[The Regulatory Plan and Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions]
[Department of Agriculture Semiannual Regulatory Agenda]
[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]


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Part III





Department of Agriculture





_______________________________________________________________________



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 62222]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                                       


  



_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Office of the Secretary

7 CFR Subtitle A, Chs. I-VII, IX-XII, XIV-XVIII, XXI, XXIV-XXIX

9 CFR Chs. I-IV

36 CFR Ch. II

41 CFR Ch. 4

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, October 1996

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and 
not-significant regulations being developed in agencies of the U.S. 
Department of Agriculture (USDA) in conformance with Executive Order 
12866 ``Regulatory Planning and Review.'' The agenda also describes 
regulations affecting small entities as required by section 602 of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act, Public Law 96-354.

    USDA has attempted to list all regulations and regulatory 
reviews pending at the time of publication except for minor and 
routine or repetitive actions, but some may have been inadvertently 
missed. There is no legal significance to the omission of an item 
from this listing. Also, the dates shown for the steps of each 
action are estimated and are not commitments to act on or by the 
date shown.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information on any 
specific entry shown in this agenda, please contact the person listed 
for that action. Requests for copies of the agenda should include a 
self-addressed, stamped envelope and be directed to: Regulatory Agenda, 
OBPA, Office of the Secretary, Room 118-E, Jamie Whitten Building, U.S. 
Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-1272.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: For this edition of USDA's regulatory 
agenda, the most important significant regulatory actions are included 
in The Regulatory Plan, which appears in Part II of this issue of the 
Federal Register. The Regulatory Plan entries are listed in the Table 
of Contents below and are denoted by a bracketed bold reference, which 
directs the reader to the appropriate Sequence Number in Part II.

Dated: September 27, 1996.

Marvin J. Shapiro,

Chief, Legislative, Regulatory, and Automated Systems Division.

                                  Agricultural Marketing Service--Prerule Stage                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
173         Dairy Grading and Inspection, Fee Increase............................................    0581-AB43 
174         Popcorn Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Order............................    0581-AB45 
175         Kiwifruit Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order.........................    0581-AB46 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
176         National Organic Program..............................................................    0581-AA40 
177         Federal Meat Grading and Certification Services--1997 User Fees.......................    0581-AB44 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Long-Term Actions                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
178         Revision of Regulations Governing the Inspection and Grading Services of Manufactured               
            or Processed Dairy Products...........................................................    0581-AA45 
179         Revision of Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act...................................    0581-AB41 
180         National Laboratory Accreditation Program.............................................    0581-AB42 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
181         Regulations Under the Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act.........................    0581-AB28 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 62223]]


                                    Farm Service Agency--Proposed Rule Stage                                    
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
182         National Average Loan Rates for 1996-Crop Quota and Additional Peanuts and Minimum                  
            Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) Export- Edible Sales Price for Additional Peanuts..    0560-AE43 
183         Implementation of Five-Year Direct Line of Credit Program.............................    0560-AE58 
184         Revision of Regulations Pertaining to Indian Tribes and Tribal Corporations...........    0560-AE91 
185         Amendments to the Tobacco Marketing Quota Regulations.................................    0560-AE96 
186         Boll Weevil Eradication Loan Program..................................................    0560-AE99 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                      Farm Service Agency--Final Rule Stage                                     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
187         Farmer Programs Guaranteed Interest Assistance Program................................    0560-AE01 
188         Insured and Guaranteed Operating and Farm Ownership Loan and Related Instructions To                
            Implement Sections 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, and 19 of the Agricultural Credit Improvement Act of              
            1992..................................................................................    0560-AE09 
189         Implement Sections 11 and 13 of the Agriculture Credit Improvement Act 1993                         
            (Application Processing Timeframe)....................................................    0560-AE14 
190         Permit CFSA To Sell or Assign Farm Loan Mortgages and Notes...........................    0560-AE35 
191         1996-Crop Peanuts National Poundage Quota.............................................    0560-AE45 
192         1996-Crop Marketing Quotas and Price Support Levels for Six Kinds of Tobacco..........    0560-AE46 
193         Collection of Shared Appreciation Agreements..........................................    0560-AE61 
194         Post-Bankruptcy Loan Servicing Notification...........................................    0560-AE62 
195         Consolidate FSA Farm Credit Programs Regulations--Miscellaneous Program Requirements..    0560-AE64 
196         Consolidate FSA Farm Credit Programs Direct Loan Servicing Regulations--Management and              
            Disposal of Acquired Property.........................................................    0560-AE65 
197         Consolidate FSA Farm Credit Program Direct Loan Servicing Regulations--Delinquent                   
            Account Restructuring and Liquidation.................................................    0560-AE66 
198         Consolidate FSA Farm Credit Programs Direct Loan Servicing Regulations--Management                  
            Advice, Tax Servicing, Collection and Security Servicing..............................    0560-AE67 
199         Eliminate Internal Agency Provisions From FSA Farm Credit Programs Regulations--                    
            Miscellaneous Program Requirements....................................................    0560-AE68 
200         Eliminate Internal Administrative Provisions From FSA Farm Credit Program Direct Loan               
            Regulations--Delinquent Account Servicing and Liquidation.............................    0560-AE70 
201         Consolidation of FSA Farm Credit Programs Direct Loanmaking Regulations...............    0560-AE74 
202         Elimination of Administrative Provisions From FSA Farm Credit Programs Guaranteed                   
            Loanmaking Regulations................................................................    0560-AE75 
203         Consolidation of FSA Farm Credit Programs Guaranteed Loanmaking Regulations...........    0560-AE76 
204         Elimination of Administrative Provisions From FSA Regulations Pertaining to Farm                    
            Credit Programs Loan Rates, Funding, and Loan Authorities.............................    0560-AE77 
205         Consolidation of FSA Farm Credit Programs Regulations Pertaining to Loan Rates,                     
            Funding, and Loan Authorities.........................................................    0560-AE78 
206         Elimination of Administrative Provisions From FSA Farm Credit Programs Environmental                
            Regulations...........................................................................    0560-AE79 
207         Consolidation of Farm Service Agency Environmental Programs Regulations...............    0560-AE80 
208         Amendment to the Peanut Poundage Quota Regulations....................................    0560-AE82 
209         Amendments to the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Regulations To Implement                       
            Provisions of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996..............    0560-AE84 
210         Revision to the Direct Loanmaking Regulations.........................................    0560-AE87 
211         Revision of the Inventory Property Management Regulations.............................    0560-AE88 
212         Revisions to the Delinquent Account Servicing Regulations.............................    0560-AE89 
213         Direct Line of Credit Program.........................................................    0560-AE90 
214         Subordination of Direct Loan Basic Security to Secure a Guaranteed Loan...............    0560-AE92 
215         Conservation Reserve Program--Long-Term Policy........................................    0560-AE95 
216         Dairy Indemnity Payment Program--FY 1997..............................................    0560-AE97 
217         Disaster Set-Aside Program............................................................    0560-AE98 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 62224]]


                                     Farm Service Agency--Long-Term Actions                                     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
218         Amendments to CCC Debt Settlement Regulations Regarding Waiver of Restriction on                    
            Program Eligibility and Collection of Judgments by Administrative Offset..............    0560-AD09 
219         Conservation Environmental Programs Regulations Regarding Water Quality Incentives                  
            Project, Cost Share Provisions of the Emergency Conservation Program, and Other                     
            Revisions.............................................................................    0560-AD16 
220         Program Ineligibility for Noncompliance With Boll Weevil Eradication Program..........    0560-AD57 
221         Sugar and Crystalline Fructose Information and Recordkeeping Requirements.............    0560-AD88 
222         Amendment to the Warehouse Regulations Regarding Auction Tobacco Warehouses...........    0560-AD92 
223         Amendment to the Tobacco Loan Program Regulations--Budget Deficit Marketing                         
            Assessments...........................................................................    0560-AD93 
224         Farmer Program Account Servicing Policies for Section 1816 and Other Related Sections               
            for the ``1990 FACT Act''.............................................................    0560-AE02 
225         Implement Section 1818 (Borrower Training) of the Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and              
            Trade Act of 1990 (FACT Act)..........................................................    0560-AE04 
226         Guaranteed Loan Programs; Monitoring Liquid Accounts..................................    0560-AE05 
227         Implementation of Certified Lender Program............................................    0560-AE07 
228         Loans to Indian Tribes and Tribal Corporations........................................    0560-AE10 
229         Section 14 of the Agricultural Credit Improvement Act of 1992, (Graduation) and                     
            Sections 1819 (Loan Assessment) and 1821 (Market Placement) of the Fact Act...........    0560-AE11 
230         The Agricultural Credit Improvement Act of 1992.......................................    0560-AE13 
231         Acquisition and Management of Real and Chattel Property...............................    0560-AE15 
232         Small Farmer Outreach Training and Technical Assistance Program.......................    0560-AE17 
233         Decision to Liquidate.................................................................    0560-AE19 
234         Disaster Assistance...................................................................    0560-AE22 
235         Revisions to the Direct Farm Ownership Loan Regulation (1943-A) Outreach Program for                
            Members of Socially Disadvantaged Groups..............................................    0560-AE23 
236         Socially Disadvantaged Outreach Program...............................................    0560-AE24 
237         Part 1946 Mediation; Subpart A Agricultural Loan Mediation Program....................    0560-AE26 
238         Amendment to Conservation Program Appeal Regulations Regarding Jurisdiction...........    0560-AE30 
239         Selection and Functions of Farm Service Agency State and County Committees............    0560-AE33 
240         Implementation Procedures for Highly Erodible Land and Wetlands Conservation                        
            Provisions of the Food Security Act...................................................    0560-AE38 
241         Amendments to the Farmer Account Servicing Policies...................................    0560-AE42 
242         Amendments to the Standards for Approval of Warehouse for Commodity Credit Corporation              
            Storage Contracts.....................................................................    0560-AE50 
243         Deletion of FSA Regulations Regarding Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program...    0560-AE54 
244         Amendment to the Conservation Reserve Program Regarding Early Contract Terminations...    0560-AE56 
245         Amendments to the Regulations for Cotton Warehouses Under the United States Warehouse               
            Act--Electronic Block Warehouse Receipts, Insurance Requirements and Other Provisions.    0560-AE60 
246         Eliminate Internal Administrative Provisions From FSA Farm Credit Program Regulations--             
            Management and Disposal of Acquired Property..........................................    0560-AE69 
247         Eliminate Internal Administrative Provisions From FSA Farm Credit Programs Direct Loan              
            Servicing Regulations.................................................................    0560-AE71 
248         Elimination of Administrative Provisions From FSA Farm Credit Program Direct                        
            Loanmaking Regulations................................................................    0560-AE73 
249         Amendments to the Noninsured Crop Protection Program..................................    0560-AE85 
250         Suspension of the Emergency Livestock Assistance Regulations for Crop Years 1996 to                 
            2002..................................................................................    0560-AE86 
251         Handling Payments from the Farm Service Agency to Delinquent Farm Credit Program                    
            Borrowers.............................................................................    0560-AE93 
252         Sugar Loan Program Crop Year Definition...............................................    0560-AE94 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Farm Service Agency--Completed Actions                                     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
253         Excessive Manufacturing (Make) Allowances in State Marketing Orders for Milk..........    0560-AC23 
254         Amendment to the Highly Erodible Land and Wetlands Conservation Program Regulations--               
            Person Determinations.................................................................    0560-AC86 
255         Amendments to the Wetlands Regulations Regarding Abandoned Acreage and Drainage by                  
            Drainage Districts....................................................................    0560-AC92 
256         Amendment to the Acreage Conservation Reserve and the Conserving Use Acreage                        
            Regulations for Producers Affected by Excessive Rainfall and Flooding.................    0560-AD50 
257         Regulations for Conservation Compliance Crop Acreage Base (CAB) Adjustments...........    0560-AD80 
258         Amendment to the Emergency Livestock Assistance Regulations Regarding Feed Allowance                
            and Approval of Counties for Assistance...............................................    0560-AD84 

[[Page 62225]]

                                                                                                                
259         Farm Facility Loan Program Regulations................................................    0560-AD85 
260         Common Provisions for 1995 Wheat, Feed Grain, Cotton, and Rice Programs...............    0560-AD86 
261         Amendments to the Payment Limitation Regulations for 1995.............................    0560-AD89 
262         Measure-All Pilot Project.............................................................    0560-AD98 
263         Federal Crop Insurance Reform and Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994    0560-AE25 
264         Extension of Maturing 1994 and Subsequent Crop Year Wheat and Feed Grain Price Support              
            Loans.................................................................................    0560-AE28 
265         Technical Corrections to Wheat, Feed Grain, Cotton, and Rice Program Regulations......    0560-AE29 
266         End-Use Certificate Program--Providing Notification of Origin to Buyers...............    0560-AE37 
267         1996 Upland Cotton Program............................................................    0560-AE40 
268         Amendment to the Tobacco Regulations Regarding Nested Tobacco.........................    0560-AE41 
269         1996-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Burley Tobacco..................    0560-AE47 
270         1996-Crop Marketing Quotas and Price Support Level for Flue-Cured Tobacco.............    0560-AE48 
271         Upland Cotton User Marketing Certificate Program......................................    0560-AE51 
272         Terms for the Collection of 1995 Advance Deficiency Overpayments......................    0560-AE53 
273         1996 Rice Price Support Program.......................................................    0560-AE55 
274         Dairy Indemnity Payment Program.......................................................    0560-AE57 
275         1996 Specifications for Cotton Bale Packaging Materials...............................    0560-AE59 
276         Deletion of Duplicate Rice and Cotton Regulations.....................................    0560-AE63 
277         Deletion of Obsolete Farm Service Agency Regulations Pertaining to the Former Farmers               
            Home Administration's Programs........................................................    0560-AE72 
278         Implementation of the Farm Program Provisions of the 1996 Farm Bill...................    0560-AE81 
279         Deletion of Wetlands Reserve Program Regulations......................................    0560-AE83 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                            Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Prerule Stage                           
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280         Importation and Release Into the Environment of Nonindigenous Organisms...............    0579-AA80 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage                        
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
281         Imported Seed and Screenings..........................................................    0579-AA64 
282         Definition of ``Biological Products'' and ``Guidelines''..............................    0579-AA65 
283         User Fees, Veterinary Diagnostics.....................................................    0579-AA70 
284         Phytosanitary Export Certification; Accreditation of Seed-Testing Laboratories........    0579-AA75 
285         Animal Welfare--Standards for Animal Auctions.........................................    0579-AA76 
286         Humane Treatment of Dogs and Cats; Licensing and Consignment Requirements.............    0579-AA79 
287         User Fees--Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection Services............................    0579-AA81 
288         Importation of Logs, Lumber, and Other Unmanufactured Wood Articles...................    0579-AA82 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage                          
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
289         Addition of Cervidae to the Regulations Concerning Tuberculosis in Livestock..........    0579-AA53 
290         Animal Welfare--Standards for Marine Mammals..........................................    0579-AA59 
291         In Vitro Tests for Serial Release.....................................................    0579-AA66 
292         Importation of Animals and Animal Products............................................    0579-AA71 
293         Genetically Engineered Organisms; Simplification of Requirements and Procedures.......    0579-AA73 
294         Humane Treatment of Dogs and Cats; Tethering and Temperature Requirements.............    0579-AA74 

