assessment, or if a proxy is not provided by the SSC during the ABC 
recommendation process, ABC levels may not be increased until such time 
that an OFL has been identified. This was designed to prevent catch 
levels from being increased when there are no criteria available to 
determine if overfishing will occur in the upcoming fishing year. 
Following one of the first applications of the risk policy for the 2012 
fishing year (2012 butterfish specifications), the Council found that 
there are limited circumstances in which the SSC may have the 
scientific justification for recommending that the ABC be increased for 
stocks without an OFL without resulting in an unacceptably high risk of 
overfishing. This framework alters the risk policy by outlining the 
specific circumstances under which the SSC may recommend an ABC 
increase in the absence of an OFL.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   06/28/12  77 FR 38566
Final Action........................   08/27/12  77 FR 51853
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BB99

102. Regulatory Amendment 12 to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Snapper Grouper Fishery in the South Atlantic

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This rulemaking increases the annual catch limit (ACL) 
and revises recreational accountability measures for the South Atlantic 
golden tilefish based on a new stock assessment. The assessment, 
conducted in 2011 with data through 2010, concluded golden tilefish are 
not overfished and overfishing is not occurring.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/20/12  77 FR 42688
NPRM Comment Period End.............   08/20/12  .......................
Final Action........................   10/09/12  77 FR 61295
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue

[[Page 44232]]

South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-
5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC03

103. Framework Adjustment 5 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and 
Butterfish Fishery Management Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This framework adjustment expands the list of marine 
surveyors allowed to complete a fish hold volume certification for 
vessels issued a Tier 1 or Tier 2 limited access mackerel permit. 
Amendment 11 to the Atlantic mackerel, squid, and butterfish fishery 
management plan required that vessels issued a Tier 1 or 2 limited 
access mackerel permit submit a fish hold volume certification to NMFS 
by December 31, 2012. Currently, individuals credentialed as marine 
surveyors by the Society of Marine Surveyors or the National 
Association of Marine Surveyors are allowed to complete fish hold 
measurements for such vessels, as are vessels that are sealed by the 
Maine State Sealer of Weights and Measures. Based on industry feedback, 
there are additional marine professionals who are also qualified to 
conduct vessel hold volume certifications. This action would allow 
vessels to submit hold certifications provided by other marine 
surveyors who are equally qualified to perform such measurements.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/21/12  77 FR 58507
Final Action........................   12/04/12  77 FR 71720
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Daniel Morris, Acting Northeast Regional 
Administrator, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9311, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC08

104. Development of Island-Specific Fishery Management Plans (FMPS) in 
the Caribbean: Transition From Species-Specific FMPS to Island-Specific 
FMPS

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: NOAA Fisheries and the Caribbean Fishery Management 
Council will develop island-specific FMPs to account for differences 
among the U.S. Caribbean Islands of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin 
Islands with respect to culture, markets, gear, and seafood 
preferences. The development of these customized FMPs will recognize 
the unique attributes of each of the U.S. Caribbean Islands.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Bill Arnold, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, Suite 
113, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 727 824-5305, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC17

105. Comprehensive Ecosystem Based Amendment 3

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Actions in Comprehensive Ecosystem-Based Amendment 3 (CE-
BA 3) address improvements in data collection methods in the South 
Atlantic. Measures include improvements in data collection methods in 
commercial, for-hire, and recreational fisheries.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice of Intent....................   05/23/12  77 FR 30506
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC22

106. Fisheries Off West Coast States; West Coast Salmon Fisheries; 
Amendment 17

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The action implements Amendment 17 to the Pacific Coast 
Salmon Fishery Management Plan (FMP), which revises the status 
determination criteria (SDC) for Quillayute fall coho, and revise the 
fishery management plan to correct typographical errors, update 
reporting measures to reflect new technology, update or remove other 
obsolete or unnecessary language, and remove a public comment period 
following a final rule. The purpose of the amendment is to resolve the 
partial disapproval of Amendment 16, regarding the SDC for Quillayute 
fall coho, and update or correct other minor issues.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   11/09/12  77 FR 67327
NPRM................................   12/19/12  77 FR 75101
Final Action........................   02/14/13  78 FR 10557
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Building 1, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 48115-
0070, Phone: 206 526-6150, Fax: 206 526-6426, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC28

