[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 225 (Friday, November 24, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 82230-82237]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-25238]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Agricultural Marketing Service

7 CFR Chapter IX

[Doc. No. AMS-SC-22-0051]


Nomenclature Changes; Technical Amendments

AGENCY: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture 
(USDA).

ACTION: Final rule; technical amendments.

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

SUMMARY: This rule revises the general regulations for Federal 
marketing orders covering fruits, vegetables, and specialty crops by 
updating the section regarding information collections. Further, this 
rule updates nomenclature in the general regulations, numerous Federal 
marketing orders, the import regulations, the domestic hemp program 
regulations, and the peanut handling regulations administered by the 
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). Finally, this rule corrects 
typographical errors found in the AMS marketing order and import 
regulations and removes regulations no longer in effect. These changes 
are necessary to provide more accurate information in the regulations 
moving forward.

DATES: Effective November 24, 2023.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matthew Pavone, Branch Chief, 
Rulemaking Services Branch, or Andrew Hatch, Deputy Director of 
Operations, Market Development Division, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, USDA; phone: (202) 720-2491 or email: [email protected] 
or [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This action, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553, makes 
updates and corrections to regulations issued to carry out marketing 
orders as defined in 7 CFR 900.2(j). This rule revises the General 
Regulations (7 CFR part 900) and the marketing orders in numerous other 
parts of chapter IX that regulate the handling of fruits, vegetables, 
nuts, and specialty crops (parts 905, 906, 915, 917, 920, 929, 930, 
932, 945, 948, 955, 958, 959, 966, 981, 982, 983, 985, 987, 989, and 
993) and imported products (parts 944, 980, and 999). These parts are 
effective under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937, as 
amended (7 U.S.C. 601-674), hereinafter referred to as the ``Act.'' In 
addition, this rule corrects typographical errors in the domestic hemp 
program regulations (part 990), which are effective under the 
Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, as amended. Finally, this rule 
makes corrections to the peanut handling regulations (part 996), which 
are effective under Public Law 107-171, the Farm Security and Rural 
Investment Act of 2002, as amended (7 U.S.C. 7958).
    This action falls within a category of regulatory actions that the 
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) exempted from Executive Order 
12866 review. Additionally, AMS is issuing this final rule in 
conformance with Executive Orders 12988, 13175, and 13563.
    Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), 
provides that, when an agency for good cause finds that notice and 
public procedure are impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the 
public interest, the agency may issue a rule without providing notice 
and an opportunity for public comment. AMS has determined that there is 
good cause for making this technical amendment final without prior 
proposal and opportunity for comment because the revisions are not 
substantive and will have no impact on the regulatory requirements in 
the affected parts. In addition, AMS has determined that public comment 
on such administrative changes is unnecessary and that there is good 
cause under the APA for proceeding with a final rule.
    Further, because a notice of proposed rulemaking and opportunity 
for public comment is not required to be given for this rule under the 
APA or any other law, the analytical requirements of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) are not applicable. Accordingly, 
this rule is issued in final form.

Overview of Changes

    This final rule makes technical amendments to regulations in 7 CFR 
parts 900, 905, 906, 915, 917, 920, 929, 930, 932, 944, 945, 948, 955, 
958, 959, 966, 980, 981, 982, 983, 985, 987, 989, 990, 993, 996, and 
999. USDA has determined that this action is only administrative in 
nature. This action updates the information collection provisions in 
Sec.  900.601 to remove obsolete references and to align current Office 
of Management and Budget (OMB) control numbers and descriptions with 
the appropriate programs. This rule also revises outdated nomenclature 
in the general regulations pertaining to marketing agreements and 
marketing orders in 7 CFR part 900; in Federal marketing orders in 7 
CFR parts 905, 915, 932, 945, 958, 966, 987, and 989; in the import 
regulations contained in 7 CFR parts 944, 980, and 999; and in the 
peanut handling regulations in 7 CFR part 996 to reflect current 
nomenclature. For example, the name of the Marketing Order and 
Agreement Division has been changed to Market Development Division, so 
references to the former name have been changed to reflect the current 
name. Additionally, this rule removes obsolete language and some 
regulatory sections (Sec. Sec.  982.254 through 982.255; and Sec. Sec.  
985.234 through 985.236) that are no longer in effect. Lastly, this 
action corrects typographical errors throughout 7 CFR chapter IX. The 
final rule does not add to or amend any existing program requirements.

List of Subjects

7 CFR Part 900

    Administrative practice and procedure, Freedom of information,

[[Page 82231]]

Marketing agreements, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

7 CFR Part 905

    Grapefruit, Marketing agreements, Oranges, Pummelos, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Tangelos, Tangerines.

7 CFR Part 906

    Grapefruit, Marketing agreements, Oranges, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

7 CFR Part 915

    Avocados, Marketing agreements, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 917

    Marketing agreements, Peaches, Pears, Plums, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

7 CFR Part 920

    Kiwifruit, Marketing agreements, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 929

    Acreage allotments, Cranberries, Marketing agreements, Reporting 
and recordkeeping requirements.

7 CFR Part 930

    Cherries, Marketing agreements, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 932

    Marketing agreements, Olives, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 944

    Avocados, Food grades and standards, Grapefruit, Grapes, Imports, 
Kiwifruit, Limes, Olives, Oranges, Plums, Prunes.

