[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 35 (Wednesday, February 22, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 11194-11200]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-02023]



[[Page 11193]]

Vol. 88

Wednesday,

No. 35

February 22, 2023

Part III





Department of Agriculture





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

  Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 35 / Wednesday, February 22, 2023 / 
UA: Reg Flex Agenda  

[[Page 11194]]


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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, Fall 2022

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 this edition of the USDA regulatory agenda, the most important 
regulatory actions are summarized in a Statement of Regulatory 
Priorities that is included in the Regulatory Plan, which appears in 
both the online regulatory agenda and in part II of the Federal 
Register that includes the abbreviated regulatory agenda.

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: September 30, 2022.
Michael Poe,
Legislative and Regulatory Staff.

              Agricultural Marketing Service--Prerule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
227.......................  Inert Ingredients in               0581-AE02
                             Pesticides for Organic
                             Production (AMS-NOP-21-
                             0008).
------------------------------------------------------------------------


           Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
228.......................  Inclusive Competition and          0581-AE05
                             Market Integrity Under
                             the Packers and
                             Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-
                             21-0045) (Reg Plan Seq
                             No. 2).
229.......................  Natural Grass Sod                  0581-AE07
                             Promotion, Research, and
                             Information Order (AMS-LP-
                             21-0028).
230.......................  Organic Market Development         0581-AE13
                             for Mushrooms and Pet
                             Food (AMS-NOP-22-0063).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this
  issue of the Federal Register.


            Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
231.......................  Strengthening Organic              0581-AD09
                             Enforcement (AMS-NOP-17-
                             0065).
232.......................  Dairy Donation Program             0581-AE00
                             (AMS-DA-21-0013).
233.......................  Preserving Trust Benefits          0581-AE01
                             Under the Packers and
                             Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-
                             21-0015).
234.......................  Transparency in Poultry            0581-AE03
                             Grower Contracting and
                             Tournaments (AMS-FTPP-21-
                             0044) (Reg Plan Seq No.
                             4).
235.......................  Organic Livestock and              0581-AE06
                             Poultry Standards (AMS-
                             NOP-21-0073) (Reg Plan
                             Seq No. 5).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in The Regulatory Plan in part II of this
  issue of the Federal Register.


            Agricultural Marketing Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
236.......................  Organic Aquaculture                0581-AD34
                             Standards.
237.......................  Organic Apiculture                 0581-AE12
                             Production Standards.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 11195]]


            Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
238.......................  Organic Mushroom Standards         0581-AE14
------------------------------------------------------------------------


     Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
239.......................  Animal Disease                     0579-AE64
                             Traceability; Electronic
                             Identification.
240.......................  Revision to Horse                  0579-AE70
                             Protection Act
                             Regulations.
241.......................  AQI User Fees.............         0579-AE71
242.......................  Importation of Bovine Meat         0579-AE73
                             From Paraguay.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


      Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
243.......................  Establishing AWA Standards         0579-AE61
                             for Birds.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


      Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
244.......................  National List of                   0579-AE39
                             Reportable Animal
                             Diseases.
245.......................  Microchipping, Verifiable          0579-AE58
                             Signatures, Government
                             Official Endorsement, and
                             Mandatory Forms for
                             Importation of Live Dogs;
                             Cage Standards for
                             Domestic Dogs.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


             Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
246.......................  Special Supplemental               0584-AE85
                             Nutrition Program for
                             Women, Infants and
                             Children (WIC): WIC
                             Online Ordering and
                             Transactions and Food
                             Delivery Revisions to
                             Meet the Needs of a
                             Modern, Data-Driven
                             Program.
------------------------------------------------------------------------


              Food and Nutrition Service--Long-Term Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
247.......................  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.
248.......................  Modernizing Supplemental           0584-AE37
                             Nutrition Assistance
                             Program (SNAP) Benefit
                             Redemption Systems.
249.......................  Providing Regulatory               0584-AE61
                             Flexibility for Retailers
                             in the Supplemental
                             Nutrition Assistance
                             Program (SNAP).
250.......................  Strengthening Integrity            0584-AE71
                             and Reducing Retailer
                             Fraud in the Supplemental
                             Nutrition Assistance
                             Program (SNAP).
------------------------------------------------------------------------