107. Amendment 38 to the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish 
Resources In the Gulf of Mexico

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This amendment modifies the post-season accountability 
measure for shallow-water grouper that shortens the recreational season 
for all shallow-water grouper in the year following a year in which the 
annual catch limit (ACL) for gag or red grouper is exceeded. The 
modified accountability measure would shorten the recreational season 
only for the species that exceeded its ACL. This amendment also changes 
the trigger for accountability measures to be based on comparison to 
the current year landings, rather than a three-year running average. 
Last, this amendment revises the framework procedure to allow for 
changes to accountability measures and to update language related to 
Council advisory panels and committees.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   10/12/12  77 FR 62209
NPRM................................   10/19/12  77 FR 64300
Final Action........................   01/30/13  78 FR 6218
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC37

108. Amendment 4 to the U.S. Caribbean Coral FMP: Seagrass Management

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

[[Page 44233]]

    Abstract: The purpose of this plan amendment is to address 
management of seagrasses in the U.S. Caribbean. Four species and one 
species group of seagrasses are included in the Coral FMP. The 
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act requires FMPs 
to contain mechanisms for specifying annual catch limits (ACLs) for 
stocks in the fishery, including measures to ensure accountability 
(AMs). The 2011 Comprehensive ACL Amendment established ACLs and AMs 
for species within the Coral FMP, but inadvertently did not set ACLs 
for the seagrasses included in the management plan. The Caribbean 
Fishery Management Council is now developing Amendment 4 to address 
this oversight. There is currently no commercial or recreational 
fishing for seagrasses in the U.S. Caribbean and seagrasses are 
identified as essential fish habitat in all of the Councils FMPs. Thus, 
in this Amendment, the Council is considering whether to set an ACL for 
seagrasses, designate seagrasses as ecosystem component species, or 
remove seagrasses from the FMP.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice..............................   02/25/13  78 FR 12703
NPRM................................   03/06/13  78 FR 14503
Final Action........................   06/04/13  78 FR 33255
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC38

109. 2013 Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery 
Specifications and Management Measures

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: This action establishes specifications and management 
measures for the 2013 fishing year for Atlantic mackerel, squid, and 
butterfish (MSB). Specifications for longfin squid and Illex squid were 
set for 3 years in 2012 (2012-2014) and therefore, will not be included 
in this years specification rulemaking. This action makes regulatory 
changes to the longfin squid fishery including: Changing the longfin 
squid pre-trip observer notification requirement from 72 to 48 hours, 
changing the closure threshold on April 15 of each year from 80 to 90%, 
and changing the closure threshold on August 15 of each year from 90 to 
95% to avoid 1-2 week closures at the end of a Trimester. The Atlantic 
mackerel specifications are proposed to remain unchanged, and would be 
specified for 3 years (2013-2015). Compared to 2012, this action 
increases the butterfish quota by 236%, and increase the butterfish 
mortality cap by 184%. Due to the increase in the proposed butterfish 
quota, this action also proposed a variety of options for controlling 
effort in the directed butterfish fishery including changes to trip 
limits, the closure threshold for the directed fishery, and post-
closure trip limits.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   11/19/12  77 FR 69426
Final Action........................   01/16/13  78 FR 3346
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC40

110. Generic Amendment 4 to Fishery Management Plans in the Gulf of 
Mexico: Fixed Petroleum Platforms and Artificial Reefs as Essential 
Fish Habitat

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: Potentially significant numbers of individuals of managed 
reef fish species are known to associate with artificial substrates and 
petroleum-producing platforms. Fishers, both recreational and 
commercial, have come to utilize these platforms as sites to catch 
these fish. Some are of the opinion that the habitat provided by these 
structures may be necessary to support viable fish populations and 
associated fisheries. Through Generic Amendment 4, the Gulf of Mexico 
Fishery Management Council is considering alternatives for artificial 
substrates and petroleum platforms to be considered as Essential Fish 
Habitat. As part of their deliberations, the Council is evaluating 
alternative mechanisms that could facilitate the reefing of such 
structures to be consistent with the national artificial reef plan.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC47