7 CFR Parts 945 and 948

    Marketing agreements, Potatoes, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 955

    Marketing agreements, Onions, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 958

    Onions, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

7 CFR Part 959

    Marketing agreements, Onions, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 966

    Marketing agreements, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
Tomatoes.

7 CFR Part 980

    Food grades and standards, Imports, Marketing agreements, Onions, 
Potatoes, Tomatoes.

7 CFR Parts 981, 982, and 983

    Marketing agreements, Nuts, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 985

    Marketing agreements, Oils and fats, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 987

    Dates, Marketing agreements, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 989

    Grapes, Marketing agreements, Raisins, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 990

    Administrative practice and procedure, Agricultural commodities, 
Drugs, Indians, Intergovernmental relations, Laboratories, License and 
registration, Marijuana, Penalties, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 993

    Marketing agreements, Plums, Prunes, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 996

    Food grades and standards, Marketing agreements, Peanuts, Reporting 
and recordkeeping requirements.

7 CFR Part 999

    Dates, Food grades and standards, Imports, Nuts, Prunes, Raisins, 
Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, AMS amends 7 CFR chapter 
IX as follows:

PART 900--GENERAL REGULATIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 900 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674; 7 U.S.C. 7401; 5 U.S.C. 301, 552; 
and 44 U.S.C. Ch. 35.


Sec.  900.4  [Amended]

0
2. In Sec.  900.4, in paragraph (b)(1)(iii), remove the word ``ntoice'' 
and add in its place the word ``notice''.


Sec.  900.14  [Amended]

0
3. In Sec.  900.14, in paragraph (e), remove the word ``therof'' and 
add in its place the word ``thereof''.


Sec.  900.64  [Amended]

0
4. In Sec.  900.64, in paragraph (c), remove the text 
``conclusions,and'' and add in its place the text ``conclusions, and''.


Sec.  900.101  [Amended]

0
5. In Sec.  900.101, in paragraph (k), remove the word ``Departent'' 
and add in its place the word ``Department''.


Sec.  900.211  [Amended]

0
6. In Sec.  900.211, remove the word ``wilfully'' and add in its place 
the word ``willfully''.


Sec.  900.305  [Amended]

0
7. In Sec.  900.305, in paragraph (b)(2), remove the word ``requries'' 
and add in its place the word ``requires''.


Sec.  900.353  [Amended]

0
8. In Sec.  900.353, remove the word ``coopertive'' and add in its 
place the word ``cooperative''.


Sec.  900.503  [Amended]

0
9. In Sec.  900.503, in paragraph (c)(3), remove the word 
``discretinary'' and add in its place the word ``discretionary''.

0
10. In Sec.  900.601, revise paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  900.601  OMB control numbers assigned pursuant to the Paperwork 
Reduction Act.

* * * * *
    (b) Display.

                        Table 1 to Paragraph (b)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Current OMB
         7 CFR part, where identified and described          control No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
905, Florida Citrus........................................    0581-0189
906, Texas Citrus..........................................    0581-0189
915, Florida Avocados......................................    0581-0189
920, California Kiwifruit..................................    0581-0189
922, Washington Apricots...................................    0581-0189
923, Washington Sweet Cherries.............................    0581-0189
925, California Desert Grapes..............................    0581-0189
927, Oregon & Washington Pears.............................    0581-0189
929, Cranberries...........................................    0581-0189
930, Tart Cherries.........................................    0581-0177
932, California Olives.....................................    0581-0178
945, Idaho-Eastern Oregon Potatoes.........................    0581-0178
948, Colorado Potatoes.....................................    0581-0178
955, Vidalia Onions........................................    0581-0178
956, Walla Walla Onions....................................    0581-0178
958, Idaho-Eastern Oregon Onions...........................    0581-0178
959, South Texas Onions....................................    0581-0178
966, Florida Tomatoes......................................    0581-0178
981, California Almonds....................................    0581-0178
981, California Almond Salmonella..........................    0581-0242
982, Oregon & Washington Hazelnuts.........................    0581-0178
983, Pistachios............................................    0581-0215

[[Page 82232]]

 
984, California Walnuts....................................    0581-0178
985, Far West Spearmint Oil................................    0581-0178
986, Pecans................................................    0581-0291
987, California Dates......................................    0581-0178
989, California Raisins....................................    0581-0178
990, Domestic Hemp.........................................    0581-0318
993, California Dried Prunes...............................    0581-0178
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sec.  900.700  [Amended]

0
11. In Sec.  900.700, in paragraph (c)(1) introductory text, remove the 
text ``FV-649'' and add in its place the text ``SC-649''.

PART 905--ORANGES, GRAPEFRIT, TANGERINES, AND PUMMELOS GROWN IN 
FLORIDA

0
12. The authority citation for part 905 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  905.41  [Amended]

0
13. In Sec.  905.41, in paragraph (c), remove the words ``short term'' 
and add in their place the word ``short-term''.


Sec.  905.82  [Amended]

0
14. In Sec.  905.82, remove the text ``e.s.t.'' and add in its place 
the text ``Eastern Standard Time''.

0
15. In Sec.  905.153, in paragraph (f), revise the second sentence to 
read as follows:


Sec.  905.153  Procedure for determining handlers' permitted quantities 
of red seedless grapefruit when a portion of sizes 48 and 56 of such 
variety is restricted.

