[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 111 (Thursday, June 9, 2016)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 37250-37259]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-12899]
[[Page 37249]]
Vol. 81
Thursday,
No. 111
June 9, 2016
Part III
Department of Agriculture
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Office of the Secretary
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
Federal Register / Vol. 81 , No. 111 / Thursday, June 9, 2016 /
Unified Agenda
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Office of the Secretary
2 CFR Subtitle B, Ch. IV
5 CFR Ch. LXXIII
7 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I-XI, XIV-XVIII, XX, XXV-
XXXVIII, XLII
9 CFR Chs. I-III
36 CFR Ch. II
48 CFR Ch. 4
Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Spring 2016
AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA.
ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.
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SUMMARY: This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and
not significant regulations being developed in agencies of the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) in conformance with Executive Orders
(E.O.) 12866 ``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' and 13563 ``Improving
Regulation and Regulatory Review.'' The agenda also describes
regulations affecting small entities as required by section 602 of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act, Public Law 96-354. This agenda also
identifies regulatory actions that are being reviewed in compliance
with section 610(c) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We invite public
comment on those actions as well as any regulation consistent with
Executive Order 13563.
USDA has attempted to list all regulations and regulatory reviews
pending at the time of publication except for minor and routine or
repetitive actions, but some may have been inadvertently missed. There
is no legal significance to the omission of an item from this listing.
Also, the dates shown for the steps of each action are estimated and
are not commitments to act on or by the date shown.
USDA's complete regulatory agenda is available online at
www.reginfo.gov. Because publication in the Federal Register is
mandated for the regulatory flexibility agendas required by the
Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 602), USDA's printed agenda
entries include only:
(1) Rules that are likely to have a significant economic impact on
a substantial number of small entities; and
(2) Rules identified for periodic review under section 610 of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information on any
specific entry shown in this agenda, please contact the person listed
for that action. For general comments or inquiries about the agenda,
please contact Michael Poe, Office of Budget and Program Analysis, U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-3257.
Dated: March 18, 2016.
Michael Poe,
Legislative and Regulatory Staff.
Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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1......................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD20
Organic Pet Food
Standards.
2......................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD31
Organic Apiculture
Practice Standard, NOP-12-
0063.
3......................... National Organic Program-- 0581-AD34
Organic Aquaculture
Standards.
4......................... NOP; Organic Livestock and 0581-AD44
Poultry Practices.
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Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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5......................... National Organic Program, 0581-AD08
Origin of Livestock, NOP-
11-0009.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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6......................... Plant Pest Regulations; 0579-AC98
Update of General
Provisions.
7......................... Bovine Spongiform 0579-AD10
Encephalopathy and
Scrapie; Importation of
Small Ruminants and Their
Germplasm, Products, and
Byproducts.
8......................... Brucellosis and Bovine 0579-AD65
Tuberculosis; Update of
General Provisions.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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9......................... Scrapie in Sheep and Goats 0579-AC92
10........................ Importation of Wood 0579-AD28
Packaging Material From
Canada.
11........................ Establishing a Performance 0579-AD71
Standard for Authorizing
the Importation and
Interstate Movement of
Fruits and Vegetables.
12........................ Agricultural Bioterrorism 0579-AE08
Protection Act of 2002;
Biennial Review and
Republication of the
Select Agent and Toxin
List.
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[[Page 37251]]
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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13........................ Lacey Act Implementation 0579-AD11
Plan; Definitions for
Exempt and Regulated
Articles.
14........................ Exportation of Live 0579-AE00
Animals, Hatching Eggs,
and Animal Germplasm From
the United States.
15........................ Importation of Tomato 0579-AE06
Plantlets in Approved
Growing Media From Mexico.
16........................ Importation of 0579-AE10
Phalaenopsis Spp. Plants
for Planting in Approved
Growing Media From China
to the Continental United
States.
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Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Proposed Rule
Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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17........................ Undue Preference and 0580-AB27
Advantage.
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Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Final Rule
Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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18........................ Scope and Unfair Practices 0580-AB25
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Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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19........................ Modernizing Supplemental 0584-AE37
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP) Benefit
Redemption Systems.
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Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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20........................ National School Lunch and 0584-AE09
School Breakfast
Programs: Nutrition
Standards for All Foods
Sold in School, as
Required by the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act of
2010.
21........................ Child Nutrition Programs: 0584-AE25
Local School Wellness
Policy Implementation
Under the Healthy, Hunger-
Free Kids Act of 2010.
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Food and Nutrition Service--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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22........................ Child and Adult Care Food 0584-AE18
Program: Meal Pattern
Revisions Related to the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids
Act of 2010.
