Title: Unified website for Biotechnology Regulation; Contact Page.

OMB Control Number: 0579-XXXX.

Type of Request: Approval of a new information collection.

Abstract: In 1986, the Coordinated Framework for the Regulation of Biotechnology (Coordinated Framework) was published by the Office of Science and Technology Policy and explained the regulatory roles for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), (herein, the Agencies) and how Federal agencies use existing Federal statutes to ensure public health and environmental safety while maintaining regulatory flexibility to avoid impeding the growth of the biotechnology industry. The Coordinated Framework was subsequently updated in 1992 (57 FR 6753-6762; February 27, 1992) and 2017, 1 taking into account advances that had occurred in the field of biotechnology.

Within the USDA, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's (APHIS') Biotechnology Regulatory Services unit is responsible for ensuring that organisms developed using genetic engineering, such as genetically modified plants, insects, and microbes do not pose a plant pest risk. APHIS derives its authority to promulgate its biotechnology regulations from provisions of the Plant Protection Act (PPA, 7 U.S.C. 7701 et seq. ) and the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act (VRTA, 21 U.S.C. 151-159). The EPA is charged with protecting human health and the environment through ensuring the safety of pesticides and other chemicals, including those developed using genetic engineering. The EPA derives its regulatory authority from provisions of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA, 7 U.S.C. 136 et seq. ) and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA, 15 U.S.C. 2601 et seq. ). The FDA is responsible for protecting the public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, and medical devices; and by ensuring the safety of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation, which includes oversight of food and feed. FDA derives its regulatory authority from provisions of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA, 21 U.S.C. 301-392). Together with the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), FDA has oversight of certain chemicals modified using genetic engineering. FSIS derives its regulatory authority from the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA, 21 U.S.C. 601 et seq. ) and the Poultry Products Protection Act (PPIA, 21 U.S.C. ch.10, 451 et seq. ).

On September 12, 2022, Executive Order (E.O.) 14081, Advancing Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Innovation for a Sustainable, Safe, and Secure American Bioeconomy, 2 was published and directed the Agencies, among other things, to build on the Unified website for Biotechnology Regulation  3 developed pursuant to E.O. 13874, Modernizing the Regulatory Framework for Agricultural Biotechnology Products, June 11, 2019, 4 by including on the website the information developed under subsection (b) of Section 8 of E.O. 14081, and by enabling developers of biotechnology products to submit inquiries about a particular product and promptly receive a single, coordinated response that provides, to the extent practicable, information and, when appropriate, informal guidance regarding the process that the developers must follow for Federal regulatory review.

The necessity for this information collection arises from E.O. 13874, Section 5, Unified Biotechnology Web-Based Platform, and E.O. 14081, Section 8(d). These provisions seek to ensure that innovators can easily navigate the Federal regulatory system for products of biotechnology by directing USDA, EPA, and FDA to jointly establish a web-based platform that contains and provides links to relevant United States Government regulatory information for biotechnology products. These provisions further direct that the web-based platform shall allow developers of products of agricultural biotechnology to submit inquiries about a particular product and promptly receive from the Agencies a single, coordinated response that provides, to the extent practicable, information and, when appropriate, informal guidance regarding the processes that the developers must follow for Federal regulatory review.

The Unified website for Biotechnology Regulation (“Unified website”) is currently hosted by the Department of Agriculture, with other agencies providing support, to the extent consistent with existing appropriations, through appropriate interagency agreements, including agreements under the Economy Act.

USDA-APHIS, EPA, and FDA will use a web-form on the contact page of the Unified website to enable site visitors to ask questions, make comments, or request a meeting with one or all of the sponsoring agencies. The web-form will collect basic contact information such as the name and email address of contact page respondents, as well as the respondents' questions or comments and their meeting requests. Respondent use of the contact page is voluntary.

We are asking the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to approve our use of this information collection activity for 3 years.

The purpose of this notice is to solicit comments from the public (as well as affected agencies) concerning our information collection. These comments will help us:

(1) Evaluate whether the collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, including whether the information will have practical utility;

(2) Evaluate the accuracy of our estimate of the burden of the collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used;

(3) Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and

(4) Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, through use, as appropriate, of automated, electronic, mechanical, and other collection technologies; e.g., permitting electronic submission of responses.

Estimate of burden: The public burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 0.5 hours per response.

Respondents: Commercial and academic developers of biotechnology products and the interested public.

Estimated annual number of respondents: 30.

Estimated annual number of responses per respondent: 1.

Estimated annual number of responses: 30.

Estimated total annual burden on respondents: 15 hours. (Due to averaging, the total annual burden hours may not equal the product of the annual number of responses multiplied by the reporting burden per response.)

All responses to this notice will be summarized and included in the request for OMB approval. All comments will also become a matter of public record.

The OMB regulation (5 CFR part 1320) implementing provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-13) requires that interested members of the public and affected agencies have an opportunity to comment on information collection and recordkeeping activities (see 5 CFR 1320.8(d)). This notice identifies an information collection that the Agency is submitting to OMB for extension.

Comments are invited on (a) Whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the Agency, including whether the information will have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the Agency's estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility and clarity of the information to be collected; and (d) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Comments may be submitted electronically by the Federal eRulemaking Portal, regulations.gov/. In the “Search for dockets and documents on agency actions” box enter the Docket No. RUS-24-WATER-0020 and click the “Search” button. From the search results, click on or locate the document title: “Notice of Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection” and select the “Comment” button. Before inputting comments, commenters may review the “Commenter's Checklist” (optional). To submit a comment: Insert comments under the “Comment” title, click “Browse” to attach files (if available), input email address, select box to opt to receive email confirmation of submission and tracking (optional), select the box “I'm not a robot,” and then select “Submit Comment.” Information on using Regulations.gov , including instructions for accessing documents, submitting comments, and viewing the docket after the close of the comment period, is available through the site's “FAQ” link. All comments will be available for public inspection online at the Federal eRulemaking Portal ( regulations.gov ).

A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a currently valid OMB Control Number. Data furnished by the applicants will be used to determine eligibility for program benefits. Furnishing the data is voluntary; however, failure to provide data could result in program benefits being withheld or denied.

Title: Servicing of Water Programs Loans and Grants, 7 CFR part 1782.

OMB Control Number: 0572-0137.

Type of Request: Update of a currently approved information collection.

Abstract: Loan and grant servicing is provided by the Agency in order to assist recipients in complying with the established objectives and requirements for loans and grants, repaying loans on schedule, acting in accordance with any necessary agreements, and protecting the Agency's financial interest. Servicing by the Agency includes, but is not limited to, the review of budgets, management reports, audits, and financial statements; performing operational inspections; providing, arranging, or recommending technical assistance; evaluating environmental impacts of proposed actions by the borrower; and performing civil rights compliance and graduation reviews. 7 CFR part 1782 outlines the Agencies' policies and procedures for servicing direct and insured WWLG, Watershed, RCDL, TAT, ECWAG, SWMG, and WWLG to Alleviate Health Risks programs.

Estimate of Burden: Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 2.305 hours per response.

Respondents: Public bodies, nonprofits, Federally-recognized tribes.

Estimated Number of Respondents: 4,064.

Estimated Number of Responses per Respondent: 3.20.

Estimated Number of Responses: 12,989.

Estimated Total Annual Burden on Respondents: 29,936 hours.

Copies of this information collection can be obtained from Katherine Anne Mathis, RD Innovation Center—Regulations Management Division, Telephone: 202-713-7565, email: Katherine.mathis@usda.gov.

All responses to this notice will be summarized and included in the request for OMB approval. All comments will also become a matter of public record.

Members of the public may listen to the discussions through the above call-in numbers (audio only) or online registration links (audio/visual). An open comment period at each meeting will be provided to allow members of the public to make a statement as time allows. Callers can expect to incur regular charges for calls they initiate over wireless lines, according to their wireless plan. The Commission will not refund any incurred charges. Callers will incur no charge for calls they initiate over land-line connections to the toll-free telephone number. Individuals who are deaf, deafblind, and/or hard of hearing may also follow the proceedings by first calling the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339 and providing the Service with the conference call number and meeting ID number.

Members of the public are entitled to submit written comments; the comments must be received in the regional office within 30 days following the meetings. Written comments may be emailed to Victoria at vmoreno@usccr.gov.

Records generated from this meeting may be inspected and reproduced at the Regional Programs Unit Office, as they become available, both before and after the meetings. Records of the meetings will be available via www.facadatabase.gov under the Commission on Civil Rights, Nebraska Advisory Committee link. Persons interested in the work of this Committee are directed to the Commission's website, http://www.usccr.gov, or may contact the Regional Programs Unit at the above email or street address.

The Annual Integrated Economic Survey (AIES) is designed to integrate and replace seven existing annual business surveys into one survey. The AIES provides the only comprehensive national and subnational data on business revenues, expenses, and assets on an annual basis. The AIES is designed to combine Census Bureau collections to reduce respondent burden, increase data quality, and allow the Census Bureau to operate more efficiently to reduce long term costs. The existing collections integrated into the AIES are the Annual Retail Trade Survey (ARTS), Annual Wholesale Trade Survey (AWTS), Service Annual Survey (SAS), Annual Survey of Manufactures (ASM), Annual Capital Expenditures Survey (ACES), Manufacturers' Unfilled Orders Survey (M3UFO), and the Report of Organization.

The AIES collects the following information from employer businesses in sample:

• Business characteristics, including employment, operating status, organizational change, ownership information, and co-op status.