[[Page 62226]]

                                                                                                                
295         Humane Treatment of Dogs and Cats; Wire Flooring......................................    0579-AA78 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions                         
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
296         Importation of Fruits and Vegetables..................................................    0579-AA58 
297         Importation of Certain Embryos and Animal Semen.......................................    0579-AA63 
298         HSTAIC Repair and Maintenance Fees....................................................    0579-AA69 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions                         
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
299         Exotic Newcastle Disease in All Birds and Poultry; Psittacosis and Ornithosis in                    
            Poultry...............................................................................    0579-AA22 
300         Chicken Disease Caused by Salmonella Enteritidis......................................    0579-AA48 
301         Import/Export User Fees...............................................................    0579-AA67 
302         User Fees--Commercial Aircraft and Vessels; Phytosanitary Certificates................    0579-AA68 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Proposed Rule Stage               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
303         Higher Education Multicultural Scholars Program; Administrative Provisions............    0524-AA09 
304         Agricultural Telecommunications Program Administrative Provisions.....................    0524-AA12 
305         The National Aquaculture Plan.........................................................    0524-AA16 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                 Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Final Rule Stage                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
306         Higher Education Challenge Grants Program; Administrative Provisions..................    0524-AA02 
307         1890 Institution Capacity Building Grants Program; Administrative Provisions..........    0524-AA03 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                 Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Completed Actions                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
308         Small Business Innovation Research Program Administrative Provisions..................    0524-AA08 
309         Administrative Manual for Federal Excess Personal Property Loaned to State Cooperative              
            Research Activities...................................................................    0524-AA13 
310         Personal Property.....................................................................    0524-AA14 
311         Rangeland Research Grants Program; Administrative Provisions..........................    0524-AA15 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 62227]]


                         Rural Housing and Community Development Service--Prerule Stage                         
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
312         Farm Labor Housing....................................................................    0575-AC03 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                      Rural Housing and Community Development Service--Proposed Rule Stage                      
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
313         Community Programs Guaranteed Loans...................................................    0575-AB48 
314         Security Servicing for Multiple-Family Housing Loans..................................    0575-AB73 
315         FmHA Instruction 1942-A, ``Community Facility Loans''.................................    0575-AC05 
316         National Flood Insurance Regulations..................................................    0575-AC07 
317         Accessibility of Existing Multi-Family Housing Complexes..............................    0575-AC08 
318         Management and Supervision of Multiple Family Housing Borrowers and Grant Recipients..    0575-AC09 
319         Community Facility Grants.............................................................    0575-AC10 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        Rural Housing and Community Development Service--Final Rule Stage                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
320         Denying Credit to Applicants Delinquent on Any Federal Debt...........................    0575-AA66 
321         Housing Preservation Grants for Replacement of Housing................................    0575-AB43 
322         Environmental Program.................................................................    0575-AB64 
323         Community Facility Loans: Internal Revenue Service Taxpayers Identification Number....    0575-AB77 
324         Rural Rental and Rural Cooperative Housing Loan Policies, Procedures, and                           
            Authorizations--Point Score System To Prioritize Rural Rental Housing Loans...........    0575-AB93 
325         Reengineering and Reinvention of the Direct Section 502 and 504 Single Family Housing               
            Program...............................................................................    0575-AB99 
326         Servicing Cases Where Unauthorized Loan or Other Financial Assistance Was Received--                
            Multiple Family Housing...............................................................    0575-AC02 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       Rural Housing and Community Development Service--Long-Term Actions                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
327         Civil Rights Compliance Requirements--1901-E to 1940-D................................    0575-AA83 
328         Offsets of Federal Payments to Agency Borrowers.......................................    0575-AB55 
329         Planning and Performing Construction and Other Development and Related Construction                 
            Seismic Safety........................................................................    0575-AB59 
330         Section 515 Nonprofit Set-Aside Funds.................................................    0575-AB60 
331         Environmental Program Streamline Environmental Process................................    0575-AB98 
332         Provide Information Regarding Lease Write-Off and Annual Lease Statements.............    0575-AC01 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       Rural Housing and Community Development Service--Completed Actions                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
333         Recapture of Section 502, Rural Housing Subsidy.......................................    0575-AA29 
334         Section 502 Rural Housing Loan Policies, Procedures, and Authorizations (Deferred                   
            Mortgage Program).....................................................................    0575-AA87 
335         Housing for Rural Homeless and Migrant Farmworkers; Policies, Procedures, and                       
            Authorizations........................................................................    0575-AB14 
336         Disposition of Interests in Indian Trust Land.........................................    0575-AB17 
337         Debt Settlement.......................................................................    0575-AB80 
338         Require All Single-Family Housing Borrowers and Nonprogram Borrowers Who Have                       
            Purchased Single-Family Residence To Pay One-Time Tax Service Fee.....................    0575-AC00 

[[Page 62228]]

                                                                                                                
339         Davis-Bacon and Related Acts..........................................................    0575-AC06 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Proposed Rule Stage                            
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
340         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Peanut Crop Insurance Provisions...................    0563-AA85 
341         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Onion Crop Insurance Provisions....................    0563-AA87 
342         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Northern Potato Crop Insurance Provisions..........    0563-AA89 
343         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Sugarbeet Crop Insurance Provisions................    0563-AA93 
344         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Canning and Processing Tomato Crop Insurance                     
            Provisions............................................................................    0563-AA94 
345         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Fresh Market Tomato (Guaranteed Production) Crop                 
            Insurance Provisions..................................................................    0563-AA95 
346         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Dry Bean Crop Insurance Provisions.................    0563-AB02 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Final Rule Stage                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
347         Group Risk Plan Crop Insurance Provisions; Part 407...................................    0563-AB06 
348         General Administrative Regulations; Subpart N; Disaster Assistance Act of 1988........    0563-AB20 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Long-Term Actions                             
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
349         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Tobacco (Guaranteed Plan) Crop Insurance Provisions    0563-AA84 
350         General Administrative Regulations; High Risk Land Regulations........................    0563-AA98 
351         General Administrative Regulations; Subpart D; Application for Crop Insurance.........    0563-AB00 
352         General Administrative Regulations; Subpart U; Ineligible File - Crop Insurance                     
            Ineligibility.........................................................................    0563-AB01 
353         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Rice, Fig, Almond, Raisin, Forage Production,                    
            Hybrid Sorghum Seed, Pear, Apple, Canning and Processing Sweet Corn, Dollar Plan Fresh              
            Market Tomato,........................................................................    0563-AB03 
354         General Administrative Regulations; Nonstandard Classification System; Subpart O......    0563-AB05 
355         General Administrative Regulations; Subpart S; Regulations for Insurance Coverage by                
            Written Agreement.....................................................................    0563-AB07 
356         General Administrative Regulations; Subpart V; Supplemental and Alternative Crop                    
            Insurance Policy Approval Process.....................................................    0563-AB15 
357         General Administrative Regulations; Subpart J; Appeal Procedure Regulations...........    0563-AB17 
358         General Administrative Regulations; Federal Jurisdiction and Statute of Limitation for              
            Suits Based Upon Denial of Claims for Indemnity.......................................    0563-AB21 
359         General Administrative Regulations; Actual Production History Coverage Program;                     
            Transitional Yields for Producers of Feed or Forage...................................    0563-AB23 
360         General Administrative Regulations: Subpart Q: Collection and Storage of Social                     
            Security Account Numbers and Employer Identification Numbers..........................    0563-AB26 
361         1996 Crop Year Plantain and Banana Insurance Program and Banana Crop Intensive                      
            Cultivation Insurance Program for Puerto Rico.........................................    0563-AB30 
362         1996 Crop Year Coffee Crop Insurance Program for Puerto Rico..........................    0563-AB33 
363         1996 Crop Year Coffee Plantation Insurance Program for Puerto Rico....................    0563-AB34 
364         1996 Crop Year Fruit Crop (Avocado, Oranges, Mango, Citron, Lemon, Papaya, Passion)                 
            Insurance Program for Puerto Rico.....................................................    0563-AB35 
365         1996 Crop Year Fruit Trees (Avocado, Oranges, Mango, Citron, Lemon) Insurance Program               
            for Puerto Rico.......................................................................    0563-AB36 
366         1996 Crop Year Sugarcane Insurance Program for Puerto Rico............................    0563-AB40 
367         1996 Crop Year Vegetable Insurance Program for Puerto Rico............................    0563-AB41 
368         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Sunflower Seed Crop Insurance Provisions...........    0563-AB42 
369         General Administrative Regulations; Reinsurance Agreement Standards for Approval......    0563-AB44 

[[Page 62229]]

                                                                                                                
370         Tobacco, Quota Plan Crop Insurance Regulations........................................    0563-AB47 
371         Popcorn Corn Insurance Regulations....................................................    0563-AB48 
372         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Texas Citrus Tree Crop Insurance Provisions........    0563-AB50 
373         Common Crop Insurance Regulations: Florida Citrus Fruit Crop Insurance Provisions.....    0563-AB51 
374         Common Crop Insurance Regulations--ELS Cotton Crop Insurance Provisions--Unit                       
            Divisions and Cancellation and Termination Dates......................................    0563-AB52 
375         Common Crop Insurance Regulations--Cotton.............................................    0563-AB53 
376         Common Crop Insurance Regulations--Sugar Beet.........................................    0563-AB55 
377         Catastrophic Risk Protection Program..................................................    0563-AB57 
378         Catastrophic Risk Protection Endorsement..............................................    0563-AB58 
379         Federal Crop Insurance on Highly Erodible Land and Wetlands--Part 400.................    0563-AB59 
380         Federal Crop Insurance on Highly Erodible Land and Wetlands--Part 401.................    0563-AB60 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Completed Actions                             
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
381         Catastrophic Risk Protection Endorsement; Part 402....................................    0563-AB09 
382         General Administrative Regulations: Subpart T; Federal Crop Insurance Reform Act of                 
            1994; Regulations for Implementation..................................................    0563-AB11 
383         Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program, Part 404.................................    0563-AB13 
384         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Small Grains (Including Malting Barley), Cotton,                 
            ELS Cotton, and Coarse Grains Crop Insurance Provisions...............................    0563-AB24 
385         Common Crop Insurance Regulations--Texas Citrus Fruit.................................    0563-AB56 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Proposed Rule Stage                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
386         Weighing Regulations Review...........................................................    0580-AA49 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                    Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Final Rule Stage                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
387         Fees for Commodity Inspection.........................................................    0580-AA48 
388         Clear Title - Protection for Purchasers of Farm Products..............................    0580-AA50 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                   Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Completed Actions                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
389         Fees for Official Inspection and Weighing Service.....................................    0580-AA40 
390         Regulations and Statements of General Policy Under the Packers and Stockyards Act                   
            (Group 2).............................................................................    0580-AA44 
391         Regulations and Statements of General Policy Under the Packers and Stockyards Act                   
            (Group 3).............................................................................    0580-AA45 
392         Statement of General Policy Under the Packers and Stockyards Act: Care and Handling of              
            Livestock.............................................................................    0580-AA46 
393         Fees for Rice Inspection..............................................................    0580-AA47 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 62230]]