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Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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23........................ Elimination of Trichina 0583-AD59
Control Regulations and
Consolidation of
Thermally Processed,
Commercially Sterile
Regulations.
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Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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24........................ Mandatory Inspection of 0583-AD36
Fish of the Order
Siluriformes and Products
Derived From Such Fish.
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[[Page 37252]]
Forest Service--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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25........................ Management of Surface 0596-AD03
Activities Associated
With Outstanding Mineral
Rights on National Forest
System Lands (Directive).
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Forest Service--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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26........................ Ski Area--D Clauses: 0596-AD14
Resource and Improvement
Protection, Water
Facilities, and Water
Rights (Directive).
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Office of Procurement and Property Management--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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27........................ Designation of Biobased 0599-AA24
Product Categories for
Federal Procurement,
Round 11.
28........................ Designation of Biobased 0599-AA25
Product Categories for
Federal Procurement,
Round 12.
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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Proposed Rule Stage
1. National Organic Program, Organic Pet Food Standards
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: The National Organic Program (NOP) establishes national
standards governing the marketing of organically produced agricultural
products. In 2004, the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB)
initiated the development of organic pet food standards, which had not
been incorporated into the NOP regulations, by forming a task force
which included pet food manufacturers, organic consultants, etc.
Collectively, these experts drafted organic pet food standards
consistent with the Organic Foods Production Act of 1990, Food and Drug
Administration requirements, and the Association of American Feed
Control Officials (AAFCO) Model Regulations for Pet and Specialty Pet
Food. The AAFCO regulations are scientifically based regulations for
voluntary adoption by State jurisdictions to ensure the safety,
quality, and effectiveness of feed. In November 2008, the NOSB approved
a final recommendation for organic pet food standards incorporating the
provisions drafted by the pet food task force.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 09/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202
720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD20
2. National Organic Program, Organic Apiculture Practice Standard, NOP-
12-0063
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: This action proposes to amend the USDA organic
regulations to reflect an October 2010 recommendation submitted to the
Secretary by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) concerning the
production of organic apicultural (or beekeeping) products.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 09/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202
720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD31
3. National Organic Program--Organic Aquaculture Standards
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6522
Abstract: This action proposes to establish standards for organic
production and certification of farmed aquatic animals and their
products in the USDA organic regulations. This action would also add
aquatic animals as a scope of certification and accreditation under the
National Organic Program (NOP). This action is necessary to establish
standards for organic farmed aquatic animals and their products which
would allow U.S. producers to compete in the organic seafood market.
This action is also necessary to address multiple recommendations
provided to USDA by the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB). From
2007 through 2009, the NOSB made five recommendations to establish
standards for the certification of organic farmed aquatic animals and
their products. Finally, the U.S. currently has organic standards
equivalence arrangements with Canada and the European Union (EU). Both
Canada and the EU established standards for organic aquaculture
products. Because the U.S. does not have organic aquaculture standards,
the U.S. is unable to include aquaculture in the scope of these
arrangements. Establishing U.S. organic aquaculture may provide a basis
for expanding those trade partnerships.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 08/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
[[Page 37253]]
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202
720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD34
4. NOP; Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6522
Abstract: This action proposes to establish standards that support
additional practice standards for organic livestock and poultry
production. This action would add provisions to the USDA organic
regulations to address and clarify livestock and poultry living
conditions (for example, outdoor access, housing environment and
stocking densities), health care practices (for example physical
alterations, administering medical treatment, euthanasia), and animal
handling and transport to and during slaughter.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 04/13/16 81 FR 21955
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/13/16 .......................
Final Action........................ 10/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202
720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD44
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Final Rule Stage
5. National Organic Program, Origin of Livestock, NOP-11-0009
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: The current regulations provide two tracks for replacing
dairy animals which are tied to how dairy farmers transition to organic
production. Farmers who transition an entire distinct herd must
thereafter replace dairy animals with livestock that has been under
organic management from the last third of gestation. Farmers who do not
transition an entire distinct herd may perpetually obtain replacement
animals that have been managed organically for 12 months prior to
marketing milk or milk products as organic. The proposed action would
eliminate the two-track system and require that upon transition, all
existing and replacement dairy animals from which milk or milk products
are intended to be sold, labeled, or represented as organic must be
managed organically from the last third of gestation.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 04/28/15 80 FR 23455
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/27/15 .......................
Final Action........................ 05/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Miles McEvoy, Deputy Administrator, USDA National
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202
720-3252.