• Business classification, including business activity, type of operation, and tax status.

• Revenue, including sales, shipments, and receipts, taxes, contributions, gifts, and grants, products, e-commerce activity, and other sources of revenue.

• Operating expenses, including purchased services, payroll, benefits, and other detailed operating expenses.

• Capital expenditures and inventories.

• Robotic equipment expenditures and usage.

In preparation for the 2024 AIES, we are looking ahead and evaluating options to reduce respondent burden. The Census Bureau is considering a reduction in the content that we collect from respondents. We have identified areas where we can reduce the content collected from respondents without significantly impacting data users. We are considering the consolidation of select items that pertain to Revenues, Operating Expenses, Inventories, and Capital Expenditures. We have identified the content we would like to reduce/consolidate and are currently working with key stakeholders to incorporate feedback. Our intention is that the reduction in content would have a positive impact on respondents and would be of minimal or no impact to both internal and external stakeholders, and the public.

All reduced/streamlined or combined content will be based on research, debriefing interviews, and feedback received from survey respondents during the 2023 collection period and any resulting reduction in respondent burden will be included in the revision request submitted to OMB after the conclusion of this 60-day comment period.

One of the key features of the AIES is the ability, with Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approval, to add and delete questions based on the importance of the economic situation at the time. The AIES may include new questions each year based on relevant business topics. Potential topics for such new questions could include technological advances including but not limed to artificial intelligence, machine learning, bioeconomy, financial technology robotics, exporting practices, energy, globalization, major event or catastrophe, and emerging societal trends. Any new questions or deletion of existing questions will be submitted to OMB for review as a revision with 30-day notice.

Respondents are notified via email and/or letter about their requirement to respond and how to access the survey, with responses due within 30 days. Select businesses receive a reminder before the due date through email or letter. Nonrespondents are followed up with up to three email or mail reminders at one-month intervals.

OMB Control Number: 0607-1024.

Type of Review: Regular submission, request for a revision of a currently approved collection.

Affected Public: Businesses, or other for profit or non-profit institutions or organizations.

Estimated Number of Respondents: 393,460 companies.

Estimated Time per Response: 3 hours and 23 minutes per company (this estimate will be re-evaluated based on results of testing reduced content).

Estimated Total Annual Burden Hours: 1,336,892.

Estimated Total Annual Cost to Public: $0. (This is not the cost of respondents' time, but the indirect costs respondents may incur for such things as purchases of specialized software or hardware needed to report, or expenditures for accounting or records maintenance services required specifically by the collection.)

Respondent's Obligation: Mandatory.

Legal Authority: Title 13 U.S.C. 131, 182, and 193.

We are soliciting public comments to permit the Department/Bureau to: (a) Evaluate whether the proposed information collection is necessary for the proper functions of the Department, including whether the information will have practical utility; (b) Evaluate the accuracy of our estimate of the time and cost burden for this proposed collection, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (c) Evaluate ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and (d) Minimize the reporting burden on those who are to respond, including the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology.

Comments that you submit in response to this notice are a matter of public record. We will include, or summarize, each comment in our request to OMB to approve this ICR. Before including your address, phone number, email address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you may ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.

In accordance with sections 705(d), 735(d), and 777(i) of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (the Act), on July 5, 2024, Commerce published in the Federal Register its affirmative final determination of sales at less-than-fair-value (LTFV) of pea protein from China  1 and its affirmative final determination that countervailable subsidies are being provided to producers and exporters of pea protein from China. 2 As part of these determinations, Commerce made affirmative critical circumstances findings for the separate rate companies and the China-wide entity in the AD investigation and for all producers and/or exporters and non-responsive companies in the CVD investigation.

On August 15, 2024, pursuant to sections 735(d) and 705(d) of the Act, the ITC notified Commerce of its affirmative final determinations that an industry in the United States is materially injured within the meaning of sections 735(b)(1)(A)(i) and 705(b)(1)(A)(i) of the Act by reason of LTFV imports of pea protein from China and subsidized imports of pea protein from China. 3 In addition, the ITC found that critical circumstances exist with regard to imports from China. 4

The product covered by these orders is pea protein from China. For a complete description of the scope of these orders, see the appendix to this notice.

Based on the above-referenced affirmative final determination, in accordance with section 735(c)(2) and 736 of the Act, Commerce is issuing this AD order. Because the ITC determined that imports of pea protein from China are materially injuring a U.S. industry, unliquidated entries of such merchandise entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption, are subject to the assessment of ADs. In addition, the ITC found that critical circumstances exist with respect to imports subject to Commerce's affirmative critical circumstances finding within the meaning of section 735(b)(4)(A) of the Act. As a result of Commerce's affirmative critical circumstances determination under section 735(a)(3) of the Act, and the ITC's affirmative critical circumstances determination under section 735(b)(4)(A) of the Act, retroactive duties will be applied to the relevant imports for a period of 90 days prior to the suspension of liquidation ( i.e., 90 days prior to the date of publication of the affirmative LTFV Preliminary Determination ). 5

Therefore, in accordance with section 736(a)(1) of the Act, Commerce will direct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to assess, upon further instruction by Commerce, antidumping duties equal to the amount by which the normal value of the merchandise exceeds the export price (or constructed export price) of the merchandise, for all relevant entries of pea protein from China entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption, on or after November 15, 2023, which is 90 days prior to the date of publication of the affirmative LTFV Preliminary Determination, in accordance with the critical circumstances finding in the LTFV Final Determination, but will not include entries occurring after the expiration of the provisional measures period and before publication of the ITC's final affirmative injury determination, as further described below.

Except as noted in the “Provisional Measures—AD” section of this notice, in accordance with section 736 of the Act, Commerce intends to instruct CBP to continue to suspend liquidation on all relevant entries of pea protein from China, in accordance with section 736 of the Act. These instructions suspending liquidation will remain in effect until further notice.

Commerce also intends to instruct CBP to require cash deposits equal to the estimated weighted-average dumping margins, with offsets for export subsidies where appropriate, as indicated in the tables below. Accordingly, effective the date of publication of the ITC's final affirmative injury determination, CBP will suspend the liquidation of entries of subject merchandise, and require, at the same time that importers would normally deposit estimated duties on the merchandise, a cash deposit equal to the rates listed below. The relevant China-wide entity rate applies to all producers or exporters not specifically listed, as appropriate.

The estimated weighted-average dumping margins as published in Commerce's LTFV Final Determination are as follows:

Section 733(d) of the Act states that instructions issued under section 733(d)(1) and (2) of the Act pursuant to an affirmative preliminary determination may not remain in effect for more than four months, except where exporters representing a significant proportion of exports of the subject merchandise request that Commerce extends the four-month period to no more than six months. At the request of exporters that account for a significant proportion of exports of pea protein from China, Commerce extended the four-month period to six months in this investigation. 6 Commerce published the LTFV Preliminary Determination on February 13, 2024. 7

The extended provisional measures period, beginning on the date of publication of the LTFV Preliminary Determination, ended on August 10, 2024. Pursuant to section 737(b) of the Act, the collection of cash deposits at the rates listed above will begin on the date of publication of the ITC's final injury determination. Therefore, in accordance with section 736(a)(1) of the Act and our practice, Commerce intends to instruct CBP to terminate the suspension of liquidation and to liquidate, without regard to antidumping duties, unliquidated entries of pea protein from China entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption, on or after August 11, 2024, the first day provisional measures were no longer in effect, until and through the day preceding the date of publication of the ITC's final injury determination in the Federal Register . Suspension of liquidation and the collection of cash deposits will resume on the date of publication of the ITC's final determination in the Federal Register .

As stated above, based on the above-referenced affirmative final determination by the ITC that an industry in the United States is materially injured within the meaning of section 705(b)(1)(A)(i) of the Act by reason of subsidized imports of pea protein from China, in accordance with section 705(c)(2) of the Act, Commerce is issuing this CVD order. Because the ITC determined that imports of pea protein from China are materially injuring a U.S. industry, unliquidated entries of subject merchandise entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption, are subject to the assessment of CVDs. In addition, the ITC found that critical circumstances exist with respect to imports from China subject to Commerce's affirmative critical circumstances finding within the meaning of section 705(b)(4)(A) of the Act. As a result of Commerce's affirmative critical circumstances determination under section 705(a)(2) of the Act, and the ITC's affirmative critical circumstances determination under section 705(b)(4)(A) of the Act, retroactive duties will be applied to the relevant imports for a period of 90 days prior to the suspension of liquidation, ( i.e., 90 days prior to the date of publication of the affirmative CVD Preliminary Determination ). 8

Therefore, in accordance with section 706(a) of the Act, Commerce will direct CBP to assess, upon further instruction by Commerce, countervailing duties on all relevant entries of pea protein from China. With respect to entries for Yantai Oriental Protein Tech Co., Ltd., Zhaoyuan Junbang Trading Co., Ltd., all other producers and/or exporters, and the non-responsive companies, 9 CVDs will be assessed on unliquidated entries of pea protein from China entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption, on or after September 19, 2023, which is 90 days prior to the date of publication of the CVD Preliminary Determination. 10 CVDs will not be assessed on entries occurring after the expiration of the provisional measures period and before the publication of the ITC's final affirmative injury determination, as further described in the “Provisional Measures—CVD” section of this notice.

In accordance with section 706 of the Act, Commerce intends to instruct CBP to reinstitute the suspension of liquidation of pea protein from China, effective on the date of publication of the ITC's final affirmative injury determination in the Federal Register . These instructions suspending liquidation will remain in effect until further notice.