                    Forest Service--Completed Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           Regulation
       Sequence No.                    Title             Identifier No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
251.......................  Special Uses--                     0596-AD43
                             Communications Uses Rent.
------------------------------------------------------------------------



[[Page 11196]]

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Prerule Stage

227. Inert Ingredients in Pesticides for Organic Production (AMS-NOP-
21-0008) [0581-AE02]

    Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524
    Abstract: Based on comments received from the advance notice of 
proposed rulemaking, this proposed rule seeks public comment on 
recommendations to replace 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. 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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANPRM...............................   09/02/22  87 FR 54173
ANPR Comment Period Extended........   10/11/22  87 FR 61268
ANPRM Comment Period End............   11/01/22  .......................
ANPRM Comment Period Extended End...   12/31/22  .......................
NPRM................................   09/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0581-AE02

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Proposed Rule Stage

228. Inclusive Competition and Market Integrity Under the Packers and 
Stockyards Act (AMS-FTPP-21-0045) [0581-AE05]

    Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 2 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.
    RIN: 0581-AE05

229. Natural Grass Sod Promotion, Research, and Information Order (AMS-
LP-21-0028) [0581-AE07]

    Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7411 to 7425
    Abstract: This action invites comments on the establishment of an 
industry-funded promotion, research, and information program for 
natural grass sod products. The proposed Natural Grass Sod Promotion, 
Research, and Information Order was submitted to the U.S. Department of 
Agriculture by Turfgrass Producers International, a group of natural 
grass sod producers. The program would conduct research, marketing, and 
promotion activities that will benefit the entire industry. Primary 
goals of the program include educating consumers and stakeholders of 
the benefits of natural grass and providing producers with marketing 
tools they can use to grow their business. The goals identified in this 
proposed rule would only attainable through a national research and 
promotion program for natural grass sod.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   04/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Jeana Harbison, Deputy Director of Livestock and 
Poultry Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, Washington, DC 20024, Phone: 202 690-3192, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0581-AE07

230. Organic Market Development for Mushrooms and Pet Food (AMS-NOP-22-
0063) [0581-AE13]

    Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
    Abstract: This action seeks comments on the proposed amendments to 
USDA organic regulations that would (a) develop organic pet food 
standards and (b) establish standards for the organic production and 
certification of mushrooms. The title and scope of proposed action 
``Organic Pet Food Standards'' has been revised to include the 
establishment of standards for the production and certification of 
mushrooms, which was previously proposed under withdrawn RIN 0851-AE14.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0581-AE13

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Final Rule Stage

231. Strengthening Organic Enforcement (AMS-NOP-17-0065) [0581-AD09]

    Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501
    Abstract: The Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) final rule 
will amend the USDA organic regulations to strengthen oversight and 
enforcement of the production, handling, and sale of organic 
agricultural products.
    Topics addressed in this rule include: Applicability of the 
regulations and exemptions from organic certification; National Organic 
Program Import Certificates; recordkeeping and product traceability; 
certifying agent personnel qualifications and training; standardized 
certificates of organic operation; unannounced on-site inspections of 
certified operations; oversight of certification activities; foreign 
conformity assessment systems; certification of grower group 
operations; labeling of nonretail containers; annual update 
requirements for certified operations; compliance and appeals 
processes; and calculating organic content of multi-ingredient 
products.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed Rule.......................   08/05/20  85 FR 47536
Comment Period End..................   10/05/20  .......................
Final Rule..........................   12/00/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0581-AD09

[[Page 11197]]

232. Dairy Donation Program (AMS-DA-21-0013) [0581-AE00]

    Legal Authority: Pub. L. 116-260, sec. 762
    Abstract: This rulemaking will finalize the Dairy Donation Program, 
which was authorized in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. 
The Dairy Donation Program is a voluntary program that reimburses 
eligible dairy organizations for milk used to make eligible dairy 
products donated to non-profit groups for distribution to low-income 
persons.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interim Final Rule..................   09/01/21  86 FR 48887
Interim Final Rule Comment Period      11/01/21  .......................
 End.
Final Rule..........................   02/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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