RIN: 0581-AD08
BILLING CODE 3410-02-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Proposed Rule Stage
6. Plant Pest Regulations; Update of General Provisions
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 2260; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to
7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8817; 19 U.S.C. 136; 21
U.S.C. 111; 21 U.S.C. 114a; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701; 42
U.S.C. 4331 and 4332
Abstract: We are proposing to revise our regulations regarding the
movement of plant pests. We are proposing criteria regarding the
movement and environmental release of biological control organisms, and
are proposing to establish regulations to allow the importation and
movement in interstate commerce of certain types of plant pests without
restriction by granting exceptions from permitting requirements for
those pests. We are also proposing to revise our regulations regarding
the movement of soil. This proposed rule replaces a previously
published proposed rule, which we are withdrawing as part of this
document. This proposal would clarify the factors that would be
considered when assessing the risks associated with the movement of
certain organisms and facilitate the movement of regulated organisms
and articles in a manner that also protects U.S. agriculture.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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Notice of Intent To Prepare an 10/20/09 74 FR 53673
Environmental Impact Statement.
Notice Comment Period End........... 11/19/09 .......................
NPRM................................ 05/00/16 .......................
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Colin Stewart, Assistant Director, Pests,
Pathogens, and Biocontrol Permits, PPQ, Department of Agriculture,
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 133,
Riverdale, MD 20737-1236, Phone: 301 851-2237.
RIN: 0579-AC98
7. Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and Scrapie; Importation of Small
Ruminants and Their Germplasm, Products, and Byproducts
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 1622; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to
7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 21 U.S.C. 136 and
136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the bovine spongiform
encephalopathy (BSE) and scrapie regulations regarding the importation
of live sheep, goats, and wild ruminants and their embryos, semen,
products, and byproducts. The proposed scrapie revisions regarding the
importation of sheep, goats, and susceptible wild ruminants for other
than immediate slaughter are similar to those recommended by the World
Organization for Animal Health in restricting the importation of such
animals to those from scrapie-free regions or certified scrapie-free
flocks.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 05/00/16 .......................
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Langston Hull, Senior Staff Veterinary Medical
Officer, Animal Permitting and Negotiating Services, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-3300.
RIN: 0579-AD10
[[Page 37254]]
8. Brucellosis and Bovine Tuberculosis; Update of General Provisions
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1622; 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 15 U.S.C.
1828; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a; 31 U.S.C. 9701
Abstract: This rulemaking would consolidate the regulations
governing bovine tuberculosis (TB), currently found in 9 CFR part 77,
and those governing brucellosis, currently found in 9 CFR part 78. As
part of this consolidation, we are proposing to transition the TB and
brucellosis programs away from a State status system based on disease
prevalence. Instead, States and tribes would implement an animal health
plan that identifies sources of the diseases within the State or tribe
and specifies mitigations to address the risk posed by these sources.
The consolidated regulations also would set forth standards for
surveillance, epidemiological investigations, and affected herd
management that must be incorporated into each animal health plan, with
certain limited exceptions; conditions for the interstate movement of
cattle, bison, and captive cervids; and conditions for APHIS approval
of tests for bovine TB or brucellosis. Finally, the rulemaking would
revise the import requirements for cattle and bison to make these
requirements clearer and ensure that they more effectively mitigate the
risk of introduction of the diseases into the United States.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 12/16/15 80 FR 78461
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/15/16 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 03/11/16 81 FR 12832
NPRM Comment Period Extended End.... 05/16/16 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 02/00/17 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Langston Hull, Senior Staff Veterinary Medical
Officer, Animal Permitting and Negotiating Services, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-3300.
C. William Hench, Senior Cattle Health Specialist, Cattle Health
Center, Surveillance, Preparedness, and Response, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 2150 Centre
Avenue, Building B-3E20, Fort Collins, CO 80526, Phone: 970 494-7378.
RIN: 0579-AD65
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Final Rule Stage
9. Scrapie in Sheep and Goats
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317
Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the scrapie regulations by
changing the risk groups and categories established for individual
animals and for flocks. It would simplify, reduce, or remove certain
recordkeeping requirements. This action would provide designated
scrapie epidemiologists with more alternatives and flexibility when
testing animals in order to determine flock designations under the
regulations. It would also make the identification and recordkeeping
requirements for goat owners consistent with those for sheep owners.
These changes would affect sheep and goat producers and State
governments.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 09/10/15 80 FR 54659
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/09/15 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 11/16/15 80 FR 70718
NPRM Comment Period Reopened End.... 12/09/15 .......................