AI is anticipated to yield significant growth opportunities for the healthcare sector. With AI regulation and policy formation still nascent in many markets, it is important to understand the implications of changes in these areas for U.S. healthcare industry stakeholders as adoption of AI grows across the biopharmaceutical industry. This discussion will help position ITA to work with U.S. industry stakeholders in ways that can enhance U.S. industry competitiveness in overseas markets and reduce current or future trade barriers faced by companies in this space.

The Department seeks individual input and views at the 10/16/2024 roundtable regarding overseas competitiveness of U.S. companies using, or planning to incorporate, AI in how they produce and commercialize biopharmaceuticals. Participants will be encouraged to provide any relevant feedback on this issue during the roundtable, which may include comments on the following non-exhaustive list of possible topics:

• With the introduction of technologies such as foundational models and general-purpose AI, what regulatory and policy shifts is your company monitoring in global markets that might affect adoption of AI in the production and commercialization of biopharmaceuticals? How do you anticipate these changes may affect your company's global competitiveness?

• Which markets, given shifting regulatory and policy landscapes, present the most promising commercial environments for adopting AI in the biopharmaceutical industry, from your experience?

• How do you assess the potential for public-private partnerships (P3s) to support efforts in the healthcare sector to adopt AI in the development and commercialization of biopharmaceuticals in global markets? What would a successful P3 in this space look like?

• What kinds of strategic international engagements do you believe would be most effective in creating a more conducive environment for the U.S. biopharmaceutical industry to adopt AI and strengthen its competitiveness in overseas markets?

• What kinds of trade barriers are you seeing or anticipating that might negatively affect U.S. competitiveness? Where do you encounter these barriers? How do you think the barriers can be reduced, removed, or prevented?

○ What are the implications of regulations and policies around health data in foreign markets for adoption of AI in the U.S. biopharmaceutical industry?

○ What are the implications of how foreign governments are addressing intellectual property considerations in relation to AI-assisted drug development?

The event is closed to press and the public. Industry participation is limited to a maximum of 20 qualifying industry representatives.

To attend, participants should submit the below information to HealthAI@trade.gov by no later than 10/9/2024. ITA will evaluate registrations based on the submitted information (and based on the criteria below) on a rolling basis until a maximum of 20 participants have been selected for each roundtable and inform applicants of selection decisions.

Applicants are encouraged to send representatives at a sufficiently senior level to be knowledgeable about their company's capabilities, interests, and challenges in the global AI in healthcare market. Due to time constraints, there is a limit of one person to speak on behalf of each company.

Applicants should include the following information in their response email:

• Name of attendee and short bio.

• Name of company and brief company description.

• A statement self-certifying how the company meets each of the following criteria:

1. It is not majority owned by a foreign government entity (or entities).

2. It is an existing provider or prospective new market entrant, of biopharmaceuticals that are or will be produced in the United States and that feature use of AI/ML in one or more of the following business areas: drug discovery/development ( e.g., target identification, disease modeling, de novo drug design, pre-clinical development), clinical trials ( e.g. patient recruitment, trial design), drug manufacturing ( e.g., process optimization, drug synthesis and formulation), and supply chain management ( e.g., predictive modeling, demand forecasting).

3. The representative will be able to attend the entire roundtable.

Selection will be based on the following criteria:

• The company's production or production plans with respect to AI in drug discovery/development, clinical trials, drug manufacturing, and supply chain management.

• The company's experience in leveraging AI to produce biopharmaceuticals that are exported from the United States to overseas markets.

• Suitability of the representative's position and biography to be able to engage in the conversation.

• Ability of the company to contribute to the roundtable's purpose of seeking individual input and views on policies and initiatives that strengthen U.S. industry competitiveness of U.S. exports.

On May 28, 2024, Commerce published the Preliminary Determination in the Federal Register and invited interested parties to comment. 1 Subsequently, on July 23, 2024, Commerce issued its Post-Preliminary Analysis. 2 For a complete description of the events that followed the Preliminary Determination, see the Issues and Decision Memorandum. 3 The Issues and Decision Memorandum is a public document and is on file electronically via Enforcement and Compliance's Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Centralized Electronic Service System (ACCESS). ACCESS is available to registered users at https://access.trade.gov. In addition, a complete version of the Issues and Decision Memorandum can be accessed directly at https://access.trade.gov/public/FRNoticesListLayout.aspx.

The products covered by this investigation are wine bottles from China. For a complete description of the scope of this investigation, see Appendix I.

During the course of this investigation, Commerce received scope comments from parties. Commerce issued a Preliminary Scope Decision Memorandum to address these comments and set aside a period of time for parties to address scope issues in scope-specific case and rebuttal briefs. 4 We received comments from parties on the Preliminary Scope Decision Memorandum, which we address in the Final Scope Decision Memorandum. 5 We did not make any changes to the scope of the investigation from the scope published in the Preliminary Determination, as noted in Appendix I.

The subsidy programs under investigation, and the issues raised in the case and rebuttal briefs that were submitted by parties in this investigation, are discussed in the Issues and Decision Memorandum. For a list of the issues raised by interested parties and addressed in the Issues and Decision Memorandum, see Appendix II to this notice.

Commerce conducted this investigation in accordance with section 701 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (the Act). For each of the subsidy programs found to be countervailable, Commerce determines that there is a subsidy, i.e., a financial contribution by an “authority” that gives rise to a benefit to the recipient, and that the subsidy is specific. 6 For a full description of the methodology underlying our final determination, see the Issues and Decision Memorandum.

In making this final determination, Commerce relied, in part, on facts otherwise available, including with an adverse inference, pursuant to sections 776(a) and (b) of the Act. For a full discussion of our application of adverse facts available, see the Preliminary Determination   7 and the Issues and Decision Memorandum at the section entitled “Use of Facts Otherwise Available and Application of Adverse Inferences.”

Commerce was unable to conduct on-site verification of the information relied on in making its final determination in this investigation. However, in June and July 2024, we took additional steps in lieu of on-site verification to verify the information relied upon in making this final determination, in accordance with section 782(i) of the Act, by conducting virtual verification of Shandong Changyu Glass Co., Ltd. (Shandong Changyu). 8 Yantai Prime Packaging Co., Ltd. (YPP) notified Commerce of its intent not to participate in a virtual verification. 9

Based on our review and analysis of the information received at verification, for this final determination, we made certain changes to the countervailable subsidy rate calculations for Shandong Changyu. For a discussion of these changes, see the Issues and Decision Memorandum.

Pursuant to sections 705(a)(2), 776(a), and 776(b) of the Act, and 19 CFR 351.206, Commerce finds that critical circumstances exist with respect to imports of wine bottles from China for Shandong Changyu, YPP, all other producers and/or exporters, and the non-responsive companies. For further information on Commerce's critical circumstances analysis, see the section “Final Critical Circumstances Determination” in the accompanying Issues and Decision Memorandum.

Pursuant to section 705(c)(5)(A)(i) of the Act, Commerce will determine an all-others rate equal to the weighted-average countervailable subsidy rates established for exporters and/or producers individually examined, excluding any rates that are zero, de minimis, or based entirely under section 776 of the Act. In this investigation, Commerce calculated an individual estimated countervailable subsidy rate for Shandong Changyu, the only individually-examined exporter/producer in this investigation for which Commerce is calculating an estimated countervailable subsidy rate. Because the only individually calculated rate is not zero, de minimis, or based entirely on facts otherwise available, the estimated countervailable subsidy rate calculated for Shandong Changyu is the rate assigned to all other producers and exporters, pursuant to section 705(c)(5)(A)(i) of the Act.

Commerce determines that the following estimated countervailable subsidy rates exist:

Commerce intends to disclose to interested parties the calculations performed in connection with this final determination within five days of its public announcement or, if there is no public announcement, within five days of the date of publication of this notice in the Federal Register , in accordance with 19 CFR 351.224(b).

As a result of our Preliminary Determination, and pursuant to sections 703(d)(1)(B) and (d)(2) of the Act, Commerce instructed U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to collect cash deposits and suspend liquidation of entries of subject merchandise as described in the scope of the investigation section entered, or withdrawn from warehouse, for consumption on or after June 3, 2024, the date of publication of the Preliminary Determination in the Federal Register . Because we preliminarily determined that critical circumstances existed with respect to Shandong Changyu, all other producers and/or exporters, and the non-responsive companies, we instructed CBP to suspend such entries on or after March 5, 2024, which is 90 days prior to the date of the publication of the Preliminary Determination in the Federal Register .

Pursuant to section 705(c)(1)(B)(ii) of the Act, and 19 CFR 351.210(d) where appropriate, Commerce will instruct CBP to require a cash deposit equal to the estimated individual countervailable subsidy rate or the estimated all-others rate, as indicated in the chart above, effective on the date of publication of this final determination.

If the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) issues a final affirmative injury determination, we will issue a countervailing duty order, and require a cash deposit of estimated countervailing duties for such entries of subject merchandise in the amounts indicated above, in accordance with section 706(a) of the Act. If the ITC determines that material injury, or threat of material injury, does not exist, this proceeding will be terminated, and all estimated duties deposited or securities posted as a result of the suspension of liquidation will be refunded or cancelled.

In accordance with section 705(d) of the Act, Commerce will notify the ITC of its final affirmative determination that countervailable subsidies are being provided to producers and exporters of wine bottles from China. As Commerce's final determination is affirmative, in accordance with section 705(b) of the Act, the ITC will determine, within 45 days, whether the domestic industry in the United States is materially injured, or threatened with material injury, by reason of imports of wine bottles from China. In addition, we are making available to the ITC all non-privileged and non-proprietary information in our files, provided the ITC confirms that it will not disclose such information, either publicly or under administrative protective order (APO), without the written consent of the Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance.

In the event that the ITC issues a final negative injury determination, this notice will serve as the only reminder to parties subject to the APO of their responsibility concerning the destruction of proprietary information disclosed under APO, in accordance with 19 CFR 351.305(a)(3). Timely written notification of the return/destruction of APO materials or conversion to judicial protective order is hereby requested. Failure to comply with the regulations and terms of an APO is a violation which is subject to sanction.

This determination is issued and published pursuant to sections 705(d) and 777(i) of the Act, and 19 CFR 351.210(c).

NOAA has long met its mission through collaboration and partnerships with the broader enterprise. In order to respond to an ever-growing supply and demand for environmental information, NOAA recognizes the need to increasingly harness the opportunities of a rapidly growing commercial sector to complement and potentially increase its current observational capabilities, as environmental data sources from the private sector are expanding.

The NOSC established a task team to develop Guidance for NOAA Commercial Data Buys, a framework document for NOAA programs and offices that describes considerations for NOAA's engagements with the commercial sector on commercial data buy opportunities from all sources that contribute to environmental intelligence. This guidance is essential to ensure data quality and technical requirements are met, mission and supply chain risks are mitigated, and current data sharing commitments with national partners, international partners, and downstream private sector entities are honored. Ensuring a consistent approach across NOAA in working with commercial data providers is also important to maintain the high fidelity of NOAA services and to clearly communicate NOAA's plans to industry.

NOAA seeks response to this guidance as feedback, with discussion on the following points,* to the extent feasible:

1. What does this guidance enable for you as a provider of commercial data or a user of commercial data? What opportunities does it introduce?

2. What challenges would this guidance introduce for you and why?

3. What do you feel NOAA is not considering?

* Note: Only comments in response to the above questions will be considered. NOAA is not soliciting comments or feedback on items of an editorial nature or NOAA processes.

Please note that this is an RFI only. In accordance with the implementing regulations of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA), specifically 5 CFR 1320.3(h)(4), this general solicitation is exempt from the PRA. Facts or opinions submitted in response to general solicitations of comments from the public, published in the Federal Register or other publications, regardless of the form or format thereof, provided that no person is required to supply specific information pertaining to the commenter, other than that necessary for self-identification, as a condition of the agency's full consideration, are not generally considered information collections and therefore not subject to the PRA.

The Hydrographic Services Improvement Act of 1998, as amended (HSIA; 33 U.S.C. 892 et seq. ), established the HSRP as a Federal Advisory Committee ( see 33 U.S.C. 892c) to advise the NOAA Administrator “on matters related to the responsibilities and authorities set forth in [33 U.S.C. 892a]” of the HSIA, “and such other appropriate matters as the Administrator refers to the [HSRP] for review and advice.”

The HSRP invites NOAA stakeholder feedback and welcomes public comments in advance of and during the upcoming HSRP public meeting on the use of NOAA's navigation, observations, and positioning data, science, products, and services for the National Ocean Service's Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services, National Geodetic Survey, and Office of Coast Survey, and the NOAA/University of New Hampshire Joint Hydrographic Center. Relevant public comments sent in advance of the HSRP public meeting will be shared with the HSRP members, posted on the meeting website, and included in the public record for the meeting. Individuals and groups may also submit public comments during the scheduled daily public comment periods during the meeting or through the webinar's “Questions” function. These public comments will be read into the record during public comment periods. As time allows, commenters may be invited to orally expand on their written comments during the meeting's public comment periods. Due to time constraints, all public comments may not be addressed orally during the meeting.

The HSRP members will focus on the issues relevant to NOAA's navigation, observations, and positioning services, and the value these services bring the nation, and invite suggestions from stakeholders and partners for improvements to these services. This suite of NOAA services supports safe and efficient navigation, the Blue Economy, resilient coasts and communities, and the nationwide positioning information infrastructure to support America's climate needs and commerce. Specifically, the HSRP will consider:

• National Ocean Service programs' recent activities, such as updates to the National Spatial Reference System, datums, national ocean and coastal mapping goals, hydrographic surveying, nautical charting, uncrewed systems, coastal remote sensing and bathymetric lidar, photogrammetry, positioning, sea level rise, and water levels in support of “seamless data.”

• The status of NOAA's navigation services in the context of recent legislation ( e.g., the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act).

• Measuring, monitoring, and mitigating flooding and sea level change and the contribution of NOAA's critical foundational geospatial data to projects.

• NOAA navigation data, products, and services that enable further economic growth and impact safe navigation.

• Other topics related to NOAA programs and activities, such as bathymetric and coastal/ocean modeling, tide and current observations, resilience and coastal data and information systems to support planning for climate change in ports and coastal communities, flooding/inundation, contributions to the Blue Economy, Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System (PORTS®) sensor enhancements and expansion, Precision Marine Navigation, the transition from raster paper charts to Electronic Navigational Charts, geodetic observations, gravity modeling, data stewardship, education and training to sustain the workforce necessary for NOAA navigation services missions, and scientific mapping and technology research projects tied to cooperative agreements between NOAA and other partners.

This public meeting is accessible to people with disabilities and there will be sign language interpretation and captioning services. Please direct requests for other auxiliary aids to hydroservices.panel@noaa.gov at least 10 business days in advance of the meeting.

Authority: 33 U.S.C. 892 et seq.

During this meeting, the SSC will review the most recent survey and fishery data and the previously recommended 2025 Acceptable Biological Catch (ABC) for Atlantic Mackerel and Spiny Dogfish. The SSC will provide feedback and direction on the Council's draft 2025-2029 research priorities document. The SSC will also receive an overview of recent and upcoming activities for the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP). The SSC will discuss research activities, science implications and fishery interactions associated with offshore wind development in the Mid-Atlantic. The SSC will also discuss outcomes from the July SSC meeting and the key takeaways from the 8th National Scientific Coordination Sub-Committee Workshop. The SSC may take up any other business as necessary.

A detailed agenda and background documents will be made available on the Council's website ( www.mafmc.org ) prior to the meeting.

The meeting is physically accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aid should be directed to Shelley Spedden, (302) 526-5251, at least 5 days prior to the meeting date.

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

The primary purpose of the webinar meeting is to prepare for the Pacific Council's September 2024 meeting agenda items, including, but not limited to, such topics as the annual salmon methodology review, Queets spring/summer Chinook rebuilding plan, and other items of interest on the Pacific Council agenda. The STT may also discuss future STT meetings and other salmon-related topics of pertinence.

Although non-emergency issues not contained in the meeting agenda may be discussed, those issues may not be the subject of formal action during this meeting. Action will be restricted to those issues specifically listed in this document and any issues arising after publication of this document that require emergency action under section 305(c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, provided the public has been notified of the intent to take final action to address the emergency.

Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids should be directed to Mr. Kris Kleinschmidt ( kris.kleinschmidt@noaa.gov; (503) 820-2412) at least 10 days prior to the meeting date.

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

The 153rd SSC meeting will be held between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time (HST) on September 11-12, and 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on September 13, 2024. The Fishery Rights of Indigenous People SC will be held between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. HST on September 20, 2024. The Executive and Budget SC meeting will be held between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. HST on September 20, 2024. The 200th Council meeting will be held between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. HST on September 23 and between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. HST on September 24 and 25, 2024. Public comment on Non-Agenda Items will be held between 4:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. HST on September 23, 2024.

Agenda items noted as “Final Action” refer to actions that may result in Council transmittal of a proposed fishery management plan, proposed plan amendment, or proposed regulations to the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, under Sections 304 or 305 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSA). In addition to the agenda items listed here, the Council and its advisory bodies will hear recommendations from Council advisors. An opportunity to submit public comment will be provided throughout the agendas. The order in which agenda items are addressed may change and will be announced in advance at the Council meeting. The meetings will run as late as necessary to complete scheduled business.

Background documents for the 200th Council meeting, will be available at www.wpcouncil.org. Written public comments on final action items at the 200th Council meeting should be received at the Council office by 5 p.m. HST, Thursday, September 19, 2024, and should be sent to Kitty M. Simonds, Executive Director; Western Pacific Fishery Management Council, 1164 Bishop Street, Suite 1400, Honolulu, HI 96813, phone: (808) 522-8220 or fax: (808) 522-8226; or email: info@wpcouncil.org. Written public comments on all other agenda items may be submitted for the record by email throughout the duration of the meeting. Instructions for providing oral public comments during the meeting will be posted on the Council website. This meeting will be recorded (audio only) for the purposes of generating the minutes of the meeting. As public comments will be made publicly available, participants and public commenters are urged not to provide personally identifiable information (PII) and/or business identifiable information (BII) at this meeting. Participation in the meeting by web conference, or by telephone, constitutes consent to the audio recording.

Non-emergency issues not contained in this agenda may come before the Council for discussion and formal Council action during its 200th meeting. However, Council action on regulatory issues will be restricted to those issues specifically listed in this document and any regulatory issue arising after publication of this document that requires emergency action under section 305(c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Act, provided the public has been notified of the Council's intent to take action to address the emergency.

These meetings are accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids should be directed to Kitty M. Simonds, (808) 522-8220 (voice) or (808) 522-8226 (fax), at least 5 days prior to the meeting date.

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

As required by section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, 5 U.S.C. appendix 2, notice is hereby given of a meeting of MAFAC. The MAFAC was established by the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) and, since 1971, advises the Secretary on all living marine resource matters that are the responsibility of the Department of Commerce. The charter, summaries of prior meetings, and MAFAC recommendations and reports are located online at https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/topic/partners/marine-fisheries-advisory-committee.

The meeting time and agenda are subject to change. The meeting is convened to hear presentations and discuss policies and guidance on the following topics: climate-ready fisheries and climate impacts to seafood businesses, industry, and communities in Alaska; climate science work in Alaska; equity and environmental justice; and recreational fisheries. MAFAC will also receive other NOAA Fisheries program updates and discuss various administrative and organizational matters.

The meeting will be held September 10-12, 2024. Conference call and webinar access information are available at: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/event/september-2024-marine-fisheries-advisory-committee-meeting. Daily start and end times are noted in the DATES section above.

This meeting is accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids should be directed to Katie Zanowicz, (301) 427-8038, by August 29, 2024.

The Groundfish Committee will meet to receive recommendations from the Recreational Advisory Panel, Groundfish Advisory Panel, and Groundfish Plan Development Team. They will also review Amendment 25 draft alternatives for incorporating new cod stock units into the fishery management plan and recommend preferred alternatives to the Council. The Committee will receive an update on development of draft alternatives, including potential recommendations to the Council regarding Framework Adjustment 69/Specifications and Management Measures as well as receive an update on development of the Atlantic Cod Management Transition Plan. They will make recommendations to the Council, as appropriate, and discuss other business, if necessary.

Although non-emergency issues not contained on the agenda may come before this Council for discussion, those issues may not be the subject of formal action during this meeting. Council action will be restricted to those issues specifically listed in this notice and any issues arising after publication of this notice that require emergency action under section 305(c) of the Magnuson-Stevens Act, provided the public has been notified of the Council's intent to take final action to address the emergency. The public also should be aware that the meeting will be recorded. Consistent with 16 U.S.C. 1852, a copy of the recording is available upon request.

This meeting is physically accessible to people with disabilities. Requests for sign language interpretation or other auxiliary aids should be directed to Cate O'Keefe, Executive Director, at (978) 465-0492, at least 5 days prior to the meeting date.

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.

In 2019, the USPTO published a report pursuant to a requirement of the Study of Underrepresented Classes Chasing Engineering and Science Success (SUCCESS) Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 115-273). The report contained a series of findings and recommendations, including a recommendation that the USPTO create a council to help develop a national strategy for promoting and increasing the participation of underrepresented groups as inventor-patentees, entrepreneurs, and innovation leaders. The Council (formerly known as the National Council for Expanding American Innovation) was established, and its work with the USPTO led to the publication of the National Strategy for Inclusive Innovation (Strategy). The Strategy is available at: www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/documents/NationalStrategy.pdf.

The following sections provide information about the Council, membership on the Council, and the Council's nomination process.

The Council's goal is to foster inclusive innovation and to encourage and support innovation from all inventors, entrepreneurs, creators, and others, including those who have traditionally been underrepresented in the innovation ecosystem. An inclusive innovation ecosystem ensures that America's full potential is unleashed, strengthening our economy and providing building blocks for future innovation.

Council members will individually advise the Secretary and the Director on furthering the Strategy to help ensure the advancement of innovation and intellectual property. This Strategy is based on a vision for the United States' leadership in innovation that will lift communities, grow the economy, create quality jobs, and address global challenges. This vision will be achieved by increasing participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and innovation, starting with our youth, and will unleash every American's ability to fully take part in the innovation economy.

Council members will also individually provide information and feedback on how the USPTO can work across government and with the private and academic sectors to promote more innovation for all—especially in key technology areas—and to bring more innovation to impact and adoption. Council members will provide their individual viewpoints concerning Council activities, and no consensus advice is sought.

Additional duties of the Council members include:

1. Attending all Council meetings, to the extent possible, including virtual attendance if necessary;

2. Providing individual feedback and information on furthering the Strategy and fostering the involvement of all inventor-patentees, entrepreneurs, and innovation leaders, including those who are underrepresented or lack access to the ecosystem, and on developing innovation in key technology areas;

3. Participating in their individual capacities, as necessary, or at the request of the Chair or Vice Chair, in public roundtable discussions convened by the USPTO, to gather public stakeholder comments and suggestions;

4. Individually assisting the USPTO in promoting national awareness of STEM fields and fostering opportunities for all, including underrepresented groups in these professions and as inventor-patentees, entrepreneurs, and innovation leaders;

5. Individually providing information to the Council on issues and developments that affect the inclusion of all in innovation, including underrepresented groups as inventor-patentees, entrepreneurs, and innovation leaders;

6. Individually identifying designees to serve on the Council Working Group; and

7. Communicating regularly, on an individual basis, with their designees to the Council Working Group to drive progress on action items.

More information about the Council is available at: www.uspto.gov/initiatives/equity/ci2.

The Council consists of up to 35 members, including the Chair and Vice Chair. The Secretary serves as Chair, and the Director serves as Vice Chair. Council members are comprised of representatives from (1) private industry, (2) nonprofit organizations, (3) academia, and (4) various Federal Government agencies and departments. The Chair may designate additional Council members who are heads of other Federal agencies to serve as Co-Vice Chairs. Council members will serve in a representative capacity, and members who are not already Federal employees will not be considered employees of the Federal Government for purposes of their participation on the Council.

The Council also includes a Council Working Group consisting of USPTO-approved designees of the Council members as well as additional members selected by the Vice Chair. Council Working Group members will provide individual input, and no consensus advice will be sought.

Council members generally will serve staggered three-year terms, except that any member appointed to fill a vacancy for an unexpired term will be appointed for the remainder of the predecessor's term. A member who serves less than half of the predecessor's term will serve an interim appointment. A member may serve up to 180 days after the expiration of that member's term if a successor has not been appointed. After 180 days, the member's term will be vacant until a successor is appointed. Council members may be reappointed for a second consecutive three-year term. Members who serve an interim appointment remain eligible to serve two consecutive three-year terms.

The Chair appoints members to the Council in consultation with the Vice Chair, consistent with Department of Commerce policy.

Meetings of the Council will be held at the call of the Chair. The location of Council meetings, including the decision to hold a virtual meeting, will be set by, and is at the discretion of, the Chair. The Council is expected to meet four times per year, but may meet more or less frequently, as determined by the Chair. The Council may participate in public roundtable discussions, convened by the USPTO, to gather information from stakeholders and the public. Council members who participate in the public roundtable discussions will do so in their individual capacities.

The USPTO will provide support services for the Council, including administrative support and meeting space.

Members of the Council serve without compensation.

The Chair, in consultation with the Vice Chair, is seeking to fill one or more member positions. The Chair, in consultation with the Vice Chair, will consider nominations of all qualified individuals to ensure that the Council includes the areas of experience noted above. Individuals may nominate themselves or other individuals. Professional associations and organizations may also nominate one or more qualified persons for Council membership. Nominations shall state that the nominee is willing to serve as a Council member and carry out the duties outlined above. All nominations should include the following information:

1. A letter of nomination stating the name, affiliation, and contact information of the nominee and the nominee's area(s) of interest and/or experience; and

2. The name of the nominator and the mailing address, email address, and daytime telephone number at which the nominator can be contacted.

All nomination information should be provided in a single email submission (see ADDRESSES above).

The Council aims to have a balanced representation among its members, considering such factors as geography, technical expertise, community involvement, and knowledge of programs and/or activities related to the Council. Individuals will be selected based on their interest and/or experience in or representation of specific areas as needed by the Council. The diverse membership of the Council assures perspectives reflecting the breadth of the Council's responsibilities.

Authority: The collection of information concerning nominations to the Council for Inclusive Innovation is authorized under 35 U.S.C. 2(a)(2) and 2(b)(11) and in accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, (Privacy Act) 5 U.S.C. 552a.

Purpose: The collection of names, contact information, and professional information is required in order for the Chair, in consultation with the and Vice Chair, to appoint members to the Council.

Routine Uses: The USPTO will use the nomination information for the purpose set forth above. The Privacy Act of 1974 authorizes disclosure of the information collected to Department and USPTO staff for work-related purposes and for other purposes only as set forth in the Privacy Act and for routine uses published in the Privacy Act System of Records Notice COMMERCE/DEPT-11, Candidates for Membership, Members, and Former Members of Department of Commerce Advisory Committees, available at https://www.commerce.gov/opog/privacy/SORN/SORN-DEPT-11.

Disclosure: Furnishing the nomination information is voluntary; however, if the information is not provided, the individual may not be considered for appointment to the Council.

This meeting is being held under the provisions of chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (U.S.C.) (commonly known as the “Federal Advisory Committee Act” or “FACA”), 5 U.S.C. 552b (commonly known as the “Government in the Sunshine Act”), and 41 CFR 102-3.140 and 102-3.150.

Purpose of the Meeting: The purpose of the meeting is to review and make recommendations to the Secretary of Defense concerning requirements established by the David L. Boren National Security Education Act, Title VII of Public Law 102-183, as amended.

Agenda: Thursday, September 12th, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. the NSEB will begin with opening comments from the Board Chair and ADFO followed by a briefing on recent NSEP accomplishments, to include updates regarding Project Global Officer, the Language Training Centers, the Language Flagship, and the National Language Service Corps. This will be followed with a Service Statistics and Federal Outreach Discussion, as well as a Hiring Official discussion panel from NSEP's four priority agencies. The meeting will continue with a panel discussion of recently returned Boren Scholars and Fellows, followed by working group discussion. General discussion and closing remarks by the Chair and the ADFO will adjourn the meeting.

Meeting Accessibility: Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552b and 41 CFR 102-3.140 through 102-3.165, and the availability of space, this meeting is open to the public, subject to the availability of space.

Special Accommodations: Individuals requiring special accommodations to access the public meeting should contact Ms. Alison Patz at alison.m.patz.civ@mail.mil (email) or (571) 329-3894 (voice) no later than Monday, September 2, 2023, so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Written Statements: This meeting is being held under the provisions of the FACA of 1972 (5 U.S.C., Appendix, as amended), the Government in the Sunshine Act of 1976 (5 U.S.C. 552b, as amended), and 41 CFR 102-3.140 and 102-3.150. Pursuant to 41 CFR 102-3.140 and sections 10(a)(3) of the FACA of 1972, the public or interested organizations may submit written statements to the DoD NSEB about its mission and functions. Written statements may be submitted at any time or in response to the stated agenda of the planned meeting. All written statements shall be submitted to the point of contact at the email address or phone number listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section, and this individual will ensure that the written statements are provided to the membership for their consideration. Statements being submitted in response to the agenda items mentioned in this notice must be received by the point of contact listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section at least five calendar days prior to the meeting that is the subject of this notice. Written statements received after this date may not be provided to or considered by the NSEB until its next meeting.

This 36(b)(5)(C) arms sales notification is published to fulfill the requirements of section 155 of Public Law 104-164 dated July 21, 1996. The following is a copy of a letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives with attached Transmittal 23-0C.

(i) Purchaser: Republic of Korea

(ii) Sec. 36(b)(1), AECA Transmittal No.: 18-35

Date: September 13, 2018

Military Department: Army

(iii) Description: On September 13, 2018, Congress was notified by Congressional certification transmittal number 18-35, of the possible sale, under Section 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Control Act, of sixty-four (64) Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) Missiles. Also included were two (2) PAC-MSE Test Missiles, range and test programs, publications and technical documentations, training equipment, spare parts, personnel training, U.S. Government and contractor technical, engineering, and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost was $501 million. Major Defense Equipment (MDE) constituted $365 million of this total.

This transmittal notifies the inclusion of the following additional MDE items: one-hundred sixteen (116) PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) missiles; and two (2) PAC-3 MSE test missiles. Also included are spare parts; U.S. Government and contractor technical, engineering, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total value of these additional items is $533 million. The total estimated MDE value will increase by $514 million, resulting in a new MDE total of $879 million. The total estimated case value will increase to $1.034 billion.

(iv) Significance: The proposed sale will improve the Republic of Korea's air and missile defense capability and ensure greater interoperability with other PAC-3 MSE missile users in the region.

(v) Justification: This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a Major Non-NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Pacific region.

(vi) Sensitivity of Technology: The Sensitivity of Technology statement contained in the original notification applies to items reported here.

The highest level of classification of defense articles, components, and services included in this potential sale is SECRET.

(vii) Date Report Delivered to Congress: December 22, 2022

This 36(b)(1) arms sales notification is published to fulfill the requirements of section 155 of Public Law 104-164 dated July 21, 1996. The following is a copy of a letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives with attached Transmittal 22-70, Policy Justification, and Sensitivity of Technology.

(i) Prospective Purchaser: Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO)

(ii) Total Estimated Value:

Funding Source: National Funds

(iii) Description and Quantity or Quantities of Articles or Services under Consideration for Purchase:

(iv) Military Department: Army (TW-B-ZDV)

(v) Prior Related Cases, if any: None

(vi) Sales Commission, Fee, etc., Paid, Offered, or Agreed to be Paid: None

(vii) Sensitivity of Technology Contained in the Defense Article or Defense Services Proposed to be Sold: See Attached Annex

(viii) Date Report Delivered to Congress: December 28, 2022

* As defined in Section 47(6) of the Arms Export Control Act.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) has requested to buy Volcano (vehicle-launched) anti-tank munition-laying systems; M977A4 HEMTT 10-Ton cargo trucks; M87A1 Anti-Tank (AT) munitions; M88 canister training munitions (practice dummy ammunition rounds); M89 training munitions (test ammunition rounds); organic U.S. Army Depot build of Volcano system permanently mounted on M977A4 HEMTT truck; logistics support packages to include spare parts, spare secondary assemblies, tool kits and test equipment; technical manuals; organic depot production, integration and testing; Operator and Maintenance Training; logistics and fielding support; USG technical assistance CONUS and OCONUS to include engineering services, program management, site surveys, facility, logistics and maintenance evaluations; quality assurance and de-processing team; field service representative(s); Repair and Return services; any transportation charges to execute the program; and related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated total cost is $180 million.

This proposed sale is consistent with U.S. law and policy as expressed in Public Law 96-8.

This proposed sale serves U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting the recipient's continuing efforts to modernize its armed forces and to maintain a credible defensive capability. The proposed sale will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance, and economic progress in the region.

The proposed sale will improve the recipient's capability to meet current and future threats by providing a credible force capable of deterring adversaries and participating in regional operations. The recipient will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractor(s) will be Northrup Grumman, West Falls Church, VA for production of munition canister mines; and Oshkosh Corporation, Oshkosh, WI for production of the M977A4 HEMTT vehicles. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require assignment of one (1) technical representative in country for an estimated two (2) years of support; and U.S. Government representatives and contractor personnel to travel OCONUS for a duration of up to five years to support equipment fielding/training and program management.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

(vii) Sensitivity of Technology:

1. The M139 Volcano System: a mass scatterable mine delivery system that delivers mines by helicopter or ground vehicle. It enables tactical commanders to emplace antitank/antipersonnel (AT/AP) or pure AT minefields with a minimum of personnel. A soldier-selectable, self-destruct mechanism destroys the mine at the end of its active lifecycle—4 hours to 15 days—depending on the time selected. Using a ground vehicle, a 1,000-meter minefield can be laid in 4 to 12 minutes based on terrain and vehicle speed. A helicopter can complete the mission in 20 seconds. Advantages of this system include faster response, increased lethality, greater efficiency, and enhanced safety.

a. The Volcano ground system is capable of holding up to 160 canisters and can be launched from both sides of the vehicle. Each canister contains six (6) mines.

b. With the Presidential Landmine Policy in place, AP mines cannot be exported. An AT only canister (M87A1) was developed to meet the policy decision. Therefore, the mine ratio went from five (5) AT mines/one (1) AP mine TO: six (6) AT mines/0 AP mines.

c. Volcano has no sensitive technological information or restricted information contained in the equipment, major components, subsystems, software, technical data (performance, maintenance, R&M, etc.) documentation, training devices and services to be conveyed with the proposed sale. There are no classified Volcano components (major components or subsystems), software, technical data, documentation, training devices or services to be conveyed with the proposed sale.

2. The highest level of classification of defense articles, components, and services included in this potential sale is UNCLASSIFIED.

3. If a technologically advanced adversary obtains knowledge of the specific hardware and software elements, the information could be used to develop countermeasures or equivalent systems that might reduce weapon system effectiveness or be used in the development of a system with similar or advanced capabilities.

4. A determination has been made that the recipient can provide substantially the same degree of protection for the sensitive technology being released as the U.S. Government. This sale is necessary in furtherance of the U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives outlines in the Policy Justification.

5. All defense articles and services listed in this transmittal have been authorized for release and export to the recipient.

This 36(b)(1) arms sales notification is published to fulfill the requirements of section 155 of Public Law 104-164 dated July 21, 1996. The following is a copy of a letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives with attached Transmittal 23-10, Policy Justification, and Sensitivity of Technology.

This 36(b)(1) arms sales notification is published to fulfill the requirements of section 155 of Public Law 104-164 dated July 21, 1996. The following is a copy of a letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives with attached Transmittal 23-03, Policy Justification, and Sensitivity of Technology.

(i) Prospective Purchaser: Government of Singapore

(ii) Total Estimated Value:

Funding Source: National Funds

(iii) Description and Quantities of Articles or Services under Consideration for Purchase:

(iv) Military Department: Air Force (SN-D-YAJ)

(v) Prior Related Cases, if any: SN-D-YAH

(vi) Sales Commission, Fee, etc., Paid, Offered, or Agreed to be Paid: None known at this time

(vii) Sensitivity of Technology Contained in the Defense Article or Defense Services Proposed to be Sold: See Attached Annex

(viii) Date Report Delivered to Congress: February 9, 2023

* As defined in Section 47(6) of the Arms Export Control Act.

The Government of Singapore has requested to buy one hundred (100) KMU-556 Tail Kits for Joint Direct-Attack Munition (JDAM) GBU-31; nine hundred (900) KMU-572 Tail Kits for JDAM GBU-38 and Laser JDAM GBU-54; two hundred fifty (250) MAU-169 Computer Control Group for 500lb Pave way-II (PWII) GBU-12; and two hundred fifty (250) MXU-650 Air Foil Group for 500lb PWII GBU-12. Also included are DSU-38 laser guidance sets; Common Munitions Built-In-Test/Reprogramming Equipment; spare parts, consumables, accessories, and repair and return support; aircraft and munitions support and support equipment; personnel training and training equipment; unclassified software; unclassified technical books and other publications; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services, studies and surveys; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated total cost is $55 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a strategic partner that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Asia.

The proposed sale will support the Republic of Singapore Air Force's capability to contribute to coalition operations and meet its national defense requirements. Singapore will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.

This proposed sale will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractor will be Raytheon Missile and Defense, Tucson, AZ. A portion of the defense articles is anticipated to come from U.S. Government stock. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Singapore.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

(vii) Sensitivity of Technology:

1. The Pave way II (PWII) is a maneuverable, free-fall Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) that guides to a spot of laser energy reflected off the target. The LGB is delivered like a normal general purpose (GP) warhead, and the semi-active laser guidance corrects many of the normal errors inherent in any delivery system. Laser designation can be provided by a variety of laser target markers or designators. An LGB consists of a non-warhead-specific MAU-209 or MAU-169 Computer Control Group (CCG) and a warhead-specific Air Foil Group (AFG) that attaches to the nose and tail of the GP bomb body.

The GBU-12 is a 500lb GP bomb body fitted with the MXU-650 AFG to guide it to laser-designated targets.

2. Joint Direct-Attack Munitions (JDAM) consist of a bomb body paired with a warhead-specific tail kit containing an Inertial Navigation System (INS)/Global Positioning System (GPS) guidance capability that converts unguided free-fall bombs into accurate, adverse weather “smart” munitions. The JDAM weapon can be delivered from modest standoff ranges at high or low altitudes against a variety of land and surface targets during the day or night. The JDAM is capable of receiving target coordinates via preplanned mission data from the delivery aircraft, by onboard aircraft sensors ( i.e., FLIR, radar, etc.) during captive carry, or from a third-party source via manual or automated aircrew cockpit entry.

a. The GBU-38 is a 500lb JDAM, consisting of a KMU-572 tail kit and BLU-111 or MK-82 bomb body.

b. The GBU-31 is a 2,000lb JDAM, consisting of a KMU-556 tail kit and BLU-109 or MK-84 bomb body.

c. The GBU-54 Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition (LJDAM) is a 500lb JDAM that incorporates all the capabilities of the JDAM guidance tail kit and adds a precision laser guidance set. The LJDAM gives the weapon system an optional semi-active laser guidance in addition to the INS/GPS guidance. This provides the optional capability to strike moving targets. The GBU-54 consists of a DSU-38 laser guidance set, KMU-572 tail kit, and MK-82 or BLU-111 bomb body.

3. The Common Munitions Built-In-Test (BIT)/Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE) is supporting equipment used to interface with weapon systems to initiate and report Built-in-Test (BIT) results and upload/download flight software. The CMBRE supports multiple munitions platforms with a range of applications that perform preflight checks, periodic maintenance checks, loading of Operational Flight Program data, loading of munitions mission planning data, loading of GPS cryptographic keys, and declassification of munitions memory.

4. The highest level of classification of defense articles, components, and services included in this potential sale is SECRET.

5. If a technologically advanced adversary were to obtain knowledge of the specific hardware and software elements, the information could be used to develop countermeasures that might reduce weapon system effectiveness or be used in the development of a system with similar or advanced capabilities.

6. A determination has been made that Singapore can provide substantially the same degree of protection for the sensitive technology being released as the U.S. Government. This sale is necessary in furtherance of the U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives outlined in the Policy Justification.

7. All defense articles and services listed in this transmittal have been authorized for release and export to the Government of Singapore.

This meeting is being held under the provisions of chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (U.S.C.) (commonly known as the “Federal Advisory Committee Act” or “FACA”) and 41 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 102-3.140 and 102-3.150.

Availability of Materials for the Meeting: Additional information, including the agenda or any updates to the agenda, is available on https://serdp-estcp.mil/about/programs?Id=b7ba8fa2-c6b0-4ae3-bdcd-50a3461ef4d9.

Purpose of the Meeting: The purpose of the meeting is for the SERDP SAB to make recommendations regarding technologies, research, projects, programs, activities, and, if appropriate, funding within the scope of SERDP FY 2025.

Agenda:

Monday, September 16, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—Welcome, Introductions, Statement of Need Overview and Proposals, Voting on FY 2025 Recommendations, and Public Comment.

Tuesday, September 17, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—Welcome, Statement of Need Overview and Proposals, Voting on FY 2025 Recommendations, and Public Comment.

Wednesday, September 18, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—Welcome, Statement of Need Overview and Proposals, Voting on FY 2025 Recommendations, and Public Comment.

Thursday, September 19, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—Welcome, Statement of Need Overview and Proposals, Voting on FY 2025 Recommendations, and Public Comment.

Meeting Accessibility: Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 1009(a) and 41 CFR 102-3.140 through 102-3.165, this meeting is open to the public. The meeting will be held in person and via videoconference. The in-person meeting will be held at the Hilton Arlington National Landing, 2399 Richmond Highway, Arlington, VA 22202. If you attend in person you are required to bring photo identification. If you wish to attend by videoconference you must register at this link: https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItcu-qqzwrHyg-GWas5t1G8Sb1itX9vk0 .

Once registered, the web address and audio number will be provided. For purposes of transparency and attendance reporting you will be required to use your actual first name and last name as your username and provide your affiliation.

Special Accommodations: Individuals requiring special accommodations to access the public meeting should contact Dr. Kimberly Spangler at 703-571-2477 (voice) no later than Wednesday, September 11, 2024 (by 5 p.m. EDT) so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

Written Statements: Pursuant to 41 CFR 102-3.140 and 5 U.S.C. 1009(a)(3), interested persons may submit a written statement to the SERDP SAB. Individuals submitting a statement must submit their statement no later than 5 p.m. EDT, Friday, September 13, 2024, to kimberly.y.spangler.civ@mail.mil (email) or to 703-571-2477 (voice). If a statement pertaining to a specific topic being discussed at the planned meeting is not received by Friday, September 13, 2024, prior to the meeting, then it may not be provided to, or considered by, the SERDP SAB during the September 16-19, 2024 meeting. The DFO, Dr. Kimberly Spangler, will review all timely submissions with the SERDP SAB Chair and ensure such submissions are provided to the members of the SERDP SAB before the meeting.

Public Comment Period: Just before the meeting adjourns the SERDP SAB Chair will ask those in the virtual meeting if there are any oral public comments. If there are, the chair will call on each person to speak. The individual will have up to 5 minutes to address the board. After oral comments, any comments submitted to the DFO will be read aloud.

This 36(b)(5)(C) arms sales notification is published to fulfill the requirements of section 155 of Public Law 104-164 dated July 21, 1996. The following is a copy of a letter to the Speaker of the House of Representatives with attached Transmittal 23-0A.

(i) Purchaser: Government of Spain

(ii) Sec. 36(b)(1), AECA Transmittal No.: 17-65

Date: April 4, 2018

Implementing Agency: Army

Funding Source: National Funds

(iii) Description: On April 4, 2018, Congress was notified by Congressional certification transmittal number 17-65, of the possible sale, under Section 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Control Act, of seventeen (17) CH-47F cargo helicopters with customer-unique modifications, twenty-one (21) Common Missile Warning System (CMWS) AN/AAR-57A(V)8, and forty-two (42) Embedded Global Positioning System (GPS) Inertial Navigation System (INS) (EGI). Also included were mission equipment, hardware and services required to implement customer-unique modifications, communication, Aircraft Survivability Equipment (ASE), and navigation equipment including AN/ARC-231 Multi-mode radios, AN/ARC-201D SINCGARS radios, AN/ARC-220 High Frequency (HF) Radio, Identification, Friend or Foe (IFF), AN/AAR-57A(V)8, and the Radar Signal Detecting Set (RSDS), AN/APR-39A(V)1, special tools and test equipment, ground support equipment, airframe and engine spare parts, technical data, publications, MWO/ECPs, technical assistance, transportation of aircraft and training, and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total case value was $1.3 billion. Major Defense Equipment (MDE) constituted $900 million of this total.

This transmittal notifies the addition of the following MDE items:

Also included are equipment and services to support the new CH-47F cargo helicopter, as well as support the upgrade/remanufacturing of the previously notified, seventeen (17) cargo helicopters from CH-47D to CH-47F configuration, to include: mission equipment, hardware and services required to implement customer-unique modifications; communications equipment: Aircraft Survivability Equipment (ASE) and navigation equipment including: AN/ARC-231 Multi-mode radios, AN/ARC-201D SINCGARS radios, AN/ARC-220 High Frequency (HF) radios, Identification Friend or Foe (IFF), AN/AAR-57A(V)8, and the Radar Signal Detecting Set (RSDS); AN/APR-39A(V)1; special tools and test equipment; ground support equipment; airframe and engine spare parts; technical data; publications; Modification Work Order/Engineering Change Proposals (MWO/ECP); technical assistance, transportation of aircraft and training; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total value of the new items is $91.3 million, but will not cause an increase in the total estimated program cost. The total estimated case value will remain $1.3 billion with MDE remaining $900 million of this total.

(iv) Significance: This notification is being provided as the additional MDE items were not enumerated in the original notification. The proposed sale will support Spain's capability to strengthen its homeland defense and deter regional threats. This additional aircraft will also enhance Spain's commitment and contribution to NATO in providing a Combat Aviation Brigade.

(v) Justification: This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally which is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist Spain in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.

(vi) Sensitivity of Technology: The statement contained in the original AECA 36(b)(1) transmittal applies to the MDE items reported here.

(vii) Date Report Delivered to Congress: January 25, 2023

Purpose of the Board: The purpose of the Board is to provide advice and recommendations concerning the following EM site-specific issues: clean-up activities and environmental restoration; waste and nuclear materials management and disposition; excess facilities; future land use and long-term stewardship. The Board may also be asked to provide advice and recommendations on any EM program components.