* * * * *
    (f) * * * Each new handler shall provide on a form furnished by the 
Committee the Florida citrus fruit dealer's license number, their 
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of 
Fruit and Vegetables, packinghouse registration number, and the 
physical location of the packinghouse where the red seedless grapefruit 
is to be prepared for market. * * *


Sec.  905.161  [Amended]

0
16. In Sec.  905.161, in paragraph (c) introductory text, remove the 
words ``not withstanding'' and add in their place the word 
``notwithstanding''.

PART 906--ORANGES AND GRAPEFRUIT GROWN IN LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY 
IN TEXAS

0
17. The authority citation for part 906 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  906.34  [Amended]

0
18. In Sec.  906.34, in paragraph (d), remove the word ``functining'' 
and add in its place the word ``functioning''.


Sec.  906.40  [Amended]

0
19. In Sec.  906.40, in the introductory text, remove the word 
``rgulation'' and adding in its place the word ``regulation''.

PART 915--AVOCADOS GROWN IN SOUTH FLORIDA

0
20. The authority citation for part 915 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601--674.


Sec.  915.120  [Amended]

0
21. In Sec.  915.120, in paragraphs (b) and (e), remove the word 
``avacados'' wherever it occurs and add in its place the word 
``avocados''.


Sec.  915.305  [Amended]

0
22. In Sec.  915.305, in paragraph (c), remove the text ``20 bushel'' 
and add in its place the text ``20-bushel''.

0
23. In Sec.  915.306, in paragraph (a)(5), revise the third sentence to 
read as follows:


Sec.  915.306  Florida avocado grade, pack, and container marking 
regulation.

    (a) * * *
    (5) * * * Only stamps and tape which have been approved by the 
Specialty Crops Inspection Division, Specialty Crops Program, 
Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, may be 
used for purposes of stamping and sealing containers to meet these 
requirements.
* * * * *

PART 917--FRESH PEARS AND PEACHES GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

0
24. The authority citation for part 917 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601--674.


Sec.  917.18  [Amended]

0
25. In Sec.  917.18:
0
a. Lift the suspension of October 27, 2011;
0
b. In paragraph (a), remove the text ``fruit.The'' and ``aforesaid.In'' 
and add in their places the text ``fruit. The'' and ``aforesaid. In'', 
respectively; and
0
c. Stay the section indefinitely.


Sec.  917.61  [Amended]

0
26. In Sec.  917.61:
0
a. Lift the suspension of October 27, 2011;
0
b. In paragraph (c), remove the word ``therof'' and add in its place 
the word ``thereof''; and
0
c. Stay the section indefinitely.

PART 920--KIWIFRUIT GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

0
27. The authority citation for part 920 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601--674.


Sec.  920.66  [Amended]

0
28. In Sec.  920.66, remove the word ``priviliges'' and add in its 
place the word ``privileges''.

PART 930--TART CHERRIES GROWN IN THE STATES OF MICHIGAN, NEW YORK, 
PENNSYLVANIA, OREGON, UTAH, WASHINGTON, AND WISCONSIN

0
29. The authority citation for part 930 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601--674.


Sec.  930.100  [Amended]

0
30. In Sec.  930.100, in paragraph (c)(1), remove the text ``200 acre'' 
and add in its place the text ``200-acre''.


Sec.  930.162  [Amended]

0
31. In Sec.  930.162, in paragraphs (c)(1), (2), and (4), remove the 
text ``short and long term'' wherever it appears and add in its place 
the text ``short- and long-term''.

PART 932--OLIVES GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

0
32. The authority citation for part 932 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601--674.


Sec.  932.35  [Amended]

0
33. In Sec.  932.35, in paragraph (e), remove the word ``chairman'' and 
add in its place the word ``chairperson''.


Sec.  932.36  [Amended]

0
34. In Sec.  932.36, remove the word ``chairman'' and add in its place 
the word ``chairperson''.


Sec.  932.37  [Amended]

0
35. In Sec.  932.37, remove the word ``chairman'' and add in its place 
the word ``chairperson''.


Sec.  932.39  [Amended]

0
36. In Sec.  932.39, in paragraph (c), remove the word ``presecribed'' 
and add in its place the word ``prescribed''.

[[Page 82233]]

Sec.  932.52  [Amended]

0
37. In Sec.  932.52, in paragraph (b)(2), remove the words ``Processed 
Products Branch'' and add in their place the words ``Specialty Crops 
Inspection Division''.


Sec.  932.53  [Amended]

0
38. In Sec.  932.53, in paragraph (a), remove the words ``Processed 
Products Branch'' and add in their place the words ``Specialty Crops 
Inspection Division''.


Sec.  932.139  [Amended]

0
39. In Sec.  932.139, in paragraph (b), remove the text ``30 day 
payment'' and add in its place the text ``30-day payment''.


Sec.  932.152  [Amended]

0
40. In Sec.  932.152:
0
a. In paragraph (b), remove the words ``Processed Products Branch 
(PPB)'' and add in their place the words ``Specialty Crops Inspection 
Division (SCI)''.; and
0
b. In paragraph (c)(1) introductory text, remove the words ``work day'' 
and add in their place the word ``workday''.


Sec.  932.154  [Amended]

0
41. In Sec.  932.154:
0
a. In paragraph (a), remove the word ``transfering'' and add in its 
place the word ``transferring''; and
0
b. In paragraph (c), remove the words ``Processed Products Branch'' and 
add in their place the words ``Specialty Crops Inspection Division''.