Final Action........................ 07/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Diane Sutton, Sheep, Goat, Cervid, and Equine
Health Center; Surveillance, Preparedness, and Response Services, VS,
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service,
4700 River Road, Unit 43, Riverdale, MD 20737-1235, Phone: 301 851-
3509.
RIN: 0579-AC92
10. Importation of Wood Packaging Material From Canada
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781
to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend the regulations for the
importation of unmanufactured wood articles with regard to the
exemption that allows wood packaging material from Canada to enter the
United States without first meeting the treatment and marking
requirements of the regulations that apply to wood packaging material
from all other countries. This action is necessary in order to prevent
the dissemination and spread of pests via wood packaging material from
Canada.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 12/02/10 75 FR 75157
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/31/11 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 09/00/16 .......................
Final Action Effective.............. 10/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: John Tyrone Jones, Trade Director, Forestry
Products, Phytosanitary Issues Management, PPQ, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 140, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-2344.
RIN: 0579-AD28
11. Establishing a Performance Standard for Authorizing the Importation
and Interstate Movement of Fruits and Vegetables
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781
to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a
Abstract: This rulemaking will amend our regulations governing the
importations of fruits and vegetables by broadening our existing
performance standard to provide for consideration of all new fruits and
vegetables for importation into the United States using a notice-based
process. Rather than authorizing new imports through proposed and final
rules and specifying import conditions in the regulations, the notice-
based process uses Federal Register notices to make risk analyses
available to the public for review and comment, with authorized
commodities and their conditions of entry subsequently being listed on
the Internet. It also will remove the region- or commodity-specific
phytosanitary requirements currently found in these regulations.
Likewise, we are proposing an equivalent revision of the performance
standard in our regulations governing the interstate movements of
fruits and vegetables from Hawaii and the U.S. territories (Guam,
Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and
the removal of commodity-specific phytosanitary requirements from those
regulations. This action will allow for the consideration of requests
to authorize the importation or interstate movement of new fruits and
vegetables in a manner that enables a more flexible and responsive
regulatory approach to
[[Page 37255]]
evolving pest situations in both the United States and exporting
countries. It will not, however, alter the science-based process in
which the risk associated with importation or interstate movement of a
given fruit or vegetable is evaluated or the manner in which risks
associated with the importation or interstate movement of a fruit or
vegetable are mitigated.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 09/09/14 79 FR 53346
NPRM Comment Period End............. 11/10/14 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 12/04/14 79 FR 71973
NPRM Comment Period End............. 01/09/15 .......................
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 02/06/15 80 FR 6665
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/10/15 .......................
Final Rule.......................... 08/00/16 .......................
Final Rule Effective................ 10/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Nicole Russo, Assistant Director, Regulatory
Coordination and Compliance, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 133, Riverdale,
MD 20737-1236, Phone: 301 851-2159.
RIN: 0579-AD71
12. Agricultural Bioterrorism Protection Act of 2002; Biennial
Review and Republication of The Select Agent and Toxin List
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8401
Abstract: In accordance with the Agricultural Bioterrorism
Protection Act of 2002, we are soliciting public comment regarding the
list of select agents and toxins that have the potential to pose a
severe threat to animal or plant health, or to animal or plant
products. The Act requires the biennial review and republication of the
list of select agents and toxins and the revision of the list as
necessary. Accordingly, we are soliciting public comment on the current
list of select agents and toxins in our regulations and suggestions
regarding any addition or reduction of the animal or plant pathogens
currently on the list of select agents.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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ANPRM............................... 02/27/15 80 FR 10627
ANPRM Comment Period End............ 04/28/15
NPRM................................ 01/19/16 81 FR 2762
NPRM Comment Period End............. 03/21/16
Final Action........................ 11/00/16 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Freeda Isaac, National Director, Agriculture Select
Agent Services, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 2, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231,
Phone: 301 851-3300.
RIN: 0579-AE08
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Completed Actions
13. Lacey Act Implementation Plan; Definitions for Exempt and Regulated
Articles
Legal Authority: 16 U.S.C. 3371 et seq.
Abstract: We are adopting as a final rule, without change, an
interim final rule that established definitions for the terms common
cultivar and common food crop and several related terms. The 2008
amendments to the Lacey Act expanded its protections to a broader range
of plant species; extended its reach to encompass products, including
timber, that derive from illegally harvested plants; and required that
importers submit a declaration at the time of importation for certain
plants and plant products. Common cultivars and common food crops are
among the categorical exclusions to the provisions of the Act. The Act
does not define the terms common cultivar and common food crop but
instead gives authority to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the
U.S. Department of the Interior to define these terms by regulation.