111. Interim Final Rule for 2012 Butterfish Specifications

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (Council) 
requested that its Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) 
reconsider its 2012 butterfish ABC recommendation in light of its 
higher (8,400 mt) butterfish acceptable biological catch (ABC) 
recommendation for 2013. The SSC revised their 2012 butterfish ABC 
recommendation to 4,200 mt and noted that the additional mortality at 
the end of the 2012 fishing year should not result in overfishing of 
the butterfish resource. Accordingly, the Council recommended an 
increase of the butterfish ABC to 4,200 mt for the remainder of the 
2012 fishing year, a decrease of the butterfish quota to 872 mt, and an 
increase of the butterfish mortality cap to 3,165 mt.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   11/09/12  77 FR 67305
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: John K. Bullard, Northeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 55 Great Republic Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930, Phone: 
978 281-9287, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC57

112. Emergency Rule for a Temporary Action to Adjust the Commercial ACL 
for Yellowtail Snapper in the South Atlantic Snapper-Grouper Fishery

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: NOAA Fisheries intends to publish a temporary rule for an 
emergency action to adjust the commercial annual catch limit (ACL) for 
yellowtail snapper in the South Atlantic for 2012. A new stock 
assessment for yellowtail snapper suggests the ACL

[[Page 44234]]

could be increased. Based on this new information, the South Atlantic 
Fishery Management Council (Council) requested that NOAA Fisheries 
implement a temporary rule for an emergency action to adjust the 
yellowtail snapper commercial ACL. Doing so will reduce the probability 
of triggering a closure of the commercial harvest of yellowtail snapper 
and thus prevent unnecessary adverse socio-economic impacts to the 
fishery participants. The Council is developing a more permanent 
implementation of the new yellowtail snapper ACL in the subsequent 
Regulatory Amendment 15 to FMP for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the 
South Atlantic.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   11/07/12  77 FR 66744
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC59

113. Emergency Rule To Set the 2012 Annual Catch Limit for the Gulf of 
Mexico Vermilion Snapper Stock

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.
    Abstract: The current vermilion snapper annual catch limit (ACL) is 
3.42 million pounds (mp). A 2011 stock assessment indicates vermilion 
snapper are not overfished or undergoing overfishing. Based on the 
assessment, the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council's (Council) 
Scientific and Statistical Committee (SSC) has recommended an 
acceptable biological catch level much higher than the current ACL (>1 
mp). The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) requested 
NOAA Fisheries Service to promulgate an emergency rule to increase the 
vermilion snapper ACL. Landing projections for 2012 indicate the 
current ACL may be caught before the end of the 2012 fishing year 
(December 31). If the ACL is met, accountability measures would close 
vermilion snapper fishing for the remainder of the 2012 fishing year. 
Therefore, the Council asked for an emergency rule to increase the ACL 
to 4.19 mp. This new limit is consistent with the management advice 
from the Council's SSC.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   04/08/13  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC65

114. Reduce Sea Turtle Bycatch in Atlantic Trawl Fisheries

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.
    Abstract: NMFS is initiating a rulemaking action to reduce injury 
and mortality to endangered and threatened sea turtles resulting from 
incidental take, or bycatch, in trawl fisheries in the Atlantic waters. 
NMFS will address the size of the turtle excluder device (TED) escape 
opening currently required in the summer flounder trawl fishery, the 
definition of a summer flounder trawler, and the use of TEDs in this 
fishery. This action will address the use of TEDs in the croaker and 
weakfish flynet, whelk, Atlantic sea scallop, and calico scallop trawl 
fisheries of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as new seasonal and temporal 
boundaries for TED requirements. In addition, this rule will address 
the definition of the Gulf Area applicable to the shrimp trawl fishery 
in the southeast Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. The purpose of the rule 
is to aid in the protection and recovery of listed sea turtle 
populations by reducing mortality in trawl fisheries through the use of 
TEDs.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   04/12/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-AY61