PART 944--FRUITS; IMPORT REGULATIONS

0
42. The authority citation for part 944 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601--674.


Sec.  944.28  [Amended]

0
43. In 944.28:
0
a. In paragraph (b), remove the text ``Fruit and Vegetable Division'' 
and add in its place the text ``Specialty Crop Inspection Division''; 
and
0
b. In paragraph (c), remove the text ``United States Customs Service'' 
and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection''.


Sec.  944.31  [Amended]

0
44. In Sec.  944.31:
0
a. In paragraph (c), remove the text ``United States Customs Service'' 
and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection''; and
0
b. In paragraph (e), remove the text ``Fruit and Vegetable Division'' 
and add in its place the text ``Specialty Crop Inspection Division''.


Sec.  944.312  [Amended]

0
45. In Sec.  944.312:
0
a. In paragraph (a), remove the word ``parageaph'' and add in its place 
the word ``paragraph'';
0
b. In paragraph (c), remove the text ``United States Customs Service'' 
and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection''; and
0
c. In paragraph (f), remove the text ``Fruit and Vegetable Division'' 
and add in its place the text ``Specialty Crop Inspection Division''.

0
46. Revise Sec.  944.350 to read as follows:


Sec.  944.350  Safeguard procedures for avocados, grapefruit, 
kiwifruit, olives, oranges, prune variety plums (fresh prunes), and 
table grapes, exempt from grade, size, quality, and maturity 
requirements.

    (a) Exempt use. Each person who imports or receives any of the 
commodities listed in paragraphs (a)(1) through (5) of this section 
shall file (electronically or paper) an ``Importer's Exempt Commodity 
Form'' (SC-6) with the Market Development Division, Specialty Crops 
Program, AMS, USDA. A ``person who imports'' may include a customs 
broker, acting as an importer's representative (hereinafter referred to 
as ``importer''). A copy of the completed form (electronic or paper) 
shall be provided to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. If a paper 
form is used, a copy of the form shall accompany the lot to the exempt 
outlet specified on the form. Any lot of any commodity offered for 
inspection and, all or a portion thereof, subsequently imported as 
exempt under this provision shall also be reported on an SC-6 form. 
Such form (electronic or paper) shall be provided to the Market 
Development Division in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section. 
The applicable commodities are:
    (1) Avocados, grapefruit, kiwifruit, olives, oranges, prune variety 
plums (fresh prunes) and table grapes for consumption by charitable 
institutions or distribution by relief agencies;
    (2) Avocados, grapefruit, kiwifruit, oranges, prune variety plums 
(fresh prunes), and table grapes for processing;
    (3) Olives for processing into oil;
    (4) Grapefruit for animal feed; or
    (5) Avocados for seed.
    (b) Certification of exempt use. (1) Each importer of an exempt 
commodity as specified in paragraph (a) of this section shall certify 
on the SC-6 form (electronic or paper) as to the intended exempt outlet 
(e.g., processing, charity, livestock feed). If certification is made 
using a paper SC-6 form, the importer shall provide a handwritten 
signature on the form.
    (2) Each receiver of an exempt commodity as specified in paragraph 
(a) of this section shall also receive a copy of the associated SC-6 
form (electronic or paper) filed by the importer. Within two days of 
receipt of the exempt lot, the receiver shall certify on the form 
(electronic or paper) that such lot has been received and will be 
utilized in the exempt outlet as certified by the importer. If 
certification is made using a paper SC-6 form, the receiver shall 
provide a handwritten signature on the form.
    (c) Disposition. It is the responsibility of the importer to notify 
the Market Development Division of any lot of exempt commodity rejected 
by a receiver, shipped to an alternative exempt receiver, exported, or 
otherwise destroyed. In such cases, a second SC-6 form must be filed by 
the importer, providing sufficient information to determine ultimate 
disposition of the exempt lot, and such disposition shall be so 
certified by the final receiver.
    (d) Filing. All SC-6 forms and other correspondence regarding entry 
of exempt commodities must be submitted electronically, by mail, or by 
fax to the Market Development Division, Specialty Crops Program, AMS, 
USDA, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0237, Washington, DC 20250-
0237; telephone (202) 720-2491; email [email protected]; or fax 
(202) 720-5698.


Sec.  944.401  [Amended]

0
47. In Sec.  944.401:
0
a. In paragraph (a)(6), remove the text ``the U.S. Bureau of Customs'' 
and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection''.
0
b. In paragraph (b)(12) introductory text, remove the word ``limited-
use'' and add in its place the words ``limited use''.


Sec.  944.503  [Amended]

0
48. In Sec.  944.503, in paragraph (c), remove the text ``United States 
Customs Service'' and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border 
Protection''.


Sec.  944.550  [Amended]

0
49. In Sec.  944.550:
0
a. In paragraph (b), remove the text ``Fruit and Vegetable Division'' 
and add in its place the text ``Specialty Crop Inspection Division''; 
and
0
b. In paragraph (c), remove the text ``United States Customs Service'' 
and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection''.

[[Page 82234]]

PART 945--IRISH POTATOES GROWN IN CERTAIN DESIGNATED COUNTIES IN 
IDAHO, AND MALHEUR COUNTY, OREGON

0
50. The authority citation for part 945 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  945.42  [Amended]

0
51. In Sec.  945.42, in paragraph (e), remove the words ``short term'' 
and add in their place the word ``short-term''.