                                    Food and Consumer Service--Prerule Stage                                    
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
394         Notice of New Privacy Act System of Records--Food Stamp Retailer Information..........    0584-AC19 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Food and Consumer Service--Proposed Rule Stage                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
395         Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): Food                      
            Delivery Systems (Reg Plan Seq. No. 1)................................................    0584-AA80 
396         Food Stamp Program: Emergency Assistance for Victims of Disasters.....................    0584-AA85 
397         Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): Miscellaneous              
            Provisions............................................................................    0584-AB10 
398         Food Distribution Programs--Paperwork Reduction.......................................    0584-AB27 
399         Food Distribution Programs--Implementation of 1990 Farm Bill..........................    0584-AB28 
400         Commodity Supplemental Food Program: Elderly-Only Sites, Administrative Funding,                    
            Referrals to Health and Social Services, Caseload Allocation Process, Priority System,              
            and Miscellaneous.....................................................................    0584-AB37 
401         Food Stamp Program: 1995 Quality Control Technical Amendments.........................    0584-AB38 
402         Provisions of Computer Matching and Privacy Protection Act of 1988, Amendments of                   
            1990, and Implementation of the Disqualified Recipient Subsystem......................    0584-AB51 
403         Food Stamp Program: Anticipating Income and Reporting Changes.........................    0584-AB57 
404         Child and Adult Care Food Program: Elimination of Whole Cow's Milk From the Infant                  
            Meal Pattern..........................................................................    0584-AB81 
405         Food Stamp Program: Food Stamp Recipient Claim Establishment and Collection Standards               
            (Reg Plan Seq. No. 2).................................................................    0584-AB88 
406         Food Stamp Program: Revisions in Retail Food Store Eligibility Criteria and in                      
            Eligibility Guidance and Program Authorization (Reg Plan Seq. No. 3)..................    0584-AB90 
407         Food Stamp Program: Retailer Application Processing...................................    0584-AC05 
408         Summer Food Service Program: Program Meal Service During the School Year..............    0584-AC06 
409         Amendment To Remove Formulated Grain--Fruit Product Section...........................    0584-AC09 
410         Consolidation of National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program Into                    
            Comprehensive School Meal Program.....................................................    0584-AC10 
411         FSP: Retailer Delinquent Debt Collection: Offsetting Federal Income Tax Refund........    0584-AC11 
412         Modification of the ``Vegetable Protein Products'' Portion of Appendix A of 7 CFR                   
            Parts 210, 225, and 226...............................................................    0584-AC18 
413         Release of Free and Reduced Price School Meal Eligibility Information.................    0584-AC21 
414         Food Stamp Program: Regulatory Review/Program Management..............................    0584-AC22 
415         Child and Adult Care Food Program Initiative..........................................    0584-AC24 
416         Determining Eligibility for Free & Reduced Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools:                    
            Provision 2 and Provision 3...........................................................    0584-AC25 
417         FSP: Electronic Benefits Transfer Card Specifications.................................    0584-AC27 
418         Food Stamp Program Regulatory Review: Certification of Eligible Households............    0584-AC28 
419         WIC: Minor WIC Food Package Adjustments and Corrections...............................    0584-AC29 
420         WIC: Bloodwork Requirements...........................................................    0584-AC30 
421         Part 240, Cash In Lieu of Donated Foods and Part 250, Food Distribution Regulations...    0584-AC31 
422         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):                      
            Accommodation of Cultural Food Preferences in the WIC Program.........................    0584-AC32 
423         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): Infant                
            Formula Cost Containment Requirements.................................................    0584-AC33 
424         Nutrition Education and Training Program Requirements.................................    0584-AC34 
425         Revision of the Regulations Governing the Determination of Eligibility for Free and                 
            Reduced Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools..........................................    0584-AC36 
426         Food Stamp Program Regulatory Review: FSP Standards for Approval and Operation of Food              
            Stamp Electronic Benefit Transfer Systems.............................................    0584-AC37 
427         National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program: Additional Menu Planning                
            Alternatives..........................................................................    0584-AC38 
428         FSP: Personal Responsibility Provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work                     
            Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Reg Plan Seq. No. 4)..........................    0584-AC39 
429         FSP: State Flexibility and Certification Provisions of Public Law 104-193 (Reg Plan                 
            Seq. No. 5)...........................................................................    0584-AC40 
430         Food Stamp Program: Simplified Food Stamp Program Provisions of the Personal                        
            Responsibility & Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996..........................    0584-AC43 
431         Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work                
            Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996................................................    0584-AC44 

[[Page 62231]]

                                                                                                                
432         Food Stamp Program: Work Provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work                         
            Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Reg Plan Seq. No. 6)..........................    0584-AC45 
433         Food Stamp Program: Retailer Integrity, Fraud Reduction and Penalties.................   0584-AC46  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in Part II of this issue of the Federal Register.          


                                   Food and Consumer Service--Final Rule Stage                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
434         Child and Adult Care Food Program: Authority To Collect Overclaims....................    0584-AB19 
435         Permanent Agreements/Direct Certification in National School Lunch, School Breakfast,               
            and Special Milk Programs.............................................................    0584-AB35 
436         Food Distribution Programs--Disaster Provisions.......................................    0584-AB55 
437         Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations--Oklahoma Waiver Authority...........    0584-AB56 
438         Food Stamp Program: Payment of Certain Administrative Costs of State Agencies.........    0584-AB66 
439         Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations: Definition of Indian Tribal                       
            Household.............................................................................    0584-AB67 
440         Food Stamp Program: Quality Control Provisions of the Mickey Leland Childhood Hunger                
            Relief Act............................................................................    0584-AB75 
441         Food Stamp Program: Revisions in Use and Disclosure of Information Provided by Retail               
            Food Stores and Wholesale Food Concerns...............................................    0584-AB87 
442         School Nutrition Programs: Technical and Nondiscretionary Amendments..................    0584-AC01 
443         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC):                       
            Implementation of WIC Mandates of the Healthy Meals for Healthy Americans Act of 1994.    0584-AC02 
444         Child and Adult Care Food Program: Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 1989              
            and Other Amendments..................................................................    0584-AC07 
445         Food Stamp Program Regulatory Review: Alaska, Puerto Rico, Commonwealth of the                      
            Northern Mariana Islands, and Demonstration Projects..................................    0584-AC14 
446         Crediting of Yogurt in the School Meals Programs......................................    0584-AC15 
447         Child and Adult Care Food Program: Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act                      
            Amendments and Healthy Meals for Healthy Americans Act of 1994........................    0584-AC20 
448         SFSP Implementation of Healthy Meals for Healthy Americans Act of 1994................    0584-AC23 
449         FSP: Nondiscretionary Provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity                
            Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Reg Plan Seq. No. 7)......................................    0584-AC41 
450         Improved Targeting of Day Care Home Reimbursements in the Child and Adult Care Food                 
            Program (Reg Plan Seq. No. 8).........................................................    0584-AC42 
451         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC):                       
            Disqualification of WIC Vendors Who Are Disqualified From the Food Stamp Program......    0584-AC50 
452         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC):                       
            Implementation of WIC-Related Provisions of Pub. L. 104-193, the Personal                           
            Responsibility and Work Opportunity...................................................    0584-AC51 
453         Implementation of Legislative Changes in the Child and Adult Care Food Program........   0584-AC52  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in Part II of this issue of the Federal Register.          


                                  Food and Consumer Service--Long-Term Actions                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
454         Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): Food Cost                  
            Containment Requirements..............................................................    0584-AB11 
455         Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC): Infant                     
            Formula Procurement Act of 1992.......................................................    0584-AB52 
456         Food Stamp Program: Utility Reimbursement Exclusion...................................    0584-AB79 
457         NSLP/SBP/SMP/FDP/CACFP/SFSP/WIC: Nonprocurement Debarment.............................    0584-AC26 
458         Food Distribution Program: Regulatory Implementation of Personal Responsibility and                 
            Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, (P.L. 104-193, 110 Stat. 210)............    0584-AC49 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 62232]]


                                  Food and Consumer Service--Completed Actions                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
459         Miscellaneous Farm Bill Provisions Relating to the Authorization of Retail Firms and                
            Wholesale Food Concerns...............................................................    0584-AB02 
460         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): Part                 
            246.10, Food Package III, Participants With Certain Medical Conditions................    0584-AB09 
461         Determination of Eligibility for Free Meals by Summer Food Service Program Sponsors                 
            and Free and Reduced Price Meals by Child and Adult Care Food Program Institutions....    0584-AB17 
462         National School Lunch Program: Review of Free and Reduced Price Application Under the               
            Coordinated Review Effort.............................................................    0584-AB50 
463         Food Stamp Program: Child Support Deduction...........................................    0584-AB58 
464         Food Stamp Program: Excess Shelter Expense Limit and Standard Utility Allowances......    0584-AB59 
465         Food Stamp Program: Simplification of Program Rules...................................    0584-AB60 
466         FSP: Targeting for Income and Eligibility Verification................................    0584-AB74 
467         Food Stamp Program: Certification Provisions of the Mickey Leland Childhood Hunger                  
            Relief Act............................................................................    0584-AB76 
468         National School Lunch, Special Milk, School Breakfast, Child and Adult Care Food and                
            Summer Food Service Programs: Purchase of Food Products Produced in the U.S...........    0584-AB82 
469         Treatment of Educational and Training Assistance......................................    0584-AB84 
470         Food Stamp Program Automated Data Processing Equipment and Services; Reduction in                   
            Reporting Requirements................................................................    0584-AB92 
471         Monthly Reporting on Indian Reservations Provision of Food Stamp Program Improvements               
            Act of 1994...........................................................................    0584-AB98 
472         Removal of the ``Cheese Alternate Products'' Requirements From the National School                  
            Lunch Program.........................................................................    0584-AC04 
473         Failure To Comply With Federal, State, or Local Work Program Requirements.............    0584-AC08 
474         Availability of Information and Records to the Public.................................    0584-AC13 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Food Safety and Inspection Service--Prerule Stage                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
475         Meat and Poultry Standards of Identity and Composition................................    0583-AC01 
476         Transportation and Storage Requirements for Potentially Hazardous Foods...............    0583-AC05 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage                            
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
477         Food Standards: Requirements for Processed Meat and Poultry Products Named by Use of                
            an Expressed Nutrient Content Claim and a Standardized Term...........................    0583-AB51 
478         Use of Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) on Raw, Unchilled Poultry Carcasses..................    0583-AB80 
479         Nutrition Labeling; New Product Categories and Reference Amounts......................    0583-AB81 
480         Continuous Chilling of Split Turkey Portions..........................................    0583-AB95 
481         Glycerine Used as a Humectant in Shelf Stable Meat Snacks.............................    0583-AC00 
482         Use of Sorbitol in Cooked Roast Beef Products.........................................    0583-AC02 
483         Elimination of Prior Approval Requirements for Egg and Egg Products Establishment                   
            Drawings and Specifications...........................................................    0583-AC06 
484         Grant and Inauguration of Inspection..................................................    0583-AC07 
485         Beef or Pork With Barbecue Sauce; Revision of Standards...............................    0583-AC09 
486         Use of Corn Syrup, Corn Syrup Solids as Flavoring Agents in Sausage Products..........    0583-AC10 
487         Use of Sodium Diacetate and Sodium Acetate as Flavoring Agents in Meat and Poultry                  
            Products..............................................................................    0583-AC11 
488         Procedural Due Process for Official Establishments....................................    0583-AC12 
489         Use of Liquid Nitrogen for Contact Freezing Meat and Meat Products....................    0583-AC14 
490         Nutrition Labeling; Reference Daily Intakes...........................................    0583-AC15 
491         Use of Two Kinds of Poultry Without Label Change......................................    0583-AC17 
492         Performance Standards for the Production of Certain Meat and Poultry Products With                  
            Established Standards of Identity.....................................................    0583-AC18 
493         Performance Standards for the Thermal Processing of Meat and Poultry Products.........    0583-AC19 
494         Performance Standards for the Irradiation of Poultry to Control Foodborne Pathogens...    0583-AC20 
495         Performance Standards for the Handling, Chilling, and Freezing of Poultry.............    0583-AC21 
496         Prevention of Physical or Chemical Contamination of Meat and Poultry Products or                    
            Product Ingredients...................................................................    0583-AC22 

[[Page 62233]]

                                                                                                                
497         Labeling of Egg Products..............................................................    0583-AC23 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
498         Requirements for Foreign Country Import Certification and Live Animal Importation.....    0583-AA47 
499         Substances Approved for Use in the Preparation of Meat Food and Poultry Products......    0583-AB02 
500         Nutrition Labeling: Health Claims on Meat and Poultry Products........................    0583-AB64 
501         Elimination of Prior Approval Requirements for Establishment Drawings and                           
            Specifications, Facilities Equipment, and Certain Partial Quality Control Programs                  
            (Reg Plan Seq. No. 9).................................................................    0583-AB93 
502         Performance Standards for Certain Meat Products and Poultry Products (Reg Plan Seq.                 
            No. 10)...............................................................................    0583-AB94 
503         Net Weight Statement for Shingle-Packed Bacon.........................................    0583-AC08 
504         Fee Increase for Inspection Services..................................................    0583-AC13 
505         Use of a Blend of Carageenan, Locust Bean Gum, and Xanthan Gum as a Binder Matrix in                
            Water-Added Hams......................................................................   0583-AC16  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in Part II of this issue of the Federal Register.          