233. Preserving Trust Benefits Under the Packers and Stockyards Act 
(AMS-FTPP-21-0015) [0581-AE01]

    Legal Authority: Pub. L. 116-260, sec. 763
    Abstract: This action will revise the Packers and Stockyards 
regulations to add provisions for written notifications related to the 
new livestock dealer trust. The revisions will outline the process for 
livestock sellers to notify livestock dealers and the Secretary of the 
seller's intent to preserve their interest in trust benefits should the 
dealer fail to pay for livestock purchased. The revisions will also 
require livestock sellers to acknowledge in writing that they forfeit 
rights to the dealer trust under the terms of credit sales to dealers. 
These provisions will mirror existing regulatory provisions related to 
livestock and poultry sales under the Packers and Stockyards Act.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/05/22  87 FR 26695
NPRM Comment Period End.............   06/06/22  .......................
Final Rule..........................   01/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Stuart Frank, Division Director, Packers and 
Stockyards Division, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, Federal Building; Room 917, 210 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 
50309, Phone: 515 323-2586, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0581-AE01

234. Transparency in Poultry Grower Contracting and Tournaments (AMS-
FTPP-21-0044) [0581-AE03]

    Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 4 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.
    RIN: 0581-AE03

235. Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards (AMS-NOP-21-0073) [0581-
AE06]

    Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 5 in part II of this issue 
of the Federal Register.
    RIN: 0581-AE06

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Long-Term Actions

236. Organic Aquaculture Standards [0581-AD34]

    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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................           To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0581-AD34

237. Organic Apiculture Production Standards [0581-AE12]

    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................................           To Be Determined
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0581-AE12

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

Completed Actions

238. Organic Mushroom Standards [0581-AE14]

    Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 6501 to 6524
    Abstract: This action, proposing to establish standards for the 
organic production and certification of mushrooms in the USDA organic 
regulations, is being withdrawn and combined with the action proposing 
to develop organic pet food standards (RIN 0581-AE13).
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   09/15/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Jennifer Tucker, Phone: 202 260-8077, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0581-AE14

BILLING CODE 3410-02-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Proposed Rule Stage

239. Animal Disease Traceability; Electronic Identification [0579-AE64]

    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 June 30, 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

[[Page 11198]]

readability (EID). Other proposed changes are intended to clarify 
language 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:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/22  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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

240. Revision to Horse Protection Act Regulations [0579-AE70]

    Legal Authority: 15 U.S.C. 1823
    Abstract: Current Horse Protection Act (HPA) regulations require 
Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs) to be licensed directly through 
Horse Industry Organizations (HIOs). DQPs conduct inspections of horses 
at HIO-affiliated shows, sales, auctions, and exhibitions to determine 
compliance with the HPA. We are proposing to amend the Horse Protection 
regulations by eliminating the role of HIOs and DQPs as inspectors at 
horse shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions, and assigning inspection 
authority solely to Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) 
Veterinary Medical Officers and other persons authorized by APHIS. 
Other changes are also being contemplated.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/22  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   02/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Lance Bassage, VMD, Director, National Policy 
Staff, Animal Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737, 
Phone: 301 851-3748, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0579-AE70

241. AQI User Fees [0579-AE71]

    Legal Authority: 21 U.S.C. 136a
    Abstract: We are proposing multiple revisions to our AQI user fee 
regulations in order to facilitate full cost recovery as required by 21 
U.S.C. 136a. We are proposing to update the fees using more current 
operational data, as well as update the fees to incorporate recurring 
costs such as capital improvements and staffing needs. Inflation would 
also be incorporated into our model. Other changes are also being 
contemplated.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   03/00/23  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   05/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: George Balady, PEIP Cost and Fee Analysis, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737, Phone: 301 851-2338.
    RIN: 0579-AE71

242. Importation of Bovine Meat From Paraguay [0579-AE73]

    Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 450; 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 proposing to amend the regulations governing the 
importation of certain animals, meat, and other animal products by 
allowing, under certain conditions, the importation of fresh (chilled 
or frozen) beef from Paraguay. Based on the evidence from a risk 
analysis, we have determined that fresh beef can safely be imported 
from Paraguay, provided certain conditions are met. This action would 
provide for the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay into the United 
States while continuing to protect the United States against the 
introduction of foot-and-mouth disease.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   01/00/23  .......................
NPRM Comment Period End.............   03/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Ingrid Kotowski, Regionalization Evaluation 
Services, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 920 Main Campus Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 
27606, Phone: 919 855-7732.
    RIN: 0579-AE73