0
52. In Sec.  945.341:
0
a. In paragraph (b)(3)(i), remove the word ``complaince'' and add in 
its place the word ``compliance''; and
0
b. In paragraph (d)(2), remove the text ``Fresh Products Branch, Fruit 
and Vegetable Division'' and adding in its place ``Specialty Crops 
Inspection Division, Specialty Crops Program''.

PART 948--IRISH POTATOES GROWN IN COLORADO

0
53. The authority citation for part 948 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  948.51  [Amended]

0
54. In Sec.  948.51, in the third sentence, remove the word 
``Committeemen'' and add in its place the word ``Committeepersons''.


Sec.  948.63  [Amended]

0
55. In Sec.  948.63, in paragraph (a)(1), remove the words ``chairman'' 
and ``officers' '' and add in their places the words ``chairperson'' 
and ``officers'', respectively.


Sec.  948.142  [Amended]

0
56. In Sec.  948.142, remove the words ``one ach'' and add in their 
place the words ``on each''.


Sec.  948.386  [Amended]

0
57. In Sec.  948.386, in the third sentence in paragraph (g), remove 
the word ``extend'' and add in its place the word ``extent''.

PART 955--VIDALIA ONIONS GROWN IN GEORGIA

0
58. The authority citation for 7 CFR part 955 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  955.4  [Amended]

0
59. In Sec.  955.4, in the last sentence, remove the word ``Truetlen'' 
and add in its place the word ``Treutlen''.


Sec.  955.42  [Amended]

0
60. In Sec.  955.42, in paragraph (e), remove the word ``seasons's'' 
and add in its place the word ``season's''.

PART 958--ONIONS GROWN IN CERTAIN DESIGNATED COUNTIES IN IDAHO, AND 
MALHEUR COUNTRY, OREGON

0
61. The authority citation for part 958 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  958.27  [Amended]

0
62. In Sec.  958.27, in the ``District No. 6'' paragraph in paragraph 
(a), remove the word ``Meredian'' and add in its place the word 
``Meridian''.


Sec.  958.86  [Amended]

0
63. In Sec.  958.86, remove the word ``wilful'' and add in its place 
the word ``willful''.


Sec.  958.91  [Amended]

0
64. In Sec.  958.91, in the first paragraph of the agreement, remove 
the text ``Fruit and Vegetable Division'' and add in its place the text 
``Market Development Division, Specialty Crops Program''.

PART 959--ONIONS GROWN IN SOUTH TEXAS

0
65. The authority citation for part 959 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  959.4  [Amended]

0
66. In Sec.  959.4, remove the word ``De Witt'' and add in its place 
the word ``DeWitt''.


Sec.  959.24  [Amended]

0
67. In Sec.  959.24, in paragraph (b), remove the words ``Jim Hogg De 
Witt'' and add in its place ``Jim Hogg, DeWitt''.

PART 966--TOMATOES GROWN IN FLORIDA

0
68. The authority citation for part 966 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  966.323  [Amended]

0
69. In Sec.  966.323:
0
a. In paragraph (d)(1), remove the word ``cerasiform'' and add in its 
place the word ``cerasiforme''; and
0
b. In paragraph (d)(5), remove the text ``Fresh Products Branch, Fruit 
and Vegetable Programs'' and add in its place the text ``Specialty 
Crops Inspection Division, Specialty Crops Program''.

PART 980--VEGETABLES; IMPORT REGULATIONS

0
70. The authority citation for part 980 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  980.1  [Amended]

0
71. In Sec.  980.1:
0
a. In paragraph (b)(1), remove the text ``Area II'' and add in its 
place the text ``Area 2'';
0
b. In paragraph (g)(1)(ii), remove the text ``Marketing Order and 
Agreement Division'' and add in its place the text ``Market Development 
Division'', and remove the text ``[email protected]'' and add in 
its place ``[email protected];'' and
0
c. In paragraph (i)(2), remove the text ``the U.S. Customs Service'' 
and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection''.


Sec.  980.117  [Amended]

0
72. In Sec.  980.117:
0
a. In paragraph (d), remove the word ``supercede'' and add in its place 
the word ``supersede''; and
0
b. In paragraph (f)(3), remove the text ``Marketing Order and Agreement 
Division'' and add in its place the text ``Market Development 
Division'', and remove the text ``[email protected]'' and add in 
its place ``[email protected]''.


Sec.  980.212  [Amended]

0
73. In Sec.  980.212:
0
a. In paragraph (b)(1), remove the text ``Fresh Products Branch, Fruit 
and Vegetable Programs'' and add in its place the text ``Specialty Crop 
Inspection Division, Specialty Crops Program'';
0
b. In paragraph (f)(3), remove the text ``Marketing Order and Agreement 
Division'' and add it its place the text ``Market Development 
Division'', and remove the text ``[email protected]'' and add in 
its place ``[email protected]''; and
0
c. In paragraph (h), remove the text ``the United States Bureau of 
Customs'' and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection'', 
and remove the word ``cerasiform'' and add in its place the word 
``cerasiforme''.

0
74. Revise Sec.  980.501 to read as follows:


Sec.  980.501  Safeguard procedures for potatoes, onions, and tomatoes 
exempt from grade, size, quality, and maturity requirements.