Tentative Agenda:

Public Participation: The meeting is open to the public. To register for in-person attendance, please send an email to srscitizensadvisoryboard@srs.gov no later than 4 p.m. EDT on Thursday, September 12, 2024. The EM SSAB, Savannah River Site, welcomes the attendance of the public at its advisory committee meetings and will make every effort to accommodate persons with physical disabilities or special needs. If you require special accommodations due to a disability, please contact James Tanner at least seven days in advance of the meeting at the telephone number listed above. Written statements may be filed with the Board via email either before or after the meeting. Individuals who wish to make oral statements pertaining to agenda items should submit their request to srscitizensadvisoryboard@srs.gov. Requests must be received five days prior to the meeting and reasonable provision will be made to include the presentation in the agenda. Comments will be accepted after the meeting, by no later than 4 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. Please submit comments to srscitizensadvisoryboard@srs.gov. The Deputy Designated Federal Officer is empowered to conduct the meeting in a fashion that will facilitate the orderly conduct of business. Individuals wishing to make oral public comments will be provided a maximum of five minutes to present their comments. Individuals wishing to submit written public comments should email them as directed above.

Minutes: Minutes will be available by emailing or calling James Tanner at the email address or telephone number listed above. Minutes will also be available at the following website: https://cab.srs.gov/srs-cab.html.

Signing Authority: This document of the Department of Energy was signed on August 19, 2024, by Alyssa Petit, Deputy Committee Management Officer, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the Federal Register .

Purpose of the Board: The purpose of the Board is to provide advice and recommendations concerning the following EM site-specific issues: clean-up activities and environmental restoration; waste and nuclear materials management and disposition; excess facilities; future land use and long-term stewardship. The Board may also be asked to provide advice and recommendations on any EM program components.

Public Participation: The in-person/online virtual hybrid meeting is open to the public in person or virtually, via WebEx. Written statements may be filed with the Board no later than 5 p.m. MDT on Friday, September 13, 2024, or within seven days after the meeting by sending them to the NNMCAB Executive Director at the aforementioned email address. Written public comments received prior to the meeting will be read into the record. The Deputy Designated Federal Officer is empowered to conduct the meeting in a fashion that will facilitate the orderly conduct of business. Individuals wishing to submit public comments should follow as directed above.

Minutes: Minutes will be available by emailing or calling Bridget Maestas, NNMCAB Executive Director, at bridget.maestas@em.doe.gov or at (505) 709-7466.

Signing Authority: This document of the Department of Energy was signed on August 19, 2024, by Alyssa Petit, Deputy Committee Management Officer, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the Federal Register .

Purpose of the Board: The purpose of the Board is to provide advice and recommendations concerning the following EM site-specific issues: clean-up activities and environmental restoration; waste and nuclear materials management and disposition; excess facilities; future land use and long-term stewardship. The Board may also be asked to provide advice and recommendations on any EM program components.

Tentative Agenda:

Public Participation: The meeting is open to the public. The EM SSAB, Portsmouth, will make every effort to accommodate persons with physical disabilities or special needs. If you require special accommodations due to a disability, please contact Greg Simonton in advance of the meeting at the telephone number listed above. The EM SSAB, Portsmouth will hear oral public comments during the meeting. Written statements may be filed either before or after the meeting. Written comments received no later than 5 p.m. EDT on Friday, September 13, 2024, will be read aloud during the meeting. Written comments submitted by 5 p.m. EDT on Friday, September 20, 2024, will be included in the minutes. Please submit written comments to Greg Simonton with “Public Comment” in the subject line. The Deputy Designated Federal Officer is empowered to conduct the meeting in a fashion that will facilitate the orderly conduct of business.

Minutes: Minutes will be available by writing or calling Greg Simonton, Federal Coordinator, U.S. Department of Energy, Portsmouth/Paducah Project Office, P.O. Box 700, Piketon, OH 45661, Email: greg.simonton@pppo.gov or by Phone: (740) 897-3737, Minutes will also be available at the following website: https://www.energy.gov/pppo/ports-ssab/listings/meeting-materials.

Signing Authority: This document of the Department of Energy was signed on August 19, 2024, by Alyssa Petit, Deputy Committee Management Officer, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the Federal Register .

Purpose of the Board: The purpose of the Board is to provide advice and recommendations concerning the following EM site-specific issues: clean-up activities and environmental restoration; waste and nuclear materials management and disposition; excess facilities; future land use and long-term stewardship. The Board may also be asked to provide advice and recommendations on any EM program components.

Tentative Agenda:

Public Participation: The meeting is open to the public. The EM SSAB, Paducah will make every effort to accommodate persons with physical disabilities or special needs. If you require special accommodations due to a disability, please contact Robert “Buz” Smith in advance of the meeting. The EM SSAB, Paducah will hear oral public comments during the meeting. Written statements may be filed either before or after the meeting. Written comments received no later than 5 p.m. CDT on Monday, September 16, 2024, will be read aloud during the meeting. Written comments submitted by 5 p.m. CDT on Thursday, September 26, 2024, will be included in the minutes. Please submit written comments to Robert “Buz” Smith with “Public Comment” in the subject line. The Deputy Designated Federal Officer is empowered to conduct the meeting in a fashion that will facilitate the orderly conduct of business.

Minutes: Minutes will be available by writing or calling Eric Roberts, Board Support Manager, Emerging Technology Center, Room 221, 4810 Alben Barkley Drive, Paducah, KY 42001; Phone: (270) 554-3004. Minutes will also be available at the following website: https://www.energy.gov/pppo/pgdp-cab/listings/meeting-materials.

Signing Authority: This document of the Department of Energy was signed on August 20, 2024, by David Borak, Committee Management Officer, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the Federal Register .

The United States Department of Energy (DOE) regulates electricity exports from the United States to foreign countries in accordance with section 202(e) of the Federal Power Act (FPA) (16 U.S.C. 824a(e)) and regulations thereunder (10 CFR 205.300 et seq. ). Sections 301(b) and 402(f) of the DOE Organization Act (42 U.S.C. 7151(b) and 7172(f)) transferred this regulatory authority, previously exercised by the now-defunct Federal Power Commission, to DOE.

Section 202(e) of the FPA provides that an entity which seeks to export electricity must obtain an order from DOE authorizing that export. (16 U.S.C. 824a(e)). On April 10, 2023, the authority to issue such orders was delegated to the DOE's Grid Deployment Office (GDO) by Delegation Order No. S1-DEL-S3-2023 and Redelegation Order No. S3-DEL-GD1-2023.

On October 13, 2023, AlbertaEx filed an application with DOE (Application or App.) for authorization to transmit electric energy to Canada for a ten-year term. App. at 1. The Applicant filed supplemental information on July 22, 2024 to include information regarding the issuance of market-based rate authority from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Id. at 3.

According to the Application, AlbertaEx is a power marketer and a wholly owned affiliate of BHE Canada Holdings Corporation, which is wholly owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy Corporation. Id. at 2. The Applicant states that it is “a limited partnership organized under the laws of Alberta, Canada, with its principal place of business in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and is currently authorized to operate in Montana.” Id.

Applicant states that it “does not have a power supply system on which its exports of power could have reliability, fuel use or system stability impact, nor does it have an obligation to serve any native load within a franchised service area.” Id at 6. Additionally, the Applicant represents that it “does not own or control electric generation facilities or transmission facilities.” Id. AlbertaEx further states that it “will purchase the power it plans to export voluntarily from electric utilities, wholesale generators, power marketers and other parties and thus such power will be surplus to the needs of the selling parties.” Id. AlbertaEx asserts that its exports will not impair or impede the sufficiency of the electric supply in the United States or the regional coordination of electric utility planning or operation. Id.

The existing international transmission facilities to be utilized by the Applicant have been previously authorized by Presidential permits issued pursuant to Executive Order 10485, as amended, and are appropriate for open access transmission by third parties. See id. at Attachment 2.

Procedural Matters: Any person desiring to be heard in this proceeding should file a comment or protest to the Application at Electricity.Exports@hq.doe.gov. Protests should be filed in accordance with Rule 211 of Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC's) Rules of Practice and Procedure (18 CFR 385.211). Any person desiring to become a party to this proceeding should file a motion to intervene at Electricity.Exports@hq.doe.gov in accordance with FERC Rule 214 (18 CFR 385.214).

Comments and other filings concerning AlbertaEx's Application should be clearly marked with GDO Docket No. EA-504. Additional copies are to be provided directly to mailto:uspower@mft-energy.com Amie V. Colby, Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders LLP, 401 9th Street NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004, amie.colby@troutman.com, and AlbertaEx, 255 5th Avenue SW, Suite 2675, Calgary, AB T2P 3G6, benjamin.lucky@bhe-canada.ca.

A final decision will be made on the requested authorization after the environmental impacts have been evaluated pursuant to DOE's National Environmental Policy Act Implementing Procedures (10 CFR part 1021) and after DOE evaluates whether the proposed action will have an adverse impact on the sufficiency of supply or reliability of the United States electric power supply system.

Copies of this Application will be made available, upon request, by accessing the program website at https://www.energy.gov/gdo/pending-applications or by emailing Electricity.Exports@hq.doe.gov.

Signing Authority: This document of the Department of Energy was signed on August 15, 2024, by Maria Robinson, Director, Grid Deployment Office, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the Federal Register .