The interim final rule specifically requested comment on definitions of
two related terms: commercial scale and tree. This document responds to
comments we received on those definitions.
Completed:
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Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Affirmation of Interim Final Rule... 01/25/16 81 FR 3939
Affirmation of Interim Final Rule 01/25/16
Effective.
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Parul Patel, Phone: 301 851-2351.
RIN: 0579-AD11
14. Exportation of Live Animals, Hatching Eggs, and Animal
Germplasm From the United States
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317; 19 U.S.C. 1644a(c); 21
U.S.C. 136, 136a, and 618; 46 U.S.C. 3901 and 3902
Abstract: We are revising the regulations pertaining to the
exportation of livestock from the United States. Among other things, we
are removing most of the requirements for export health certifications,
tests, and treatments from the regulations, and instead directing
exporters to follow the requirements of the importing country regarding
such processes and procedures. We are retaining only those export
health certification, testing, and treatment requirements that we
consider necessary to have assurances regarding the health and welfare
of livestock exported from the United States. We also are allowing pre-
export inspection of livestock to occur at facilities other than an
export inspection facility associated with the port of embarkation,
under certain circumstances, and replacing specific standards for
export inspection facilities and ocean vessels with performance
standards. These changes will provide exporters and the Animal and
Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) with more flexibility in
arranging for the export of livestock from the United States while
continuing to ensure the health and welfare of the livestock.
Additionally, if APHIS knows that an importing country requires an
export health certificate endorsed by the competent veterinary
authority of the United States for any animal other than livestock,
including pets, or for any hatching eggs or animal germplasm, we are
requiring that the animal, hatching eggs, or animal germplasm have such
a health certificate to be eligible for export from the United States.
This change will help ensure that all animals, hatching eggs, and
animal germplasm exported from the United States meet the health
requirements of the countries to which they are destined. Finally, we
are making editorial amendments to the regulations to make them easier
to understand and comply with.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/26/15 80 FR 10398
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/27/15
Final Rule.......................... 01/20/16 81 FR 2967
Final Rule Effective................ 02/19/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 37256]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jack Taniewski, Director for Animal Export,
National Import Export Services, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal
and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 39,
Riverdale, MD 20737-1231, Phone: 301 851-3300.
RIN: 0579-AE00
15. Importation of Tomato Plantlets in Approved Growing Media
From Mexico
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781
to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a
Abstract: This rulemaking amends the regulations governing the
importation of plants for planting to authorize the importation of
tomato plantlets from Mexico in approved growing media, subject to a
systems approach. The systems approach consists of measures currently
specified for tomato plants for planting not imported in growing media,
as well as measures specific to all plants for planting imported into
the United States in approved growing media. Additionally, the
plantlets must be imported into greenhouses in the continental United
States and the importers of the plantlets from Mexico or the owners of
the greenhouses in the continental United States must enter into
compliance agreements regarding the conditions under which the plants
from Mexico must enter and be maintained within the greenhouses. This
rule allows for the importation into the continental United States of
tomato plantlets from Mexico in approved growing media, while providing
protection against the introduction of plant pests. The rule also
allows the imported greenhouse plantlets to produce tomato fruit for
commercial sale within the United States.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/05/15 80 FR 11946
NPRM Comment Period End............. 05/04/15
Final Rule.......................... 10/02/15 80 FR 59557
Final Rule Effective................ 11/02/15
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Lydia Colo[oacute]n, PPQ, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 133, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236, Phone: 301 851-2302.
RIN: 0579-AE06
16. Importation of Phalaenopsis SPP. Plants for Planting in
Approved Growing Media From China to the Continental United States
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781
to 7786; 21 U.S.C. 136 and 136a
Abstract: This rulemaking amends the regulations governing the
importation of plants for planting to authorize the importation of
Phalaenopsis spp. plants for planting from China in approved growing
media into the continental United States, subject to a systems
approach. The systems approach consists of measures that are currently
specified in the regulations as generally applicable to all plants for
planting authorized for importation into the United States in approved
growing media. This rule allows for the importation of Phalaenopsis
spp. plants for planting from China in approved growing media, while
providing protection against the introduction of quarantine plant
pests.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/01/15 80 FR 30959
NPRM Comment Period End............. 07/31/15
Final Rule.......................... 02/11/16 81 FR 7195
Final Rule Effective................ 03/14/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Lydia Col[oacute]n, PPQ, Department of Agriculture,
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 133,
Riverdale, MD 20737-1236, Phone: 301 851-2302.