115. False Killer Whale Take Reduction Plan

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361 et seq.
    Abstract: The False Killer Whale Take Reduction Plan (FKWTRP) is 
necessary because current serious injury and mortality rates of the 
Hawaii Pelagic stock of false killer whales incidental to the Category 
I Hawaii-based deep-set (tuna target) longline fishery and Category II 
Hawaii-based shallow-set (swordfish target) fishery are above the 
stock's potential biological removal (PBR) level, and therefore 
inconsistent with the short-term goal of the Marine Mammal Protection 
Act (MMPA). Additionally, serious injury and mortality rates of the 
Hawaii Insular stock and Palmyra Atoll stocks of false killer whales 
incidental to the Hawaii-based deep-set longline fishery are above 
insignificant levels approaching a zero mortality and serious injury 
rate, and therefore inconsistent with the long-term goal of the MMPA. 
The FKWTRP is intended to meet the statutory mandates and requirements 
of the MMPA through both regulatory and non-regulatory measures, and 
research and data collection priorities.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   07/18/11  76 FR 42082
NPRM Comment Period Ends............   10/17/11
Final Action........................   11/29/12  77 FR 71259
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Sanctuaries Division, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Phone: 301 427-8400, 
Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BA30

116. Mandatory Use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDS) in Skimmer Trawls, 
Pusher-Head Trawls, and Wing Nets (Butterfly Trawls)

    Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1533.
    Abstract: NMFS conducted an evaluation of the Southeastern U.S. 
shrimp fishery and produced a draft environmental impact statement 
(DEIS), as a result of elevated sea turtle strandings in the Northern 
Gulf of Mexico and additional information having been received 
indicating many of the strandings could be a result of fishery 
interactions. The DEIS identified a preferred alternative to withdraw 
alternative tow time restriction, which would require all vessels using 
skimmer trawls, pusher-head trawls, and wing nets (butterfly trawls) to 
use turtle excluder devices. The purpose of the proposed action is to 
aid in the protection and recovery of listed sea

[[Page 44235]]

turtle populations by reducing incidental bycatch and mortality of sea 
turtles in the Southeastern U.S. shrimp fishery.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/10/12  77 FR 27411
Proposed Rule Correction............   05/18/12  77 FR 29586
Miami Public Hearing................   06/22/12  77 FR 37647
Port Orange Public Hearing..........   06/27/12  77 FR 38266
Withdrawn...........................   02/07/13  78 FR 9024
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Roy E. Crabtree, Southeast Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701, Phone: 
727 824-5305, Fax: 727 824-5308, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0648-BC10

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)

Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)

Completed Actions

117. Setting and Adjusting Patent Fees

    Legal Authority: 35 U.S.C. 119; 35 U.S.C. 120; 35 U.S.C. 132(b); 35 
U.S.C. 376; 35 U.S.C. 41; Pub. L. 109-383; Pub. L. 110-116; Pub. L. 
110-137; Pub. L. 110-149; Pub. L. 110-161; Pub. L. 110-5; Pub. L. 110-
92; Pub. L. 112-29
    Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) 
takes this action in accordance with the Leahy-Smith American Invents 
Act to set and adjust certain patent fee amounts to provide the Office 
with a sufficient amount of aggregate revenue to recover its aggregate 
cost of patent operations. This action also helps the Office implement 
a sustainable funding model, reduce the current patent application 
backlog, decrease patent pendency, improve patent quality, and upgrade 
the Office's patent business information technology capability and 
infrastructure.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/06/12  77 FR 55028
NPRM Comment Period End.............   11/05/12
Final Rule..........................   01/18/13  78 FR 4212
Final Rule Effective................   03/19/13
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Michelle Picard, Senior Advisor for Financial 
Management, Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, 600 
Dulany Street, Alexandria, VA 22313, Phone: 571 272-6354, Fax: 571 273-
6354, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0651-AC54

[FR Doc. 2013-17054 Filed 7-22-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-12-P