    (a) Exempt use. Each person who imports or receives any of the 
commodities listed in paragraphs (a)(1) through (5) of this section 
shall file

[[Page 82235]]

(electronically or paper) an ``Importer's Exempt Commodity Form'' (SC-
6) with the Market Development Division, Specialty Crops Program, AMS, 
USDA. A ``person who imports'' may include a customs broker, acting as 
an importer's representative (hereinafter referred to as ``importer''). 
A copy of the completed form (electronic or paper) shall be provided to 
the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. If a paper form is used, a copy 
of the form shall accompany the lot to the exempt outlet specified on 
the form. Any lot of any commodity offered for inspection and, all or a 
portion thereof, subsequently imported as exempt under this provision 
shall also be reported on an SC-6 form. Such form (electronic or paper) 
shall be provided to the Market Development Division in accordance with 
paragraph (d) of this section. The applicable commodities are:
    (1) Potatoes, onions or tomatoes for consumption by charitable 
institutions or distribution by relief agencies;
    (2) Potatoes, onions, or tomatoes for processing;
    (3) Potatoes or onions for livestock feed; or
    (4) Pearl onions; or
    (5) Tomatoes to be used in noncommercial outlets for experimental
    (b) Certification of exempt use. (1) Each importer of an exempt 
commodity as specified in paragraph (a) of this section shall certify 
on the SC-6 form (electronic or paper) as to the intended exempt outlet 
(e.g., processing, charity, livestock feed). If certification is made 
using a paper SC-6 form, the importer shall provide a handwritten 
signature on the form.
    (2) Each receiver of an exempt commodity as specified in paragraph 
(a) of this section shall also receive a copy of the associated SC-6 
form (electronic or paper) filed by the importer. Within two days of 
receipt of the exempt lot, the receiver shall certify on the form 
(electronic or paper) to the Market Development Division that such lot 
has been received and will be utilized in the exempt outlet as 
certified by the importer. If certification is made using a paper SC-6 
form, the receiver shall provide a handwritten signature on the form.
    (c) Disposition. It is the responsibility of the importer to notify 
the Market Development Division of any lot of exempt commodity rejected 
by a receiver, shipped to an alternative exempt receiver, returned to 
the country of origin, or otherwise disposed of. In such cases, a 
second SC-6 form must be filed by the importer, providing sufficient 
information to determine ultimate disposition of the exempt lot, and 
such disposition shall be so certified by the final receiver.
    (d) Filing. All SC-6 forms and other correspondence regarding entry 
of exempt commodities must be submitted electronically, by mail, or by 
fax to the Market Development Division, Specialty Crops Program, AMS, 
USDA, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0237, Washington, DC 20250-
0237; telephone (202) 720-2491; email [email protected]; or fax 
(202) 720-5698.

PART 981--ALMONDS GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

0
75. The authority citation for part 981 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  981.19  [Amended]

0
76. In Sec.  981.19, remove the text ``twelve month'' and add in its 
place the word ``twelve-month''.


Sec.  981.21  [Amended]

0
77. In Sec.  981.21, remove the word ``kernelweight'' and add in its 
place the words ``kernel weight''.


Sec.  981.33  [Amended]

0
78. In Sec.  981.33, in paragraph (c), remove the text ``three year'' 
and add in its place the word ``three-year''.


Sec.  981.61  [Amended]

0
79. In Sec.  981.61, in paragraph (a), remove the work `kernelweight'' 
and add in its place the words ``kernel weight''.


Sec.  981.70  [Amended]

0
80. In Sec.  981.70, in the last sentence, remove the word ``insure'' 
and add in its place the word ``ensure''.


Sec.  981.442  [Amended]

0
81. In Sec.  981.442, in paragraph (a)(5), remove the text ``50 percent 
requirement'' and add in its place ``50-percent requirement''.


Sec.  981.467  [Amended]

0
82. In Sec.  981.467:
0
a. In the first sentence in paragraph(b), remove the word ``quanity'' 
and add in its place the word ``quantity''; and
0
b. Remove paragraphs (c) and (d).


Sec.  981.481  [Amended]

0
83. In Sec.  981.481, in the last sentence in paragraph (a), remove the 
text ``a half'' and add in its place the text ``one-half''.

PART 982--HAZELNUTS GROWN IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON

0
84. The authority citation for part 982 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.

0
85. Revise the undesignated center heading following Sec.  982.20 to 
read as follows:

Hazelnut Marketing Board


Sec.  982.33  [Amended]

0
86. In Sec.  982.33, in paragraph (b), remove the text ``beginning with 
the 1996-97 marketing year,''.


Sec.  982.53  [Amended]

0
87. In Sec.  982.53, remove the word ``insure'' and add in its place 
the word ``ensure''.

Subpart C [Removed and Reserved]

0
88. Remove and reserve subpart C, consisting of Sec. Sec.  982.254 and 
982.255.

PART 983--PISTACHIOS GROWN IN CALIFORNIA, ARIZONA, AND NEW MEXICO

0
89. The authority citation for part 983 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  983.92  [Amended]

0
90. In Sec.  983.92, remove the text ``5,000 pound quantity'' and add 
in its place the text ``5,000-pound quantity''.