RIN: 0579-AE10
BILLING CODE 3410-34-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)
Proposed Rule Stage
17. Undue Preference and Advantage
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 110-246; 7 U.S.C. 181-229c
Abstract: Title XI of the 2008 Farm Bill required the Secretary of
Agriculture to issue a number of regulations under the P&S Act. Among
these instructions, the 2008 Farm Bill directed the Secretary to
identify criteria to be considered in determining whether an undue or
unreasonable preference or advantage has occurred in violation of the
P&S Act. In June of 2010, the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards
Administration (GIPSA) published a proposed rule addressing this
statutory requirement along with several other rules required by the
2008 Farm Bill. Proposed 201.211 to the regulations under the P&S Act
would have established criteria that the Secretary may consider in
determining if conduct would violate section 202(b) of the P&S Act
(undue or unreasonable preference or advantage). While many commenters
provided examples of similarly situated poultry growers and livestock
producers receiving different treatment, other commenters were
concerned about the impacts of the provision on marketing arrangements
and other beneficial contractual agreements. Beginning with the FY 2012
appropriations act, USDA was precluded from working on certain proposed
regulatory provisions related to the P&S Act, including criteria in
this proposal regarding undue or unreasonable preferences or
advantages. Consequently, GIPSA did not finalize this rule in 2011. The
prohibitions are not included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act,
2016. This rulemaking is necessary to fulfill statutory requirements.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule....................... 09/00/16
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Raymond Dexter Thomas II, Lead Regulatory Analyst,
Department of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards
Administration, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Room 2530-South,
Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-6529, Fax: 202 690-2173, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0580-AB27
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)
Final Rule Stage
18. Scope and Unfair Practices
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 110-246; 7 U.S.C. 181 to 229c
Abstract: In June of 2010, GIPSA published a proposal to amend
section 201.3 of the regulations issued under the Packers and
Stockyards Act (P&S Act), 1921, as amended. This proposed change
responds to guidance from the courts. The courts, in addressing
[[Page 37257]]
litigation brought by poultry growers alleging harm, have said that
GIPSA's statements regarding the appropriate application of subsections
202(a) and 202(b) are not entitled to deference in the absence of
regulation addressing whether the P&S Act prohibits all unfair
practices, or only those causing harm or a likelihood of harm to
competition. The amendment to 201.3 will establish GIPSA's
interpretation of the statute which will then be entitled to judicial
deference. Section 201.210 will illustrate by way of examples types of
conduct GIPSA would consider unfair, unjustly discriminatory, or
deceptive.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 09/00/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Raymond Dexter Thomas II, Lead Regulatory Analyst,
Department of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards
Administration, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Room 2530-South,
Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-6529, Fax: 202 690-2173, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0580-AB25
BILLING CODE 3410-EN-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Proposed Rule Stage
19. Modernizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Benefit Redemption Systems
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: The Agricultural Act of 2014 (Pub. L. 113-79, the Farm
Bill) amended the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (the FNA) to include
new requirements regarding the acceptance and processing of SNAP client
benefits by all non-exempt retailers participating in SNAP. Statutory
changes will modernize EBT systems and ensure greater program
integrity. The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) also plans to revise
certain SNAP regulations for which multiple State agencies have sought
and received approval of waivers. The revisions will streamline program
administration, offer greater flexibility to State agencies, and
improve customer service.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 11/00/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Regulatory Review Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Lynnette M. Thomas, Chief, Planning and Regulatory Affairs Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE37
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Final Rule Stage
20. National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: Nutrition
Standards for All Foods Sold in School, as Required by the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This rule codifies the two provisions of the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act (Pub. L. 111-296; the Act) under 7 CFR parts 210
and 220. Section 208 requires the Secretary to promulgate regulations
to establish science-based nutrition standards for all foods sold in
schools. The nutrition standards apply to all food sold outside the
school meal programs, on the school campus, and at any time during the
school day. Section 203 requires schools participating in the National
School Lunch Program to make available to children free of charge, as
nutritionally appropriate, potable water for consumption in the place
where meals are served during meal service.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/08/13 78 FR 9530
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/09/13 .......................
Interim Final Rule.................. 06/28/13 78 FR 39067
Interim Final Rule Effective........ 08/27/13 .......................
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 10/28/13 .......................
End.