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Final Rule Stage

243. Establishing AWA Standards for Birds [0579-AE61]

    Legal Authority: 7 U.S.C. 2131 to 2159
    Abstract: This rulemaking would extend APHIS enforcement of the 
Animal Welfare Act (AWA) to birds, other than birds bred for use in 
research. This would help ensure the humane care and treatment of such 
birds.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   02/22/22  87 FR 9880
NPRM Comment Period End.............   04/25/22  .......................
NPRM Comment Period Extended........   04/22/22  87 FR 24072
NPRM Comment Period Extended End....   05/25/22  .......................
Final Rule..........................   02/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Dr. Cody Yager, DVM, MPH, Avian Specialist, Animal 
Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737, Phone: 970 494-
7478, Email: [email protected].
    RIN: 0579-AE61

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)

Long-Term Actions

244. National List of Reportable Animal Diseases [0579-AE39]

    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

[[Page 11199]]

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  .......................
Next Action Undetermined............
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Jane Rooney, Phone: 970 494-7397
    RIN: 0579-AE39

245. Microchipping, Verifiable Signatures, Government Official 
Endorsement, and Mandatory Forms for Importation of Live Dogs; Cage 
Standards for Domestic Dogs [0579-AE58]

    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. Additionally, we are proposing to update cage 
standards for dogs held domestically by dealers or exhibitors who are 
licensed under the Animal Welfare Act or used in research at registered 
facilities. Other changes are also being contemplated.
    Timetable:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   12/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Lance Bassage, Phone: 301 851-3748, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0579-AE58

BILLING CODE 3410-34-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

Proposed Rule Stage

246. Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and 
Children (WIC): WIC Online Ordering and Transactions and Food Delivery 
Revisions To Meet the Needs of a Modern, Data-Driven Program [0584-
AE85]

    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................................   02/00/23  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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

247. National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: School Food 
Service Account Revenue Amendments Related to the Healthy, Hunger-Free 
Kids Act of 2010 [0584-AE11]

    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.
Final Rule..........................   05/00/24  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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

248. Modernizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) 
Benefit Redemption Systems [0584-AE37]

    Legal Authority: Pub. L. 113-79
    Abstract: The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) will propose changes 
that collectively modernize SNAP benefit issuance and increase program 
integrity while streamlining program administration, offering greater 
flexibility to State agencies, and improving customer service. The rule 
will propose to codify provisions of the 2014 Farm Bill, the 2018 Farm 
Bill, and respond to 2018 OIG audit findings. The rule will propose to 
codify 2014 Farm Bill provisions requiring most SNAP-authorized 
retailers to pay the costs associated with EBT equipment, supplies and 
related services and requirements pertaining to the online SNAP payment 
option. This rule would also propose to codify waivers that have been 
granted to State agencies to implement practices that have proven 
beneficial as the EBT system has developed and matured, address 
Disaster-SNAP requirements for on-going households, and update EBT 
system technical and functional requirements.
    Timetable:

[[Page 11200]]



------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NPRM................................   05/00/24  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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

249. Providing Regulatory Flexibility for Retailers in the Supplemental 
Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) [0584-AE61]

    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 
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  .......................
Final Action........................   04/00/25  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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

250. Strengthening Integrity and Reducing Retailer Fraud in the 
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) [0584-AE71]

    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................................   07/00/24  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    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-AE71

BILLING CODE 3410-30-P

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)

Forest Service (FS)

Completed Actions

251. Special Uses--Communications Uses Rent [0596-AD43]

    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. This 
proposed rule is being removed from the Forest Service's regulatory 
agenda because the Forest Service will revise the existing rental fee 
schedule for communications uses in Forest Service Handbook 2709.11, 
chapter 90, by publishing a proposed directive for public comment under 
36 CFR part 216, rather than by publishing a proposed rule. This 
approach is consistent with implementation of the rental fee schedule 
for communications uses in 1996. The Forest Service and the U.S. 
Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management have the same 
rental fee schedule for communications uses and will coordinate 
updating of the schedule through public notice and comment.
    Completed:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Reason                    Date            FR Cite
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Withdrawn...........................   11/16/22  .......................
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes.
    Agency Contact: Edwina Howard-Agu, Phone: 202 205-1419, Email: 
[email protected].
    RIN: 0596-AD43

[FR Doc. 2023-02023 Filed 2-21-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-11-P