PART 985--MARKETING ORDER REGULATING THE HANDLING OF SPEARMINT OIL 
PRODUCED IN THE FAR WEST

0
91. The authority citation for part 985 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  985.154  [Amended]

0
92. In Sec.  985.154, in paragraph (b), remove the word ``insure'' and 
add in its place the word ``ensure''.

PART 987--DOMESTIC DATES PRODUCED OR PACKED IN RIVERSIDE COUNTY, 
CALIFORNIA

0
93. The authority citation for part 987 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  987.12  [Amended]

0
94. In Sec.  987.12, in paragraph (c), remove the word ``exeption'' and 
add in its place the word ``exception''.


Sec.  987.41  [Amended]

0
95. In Sec.  987.41, in paragraph (c), remove the text ``Processed 
Products Standardization and Inspection Branch'' and add in its place 
the text ``Specialty Crop Inspection Division''.

[[Page 82236]]

Sec.  987.112  [Amended]

0
96. In Sec.  987.112:
0
a. In paragraph (a), remove the word ``shiped'' and add in its place 
the word ``shipped''; and
0
b. In paragraph (d), remove the word ``fieldrun'' and add in its place 
the word ``field-run''.


Sec.  987.112a  [Amended]

0
97. In Sec.  987.112a:
0
a. In paragraph (b)(2), remove the text ``semi-dry of dry'' and add in 
its place the text ``semi-dry or dry'' and remove the text ``, except 
beginning February 21, 1997, and ending October 31, 1997, the 10 
percent tolerance shall be increased to 15 percent'';
0
b. In paragraph (c)(2), remove the text ``, except beginning February 
21, 1997, and ending October 31, 1997, the 10 percent tolerance shall 
be increased to 15 percent''; and
0
c. In the last sentence in paragraph (d)(3), remove the word 
``excercise'' and add in its place the word ``exercise''.


Sec.  987.145  [Amended]

0
98. In Sec.  987.145, in the first sentence in paragraph (b)(2), remove 
the word ``credited'' and add in its place the word ``Credited'' and 
remove the word ``exceds'' and add in its place the word ``exceeds''.


Sec.  987.172  [Amended]

0
99. In Sec.  987.172, in paragraph (b), remove the text ``one half'' 
and add in its place the text ``one-half''.

PART 989--RAISINS PRODUCED FROM GRAPES GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

0
100. The authority citation for part 989 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  989.58  [Amended]

0
101. In Sec.  989.58, in paragraph (e)(5), remove the word ``insure'' 
and add in its place the word ``ensure''.


Sec.  989.159  [Amended]

0
102. In Sec.  989.159, in paragraph (c)(2), remove the text ``FV 146'' 
wherever it appears and add in its place the text ``SC-146''.

PART 990--DOMESTIC HEMP PRODUCTION PROGRAM

0
103. The authority citation for part 990 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  7 U.S.C. 1639o note, 1639p, 1639q, 1639r.


Sec.  990.1  [Amended]

0
104. In Sec.  990.1, in the definition of ``USDA licensee'', remove the 
word ``planto'' and add in its place the words ``plan to''.


Sec.  990.3  [Amended]

0
105. In Sec.  990.3, in paragraph (a)(2)(iii)(B) introductory text, 
removed the word ``cannabisplant'' and add in its place the words 
``cannabis plant''.

PART 993--DRIED PRUNES PRODUCED IN CALIFORNIA

0
106. The authority citation for part 993 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  993.49  [Amended]

0
107. In Sec.  993.49:
0
a. Lift the suspension of May 27, 2005;
0
b. In paragraph (b), remove the word ``resepct'' and add in its place 
the word ``respect''; and
0
c. Stay the section indefinitely.


Sec.  993.50  [Amended]

0
108. In Sec.  993.50:
0
a. Lift the suspension of May 27, 2005;
0
b. In the fifth sentence in paragraph (g), remove the word ``insure'' 
and add in its place the word ``ensure''; and
0
c. Stay the section indefinitely.


Sec.  993.56  [Amended]

0
109. In Sec.  993.56:
0
a. Lift the suspension of May 27, 2005;
0
b. In the second and third sentences, remove the word ``setaside'' and 
add in its place the word ``set-aside''; and
0
c. Stay the section indefinitely.


Sec.  993.149  [Amended]

0
110. In Sec.  993.149:
0
a. Lift the suspension of May 27, 2005;
0
b. In paragraph (c)(2)(vii), remove the word ``offgrade'' and add in 
its place the word ``off-grade''; and
0
c. Stay the section indefinitely.


Sec.  993.162  [Amended]

0
111. In Sec.  993.162:
0
a. Lift the suspension of May 27, 2005;
0
b. In paragraph (b)(3), remove the word ``he'' and add in its place the 
word ``the''; and
0
c. Stay the section indefinitely.


Sec.  993.515  [Amended]

0
112. In Sec.  993.515:
0
a. Lift the suspension of May 27, 2005;
0
b. In paragraph (b) introductory text, remove the word 
``nonmenclature'' and add in its place the word ``nomenclature''; and
0
c. Stay the section indefinitely.

PART 996--MINIMUM QUALITY AND HANDLING STANDARDS FOR DOMESTIC AND 
IMPORTED PEANUTS MARKETED IN THE UNITED STATES

0
113. The authority citation for part 996 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 7958.