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions                             
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
506         Nutrition Labeling of Ground Beef and Hamburger.......................................    0583-AB74 
507         Use of Soy Protein Concentrate and Food Starch--Modified as Binders in Cured Pork                   
            Products..............................................................................    0583-AB82 
508         FSIS Agenda for Change: Regulatory Review; Food Standards.............................    0583-AB89 
509         Refrigeration and Labeling Requirements for Shell Eggs................................    0583-AC04 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions                             
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
510         Use of Trisodium Phosphate on Raw, Chilled Poultry Carcasses..........................    0583-AB65 
511         Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems........    0583-AB69 
512         Sodium Citrate Buffered with Citric Acid Used as an Antimicrobial Agent in Cured and                
            Noncured Meat and Poultry Products....................................................    0583-AB97 
513         Labeling of Sausages Made With Natural Casings........................................    0583-AB98 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Foreign Agricultural Service--Prerule Stage                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
514         Export Sales Reporting Requirement....................................................    0551-AA51 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Foreign Agricultural Service--Proposed Rule Stage                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
515         Dairy Tariff Rate Import Quota Licensing..............................................    0551-AA27 
516         Sugar Import Licensing................................................................    0551-AA39 

[[Page 62234]]

                                                                                                                
517         Regulation Governing the Financing of Commercial Sales of Agricultural Commodities (PL              
            480, Title I).........................................................................    0551-AA42 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Foreign Agricultural Service--Final Rule Stage                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
518         Regulations Governing Implementation of the Market Access Program (MAP) Overseas......    0551-AA24 
519         CCC Export Credit Guarantee Program (GSM-102) and CCC Intermediate Export Credit                    
            Guarantee Program (GSM-103)...........................................................    0551-AA30 
520         Facility Guarantee Program............................................................    0551-AA35 
521         Export Sales Reporting Requirements...................................................    0551-AA44 
522         Export Bonus Programs CCC Export Credit Guarantee Programs............................    0551-AA50 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Foreign Agricultural Service--Long-Term Actions                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
523         Proposed Regulations Governing Implementation of the Cooperator Market Development                  
            Program Overseas......................................................................    0551-AA26 
524         Foreign Donation of Agricultural Commodities..........................................    0551-AA38 
525         Reform of Export Bonus Program........................................................    0551-AA41 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Foreign Agricultural Service--Completed Actions                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
526         Program Criteria for the Sunflowerseed Oil Assistance Program (SOAP) and the                        
            Cottonseed Oil Assistance Program (COAP)..............................................    0551-AA31 
527         Reporting Requirements Related to Tobacco Exports.....................................    0551-AA32 
528         Sunflowerseed Oil Assistance Program Operations (SOAP) and Cottonseed Oil Assistance                
            Program Operations (COAP).............................................................    0551-AA33 
529         Regulations Governing the Financing of Commercial Sales of Agricultural Commodities                 
            (P.L. 480, Title I)...................................................................    0551-AA43 
530         Limitation on Imports of Meat.........................................................    0551-AA45 
531         Section 22 Import Fees................................................................    0551-AA46 
532         Reentry of Cotton Into the United States..............................................    0551-AA48 
533         Calculation of Market Stabilization Price.............................................    0551-AA49 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                       Forest Service--Proposed Rule Stage                                      
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
534         National Forest Prohibitions..........................................................    0596-AA75 
535         Small Tracts Act Regulations..........................................................    0596-AA79 
536         Isolated Cabin Policy.................................................................    0596-AA85 
537         Timber Sale Performance and Payment Bond Form Revision................................    0596-AA94 
538         Disposal of National Forest Timber; Cancellation of Timber Sale Contracts.............    0596-AB21 
539         Species Surplus to Domestic Manufacturing Needs.......................................    0596-AB27 
540         Retention of Downpayment on Timber Sale Contracts.....................................    0596-AB28 
541         National Forest System Land and Resource Management Planning Forest Service Manual                  
            Chapter 1920..........................................................................    0596-AB31 
542         Collection of Reimbursable Costs for Processing Special-Use Applications and                        
            Administration of Special-Use Authorizations..........................................    0596-AB36 
543         Sale and Disposal of National Forest Timber; Indices To Determine Market-Related                    
            Contract Term Additions...............................................................    0596-AB41 

[[Page 62235]]

                                                                                                                
544         Appeal of Decisions Relating to Occupancy and Use of National Forest System Lands.....    0596-AB45 
545         Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Extension of Timber Sale Contracts              
            To Permit Urgent Removal of Other Timber..............................................    0596-AB48 
546         Disposal of National Forest Timber: Timber Sale Contract Revisions....................    0596-AB52 
547         National Environmental Policy Act; Revised Policy and Procedures......................    0596-AB54 
548         36 CFR 223 Subpart C-Suspension and Debarment of Timber Purchasers....................    0596-AB55 
549         Preference for Visitor Service; Alaska National Forest Conservation System Units......    0596-AB57 
550         Fee Schedule for Communication Facilities Authorized to Use and Occupy National Forest              
            System Lands in Regions 8, 9, and 10..................................................    0596-AB60 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                        Forest Service--Final Rule Stage                                        
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
551         Hydropower Applications...............................................................    0596-AA47 
552         Indian Allotments on National Forest System Lands.....................................    0596-AA52 
553         National Forest System Land and Resource Management Planning (Reg Plan Seq. No. 11)...    0596-AB20 
554         State and Private Forestry Assistance Stewardship Incentive Program...................    0596-AB32 
555         Special-Use Applications and Administration of Special-Use Authorizations.............    0596-AB35 
556         Ski Area Permit Fee System............................................................    0596-AB49 
557         Subsistence Management Regulations for Public Lands in Alaska.........................    0596-AB56 
558         Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Modification of Timber Sale Contracts in                 
            Extraordinary Conditions..............................................................    0596-AB58 
559         Appeal of Decisions Relating to Occupancy and Use of National Forest System Lands;                  
            Mediation of Grazing Permit Disputes..................................................   0596-AB59  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in Part II of this issue of the Federal Register.          


                                        Forest Service--Long-Term Actions                                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
560         Law Enforcement Support Activities....................................................    0596-AB61 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                        Forest Service--Completed Actions                                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
561         Management of Grazing Use Within Rangeland Ecosystems.................................    0596-AA35 
562         Solid Waste Disposal Policy...........................................................    0596-AA92 
563         Timber Sale Contracts; Appraisal Procedures for Determining Fair Market Value.........    0596-AB26 
564         Use of Fixed Anchors for Rock Climbing in Wilderness..................................    0596-AB33 
565         Smith River National Recreation Area..................................................    0596-AB39 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Office of Chief Financial Officer--Long-Term Actions                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
566         Audits of State, Local, and Indian Tribal Governments.................................    0505-AA09 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 62236]]


                                    Office of the Secretary--Final Rule Stage                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
567         Nondiscrimination in USDA Conducted Programs and Activities...........................    0503-AA15 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Office of the Secretary--Long-Term Actions                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
568         Supplemental Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Department of                        
            Agriculture...........................................................................    0503-AA05 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Office of the Secretary--Completed Actions                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
569         Grants and Agreements With Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals and Other Non-               
            Profit Organizations..................................................................    0503-AA10 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Prerule Stage                               
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
570         Rural Cooperative Development Grants..................................................    0570-AA20 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Proposed Rule Stage                            
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
571         Rural Business Opportunity Grants.....................................................    0570-AA05 
572         Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program.....................................    0570-AA19 
573         National Sheep Industry Improvement Center............................................    0570-AA21 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Final Rule Stage                              
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
574         Rural Business Enterprise Grants and Television Demonstration Grants..................    0570-AA08 
575         Rural Business Loan Streamlining (Reg Plan Seq. No. 12)...............................    0570-AA09 
576         Intermediary Relending Program Rewrite................................................   0570-AA15  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in Part II of this issue of the Federal Register.          


                              Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Long-Term Actions                             
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
577         Direct Business and Loan Program......................................................    0570-AA22 
578         Rural Business and Industrial Loan Program............................................    0570-AA23 
579         Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plan...............................................    0570-AA24 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 62237]]


                                  Rural Utilities Service--Proposed Rule Stage                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
580         Electric System Planning and Design--Policies and Procedures..........................    0572-AA48 
581         Electric Standards and Specifications for Materials and Construction..................    0572-AA67 
582         Post-Loan Policies and Procedures Common to Insured and Guaranteed Electric Loans.....    0572-AA71 
583         Electric Systems Operations and Maintenance...........................................    0572-AA74 
584         RUS Fidelity and Insurance Requirements for Electric and Telecommunications Borrowers.    0572-AA86 
585         Use of General Funds Investments, Loan Guarantees, and Retirement of Capital Credits                
            by Electric Borrowers.................................................................    0572-AB01 
586         Streamlining the Rural Utilities Service's Water and Waste Program Regulations........    0572-AB20 
587         Establish Water and Waste Disposal Regulations Within the Rural Utilities Service.....    0572-AB21 
588         Distance Learning and Telemedicine Pre-and Post-Loan Regulations (Loan Program).......    0572-AB28 
589         Rural Development Grants to States....................................................    0572-AB29 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Rural Utilities Service--Final Rule Stage                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
590         Loan Account Computations, Policies, and Procedures...................................    0572-AA65 
591         Long-Range Financial Forecasts of Electric Borrowers..................................    0572-AA89 
592         RUS Policies and Procedures for Mergers and Consolidations of Electric Borrowers......    0572-AB24 
593         Rural Electrification Act ``Buy American''Provision...................................    0572-AB25 
594         Settlement of Debt Owed By Electric Borrowers.........................................    0572-AB26 
595         RUS Privatization Demonstration Prepayment Program for the State of Alaska............    0572-AB27 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Rural Utilities Service--Long-Term Actions                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
596         Loan Security Documents--Telecommunications Program...................................    0572-AA30 
597         Wholesale Contracts for the Purchase and Sale of Electric Power and Energy............    0572-AA41 
598         Margin Stabilization Plans and Revenue and Expense Deferrals..........................    0572-AA50 
599         Civil Rights Policies Applicable to RUS Borrowers.....................................    0572-AA75 
600         Loan Documents--Bank Program..........................................................    0572-AA76 
601         Depreciation Rates and Procedures.....................................................    0572-AA80 
602         Preservation of Records Accounting Requirements for RUS Electric Borrowers............    0572-AA92 
603         RUS Approval of Sale of Capital Assets by Electric Borrowers..........................    0572-AB02 
604         Loan Deferments for Energy Resources Conservation - Electric Program..................    0572-AB03 
605         Power Requirement Studies.............................................................    0572-AB05 
606         Community Facility Loans - Timber-Dependent Communities...............................    0572-AB11 
607         Liquidation of Loans and Acquisition, Management and Disposal of Security Property....    0572-AB13 
608         Solid Waste Management Grants.........................................................    0572-AB14 
609         Technical Assistance and Training Grants..............................................    0572-AB15 
610         Water and Waste Loan and Grant Servicing..............................................    0572-AB23 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Rural Utilities Service--Completed Actions                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
611         Accounting Requirements for RUS Telecommunications Borrowers..........................    0572-AB10 
612         Use of Consultants Funded by Borrowers................................................    0572-AB17 
613         Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program......................................    0572-AB22 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 62238]]


                          National Resources Conservation Service--Proposed Rule Stage                          
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
614         Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQUIP) Established in the Federal Agriculture              
            Improvement of Reform Act of 1996.....................................................    0578-AA19 
615         Conservation Farm Option (CFO)........................................................    0578-AA20 
616         Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP)............................................    0578-AA21 
617         7 CFR Part 610 Technical Assistance...................................................    0578-AA22 
618         Conservation of Private Grazing Land (CPGL)...........................................    0578-AA23 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                           National Resources Conservation Service--Long-Term Actions                           
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
619         Highly Erodible Land and Wetland Conservation.........................................    0578-AA17 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                           National Resources Conservation Service--Completed Actions                           
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
620         Wetlands Reserve Program..............................................................    0578-AA16 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Office of Operations--Proposed Rule Stage                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
621         Agriculture Acquisition Regulation....................................................    0599-AA00 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Office of Operations--Final Rule Stage                                     
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
622         New Restrictions on Lobbying..........................................................    0599-AA03 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




173.  DAIRY GRADING AND INSPECTION, FEE INCREASE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1621 to 1627

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 58

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would revise the regulations to increase the fees 
charged users of the service. The increased fees are necessary to 
recover the cost of dairy Standards activities. Federal employees pay 
costs, maintaining adequate levels of service during changing 
production and purchasing patterns, and other operating costs for 
inspection and grading services. The program is voluntary, with all 
costs covered by user fees.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: F. Tracy Schonrock, Chief, Dairy Grading Branch, Dairy 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 
USDA, AMS, DA, P.O. Box 96456, Room 2750-So., Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-3171
Fax: 202 720-2643

RIN: 0581-AB43

[[Page 62239]]

_______________________________________________________________________




174.  POPCORN PROMOTION, RESEARCH AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 7481-7491

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1215

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: A proposal was submitted to the Department of Agriculture for 
a Popcorn Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Order. Under 
the proposal, the processor would pay an assessment not to exceed 5 
cents per hundredweight. The assessments would be used to conduct a 
generic program to maintain and expand markets for popcorn.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/30/96                    61 FR 51046
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/29/96
NPRM                            02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Martha B. Ransom, Chief, Research and Promotion Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA, AMS, 
F&V/R&P Branch, P.O. Box 96456, Room 2535-So. Bldg., Washington, DC 
20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-9915
Fax: 202 205-2800

RIN: 0581-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________




175.  KIWIFRUIT RESEARCH, PROMOTION, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION 
ORDER

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 7461 to 7473

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1214

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Two proposals were submitted to the Department of Agriculture 
for a Kiwifruit Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order. 
Under the proposals, producers and importers would pay an assessment 
not to exceed 10 cents per 7-pound tray of kiwifruit. The assessments 
would be used to conduct a general program to maintain, expand, and 
develop markets for kiwifruit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/02/96                    61 FR 51378
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/02/96
NPRM                            02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Martha B. Ransom, Chief, Research and Promotion Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA, AMS/
F&V Division-R&P Branch, P.O. Box 96456, Room 2535-So. Bldg., 
Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-9915
Fax: 202 205-2800

RIN: 0581-AB46
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




176. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  PL 101-624, sec 2101 to 2123; 7 USC 6501 to 6522

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory, May 28, 1992. Final, Statutory, 
October 1, 1993. Other, Statutory, May 28, 1991.
The Organic Foods Production Act calls for the Secretary to appoint the 
National Organic Standards Board 180 days after enactment and convene 
it within 60 days thereafter.

