[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  

[[Page 37250]]


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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.

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

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
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


            Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.........................  National Organic Program,          0581-AD08
                             Origin of Livestock, NOP-
                             11-0009.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


     Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


      Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 37251]]


      Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


 Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Proposed Rule
                                  Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17........................  Undue Preference and               0580-AB27
                             Advantage.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


   Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Final Rule
                                  Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
18........................  Scope and Unfair Practices         0580-AB25
------------------------------------------------------------------------


             Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
19........................  Modernizing Supplemental           0584-AE37
                             Nutrition Assistance
                             Program (SNAP) Benefit
                             Redemption Systems.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


              Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


              Food and Nutrition Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
22........................  Child and Adult Care Food          0584-AE18
                             Program: Meal Pattern
                             Revisions Related to the
                             Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids
                             Act of 2010.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


         Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
23........................  Elimination of Trichina            0583-AD59
                             Control Regulations and
                             Consolidation of
                             Thermally Processed,
                             Commercially Sterile
                             Regulations.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


          Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
24........................  Mandatory Inspection of            0583-AD36
                             Fish of the Order
                             Siluriformes and Products
                             Derived From Such Fish.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 37252]]


                    Forest Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
25........................  Management of Surface              0596-AD03
                             Activities Associated
                             With Outstanding Mineral
                             Rights on National Forest
                             System Lands (Directive).
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                    Forest Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
26........................  Ski Area--D Clauses:               0596-AD14
                             Resource and Improvement
                             Protection, Water
                             Facilities, and Water
                             Rights (Directive).
------------------------------------------------------------------------


   Office of Procurement and Property Management--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/00/16  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   09/00/16  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   08/00/16  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/13/16  81 FR 21955
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/13/16  .......................
Final Action........................   10/00/16  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/28/15  80 FR 23455
NPRM Comment Period End.............   07/27/15  .......................
Final Action........................   05/00/16  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/16  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   07/00/16  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Affirmation of Interim Final Rule...   01/25/16  81 FR 3939
Affirmation of Interim Final Rule      01/25/16
 Effective.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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