Sec.  996.71  [Amended]

0
114. In Sec.  996.71, in paragraph (b), remove the text ``Southeast 
Marketing Field Office, Marketing Order and Agreement Division'' and 
add in its place the text ``Southeast Region Branch, Market Development 
Division''.

PART 999--SPECIALTY CROPS; IMPORT REGULATIONS

0
115. The authority citation for part 999 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.


Sec.  999.1  [Amended]

0
116. In Sec.  999.1, in paragraph (a)(7), remove the text ``Fruit and 
Vegetable Program'' and add in its place ``Specialty Crops Program''.


Sec.  999.100  [Amended]

0
117. In Sec.  999.100:
0
a. In paragraph (a)(5), remove the text ``Fresh Products 
Standardization and Inspection Branch of the Fruit and Vegetable 
Division, Consumer and Marketing Service'' and add in its place 
``Specialty Crops Inspection Division, Specialty Crops Program, 
Agricultural Marketing Service'';
0
b. In paragraph (a)(6), remove the text ``United States Customs 
Service'' and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection''; 
and
0
c. In paragraph (b)(2), remove the text ``effective January 25, 1959''.


0
118. In Sec.  999.200:
0
a. Lift the suspension of January 16, 2009;
0
b. Revise paragraphs (a)(10) through (12);
0
c. In paragraph (b)(5), remove the text ``Form FV-6'' and add in its 
place the text ``Form SC-6'';
0
d. Revise paragraph (e)(1);
0
e. In paragraph (e)(2), remove the text ``Form FV-6'' and add in its 
place the text ``Form SC-6''; and
0
f. Stay the section indefinitely.
    The revisions read as follows.


Sec.  999.200  Regulation governing the importation of prunes.

    (a) * * *
    (10) Specialty Crops Program means the Specialty Crops Program of 
the Agricultural Marketing Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 
Washington, DC 20250.

[[Page 82237]]

    (11) USDA inspector means an inspector of the Specialty Crops 
Inspection Division, Specialty Crops Program, or any other duly 
authorized employee of the USDA.
    (12) Importation means release from custody of U.S. Customs and 
Border Protection.
* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (1) General. Prior to importation of any prunes, the person 
importing such prunes shall file an inspection certificate with the 
Collector of Customs at the port at which the customs entry is filed. 
In addition, if such prunes are manufacturing grade substandard prunes, 
such person shall also file with the Collector of Customs an executed 
Form SC-6--`Importer's Exempt Commodity Form.' Promptly after such 
filing, such person shall transmit a copy of this form to the Specialty 
Crops Program. No person may import, sell, or use any manufacturing 
grade substandard prunes other than for use as set forth in paragraph 
(b)(5) of this section. Each person importing manufacturing grade 
substandard prunes shall obtain from each purchaser, no later than the 
time of delivery to such purchaser, and file with the Specialty Crops 
Program not later than the 5th day of the month following the month in 
which the prunes were delivered, an executed Form SC-6--`Importer's 
Exempt Commodity Form.' One copy of this executed form shall be 
retained by the importer and one copy shall be retained by the 
purchaser.
* * * * *


Sec.  999.300  [Amended]

0
119. In Sec.  999.300, in paragraph (a)(5), remove the text ``Fruit and 
Vegetable Program'' and add in its place the text ``Specialty Crops 
Program''.


Sec.  999.400  [Amended]

0
120. In Sec.  999.400:
0
a. In paragraph (a)(5), remove the text ``Food Safety and Quality 
Service'' and add in its place ``Specialty Crops Inspection Division, 
Specialty Crops Program''; and
0
b. In paragraph (a)(6), remove the text ``United States Bureau of 
Customs'' and add in its place ``U.S. Customs and Border Protection''.


0
121. In Sec.  999.500:
0
a. In paragraph (a) introductory text wherever it appears, remove the 
text ``Marketing Order and Agreement Division'' and add in its place 
the text ``Market Development Division'';
0
b. Remove the text ``FV-6'' wherever it appears and add in its place 
the text ``SC-6''; and
0
c. Revise paragraphs (c) and (d).
    The revisions read as follows.


Sec.  999.500  Safeguard procedures for walnuts, dates, pistachios, and 
raisins exempt from grade, size, quality, and maturity requirements.

* * * * *
    (c) It is the responsibility of the importer to notify the Market 
Development Division of any lot of exempt commodity rejected by a 
receiver, shipped to an alternative exempt receiver, exported, or 
otherwise disposed of. In such cases, a second SC-6 form must be filed 
by the importer, providing sufficient information to determine ultimate 
disposition of the exempt lot, and such disposition shall be so 
certified by the final receiver.
    (d) All SC-6 forms and other correspondence regarding entry of 
exempt commodities must be submitted electronically, by mail, or by fax 
to the Market Development Division, Specialty Crops Program, AMS, USDA, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0237, Washington, DC 20250-0237; 
telephone (202) 720-2491; email [email protected]; or fax (202) 
720-5698.


Sec.  999.600  [Amended]

0
122. In Sec.  999.600:
0
a. In paragraph (a)(8) remove the text ``Federal Inspection Service, 
Fruit and Vegetable Programs'' and add in its place ``Specialty Crops 
Inspection Division, Specialty Crops Program''; and
0
b. In paragraph (h), remove the text ``Marketing Order and Agreement 
Division'' and add in its place ``Market Development Division''.

Erin Morris,
Associate Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-25238 Filed 11-22-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE P