[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 144 (Friday, July 30, 2021)]
[Unknown Section]
[Pages 41172-41179]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-15083]
[[Page 41171]]
Vol. 86
Friday,
No. 144
July 30, 2021
Part III
Department of Agriculture
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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda
Federal Register / Vol. 86 , No. 144 / Friday, July 30, 2021 / UA:
Reg Flex Agenda
[[Page 41172]]
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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 2021
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 Mr. Michael Poe, Office of Budget and Program Analysis,
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-3257.
Dated: March 31, 2021.
Michael Poe,
Legislative and Regulatory Staff.
Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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1......................... Poultry Grower Ranking 0581-AE03
Systems.
2......................... Clarification of Scope of 0581-AE04
the Packers and
Stockyards Act.
3......................... Unfair Practices in 0581-AE05
Violation of the Packers
and Stockyards Act.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4......................... Dairy Donation Program 0581-AE00
(AMS-DA-21-0013).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agricultural Marketing Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5......................... NOP; Strengthening Organic 0581-AD09
Enforcement (AMS-NOP-17-
0065).
6......................... National Organic Program-- 0581-AD34
Organic Aquaculture
Standards.
7......................... NOP; Inert Ingredients in 0581-AE02
Pesticides for Organic
Production (AMS-NOP-21-
0008).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
8......................... Undue and Unreasonable 0581-AD81
Preferences and
Advantages Under the
Packers and Stockyards
Act (AMS-FTTP-18-0101).
9......................... Establishment of a 0581-AD82
Domestic Hemp Production
Program (AMS-SC-19-0042).
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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10........................ Handling of Animals; 0579-AC69
Contingency Plans.
[[Page 41173]]
11........................ Animal Disease 0579-AE64
Traceability; Electronic
Identification.
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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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12........................ Bovine Spongiform 0579-AD10
Encephalopathy and
Scrapie; Importation of
Small Ruminants and Their
Germplasm, Products, and
Byproducts.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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13........................ Importation of Fresh 0579-AD95
Citrus Fruit From the
Republic of South Africa
Into the Continental
United States.
14........................ Horse Protection; 0579-AE19
Licensing of Designated
Qualified Persons and
Other Amendments.
15........................ National List of 0579-AE39
Reportable Animal
Diseases.
16........................ Requiring Microchipping, 0579-AE58
Verifiable Signatures,
Government Official
Endorsement, and
Mandatory Forms for
Importation of Live Dogs.
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Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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17........................ Animal Welfare: Marine 0579-AB24
Mammals; Nonconsensus
Language and Interactive
Programs.
18........................ Removal of Emerald Ash 0579-AE42
Borer Domestic Quarantine
Regulations.
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Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
19........................ Strengthening Integrity 0584-AE71
and Reducing Retailer
Fraud in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
20........................ Special Supplemental 0584-AE85
Nutrition Program for
Women, Infants and
Children (WIC): WIC
Online Ordering and
Transactions.
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Food and Nutrition Service--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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21........................ National School Lunch and 0584-AE11
School Breakfast
Programs: School Food
Service Account Revenue
Amendments Related to the
Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids
Act of 2010.
22........................ Modernizing Supplemental 0584-AE37
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP) Benefit
Redemption Systems.
23........................ Supplemental Nutrition 0584-AE39
Assistance Program
(SNAP): Electronic
Benefits Transfer
Requirements for Scanning
and Product-Lookup
Technology.
24........................ National School Lunch and 0584-AE55
School Breakfast
Programs: Nutrition
Standards for All Foods
Sold in School, as
Required by the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act of
2010.
25........................ Providing Regulatory 0584-AE61
Flexibility for Retailers
in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance
Program (SNAP).
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Forest Service--Long-Term Actions
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Regulation
Sequence No. Title Identifier No.
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26........................ Special Uses-- 0596-AD43
Communications Uses Rent.
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[[Page 41174]]
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Proposed Rule Stage
1. Poultry Grower Ranking Systems
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 181 to 229c
Abstract: The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural
Marketing Service proposes to amend the regulations issued under the
Packers and Stockyards Act (P&S Act) to address the use of poultry
grower ranking systems as a method of payment and settlement grouping
for poultry growers under contract in poultry growing arrangements with
live poultry dealers. The proposed regulation would establish certain
requirements with which a live poultry dealer must comply if a poultry
grower ranking system is utilized to determine grower payment. A live
poultry dealer's failure to comply would be deemed an unfair, unjustly
discriminatory, and deceptive practice.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 11/00/21
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael V. Durando, Deputy Administrator, Fair
Trade Practices Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-
0237, Phone: 202 720-0219.
RIN: 0581-AE03
2. Clarification of Scope of the Packers and Stockyards Act
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 181 to 229c
Abstract: USDA proposes to revise the regulations issued under the
Packers and Stockyards Act (Act) (7 U.S.C. 181 229c) to provide clarity
regarding conduct that may violate the Act. This action is intended to
support market growth, assure fair trade practices and competition, and
protect livestock and poultry growers and producers. The proposed rule
addresses long-standing issues related to competitiveness and whether
all allegations of violations of the Act must be accompanied by a
showing of harm or likely harm to competition.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 11/00/21
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael V. Durando, Deputy Administrator, Fair
Trade Practices Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-
0237, Phone: 202 720-0219.
RIN: 0581-AE04
3. Unfair Practices in Violation of the Packers and Stockyards
Act
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 181 to 229c
Abstract: USDA proposes to supplement a recent revision to
regulations issued under the Packers and Stockyards Act (Act) (7 U.S.C.
181 229c) that provided criteria for the Secretary to consider when
determining whether certain conduct or action by packers, swine
contractors, or live poultry dealers is unduly or unreasonably
preferential or advantageous. The proposed supplemental amendments
would clarify the conduct the Department considers unfair, unjustly
discriminatory, or deceptive and a violation of sections 202(a) and (b)
of the Act. USDA would also clarify the criteria and types of conduct
that would be considered unduly or unreasonably preferential,
advantageous, prejudicial, or disadvantageous and violations of the
Act.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 11/00/21 .......................
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael V. Durando, Deputy Administrator, Fair
Trade Practices Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-
0237, Phone: 202 720-0219.
RIN: 0581-AE05
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Final Rule Stage
4. Dairy Donation Program (AMS-DA-21-0013)
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 116-260, sec. 762
Abstract: The Dairy Donation Program rulemaking will comply with
Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 mandates. Dairy Donation
Program will implement a voluntary program that will reimburse eligible
dairy organizations for milk used to make eligible dairy products
donated to non-profit groups for distribution to low-income persons.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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Interim Final Rule.................. 06/00/21
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Erin Taylor, Acting Director, Order Formulation and
Enforcement Division, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing
Service, Dairy Program, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 2969-S,
Washington, DC 20250, Phone: 202 720-7311, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0581-AE00
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Long-Term Actions
5. NOP; Strengthening Organic Enforcement (AMS-NOP-17-0065)
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
Abstract: The Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) rulemaking
will address 2018 Farm Bill mandates. In summary, SOE will follow
requirements that align with the Farm Bill:
Limiting the types of operations in the organic supply
chain that are not required to obtain organic certification;
Imported organic products must be accompanied by an
electronic import certificate to validate organic status;
Import certificates will be submitted to the U.S. Customs
and Border Protection's Automated Commercial Environment (ACE);
Certifying agents must notify USDA within 90 days of the
opening of any new office that conducts certification activities; and,
Entities acting on behalf of certifying agents may be
suspended when there is noncompliant activity.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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Proposed Rule....................... 08/05/20 85 FR 47536
Comment Period End.................. 10/05/20 .......................
-----------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077.
RIN: 0581-AD09
[[Page 41175]]
6. 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).
Timetable: Next Action Undetermined.
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077.
RIN: 0581-AD34
7. NOP; Inert Ingredients in Pesticides for Organic Production
(AMS-NOP-21-0008)
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524
Abstract: This Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR)
requests comments on options for replacing outdated references in
USDA's organic regulations to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) policy on inert ingredients in pesticides. Inerts, also known as
other ingredients, are any substances other than the active ingredient
that are intentionally added to pesticide products. The references to
outdated EPA policy appear in the USDA organic regulations in the
National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances (National List) and
identify the inert ingredients allowed in pesticides for organic
production.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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ANPRM............................... To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Deputy Administrator, USDA
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250,
Phone: 202 260-8077.
RIN: 0581-AE02
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)
Completed Actions
8. Undue and Unreasonable Preferences and Advantages Under the Packers
and Stockyards Act (AMS-FTTP-18-0101)
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 110-234
Abstract: This final rule amended the regulations issued under the
Packers and Stockyards Act (P&S Act) by adding new regulations that
specify the criteria the Secretary could consider in determining
whether conduct or action by packers, swine contractors, or live
poultry dealers constitutes an undue or unreasonable preference or
advantage and a violation of the P&S Act.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 12/11/20 85 FR 79779
Effective........................... 01/11/21
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Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael V. Durando, Phone: 202 720-0219.
RIN: 0581-AD81
9. Establishment of a Domestic Hemp Production Program (AMS-SC-19-0042)
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 1621
Abstract: This action added new part 990 establishing rules and
regulations for the domestic production of hemp. This action
implemented provisions of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (Farm
Bill).
Completed:
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Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reopening of Comment Period End..... 10/08/20
Final Rule.......................... 01/19/21 86 FR 5596
Final Rule Effective................ 03/22/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Sonia Jimenez, Phone: 202 720-4722, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0581-AD82
BILLING CODE 3410-02-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Proposed Rule Stage
10. Handling of Animals; Contingency Plans
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159
Abstract: The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service issued a
final rule on December 31, 2012, to establish regulations under which
research facilities and dealers, exhibitors, intermediate handlers, and
carriers must meet certain requirements for contingency planning and
training of personnel. Implementation of the final rule was stayed on
July 31, 2013, so that the agency could conduct additional review to
further consider the impact of contingency plan requirements on
regulated entities. Since that time, we have conducted such a review,
and the 2021 Congressional Appropriations Act has required us to
propose to lift the stay. We are therefore proposing to lift the stay
and make minor revisions to the requirements in order to update
compliance dates and clarify intent. The lifting of the stay and
proposed revisions would better ensure that entities responsible for
animals regulated under the Animal Welfare Act are prepared to
safeguard the health and welfare of such animals in the event of
possible emergencies or disasters.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
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NPRM................................ 10/23/08 73 FR 63085
NPRM Comment Period End............. 12/22/08
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 12/19/08 73 FR 77554
NPRM Comment Period Extended End.... 02/20/09
Final Rule.......................... 12/31/12 77 FR 76815
Final Rule Effective................ 01/30/13
Final Rule--Stay of Regulations..... 07/31/13 78 FR 46255
Final Rule Effective--Stay of 07/31/13
Regulations.
NPRM................................ 06/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Elizabeth Theodorson, Assistant Deputy
Administrator, Animal Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 86, Riverdale, MD
20737, Phone: 970 494-7473.
RIN: 0579-AC69
11. Animal Disease Traceability; Electronic Identification
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301, et seq.
Abstract: This action would amend APHIS' animal disease
traceability regulations, currently codified at 9 CFR part 86. The
primary proposed change would require that beginning January 1, 2023,
APHIS would only recognize identification devices (e.g., eartags) as
official identification for cattle and bison covered by the regulations
if the devices have both visual and electronic readability (EID). Other
proposed changes are intended to clarify language
[[Page 41176]]
and requirements in several sections of part--86. These changes would
enhance the U.S. traceability system to better achieve goals of rapidly
tracing diseased and exposed animals and containing outbreaks.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 01/00/22
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Dr. Aaron Scott Ph.D., DACVPM, Director, Department
of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, National
Animal Disease Traceability and Veterinary Accreditation Center, APHIS
Veterinary Services Strategy and Policy, 2150 Centre Avenue, Building B
(Mail Stop 3E87), Fort Collins, CO 80526, Phone: 970 494-7249, Email:
[email protected]).
RIN: 0579-AE64
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Final Rule Stage
12. 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: We are amending the regulations governing the importation
of animals and animal products to revise conditions for the importation
of live sheep, goats, and certain other non-bovine ruminants, and
products derived from sheep and goats, with regard to transmissible
spongiform encephalopathies such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy
(BSE) and scrapie. We are removing BSE-related import restrictions on
sheep and goats and most of their products and adding import
restrictions related to transmissible spongiform encephalopathies for
certain wild, zoological, or other non-bovine ruminant species. The
conditions we are adopting for the importation of specified commodities
are based on internationally accepted scientific literature and will,
in general, align our regulations with guidelines established in the
World Organization for Animal Health's Terrestrial Animal Health Code.
Timetable:
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Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/18/16 81 FR 46619
NPRM Comment Period End............. 09/16/16
Final Rule.......................... 08/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Alexandra MacKenzie, Veterinary Medical Officer,
Animal Permitting and Negotiating Services, NIES, VS, Department of
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River
Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, MD 20737, Phone: 301 851-3300.
RIN: 0579-AD10
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Long-Term Actions
13. Importation of Fresh Citrus Fruit From the Republic of South Africa
Into 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 will amend the fruits and vegetables
regulations to allow the importation of several varieties of fresh
citrus fruit, as well as citrus hybrids, into the continental United
States from areas in the Republic of South Africa where citrus black
spot has been known to occur. As a condition of entry, the fruit will
have to be produced in accordance with a systems approach that includes
shipment traceability, packinghouse registration and procedures, and
phytosanitary treatment. The fruit will also be required to be imported
in commercial consignments and accompanied by a phytosanitary
certificate issued by the national plant protection organization of the
Republic of South Africa with an additional declaration confirming that
the fruit has been produced in accordance with the systems approach.
This action will allow for the importation of fresh citrus fruit,
including citrus hybrids, from the Republic of South Africa while
continuing to provide protection against the introduction of plant
pests into the United States.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 08/28/14 79 FR 51273
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/27/14
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Tony Rom[aacute]n, Phone: 301 851-2242.
RIN: 0579-AD95
14. Horse Protection; Licensing of Designated Qualified Persons and
Other Amendments
Legal Authority: 15 U.S.C. 1823 to 1825; 15 U.S.C. 1828
Abstract: We proposed amending the horse protection regulations to
provide that the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
would train and license horse protection inspectors (HPIs) to inspect
horses at horse shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions for compliance
with the Horse Protection Act. Those changes to the regulations would
strengthen enforcement of the Horse Protection Act and regulations and
relieve horse industry organizations or associations of their
regulatory burdens and responsibilities. We also proposed establishing
a process by which APHIS can deny an application for a HPI license or
revoke the license of a HPI who does not meet the minimum requirements,
who fails to follow the designated inspection procedures, or who
otherwise fails to carry out his or her duties and responsibilities in
a satisfactory manner. In addition, we proposed making several changes
to the requirements that pertain to the management of any horse show,
exhibition, sale, and auction, as well as changes to the list of
devices, equipment, substances, and practices that are prohibited to
prevent the soring of horses. Finally, we proposed revising the
inspection procedures that inspectors are required to perform. These
actions would help to protect horses from the cruel and inhumane
practice of soring and eliminate unfair competitive advantage that sore
horses have over horses that are not sore.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 07/26/16 81 FR 49111
NPRM Comment Period Extended........ 09/22/16 81 FR 65307
NPRM Comment Period End............. 10/26/16
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 41177]]
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Aaron Rhyner, Phone: 970 494-7484.
RIN: 0579-AE19
15. National List of Reportable Animal Diseases
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 8301 to 8317
Abstract: This rulemaking amends our disease regulations to provide
for a National List of Reportable Animal Diseases, along with reporting
responsibilities for animal health professionals that encounter or
suspect cases of communicable animal diseases and disease agents. The
changes are necessary to streamline State and Federal cooperative
animal disease detection, response, and control efforts. This action
will consolidate and enhance current disease reporting mechanisms, and
it will complement and supplement existing animal disease tracking and
reporting at the State level.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 04/02/20 85 FR 18471
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/01/20
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 08/18/20 85 FR 50796
NPRM Comment Period Reopened End.... 08/21/20
-----------------------------------
Final Action........................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Jane Rooney, Phone: 970 494-7397.
RIN: 0579-AE39
16. Requiring Microchipping, Verifiable Signatures, Government Official
Endorsement, and Mandatory Forms for Importation of Live Dogs
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159
Abstract: We are proposing to amend the regulations regarding the
importation of live dogs by requiring all live dogs imported into the
United States for resale purposes to be microchipped for permanent
identification, and to require importers to procure a microchip reader
and make it available to port-of-entry officials as requested. This
action would also add microchipping as one of three identification
options for dogs and cats used by dealers, exhibitors and research
facilities. In addition, APHIS is proposing to require a verifiable
signature on the health certificate and rabies certificate accompanying
imported live dogs, an endorsement of the health certificate by a
government official in the country of origin, and the mandatory use of
forms provided by APHIS.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Elizabeth Theodorson, Phone: 970 494-7473.
RIN: 0579-AE58
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Completed Actions
17. Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and
Interactive Programs
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159
Abstract: This rulemaking would have amended the Animal Welfare Act
regulations concerning the humane handling, care, treatment, and
transportation of marine mammals in captivity. These proposed changes
would have affected sections in the regulations relating to variances
and implementation dates, indoor facilities, outdoor facilities, and
water quality. It would also have revised the regulations that relate
to swim-with-the-dolphin programs. We believed these actions were
necessary to ensure that the minimum standards for the humane handling,
care, treatment, and transportation of marine mammals in captivity were
based on current industry standards and scientific knowledge and
experience. The action is being withdrawn due to the age of the
analyses on which it relies.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn........................... 04/19/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Barbara Kohn, Phone: 301 851-3751.
RIN: 0579-AB24
18. Removal of Emerald Ash Borer Domestic Quarantine Regulations
Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7701 to 7772; 7 U.S.C. 7781 to 7786
Abstract: This rulemaking removes the domestic quarantine
regulations for the plant pest emerald ash borer. This action will
discontinue the domestic regulatory component of the emerald ash borer
program as a means to more effectively direct available resources
toward management and containment of the pest. Funding previously
allocated to the implementation and enforcement of these domestic
quarantine regulations will instead be directed to non-regulatory
options to mitigate and control the pest.
Completed:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reason Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Final Rule.......................... 12/15/20 85 FR 81085
Final Rule Effective................ 01/14/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Herbert Bolton, Phone: 301 851-3594.
RIN: 0579-AE42
BILLING CODE 3410-34-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Proposed Rule Stage
19. Strengthening Integrity and Reducing Retailer Fraud in the
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79; Pub. L. 115-334
Abstract: This proposed rule would implement statutory provisions
of the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008 (the 2008 Farm Bill),
the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (the 2018 Farm Bill), and other
language intended to deter retailer fraud, abuse, and non-compliance in
the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 03/00/22
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Regulatory Review Specialist,
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 1320 Braddock
Place, Alexandria, VA 22314, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Maureen Lydon, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition
Service, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314, Phone: 703 457-
7713, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE71
[[Page 41178]]
20. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants
and Children (WIC): WIC Online Ordering and Transactions
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This rule addresses key regulatory barriers to online
ordering in the WIC Program by making changes to the provisions that
prevent online transactions and types of online capable stores from
participating in the Program. This rule will also allow FNS to
modernize WIC vendor regulations that do not reflect current technology
and facilitate the Program's transition to EBT.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 11/00/21
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Department of Agriculture, Food and
Nutrition Service, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314, Phone:
703 305-2876, Email: [email protected].
Maureen Lydon, Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition
Service, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314, Phone: 703 457-
7713, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE85
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)
Long-Term Actions
21. National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: School Food
Service Account Revenue Amendments Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free
Kids Act of 2010
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 111-296
Abstract: This rule amends National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
regulations to conform to requirements contained in the Healthy,
Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 regarding equity in school lunch pricing
and revenue from non-program foods sold in schools. This rule requires
school food authorities (SFAs) participating in the NSLP to provide the
same level of financial support for lunches served to students who are
not eligible for free or reduced price lunches as is provided for
lunches served to students eligible for free lunches. This rule also
requires that all food sold in a school and purchased with funds from
the nonprofit school food service account other than meals and
supplements reimbursed by the Department of Agriculture must generate
revenue at least proportionate to the cost of such foods.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule.................. 06/17/11 76 FR 35301
Interim Final Rule Effective........ 07/01/11
Interim Final Rule Comment Period 09/15/11
End.
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
[email protected].
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE11
22. 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) proposes to revise
certain SNAP regulations for which multiple State agencies have sought
and received approval of waivers. The revisions would streamline
program administration, offer greater flexibility to State agencies,
and improve customer service.
Timetable: Next Action Undetermined.
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE37
23. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Electronic
Benefits Transfer Requirements for Scanning and Product-Lookup
Technology
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
Abstract: This rule will align program regulations with changes
made by section 4002 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 (Pub. L. 113-79,
the Farm Bill), which introduced new technical requirements for point-
of-sale (POS) devices in the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system
in section 7(h)(2)(C) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 (the FNA).
The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) will propose to revise existing
regulations both to codify these statutory requirements as well as to
provide for their effective implementation and enforcement through the
clarification of the technical specifications and capabilities required
of this equipment and by addressing methods for ensuring compliance. In
addition, USDA will define what constitutes an area that has
significantly limited access to food to determine who is exempt from
this requirement.
Timetable: Next Action Undetermined.
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE39
24. 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 a provision 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.
Timetable: Next Action Undetermined.
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Michael DePiro, Phone: 703 305-2876, Email:
[email protected].
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE55
25. Providing Regulatory Flexibility for Retailers in the Supplemental
Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79; 7 U.S.C. 2011 to 2036
Abstract: The Agricultural Act of 2014 amended the Food and
Nutrition Act of 2008 to increase the requirement that certain
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) authorized retail food
stores have available on a continuous basis at least three varieties of
items in each of four staple food categories, to a mandatory minimum of
[[Page 41179]]
seven varieties. The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) codified these
mandatory requirements. Subsequent annual Agency appropriations bill
language prohibited implementation of certain final rule provisions. In
response, this change will provide some retailers participating in SNAP
as authorized food stores with more flexibility in meeting the enhanced
SNAP eligibility requirements.
Timetable:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Date FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................ 04/05/19 84 FR 13555
NPRM Comment Period End............. 06/04/19
NPRM Comment Period Reopened........ 06/14/19 84 FR 27743
NPRM Comment Period Reopen End...... 06/20/19
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Charles H. Watford, Phone: 703 605-0800, Email:
[email protected].
Maureen Lydon, Phone: 703 457-7713, Email: [email protected].
RIN: 0584-AE61
BILLING CODE 3410-30-P
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)
Forest Service (FS)
Long-Term Actions
26. Special Uses--Communications Uses Rent
Legal Authority: 43 U.S.C. 1761 to 1771
Abstract: Consistent with the requirement in title V, section 504
(g) of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act, the proposed rule
would update the Forest Service's rental fee schedule for
communications uses based on market value. Updated rental fees that
exceed 100 percent of current rental fees would be phased in over a 3-
year period. USDA is coordinating development of the information base
to support this rulemaking with the Department of the Interior.
Timetable: Next Action Undetermined.
Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
Agency Contact: Edwina Howard-Agu, Phone: 202 205-1419, Email:
[email protected].
RIN: 0596-AD43
[FR Doc. 2021-15083 Filed 7-29-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-11-P