Final Action........................ 05/00/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Regulatory Review Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Lynnette M. Thomas, Chief, Planning and Regulatory Affairs Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE09
21. Child Nutrition Programs: Local School Wellness Policy
Implementation Under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This final rule codifies a provision of the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act (Pub. L. 111-296; the Act) under 7 CFR parts 210
and 220. Section 204 of the Act requires each local educational agency
(LEA) to establish, for all schools under its jurisdiction, a local
school wellness policy. The Act requires that the wellness policy
include goals for nutrition, nutrition education, physical activity,
and other school-based activities that promote student wellness. In
addition, the Act requires that local educational agencies ensure
stakeholder participation in development of their local school wellness
policies, and periodically assess compliance with the policies, and
disclose information about the policies to the public.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 02/26/14 79 FR 10693
NPRM Comment Period End............. 04/28/14 .......................
Final Action........................ 05/00/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Regulatory Review Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Lynnette M. Thomas, Chief, Planning and Regulatory Affairs Branch,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE25
[[Page 37258]]
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Completed Actions
22. Child and Adult Care Food Program: Meal Pattern Revisions Related
to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This final rule will implement section 221 of the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 (Pub. L. 111-296; the Act). It
requires USDA to review and update, no less frequently than once every
10 years, requirements for meals served under the Child and Adult Care
Food Program (CACFP) to ensure those meal patterns are consistent with
the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans and relevant nutrition
science.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Action........................ 04/25/16 81 FR 24348
Final Action Effective.............. 06/24/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Lynnette M. Thomas, Phone: 703 605-4782, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE18
BILLING CODE 3410-30-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
Proposed Rule Stage
23. Elimination of Trichina Control Regulations and Consolidation of
Thermally Processed, Commercially Sterile Regulations
Legal Authority: Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA); Poultry
Products Inspection Act (PPIA)
Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is
proposing to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations to eliminate
the requirements for both ready-to-eat (RTE) and not-ready-to-eat
(NRTE) pork and pork products to be treated to destroy trichina
(Trichinella spiralis) because the regulations are inconsistent with
the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulations, and
these prescriptive regulations are no longer necessary. If this
supplemental proposed rule is finalized, FSIS will end its Trichinella
Approved Laboratory Program (TALP program) for the evaluation and
approval of non-Federal laboratories that use the pooled sample
digestion technique to analyze samples for the presence of trichina.
FSIS is also proposing to consolidate the regulations on thermally
processed, commercially sterile meat and poultry products (i.e., canned
food products containing meat or poultry).
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 05/00/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Assistant Administrator,
Office of Policy and Program Development, Department of Agriculture,
Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., 349-E
JWB, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 205-0495, Fax: 202 720-2025,
Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0583-AD59
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)
Completed Actions
24. Mandatory Inspection of Fish of the Order Siluriformes and Products
Derived From Such Fish
Legal Authority: Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) (21 U.S.C. 601
to 695); Pub. L. 110-246, sec 11016; Pub. L. 113-79, sec 12106
Abstract: The 2008 Farm Bill (Pub. L. 110-246, sec. 11016), amended
the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) to make ``catfish'' a species
amenable to the FMIA and, therefore, subject to Food Safety and
Inspection Service (FSIS) inspection. In addition, the 2008 Farm Bill
gave FSIS the authority to define the term ``catfish.'' On February 24,
2011, FSIS published a proposed rule that outlined a mandatory catfish
inspection program and presented two options for defining ``catfish.''
The 2014 Farm Bill (Pub. L. 113-79, sec. 12106), amended the FMIA to
remove the term ``catfish'' and to make ``all fish of the order
Siluriformes'' subject to FSIS jurisdiction and inspection. As a
result, FSIS inspection of Siluriformes is mandated by law and non-
discretionary.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Action........................ 12/02/15 80 FR 75589
Final Action Effective.............. 03/01/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Phone: 202 205-0495, Fax: 202
720-2025, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0583-AD36
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Forest Service (FS)
Long-Term Actions
25. Management of Surface Activities Associated With Outstanding
Mineral Rights on National Forest System Lands (Directive)
Legal Authority: EPA 1992
Abstract: Close to 11,000,000 acres (approximately 6 percent) of
National Forest System (NFS) lands overlie severed (split) mineral
estates owned by a party other than the Federal Government. More than
75 percent of these lands are in the Eastern Region (Forest Service
Regions 8 and 9). There are two kinds of severed mineral estates,
generally known as ``private rights'': reserved and outstanding.
Reserved mineral rights are those retained by a grantor in a deed
conveying land to the United States. Outstanding mineral rights are
those owned by a party other than the surface owner at the time the
surface was conveyed to the United States. Because these are non-
Federal mineral interests, the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau
of Land Management has no authority for or role in managing development
activities associated with such interests. States have the authority
and responsibility for regulating development of the private mineral
estate.
Various Secretary's Rules and Regulations (years of 1911, 1937,
1938, 1939, 1947, 1950, and 1963) and Forest Service regulations at 36
CFR 251.15 provide direction for the use of NFS lands for mineral
development activities associated with the exercise of reserved mineral
rights. These existing rules for reserved minerals development
activities also include requirements for protection of NFS resources.
Currently, there are no formal regulations governing the use of NFS
lands for activities associated with the exercise of outstanding
mineral rights underlying those lands. The Energy
[[Page 37259]]
Policy Act of 1992, section 2508, directed the Secretary of Agriculture
to apply specified terms and conditions to surface-disturbing
activities related to development of oil and gas on certain lands with
outstanding mineral rights on the Allegheny National Forest, and
promulgate regulations implementing that section.
The Forest Service initiated rulemaking for the use of NFS lands
for development activities associated with both reserved and
outstanding minerals rights with an Advance Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking (ANPRM) in the Federal Register on December 29, 2008.
Comments from the public in response to the ANPRM conveyed a high level
of concern about the broad scope of the rule, along with a high level
of concern about effects of a broad rule on small businesses and local
economies.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM............................... 12/29/08 73 FR 79424
ANPRM Comment Period End............ 02/27/09 .......................
-----------------------------------
NPRM................................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: LaRenda C. King, Phone: 202 205-6560, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0596-AD03
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Forest Service (FS)
Completed Actions
26. Ski Area--D Clauses: Resource and Improvement Protection, Water
Facilities, and Water Rights (Directive)
Legal Authority: FSH 2709.11
Abstract: On November 8, 2011, the Forest Service issued an interim
directive (FSH 2709.11-2011-3) including a revised clause to address
the ownership of water rights developed on National Forest System (NFS)
lands for use by ski area permit holders. On March 6, 2012, a second
interim directive (FSH 2709.11-2012-1) for the revised ski area water
rights clause was issued, superseding the 2011 version. The National
Ski Areas Association filed a lawsuit in the United States District
Court for the District of Colorado on March 12, 2012, opposing use of
the revised clause. On December 19, 2012, the court ruled that the
Forest Service had erred in not providing an opportunity for notice and
comment on the interim directive and that the agency needed to conduct
a Regulatory Flexibility Act analysis of the impact of the directive on
small business entities that hold ski area permits. The court vacated
the interim directive and enjoined enforcement of the 2011 and 2012
clauses in permits containing them. The directive addresses the
development of water facilities on NFS lands; the ownership of
preexisting and future water rights; mechanisms to ensure sufficient
water remains for ski areas on NFS lands; and measures necessary to
protect NFS lands and resources. The Forest Service published the
proposed ski area water rights clause in the Federal Register for
public notice and comment. To identify interests and views from a
diverse group of stakeholders regarding a revised water rights clause
for ski areas, the Forest Service held four stakeholder meetings in
April 2013. The input from the stakeholder sessions was considered in
the development of the final water rights clause for ski areas.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Directive..................... 12/30/15 80 FR 81508
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: LaRenda C. King, Phone: 202 205-6560, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0596-AD14
BILLING CODE 3410-11-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM)
Proposed Rule Stage
27. Designation of Biobased Product Categories for Federal Procurement,
Round 11
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: This proposed rule will designate, for preferred
procurement under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement
Program, approximately 10 intermediate ingredient or feedstock product
categories. An intermediate ingredient or feedstock is defined by the
BioPreferred Program as a material or compound made in whole or in
significant part from biological products. Typical intermediate
ingredient or feedstock product categories will include renewable
chemicals; plastic resins; chemical binders; oils, fats, and waxes; and
fibers and fabrics.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 06/00/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Marie Wheat, Department of Agriculture, Office of
Procurement and Property Management, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202
239-4502, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0599-AA24
28. Designation of Biobased Product Categories for Federal Procurement,
Round 12
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: This proposed rule will designate, for preferred
procurement under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement
Program, approximately eight complex assembly product categories. A
complex assembly is defined by the BioPreferred program as a system of
distinct materials and components assembled to create a finished
product with specific functional intent where some or all of the system
inputs contain some amount of biobased material or feedstock. Typical
complex assembly product categories will include products such as
upholstered office chairs and other office furniture; mattresses;
backpacks; boots; and other camping gear. The specific product
categories to be included in this rulemaking are under investigation by
the Office of Procurement and Property Management, but technical
information is expected to be available to support the designation of
about eight product categories.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/00/16 .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Marie Wheat, Department of Agriculture, Office of
Procurement and Property Management, Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202
239-4502, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0599-AA25
[FR Doc. 2016-12899 Filed 6-8-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-98-P