Abstract: The Organic Foods Production Act of 1990 (OFPA) states that 
the Secretary shall establish an organic certification program for 
producers and handlers of agricultural products that have been produced 
using organic methods. The OFPA provides for three proposed actions by 
the Department of Agriculture: (a) the accreditation of State and 
private certifying agents for the Secretary, which includes provision 
for the collection of reasonable fees from producers, certifying 
agents, and handlers who participate in the program; (b) the 
establishment of a national list of natural substances prohibited, and 
synthetic substances allowed in organic production and handling; and 
(c) the development of national standards and procedures to be used in 
organic production, processing and handling, with the requirement that 
any product labeled as organically produced will have to be certified 
once the program is implemented (except for producers with less than 
$5,000 gross sales). The OFPA also calls for establishment of a 
National Organic Standards Board (NOSB), notices of meetings, and 
notices of hearings for standards for livestock products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Organic Livestock Hearings      12/30/93                    58 FR 69315
Notice - Procedure to Submit 
Names of Substances for National 
List                            03/27/95                    60 FR 15744
NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Harold S. Ricker, Program Leader/National Organic 
Program, Transportation and Marketing Division, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 2947 South Building, 
P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-3252

RIN: 0581-AA40
_______________________________________________________________________




177.  FEDERAL MEAT GRADING AND CERTIFICATION SERVICES--1997 USER 
FEES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1621

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 54

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to raise the fees for Federal 
meat grading and certification services to ensure the program operates 
on a financially self-supporting basis. The fee increase is in response 
to a variable, geographic-region, congressionally- mandated, 
government-wide salary increase that was effective January 22,

[[Page 62240]]

1995, January 7, 1996, and an anticipated Congressionally-mandated 
salary increase of an unknown amount that will be effective January 5, 
1997. The unit cost for providing Federal meat grading and 
certification services is expected to remain at approximately $.0006 
per pound.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected:  None

Agency Contact: Larry R. Meadows, Chief, Meat Grading and Certification 
Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 
USDA, AMS, LS, MGC, P.O. Box 96456, Room 2628-South, Washington, DC 
20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-0343
Fax: 202 690-4119

RIN: 0581-AB44
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




178. REVISION OF REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE INSPECTION AND GRADING 
SERVICES OF MANUFACTURED OR PROCESSED DAIRY PRODUCTS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 58

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/10/92                    57 FR 35492
NPRM Comment Period End         10/09/92


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tracy Schonrock
Phone: 202 690-0530

RIN: 0581-AA45
_______________________________________________________________________




179. REVISION OF PERISHABLE AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 46

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: J. R. Frazier
Phone: 202 720-4180

RIN: 0581-AB41
_______________________________________________________________________




180. NATIONAL LABORATORY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/20/92                    57 FR 54727
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/19/93


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: I-Pin Ho
Phone: 202 205-4993
Fax: 202 720-6496

RIN: 0581-AB42
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




181. REGULATIONS UNDER THE PERISHABLE AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 46

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/27/96                    61 FR 13385
Final Action Effective          04/26/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James Frazier
Phone: 202 720-4180

RIN: 0581-AB28
BILLING CODE 3410-02-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




182. NATIONAL AVERAGE LOAN RATES FOR 1996-CROP QUOTA AND ADDITIONAL 
PEANUTS AND MINIMUM COMMODITY CREDIT CORPORATION (CCC) EXPORT- EDIBLE 
SALES PRICE FOR ADDITIONAL PEANUTS

Priority:  Economically Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1445c-3

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1446

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, February 15, 1996.
For price support levels only.

Abstract: This action is needed to implement the peanut price support 
program, as required by statute. The price support levels provide a 
domestic price floor for quota and additional peanuts. The price 
support level for quota peanuts is set by statutory formula at 610 per 
ton for the 1996 through 2002 crops of peanuts. The support level for 
additional peanuts must be set at a level that ensures that CCC incurs 
no losses from the price support program. The minimum export-edible 
sales price is set at the Secretary's discretion, and has been set at 
$400 per ton for each of the previous 8 years. The Peanut Program, 
which

[[Page 62241]]

also includes the poundage quota program is required by law to operate 
at no net cost to the Government.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE43
_______________________________________________________________________




183. IMPLEMENTATION OF FIVE-YEAR DIRECT LINE OF CREDIT PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1941 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1941, subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement a five-year direct line of credit 
program. A direct line of credit will allow applicants to be eligible 
to continue to receive advances for up to five years without submitting 
subsequent applications. Savings in administrative costs will offset 
slightly higher loan costs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE58
_______________________________________________________________________




184.  REVISION OF REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO INDIAN TRIBES AND 
TRIBAL CORPORATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 31 USC 3711; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1823; 7 CFR 1942-F; 7 CFR 1956-C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Administration of these programs has been transferred from 
the former Farmers' Home Administration to the Farm Service Agency. 
This action will 1) consolidate the regulations into a single CFR part 
at 7 CFR 1942-F, 2) eliminate administrative provisions that do not 
affect the public, and 3) change Agency name references. No cost is 
expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE91
_______________________________________________________________________




185.  AMENDMENTS TO THE TOBACCO MARKETING QUOTA REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1301; 7 USC 1311 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 723

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend the tobacco marketing quota 
regulations to improve program operation. The principal changes are (1) 
provide for inequity adjustments by common ownership units within a 
farm, (2) clarify the date for mailing farm acreage allotment and 
marketing quota notices to farmers, (3) allow approval of disaster 
lease and transfer of tobacco allotments or quotas for cash-rented 
farms without the owner's signature, (4) provide more discretion in 
determining quota penalties, and (5) codify provisions for establishing 
national marketing quotas for burley and flue-cured tobacco. No cost is 
expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Agricultural Economist, Department of 
Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, PO Box 2415, Wash. DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5253

RIN: 0560-AE96
_______________________________________________________________________




186.  BOLL WEEVIL ERADICATION LOAN PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-80

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1941, subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will create a new Boll Weevil Eradication Loan 
Program, which is required by statute. Funding is to be made available 
through grower organizations that are authorized to carry out boll 
eradication. The loan funds are intended to supplement, not replace, 
funds that have been provided to APHIS to meets its cost-share of the 
Boll Weevil Eradication Program. Loan repayment will be through 
assessments on the members of grower organizations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Agricultural Economist, Regulatory Review 
Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, MS 0572, P.O. 
Box 2415, Wash., DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE99

[[Page 62242]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




187. FARMER PROGRAMS GUARANTEED INTEREST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980 subpart A; 7 CFR 1980 subpart B; 7 CFR 1980 
subpart D; 7 CFR 1980 subpart E; 7 CFR 1980 subpart G

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation will provide for a government subsidy to 
lenders for interest rates for guaranteed Farmer Programs loans so the 
borrower will be paying interest rates for guaranteed loans that are 
similar to insured loans. This should provide an incentive for using 
the guaranteed loan program. The Government will pay a lender up to 90 
percent of the losses on loans and part of the interest rate rather 
than loaning a borrower the full amount of the loan and the full cost 
of the Government borrowing the money for an insured loan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/28/91                     56 FR 8258
Final Action                    10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: This entry was reported as RIN 0575-AA80 prior 
to the reorganization of USDA.

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE01
_______________________________________________________________________




188. INSURED AND GUARANTEED OPERATING AND FARM OWNERSHIP LOAN AND 
RELATED INSTRUCTIONS TO IMPLEMENT SECTIONS 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, AND 19 OF THE 
AGRICULTURAL CREDIT IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1992

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 102-554

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 1943; 7 CFR 
1945; 7 CFR 1980; 7 CFR 1955

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, October 1, 1993. Other, Statutory, 
April 28, 1993.
Sec 23 of Pub. L. 102-554 requires that interim regulations be 
published by April 28, 1993, and final regulations published by October 
1, 1993.

Abstract: The law was enacted to assist beginning farmers and ranchers 
in getting started in agriculture. The impact on the operating loan 
(OL) program should be minimal in view of FO loan restrictions during 
the first 5 years of participation in this program. Applicants have a 
choice of applying for FO and OL assistance under the new programs or 
under the existing FO and OL programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/30/93                    58 FR 48275
Final Action                    12/00/96
Final Action Effective          12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Additional Information: This entry was reported as RIN 0575-AB41 prior 
to the reorganization of USDA.

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE09
_______________________________________________________________________




189. IMPLEMENT SECTIONS 11 AND 13 OF THE AGRICULTURE CREDIT IMPROVEMENT 
ACT 1993 (APPLICATION PROCESSING TIMEFRAME)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 102-554

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1980

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, October 1, 1993. Other, Statutory, 
April 28, 1993.
Sec 23 of Pub. L. 102-554 requires interim regulations to be published 
by April 28, 1993, and final regulations to be published by October 1, 
1993.

Abstract: The Agricultural Credit Improvement Act of 1992 requires the 
Farm Service Agency (FSA) to change its procedures for notifying 
applicants for farmer program loans and loan guarantees when 
information is needed to complete an application. In addition, County 
Offices will now be required to report applications that remain pending 
45 days after receipt, and the reasons they remain pending. The Agency 
is also required to report to the Congress every month each application 
pending more that 50 days after its receipt. In addition, County 
Committees are required under the Act to review all applications for 
direct and guaranteed farmer programs loans not later than 5 days after 
receipt if there is more than one other complete application pending, 
and not later than 15 days if there are no other complete applications 
pending. These changes will ensure more timely and consistent 
processing of applications. Otherwise, their impact on the Agency 
should be minimal. Impact on applicants and participating lenders 
should be favorable, regarding timeliness in processing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/29/93                    58 FR 68717
Final Action                    12/00/96
Final Action Effective          12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Additional Information: This entry was reported as RIN 0575-AB56 prior 
to the reorganization of USDA.

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE14
_______________________________________________________________________




190. PERMIT CFSA TO SELL OR ASSIGN FARM LOAN MORTGAGES AND NOTES

Priority:  Economically Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1962; 7 CFR 1965

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSA is proposing to amend its regulations to establish a 
procedure for the sale and assignment of farmer program notes and 
mortgages. This will assist the Agency in resolving loan accounts with 
greater dispatch and less loss to the Government.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

[[Page 62243]]

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE35
_______________________________________________________________________




191. 1996-CROP PEANUTS NATIONAL POUNDAGE QUOTA

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1358-1

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 729

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, December 15, 1995.

Abstract: The objective of the peanut quota is to balance supply with 
demand at a level that will assure stable supplies for domestic use and 
assure producers a stable income. This action is required by statute, 
which provides a formula for computing the national quota, based on the 
Secretary's estimate of the amount of peanuts required for domestic 
food, and related exceeding seed use for the 1996 marketing year. The 
1996 marketing year is from August 1, 1996 through July 31, 1997. The 
Peanut Program, which also includes the price support program and 
export policies is required by law to operate at not net cost to the 
government result in a net realized loss of about $87 million.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE45
_______________________________________________________________________




192. 1996-CROP MARKETING QUOTAS AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVELS FOR SIX KINDS 
OF TOBACCO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1312

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, March 1, 1996.
For marketing quotas.

Abstract: Marketing quotas/acreage allotments and price support are 
required by statute for these types of tobacco: fire-cured (type 21), 
fire-cured (types 22-23), dark air-cured (types 35-36), Virginia sun-
cured (type 37), cigar filler (type 46) and cigar filler and binder 
(types 42-44 and 53-55). Quotas and allotments are determined by 
statutory formula to balance supply with demand to assure stable 
supplies for domestic and export use. Marketing quotas are implemented 
if approved by producers in referenda. Producers approved quotas for 
the 1996 crops of fire-cured (types 21-23), dark air-cured (types 35-
36), and sun-cured (type 37) in March 1994 and March 1995. Referenda 
for the other types are scheduled for March 1996. Producers of these 
types have historically voted in favor of quotas. Price support levels 
are set by statutory formula. The Secretary may reduce the level at the 
request of producer associations, and may limit increases to 65 percent 
of the formula increase. Gross loan outlays of $3 million in FY 1997 
will be offset by loan redemptions and no-net-cost assessments in FY 
1997 and subsequent years for a net cost of 0.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE46
_______________________________________________________________________




193.  COLLECTION OF SHARED APPRECIATION AGREEMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will clarify the requirements for collecting on 
Shared Appreciation Agreements (SAA's). SAA's are executed when a 
borrower has a portion of their debt forgiven through debt writedown. 
When the security property is sold, the loans are paid, or the farmer 
quits farming, the Agency collects a portion of the written-off debt 
from appreciation of the real-estate security. Current regulations 
allow collection only after transfer of title. This change will provide 
that acceleration of the loan triggers acceleration of the SAA and that 
no additional notices or appeals will be allowed. The regulations will 
also clarify that a new mortgage is not required to secure an SAA and 
that an amount due under an SAA may be paid in installments. This 
change will reduce costs resulting from litigation and loan losses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE61
_______________________________________________________________________




194.  POST-BANKRUPTCY LOAN SERVICING NOTIFICATION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1962

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will clarify the requirements for sending a 
``Notice of the Availability of Loan Service Programs and Debt 
Settlement Programs for Delinquent Farm Borrowers''. Currently, notices 
must be sent after a bankruptcy is dismissed, even if the borrower was 
previously notified, all servicing rights have been exhausted, and the 
account has been accelerated. The required notice is over 20 pages of 
information and forms. Sending them after acceleration delays 
resolution of the delinquency and provides no benefit to the borrower 
since no options are any longer

[[Page 62244]]

available. This change will provide that notices will be sent after a 
borrower is dismissed from bankruptcy if the borrower was not 
previously notified and the account has not been accelerated. No cost 
is expected from this action.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/18/96                    61 FR 37405
NPRM Comment Period End         08/02/96
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE62
_______________________________________________________________________




195.  CONSOLIDATE FSA FARM CREDIT PROGRAMS REGULATIONS--
MISCELLANEOUS PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 552; 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; PL 93-
357

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1806; 7 CFR 1900; 7 CFR 1901; 7 CFR 1902; 7 CFR 
1910; 7 CFR 1940; 7 CFR 1950; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 2018; 7 CFR 2045; 7 CFR 
Ch XIV

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will consolidate FSA farm credit regulations 
currently contained in several parts of the CFR dealing with race 
classification, appeals, applicability of Federal law and individual 
liability, concentration banking, office management systems, credit 
reports, debarments and suspension, requirements for a drug-free work 
place, restrictions on lobbying, servicing of borrowers entering the 
armed forces, collections, unauthorized assistance, availability of 
information, gratuitous services, and other subjects. Regulations will 
be streamlined and moved from 7 CFR Chapter XVIII to Chapter XIV. This 
will reduce the number of Agency regulations and provide a more concise 
and organized format. Administrative instructions will remain in field-
office instruction manuals and day-to-day management of FSA programs 
will not be affected. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE64
_______________________________________________________________________




196.  CONSOLIDATE FSA FARM CREDIT PROGRAMS DIRECT LOAN SERVICING 
REGULATIONS--MANAGEMENT AND DISPOSAL OF ACQUIRED PROPERTY

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 31 USC 3711; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR Ch XIV

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will consolidate regulations currently contained 
in several parts of the Code of Federal Regulations. The changes will 
not alter existing programs. Provisions for management and disposal of 
FSA inventory that are currently contained in 3 Subparts of 7 CFR 
Chapter XVIII will be consolidated in Chapter XIV. This will reduce the 
number of Agency regulations and provide a more concise and organized 
format. No cost is expected as a result of this action.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE65
_______________________________________________________________________




197.  CONSOLIDATE FSA FARM CREDIT PROGRAM DIRECT LOAN SERVICING 
REGULATIONS--DELINQUENT ACCOUNT RESTRUCTURING AND LIQUIDATION

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 31 USC 3711; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1956; 7 CFR 1962; 7 CFR 
1965; 7 CFR Ch XVIII

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will consolidate FSA farm credit regulations 
currently contained in several parts of the CFR. The changes will not 
alter existing programs. These parts will be moved from 7 CFR Chapter 
XVII to Chapter XIV. This will reduce the number of Agency regulations 
and provide a more concise and organized format. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE66
_______________________________________________________________________




198.  CONSOLIDATE FSA FARM CREDIT PROGRAMS DIRECT LOAN SERVICING 
REGULATIONS--MANAGEMENT ADVICE, TAX SERVICING, COLLECTION AND SECURITY 
SERVICING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing

[[Page 62245]]

Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 1925; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1962; 7 CFR 
1965; 7 CFR Ch XIV

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will consolidate FSA farm credit regulations 
currently contained in several parts of the CFR. Existing programs will 
not be altered. Regulations will be streamlined and moved from Chapter 
XVII to Chapter XIV. This will reduce the number of Agency regulations 
and provide a more consistent and organized format. No cost is 
expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE67
_______________________________________________________________________




199.  ELIMINATE INTERNAL AGENCY PROVISIONS FROM FSA FARM CREDIT 
PROGRAMS REGULATIONS--MISCELLANEOUS PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 552; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; PL 93-357

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1806; 7 CFR 1900; 7 CFR 1901; 7 CFR 1902; 7 CFR 
1910; 7 CFR 1940; 7 CFR 1950; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 2018; 7 CFR 2045

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will delete internal Agency administrative 
requirements from the CFR regarding race classification, appeals, 
applicability of Federal Law and individual liability, concentration 
banking, office management systems, credit reports, debarment and 
suspension, requirements for a drug free work place, restrictions of 
lobbying, servicing of borrowers entering the armed forces, 
collections, unauthorized assistance, availability of information, and 
gratuitous services. Administrative instructions will remain in field-
office manuals and day-to-day management of FSA programs will not be 
affected. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE68
_______________________________________________________________________




200.  ELIMINATE INTERNAL ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS FROM FSA FARM 
CREDIT PROGRAM DIRECT LOAN REGULATIONS--DELINQUENT ACCOUNT SERVICING AND 
LIQUIDATION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 31 USC 3711; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1956; 7 CFR 1962

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will delete internal Agency administrative 
regulations from the CFR. Administrative instructions will remain in 
field office manuals and day-to-day management of FSA programs will not 
be affected. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE70
_______________________________________________________________________




201.  CONSOLIDATION OF FSA FARM CREDIT PROGRAMS DIRECT 
LOANMAKING REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 42 USC 2942; PL 
93-357

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1823; 7 CFR 1901; 7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 
1927; 7 CFR 1940; 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 1943; 7 CFR 1945; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 
Ch XIV

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will consolidate farm credit regulations 
currently contained in several CFR parts. Regulations will be 
streamlined and moved from 7 CFR Chapter XVIII to Chapter XIV. Existing 
Programs will not be affected. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE74
_______________________________________________________________________




202.  ELIMINATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS FROM FSA FARM 
CREDIT PROGRAMS GUARANTEED LOANMAKING REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; PL 89-554

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980

[[Page 62246]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will remove internal Agency administrative 
procedures. Existing programs will not be affected. No cost is 
expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE75
_______________________________________________________________________




203.  CONSOLIDATION OF FSA FARM CREDIT PROGRAMS GUARANTEED 
LOANMAKING REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will streamline the regulations currently at 7 
CFR 1980 and move them to 7 CFR Chapter XIV. Existing programs will not 
be affected. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE76
_______________________________________________________________________




204.  ELIMINATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS FROM FSA 
REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO FARM CREDIT PROGRAMS LOAN RATES, FUNDING, AND 
LOAN AUTHORITIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1810; 7 CFR 1901; 7 CFR 1902; 7 CFR 1940; 7 CFR 
1951

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will delete internal Agency administrative 
procedures from the CFR. Existing programs will not be affected. No 
cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE77
_______________________________________________________________________




205.  CONSOLIDATION OF FSA FARM CREDIT PROGRAMS REGULATIONS 
PERTAINING TO LOAN RATES, FUNDING, AND LOAN AUTHORITIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 19889; 42 USC 1480; PL 89-554

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1810; 7 CFR 1901; 7 CFR 1902; 7 CFR 1940; 7 CFR 
1951; 7 CFR Ch XIV

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will consolidate farm credit regulations 
currently contained in several CFR parts and move them to 7 CFR Chapter 
XIV. Existing programs will not be affected. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE78
_______________________________________________________________________




206.  ELIMINATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS FROM FSA FARM 
CREDIT PROGRAMS ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 470; 42 USC 1480; 42 
USC 2942; PL 93-357

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1901; 7 CFR 1940

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will eliminate internal Agency administrative 
procedures from the CFR. Existing programs will not be affected. No 
cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE79
_______________________________________________________________________




207.  CONSOLIDATION OF FARM SERVICE AGENCY ENVIRONMENTAL 
PROGRAMS REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or

[[Page 62247]]

duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 470; 42 USC 1480; PL 
93-357

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1901; 7 CFR 1940; 7 CFR Ch XIV

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will consolidate and streamline regulations 
currently contained in several CFR parts and move them from 7 CFR 
Chapter XVIII to Chapter XIV. Existing programs will not be affected. 
No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE80
_______________________________________________________________________




208.  AMENDMENT TO THE PEANUT POUNDAGE QUOTA REGULATIONS

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1301; 7 USC 1357 et seq; 7 USC 1372 to 1373; 7 
USC 1375; 7 USC 1445c-3

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 729

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: This action will implement the peanut poundage provisions of 
the Federal Agriculture Improvement Act of 1996, which provides for the 
establishment of peanut quotas and peanut price support for the 1996 
through 2002 crop years. The action will establish regulations 
governing peanut quota allocations, transfer of quotas, increased 
marketing assessments, and approval of limited transfer of quotas to 
out-of-county farms for States with large quota allocations. This 
action will help save about $120 million in Government outlays in FY 
1996.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/16/96                    61 FR 36997
Final Action                    10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE82
_______________________________________________________________________




209.  AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM (CRP) 
REGULATIONS TO IMPLEMENT PROVISIONS OF THE FEDERAL AGRICULTURE 
IMPROVEMENT AND REFORM ACT OF 1996

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 3831 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 704; 7 CFR 1410

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: This action will implement provisions of the Conservation 
Reserve Program (CRP) as required by the Federal Agriculture 
Improvement Act of 1996. The Act reauthorizes the CRP through 2002. 
This action will implement the provisions of the Act that provide the 
Secretary the authority to maintain program enrollment at 36.4 million 
acres, revise the ownership and operatorship eligibility from three 
years to one year, provide for early contract termination provisions, 
authorize the utilization of CCC funds, and make other minor 
modifications in program administration. Provisions for new and 
extended contracts will be covered in a separate proposed rule. This 
action will result in savings of about $100 million.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/27/96                    61 FR 43943
Final Action                    02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE84
_______________________________________________________________________




210.  REVISION TO THE DIRECT LOANMAKING REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 1943; 7 CFR 1945; 7 CFR 
1980

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, June 30, 1996.

Abstract: This action will revise the farm credit programs loan-making 
regulations as required by the Federal Agriculture Improvement and 
Reform Act of 1996, as follows: 1) prohibit the use of Farm Ownership 
loan funds to refinance debt, annual production loans to delinquent 
borrowers, and and new loans to borrowers who have had debt forgiven, 
except for annual operating loans, 2) eliminate Non-Farm Enterprise 
loans, the direct and guaranteed Special Operating Loan (OL) program 
for beginning farmers, the requirement for the transfer of guaranteed 
OL loans after July 1 to down payment program, and the need for 2 
appraisals for Emergency (EM) loans, 3) limit FO loans to those with no 
loan for longer than 10 years, 4) allow 4% interest on jointly financed 
loans, 5) establish 95% guarantee for loans used to graduate direct 
borrowers and for beginning farmers, 6) limit EM loans to a total of 
$500,000, 7)provide for transfer after 9/1 of guaranteed OL funds to 
beginning farmer direct FO's and annual EM loan allotment to credit 
card sale funds, and 8) consolidate committee certification for direct 
borrowers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96
Interim Final Rule              00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE87

[[Page 62248]]

_______________________________________________________________________




211.  REVISION OF THE INVENTORY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1955

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, June 30, 1996.

Abstract: This action will revise the farm credit programs inventory 
property management regulations as required by the Federal Agriculture 
Improvement Act of 1996.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96
Interim Final Rule              00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE88
_______________________________________________________________________




212.  REVISIONS TO THE DELINQUENT ACCOUNT SERVICING REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 30; PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1956; 7 CFR 1962; 7 CFR 1965

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, June 30, 1996.

Abstract: This action will revise the farm credit programs loan 
servicing regulations as required by the Federal Agriculture 
Improvement and Reform Act of 1996.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96
Interim Final Rule              00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE89
_______________________________________________________________________




213.  DIRECT LINE OF CREDIT PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 1941

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, June 30, 1996.

Abstract: This action will implement a direct operating line of credit, 
to be operated similarly to the successful guaranteed line of credit 
program. The line of credit will allow multiple advances and will be 
used to provide annual operating needs only. Currently, operating loans 
require a Treasury check each year as well as a heavy paperwork burden 
for the Agency and applicants to apply for a new loan each year. The 
line of credit will establish a revolving credit account and will not 
require an annual outlay. Re-disbursement of funds each year will be 
conditioned on performance in the previous year and projected repayment 
in the coming year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96
Interim Final Rule              00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE90
_______________________________________________________________________




214.  SUBORDINATION OF DIRECT LOAN BASIC SECURITY TO SECURE A 
GUARANTEED LOAN

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1962; 7 CFR 1965; 7 CFR 1980

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 2, 1996.

Abstract: This action will amend the farm credit programs loan 
servicing regulations to allow FSA to subordinate its lien on ``hard 
security'' and provide a 90 % guarantee to a lender to secure a line of 
credit when commercial lenders in the borrower's service area refuse to 
provide farmers operating credit when projected crop or livestock 
production is to be the only security. Current regulations allow 
subordination of crops and feeder livestock security to secure a 
guaranteed loan made for similar purposes with a guarantee of up to 90 
% of principal and interest. However, a guarantee is not currently 
allowed when ``hard security'' is subordinated.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/00/97
NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE92
_______________________________________________________________________




215.  CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM--LONG-TERM POLICY

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 3831 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 704; 7 CFR 1410

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will modify the CRP regulations to target the CRP 
to more environmentally sensitive acreage. It will also set forth terms 
and conditions for enrolling acreage. USDA may maintain enrollment at 
up to 36.4 million acres. The Department proposes to change existing 
land eligibility criteria to include all cropped wetland acreage and 
certain Water Bank acreage. The Department further proposes to provide 
additional financial incentives to producers to accelerate enrollment 
of certain environmentally sensitive land. The Department also seeks 
public comment regarding nonemergency haying and grazing provisions. 
The 1997 Agriculture Appropriations effectively prohibit the extension 
of

[[Page 62249]]

CRP contracts. Therefore, CRP acreage that participants are seeking to 
reoffer must compete based on environmental benefits and costs. The 
cost of the CRP is expected to be about $6.8 billion greater over 7 
years than if no new or extended contracts were allowed. However, in 
comparison with USDA plans to extend existing contracts under previous 
legislation, relatively small differences in costs will likely occur.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/23/96                    61 FR 49697
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Agricultural Economist, Regulatory Review 
Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, Stop 0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE95
_______________________________________________________________________




216.  DAIRY INDEMNITY PAYMENT PROGRAM--FY 1997

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-37; PL 104-180

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 760

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Dairy Indemnity Payment Program indemnifies farmers for 
milk dumped because of contamination that was not the fault of the 
producer and indemnifies dairy manufacturers for dairy products removed 
from the market through no fault of their own. This action is needed to 
continue the program through 9/30/97 in accordance with legislation. 
$100,000 has been appropriated for FY 1997, which is the average outlay 
for recent years.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Wash., DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE97
_______________________________________________________________________




217.  DISASTER SET-ASIDE PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1981a

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951, subpart S

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will allow the use of the Disaster Set-Aside 
Program for economic disasters. This will allow borrowers who cannot 
make payments because of a substantial decrease in livestock prices to 
set aside the next installment on each loan. There will be no 
additional costs related to this program. This action will be less 
costly than the alternative, which is to provide rescheduling, 
reamortization, deferral, or write-down of these debts. Under this 
action, no debt will be written off and the terms of the loans will not 
be extended. No appraisals or legal work are required. Interest will 
continue to accrue on set-aside principal at the same rate the non-set-
aside principal is charged.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/00/96
Final Action                    01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Agricultural Economist, Regulatory Review 
Group, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, MS 0572, P.O. 
Box 2415, Wash., DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE98
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




218. AMENDMENTS TO CCC DEBT SETTLEMENT REGULATIONS REGARDING WAIVER OF 
RESTRICTION ON PROGRAM ELIGIBILITY AND COLLECTION OF JUDGMENTS BY 
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFSET

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD09
_______________________________________________________________________




219. CONSERVATION ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS REGULATIONS REGARDING WATER 
QUALITY INCENTIVES PROJECT, COST SHARE PROVISIONS OF THE EMERGENCY 
CONSERVATION PROGRAM, AND OTHER REVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 701

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/10/94                     59 FR 1293
NPRM Comment Period End         02/09/94
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD16
_______________________________________________________________________




220. PROGRAM INELIGIBILITY FOR NONCOMPLIANCE WITH BOLL WEEVIL 
ERADICATION PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

[[Page 62250]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD57
_______________________________________________________________________




221. SUGAR AND CRYSTALLINE FRUCTOSE INFORMATION AND RECORDKEEPING 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1435

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD88
_______________________________________________________________________




222. AMENDMENT TO THE WAREHOUSE REGULATIONS REGARDING AUCTION TOBACCO 
WAREHOUSES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 737

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/28/95                    60 FR 38766
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD92
_______________________________________________________________________




223. AMENDMENT TO THE TOBACCO LOAN PROGRAM REGULATIONS--BUDGET DEFICIT 
MARKETING ASSESSMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1464

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/20/95                    60 FR 19665
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD93
_______________________________________________________________________




224. FARMER PROGRAM ACCOUNT SERVICING POLICIES FOR SECTION 1816 AND 
OTHER RELATED SECTIONS FOR THE ``1990 FACT ACT''

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1900 subpart B; 7 CFR 1924 subpart B; 7 CFR 1951 
subpart S

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/23/91                    56 FR 54970
NPRM Comment Period End         11/22/91
Interim Final Rule              04/30/92                    57 FR 18612
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE02
_______________________________________________________________________




225. IMPLEMENT SECTION 1818 (BORROWER TRAINING) OF THE FOOD, 
AGRICULTURE, CONSERVATION, AND TRADE ACT OF 1990 (FACT ACT)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1910 subpart A; 7 CFR 1943 subpart B; 7 CFR 1924 
subpart B; 7 CFR 1941 subpart A; 7 CFR 1945 subpart D; 7 CFR 1943 
subpart A; 7 CFR 1951 subpart S; 7 CFR 1980 subpart B; 7 CFR 1962 
subpart A; 7 CFR 1965 subpart A

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/25/92                    57 FR 55473
NPRM Comment Period End         12/28/92
Interim Final Rule              12/30/93                    58 FR 69190
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE04
_______________________________________________________________________




226. GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAMS; MONITORING LIQUID ACCOUNTS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980 subpart A; 7 CFR 1980 subpart B

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/05/94                    59 FR 23173
NPRM Comment Period End         07/05/94
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE05
_______________________________________________________________________




227. IMPLEMENTATION OF CERTIFIED LENDER PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980 subpart A; 7 CFR 1980 subpart B

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/24/93                    58 FR 34302
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE07
_______________________________________________________________________




228. LOANS TO INDIAN TRIBES AND TRIBAL CORPORATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1942 subpart F; 7 CFR 1823; 7 CFR 2.23; 7 CFR 2.70

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE10

[[Page 62251]]

_______________________________________________________________________




229. SECTION 14 OF THE AGRICULTURAL CREDIT IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1992, 
(GRADUATION) AND SECTIONS 1819 (LOAN ASSESSMENT) AND 1821 (MARKET 
PLACEMENT) OF THE FACT ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 
1980; 7 CFR 1943; 7 CFR 1945; 7 CFR 1962

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/30/93                    58 FR 69274
NPRM Comment Period End         02/28/94
Interim Final Rule              00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE11
_______________________________________________________________________




230. THE AGRICULTURAL CREDIT IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1992

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1946; 7 CFR 1980

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/17/93                    58 FR 65871
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE13
_______________________________________________________________________




231. ACQUISITION AND MANAGEMENT OF REAL AND CHATTEL PROPERTY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 2.23; 7 CFR 2.70; 7 CFR 1955A; 7 CFR 1955C

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/29/93                    58 FR 68722
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE15
_______________________________________________________________________




232. SMALL FARMER OUTREACH TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1943 subpart C

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/27/94                    59 FR 66441
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE17
_______________________________________________________________________




233. DECISION TO LIQUIDATE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE19
_______________________________________________________________________




234. DISASTER ASSISTANCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1945 subpart A

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE22
_______________________________________________________________________




235. REVISIONS TO THE DIRECT FARM OWNERSHIP LOAN REGULATION (1943-A) 
OUTREACH PROGRAM FOR MEMBERS OF SOCIALLY DISADVANTAGED GROUPS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1943 subpart A

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE23
_______________________________________________________________________




236. SOCIALLY DISADVANTAGED OUTREACH PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1941 subpart A; 7 CFR 1980 subpart B

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE24
_______________________________________________________________________




237. PART 1946 MEDIATION; SUBPART A AGRICULTURAL LOAN MEDIATION PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1946 subpart A

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE26

[[Page 62252]]

_______________________________________________________________________




238. AMENDMENT TO CONSERVATION PROGRAM APPEAL REGULATIONS REGARDING 
JURISDICTION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 780

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/29/95                    60 FR 67298
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE30
_______________________________________________________________________




239. SELECTION AND FUNCTIONS OF FARM SERVICE AGENCY STATE AND COUNTY 
COMMITTEES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 7

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE33
_______________________________________________________________________




240. IMPLEMENTATION PROCEDURES FOR HIGHLY ERODIBLE LAND AND WETLANDS 
CONSERVATION PROVISIONS OF THE FOOD SECURITY ACT

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1940

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00
Interim Final Rule              00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE38
_______________________________________________________________________




241. AMENDMENTS TO THE FARMER ACCOUNT SERVICING POLICIES

Priority:  Economically Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1900; 7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 
1943; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1956; 7 CFR 1962; 7 CFR 1965

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/14/88                    53 FR 35638
NPRM                            10/23/91                    56 FR 54970
Interim Final Rule              04/30/92                    57 FR 18612
Interim Final Rule              10/15/92                    57 FR 47257
Interim Final Rule              03/23/93                    58 FR 15418
Interim Final Rule              05/26/93                    58 FR 30104
Interim Final Rule              12/30/93                    58 FR 69190
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE42
_______________________________________________________________________




242. AMENDMENTS TO THE STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL OF WAREHOUSE FOR COMMODITY 
CREDIT CORPORATION STORAGE CONTRACTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1423; 7 CFR 1427

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE50
_______________________________________________________________________




243. DELETION OF FSA REGULATIONS REGARDING COLORADO RIVER BASIN SALINITY 
CONTROL PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 702; 7 CFR 703; 7 CFR 752

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE54
_______________________________________________________________________




244. AMENDMENT TO THE CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM REGARDING EARLY 
CONTRACT TERMINATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 704

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/15/96                    61 FR 10671
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE56
_______________________________________________________________________




245.  AMENDMENTS TO THE REGULATIONS FOR COTTON WAREHOUSES UNDER 
THE UNITED STATES WAREHOUSE ACT--ELECTRONIC BLOCK WAREHOUSE RECEIPTS, 
INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS AND OTHER PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 241

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 735

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend the regulations to allow warehousemen 
to issue electronic cotton block warehouse receipts, revise insurance 
requirements for electronic warehouse receipt providers, and clarify 
other sections as applicable. There will be negligible costs to 
Government and industry.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 62253]]

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE60
_______________________________________________________________________




246.  ELIMINATE INTERNAL ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS FROM FSA FARM 
CREDIT PROGRAM REGULATIONS--MANAGEMENT AND DISPOSAL OF ACQUIRED PROPERTY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will remove internal Agency administrative 
provisions from the CFR. Administrative provisions will remain in 
field-office instruction manuals and day-to-day management of FSA 
programs will not be affected. No cost os expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE69
_______________________________________________________________________




247.  ELIMINATE INTERNAL ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS FROM FSA FARM 
CREDIT PROGRAMS DIRECT LOAN SERVICING REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 1925; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1962; 7 CFR 
1965

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will remove internal Agency administrative 
requirements from the CFR. Administrative instructions will remain in 
field office manuals and day-to-day management of Agency programs will 
not be affected. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE71
_______________________________________________________________________




248.  ELIMINATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS FROM FSA FARM 
CREDIT PROGRAM DIRECT LOANMAKING REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 42 USC 2942; PL 
93-357

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1823; 7 CFR 1901; 7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1924; 7 CFR 
1927; 7 CFR 1940; 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 1943; 7 CFR 1945; 7 CFR 1951

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will eliminate internal administrative 
procedures. Program operation will not be affected. No cost is 
expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE73
_______________________________________________________________________




249.  AMENDMENTS TO THE NONINSURED CROP PROTECTION PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 404; 7 CFR Ch XIV

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: This action will implement changes required by the Federal 
Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996. It will 1) change 
operating authority from the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation to the 
Farm Service Agency and the Commodity Credit Corporation, 2) add seed 
crops and aquaculture (including ornamental fish) to the crops eligible 
for the program, and 3) modify some reporting requirements. It will 
also move the regulations from 7 CFR Chapter IV to Chapter XIV. Outlays 
under the program will increase by about $5 to $9 million as a result 
of the changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE85
_______________________________________________________________________




250.  SUSPENSION OF THE EMERGENCY LIVESTOCK ASSISTANCE 
REGULATIONS FOR CROP YEARS 1996 TO 2002

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1475

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: This action will suspend the program for crop year 1996 
through 2002, as required by the Federal Agriculture Improvement and 
Reform Act of 1996. Suspension of the program will result in net 
decreases in payments of about $540 million, as follows 1) $60 million 
for crop year 1996, and 2) $80 million annually for crop years 1997 
through 2002.

[[Page 62254]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE86
_______________________________________________________________________




251.  HANDLING PAYMENTS FROM THE FARM SERVICE AGENCY TO 
DELINQUENT FARM CREDIT PROGRAM BORROWERS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will revise the requirements for the use of 
administrative offset to collect delinquent debts. The revision will 
eliminate the requirement that a delinquent borrower's account be 
accelerated prior to offset of payments to the borrower from other 
Agency programs. This will allow the Agency to directly apply payments 
from one program directly to delinquent debts under another, thus 
reducing losses to the Government by increasing collections. The 
increased collections are estimated at about $80 million over seven 
years.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/30/96                    61 FR 45907
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE93
_______________________________________________________________________




252.  SUGAR LOAN PROGRAM CROP YEAR DEFINITION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 7272

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 777; 7 CFR 780; 7 CFR 1435

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Agricultural Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 
provides for administration of the Sugar Program on a Fiscal Year 
basis. This action will change the definition of crop Year for the 
Sugar Program from July 1 - June 30 to October 1 - September 30 to make 
it consistent with the Fiscal Year, which will improve the efficiency 
and analysis of the program. No cost will occur.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE94
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




253. EXCESSIVE MANUFACTURING (MAKE) ALLOWANCES IN STATE MARKETING ORDERS 
FOR MILK

Priority:  Economically Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 13

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - New legislation 
removed the legal requirement.  04/04/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AC23
_______________________________________________________________________




254. AMENDMENT TO THE HIGHLY ERODIBLE LAND AND WETLANDS CONSERVATION 
PROGRAM REGULATIONS--PERSON DETERMINATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 12

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Cancelled - Program 
Responsibility Transferred to 
NRCS                            08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AC86
_______________________________________________________________________




255. AMENDMENTS TO THE WETLANDS REGULATIONS REGARDING ABANDONED ACREAGE 
AND DRAINAGE BY DRAINAGE DISTRICTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 12

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Cancelled - Program 
Responsibility Transferred to 
NRCS                            08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851

[[Page 62255]]

Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AC92
_______________________________________________________________________




256. AMENDMENT TO THE ACREAGE CONSERVATION RESERVE AND THE CONSERVING 
USE ACREAGE REGULATIONS FOR PRODUCERS AFFECTED BY EXCESSIVE RAINFALL AND 
FLOODING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1413

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - No Further Action To 
Be Taken                        08/13/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD50
_______________________________________________________________________




257. REGULATIONS FOR CONSERVATION COMPLIANCE CROP ACREAGE BASE (CAB) 
ADJUSTMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1417

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - No Action To Be 
Taken                           04/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD80
_______________________________________________________________________




258. AMENDMENT TO THE EMERGENCY LIVESTOCK ASSISTANCE REGULATIONS 
REGARDING FEED ALLOWANCE AND APPROVAL OF COUNTIES FOR ASSISTANCE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1475

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD84
_______________________________________________________________________




259. FARM FACILITY LOAN PROGRAM REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1474

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       04/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD85
_______________________________________________________________________




260. COMMON PROVISIONS FOR 1995 WHEAT, FEED GRAIN, COTTON, AND RICE 
PROGRAMS

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1413

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Preempted by New 
Legislation 4/1/96              10/24/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD86
_______________________________________________________________________




261. AMENDMENTS TO THE PAYMENT LIMITATION REGULATIONS FOR 1995

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1497; 7 CFR 1498

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/18/96                    61 FR 37544
Final Action Effective          07/12/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD89
_______________________________________________________________________




262. MEASURE-ALL PILOT PROJECT

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 718

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AD98
_______________________________________________________________________




263. FEDERAL CROP INSURANCE REFORM AND DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 
REORGANIZATION ACT OF 1994

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 1943; 7 CFR 1945; 7 CFR 1980; 7 CFR 
2.23; 7 CFR 2.70

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Preempted by New 
Legislation 4/1/96              10/24/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE25
_______________________________________________________________________




264. EXTENSION OF MATURING 1994 AND SUBSEQUENT CROP YEAR WHEAT AND FEED 
GRAIN PRICE SUPPORT LOANS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1421

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/21/96                    61 FR 11514

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851

[[Page 62256]]

Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE28
_______________________________________________________________________




265. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO WHEAT, FEED GRAIN, COTTON, AND RICE 
PROGRAM REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 718; 7 CFR 1413; 7 CFR 1414; 7 CFR 1415; 7 CFR 
1416

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Preempted by New 
Legislation 4/1/96              10/24/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE29
_______________________________________________________________________




266. END-USE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM--PROVIDING NOTIFICATION OF ORIGIN TO 
BUYERS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 782

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/25/96                    61 FR 32641

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE37
_______________________________________________________________________




267. 1996 UPLAND COTTON PROGRAM

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1413; 7 CFR 1427

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/18/96                    61 FR 37544
Final Action Effective          07/12/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE40
_______________________________________________________________________




268. AMENDMENT TO THE TOBACCO REGULATIONS REGARDING NESTED TOBACCO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1464.7(b)(1)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/27/96                    61 FR 33303
Final Action Effective          06/27/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE41
_______________________________________________________________________




269. 1996-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR BURLEY 
TOBACCO

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/26/96                    61 FR 50423

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE47
_______________________________________________________________________




270. 1996-CROP MARKETING QUOTAS AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR FLUE-CURED 
TOBACCO

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/19/96                    61 FR 37672

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE48
_______________________________________________________________________




271. UPLAND COTTON USER MARKETING CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1427

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/18/96                    61 FR 37544
Final Action Effective          07/12/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE51
_______________________________________________________________________




272. TERMS FOR THE COLLECTION OF 1995 ADVANCE DEFICIENCY OVERPAYMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1403

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - New legislation 
changed legal requirements.     04/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE53
_______________________________________________________________________




273. 1996 RICE PRICE SUPPORT PROGRAM

Priority:  Economically Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1424

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - New legislation 
provided new policy.            04/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

[[Page 62257]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE55
_______________________________________________________________________




274. DAIRY INDEMNITY PAYMENT PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 760

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/26/96                    61 FR 18485

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE57
_______________________________________________________________________




275.  1996 SPECIFICATIONS FOR COTTON BALE PACKAGING MATERIALS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 714; 7 USC 1421; 7 USC 1423; 7 USC 1425; 7 USC 
1444; 7 USC 1444-2

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1427

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will provide current bale packaging requirements 
by incorporating by reference the requirements approved by the Joint 
Bale Packaging Committee. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action Effective          07/12/96
Final Action                    07/18/96                    61 FR 37544

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE59
_______________________________________________________________________




276.  DELETION OF DUPLICATE RICE AND COTTON REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1441-2; 7 USC 1444-2

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 26

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The formulas that provide formulas for calculating the world 
prices of rice and upland cotton exist at both 7 CFR 26, Subparts A and 
B, and at 7 CFR 1421 and 1427, respectively. This action will remove 
the regulations at Part 26. No cost is expected from this action.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action Effective          07/31/96
Final Action                    08/01/96                    61 FR 40145

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE63
_______________________________________________________________________




277.  DELETION OF OBSOLETE FARM SERVICE AGENCY REGULATIONS 
PERTAINING TO THE FORMER FARMERS HOME ADMINISTRATION'S PROGRAMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; PL 93-357

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1841; 7 CFR 1843; 7 CFR 1845; 7 CFR 1900; 7 CFR 
1903; 7 CFR 1945; 7 CFR 1980; 7 CFR 2054

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will delete CFR sections no longer relevant to 
current programs or pertaining to programs that no longer exist. No 
cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/10/96                    61 FR 21361
Final Action Effective          06/03/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE72
_______________________________________________________________________




278.  IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FARM PROGRAM PROVISIONS OF THE 1996 
FARM BILL

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 2; 7 CFR 718 to 729; 7 CFR 729; 7 CFR 790 to 791; 
7 CFR 793; 7 CFR 796; 7 CFR 1400 to 1402; 7 CFR 1405; 7 CFR 1412 to 
1413; 7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1425; 7 CFR 1427; 7 CFR 1430; 7 CFR 1434 to 
1435; 7 CFR 1446; ...

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: This action will implement the farm program provisions of 
title I of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996. 
The primary issues concern 1) changes to the Dairy, Sugar, and Peanut 
Programs, 2) the establishment of production flexibility contracts, 
with the decoupling of farm program payments from planted acreage, and 
allowing producers flexibility regarding crops planted, 3)payment 
limitations, 4) implementation of marketing assistance loans, reduced 
repayment rates, and loan deficiency payments, and a cap on Cotton User 
Marketing Certificate payments. This action will also 1) reorganize 7 
CFR Chapter VII to consolidate regulations, 2) reorganize 7 CFR Chapter 
XIV to co-locate regulations for programs operated through CCC, and 3) 
delegate authority from the Secretary to other officers of the 
Department. The primary cost of these actions will result from the 
contract payments, with $5.57 billion for FY 1996, and $35.63 billion 
over 7 years.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action Effective          07/12/96
Final Action                    07/18/96                    61 FR 37544

Small Entities Affected: None

[[Page 62258]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE81
_______________________________________________________________________




279.  DELETION OF WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 6962

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 703

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action deletes the Farm Service Agency's Wetlands 
Reserve Program (WRP) regulations from the CFR. Responsibility for the 
WRP was transferred to the Natural Resources Conservation Service by 
the Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994. The WRP 
regulations are now located at 7 CFR 620. No cost will result from this 
action.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/28/96                    61 FR 26423

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, MS 0572, P.O. Box 2415, Washington, DC 20013-2415
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

RIN: 0560-AE83
BILLING CODE 3410-05-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




280.  IMPORTATION AND RELEASE INTO THE ENVIRONMENT OF 
NONINDIGENOUS ORGANISMS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 149; 7 USC 150bb; 7 USC 150dd; 7 USC 150ee; 7 
USC 150ff; 7 USC 154; 7 USC 159; 7 USC 160; 7 USC 162; 7 USC 2260; 21 
USC 136; 21 USC 136a; 31 USC 9701

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 330

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS is seeking the public's comment on approaches to 
regulating the first-time importation and release into the environment 
of certain nonindigenous organisms. The Agency intends to amend its 
Federal Plant Pest Act regulations to address the potential plant pest 
risks associated with the first-time importation and release into the 
environment of certain nonindigenous organisms, and therefore is 
soliciting input from interested persons on possible approaches to 
assessing the safety of releasing organisms into the environment for 
the first time.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/27/96                    61 FR 50767
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/26/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Sally McCammon, Science Advisor, Department of 
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, P.O. Box 
96464, Washington, DC 20090-6464
Phone: 202 720-8014
Fax: 202 720-3054
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




281. IMPORTED SEED AND SCREENINGS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1581 to 1611

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 201

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Therefore, we are proposing to amend the ``Imported Seed'' 
regulations by moving the regulations to a different chapter in the 
Code of Federal Regulations; establishing a seed analysis program with 
Canada; and allowing U.S. companies that import seed for cleaning or 
processing to enter into compliance agreements with the Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service. These proposed changes would bring the 
imported seed regulations into agreement with the amended Federal Seed 
Act, eliminate the need for sampling shipments of Canadian-origin seed 
at the border, and allow certain seed importers to clean or process 
seed without the direct supervision of an Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service inspector.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/13/94                    59 FR 47286
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/31/94
NPRM                            03/23/95                    60 FR 15257
NPRM Comment Period End         04/24/95
Final Rule                      07/12/95                    60 FR 35829
Final Rule Effective            08/11/95
NPRM (Other Amendments)         11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

[[Page 62259]]

Agency Contact: Polly Lehtonen, Botanist, PPQ, Biological Assessment/
Taxonomic Support, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 133, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8896

RIN: 0579-AA64
_______________________________________________________________________




282. DEFINITION OF ``BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS'' AND ``GUIDELINES''

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  21 USC 151 to 159

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 101

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule would update the definitions of 
``biological products'' and ``guidelines'' to reflect current usage. 
The definition of biological products has not been amended since 1973. 
APHIS has received a citizen's petition from producers of veterinary 
biological products to update this definition to accommodate advances 
in scientific knowledge and to reflect current usage. Similarly, a 
definition of guidelines is necessary to describe the purpose of such 
documents as veterinary biologics memoranda, licensing considerations, 
and notices.
The proposal would provide guidance to producers who are making a 
choice to seek regulatory approval from the Food and Drug 
Administration for a product intended for use as an animal drug (e.g. 
antibiotics, hormones, feed supplements, etc.) or from APHIS for a 
product intended for use as a veterinary biological product (e.g. 
vaccines, adjuvants, immunomodulators, and diagnostics). Submission to 
the appropriate Federal agency would depend upon the intended use of 
the product for which regulatory approval is sought.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/23/96                    61 FR 43483
NPRM Comment Period End         10/22/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Dr. Frank Y. Tang, Biotechnologist, BCTA, BBEP, 
Veterinary Biologics, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 148, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1237
Phone: 301 734-4833

RIN: 0579-AA65
_______________________________________________________________________




283. USER FEES, VETERINARY DIAGNOSTICS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1622; 19 USC 1306; 21 USC 102 to 105; 21 USC 
111; 21 USC 114; 21 USC 114a; 21 USC 134a to 134d; 21 USC 134f; 21 USC 
135; 21 USC 136; 21 USC 136a

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 130

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is 
proposing to revise current fees for cost increases or decreases in the 
user fee program and to propose additional fees for goods and services 
which APHIS provides. The purpose is to more accurately provide for 
full-cost recovery of Agency activities. Fees being revised include: 
user fees at APHIS's animal import centers and user fees at the 
National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) (including the labs at 
the Foreign Animal Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory (FADDL)) to account 
for cost increases and decreases. New user fees are being proposed for 
the following: use of new spaces at the APHIS animal center in 
Newburgh, NY; hourly services; and veterinary diagnostic tests, 
reagents, and services.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Barbara Thompson, Chief, BAD, Financial Systems 
Services Branch, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 54, Riverdale, MD 20737-1232
Phone: 301 734-5901

RIN: 0579-AA70
_______________________________________________________________________




284. PHYTOSANITARY EXPORT CERTIFICATION; ACCREDITATION OF SEED-TESTING 
LABORATORIES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 147a; 21 USC 136; 21 USC 136a; 44 USC 35

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 353

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS is proposing to establish an accreditation protocol for 
private seed health laboratories in order to achieve more timely and 
cost-effective seed testing. Laboratory accreditation is expected to 
facilitate U.S. seed exports because the test results provided by an 
accredited laboratory could be used as supporting documentation in the 
preparation of Federal phytosanitary certificates. The proposed 
regulations would authorize APHIS inspectors to issue a Federal 
phytosanitary certificate for a consignment of seeds on the basis of an 
inspection report prepared for that consignment of seeds by a seed 
company or independent laboratory that has been accredited under a 
national seed health accreditation system that has been recognized by 
APHIS. The proposal was initiated by the seed industry, as represented 
by the American Seed Trade Association, and has the support of State 
regulatory agencies which are represented by the National Plant Board.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Mr. Narcy G. Klag, Senior Operations Officer, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Port Operations, PPQ, APHIS, 4700 River Road Unit 139, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8537
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AA75
_______________________________________________________________________




285. ANIMAL WELFARE--STANDARDS FOR ANIMAL AUCTIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2131 to 2159

[[Page 62260]]

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 1; 9 CFR 2; 9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposal would establish standards designed specifically 
for the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of animals 
covered by the Animal Welfare Act that are held in auction markets. 
Currently, the treatment of animals at auction sales is being enforced 
under general regulations for warmblooded animals that are not 
otherwise covered by the regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Debra Beasley, Senior Staff Veterinarian, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
REAC, Animal Care, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-4977
Fax: 301 734-4978

RIN: 0579-AA76
_______________________________________________________________________




286. HUMANE TREATMENT OF DOGS AND CATS; LICENSING AND CONSIGNMENT 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 2; 9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend the regulations for the humane 
treatment of dogs and cats under the Animal Welfare Act by revising a 
provision that persons who sell fewer than 25 dogs and/or cats per year 
to research facilities are exempted from having to obtain a license to 
sell dogs and cats. We would revise this provision to exempt persons 
who sell fewer than 10 dogs and/or cats. This rule would also require 
that no person who has a contract to enforce local animal control 
regulations may be licensed as a Class B dealer of dogs and cats. 
Finally, this rule would include several revisions to certificates used 
for certifying dogs and cats for sale and consigning dogs and cats to 
intermediate handlers. We believe these changes are necessary to 
facilitate regulation of Class B dog and cat dealer activities and to 
help eliminate the suspected sale of missing and stolen pet dogs and 
cats for use in research. The cost to affected businesses of revising 
the licensing exemptions is difficult to determine; the effect would 
depend on how many currently exempt businesses choose to obtain a 
license and continue operating.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mr. Stephen Smith, Staff Animal Health Technician, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
REAC, APHIS, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-4972
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AA79
_______________________________________________________________________




287.  USER FEES--AGRICULTURAL QUARANTINE AND INSPECTION SERVICES

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2260; 21 USC 136; 21 USC 136a; 47 USC 1741

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 354.3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to amend the user fee regulations by 
adjusting the fees charged for certain agricultural quarantine and 
inspection services we provide in connection with certain commercial 
vessels, commercial trucks, commercial railroad cars, commercial 
aircrafts, and international airline passengers arriving at ports in 
the customs territory of the United States. We are proposing to adopt 
user fees for these services for fiscal years 1997 through 2002. We 
have determined that the fees must be adjusted to reflect the 
anticipated actual cost of providing these services through FY 2002.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Don Thompson, Staff Officer, Port Operations, PPQ, 
APHIS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service, 4700 River Road UNIT 136, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-5901

RIN: 0579-AA81
_______________________________________________________________________




288.  IMPORTATION OF LOGS, LUMBER, AND OTHER UNMANUFACTURED WOOD 
ARTICLES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 150dd; 7 USC 150ee; 7 USC 150ff; 7 USC 151 to 
167; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 2803; 7 USC 2809; 21 USC 136; 21 USC 136a

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 319

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would allow the importation of Pinus radiata wood 
chips from Chile if the wood chips are treated with a pesticide 
approved by the Administrator. Treatments currently provided in the 
regulations for use in qualifying wood chips for importation have 
proven to be impractical to apply and ineffective when used on large 
shipments. We have determined that a surface pesticide treatment is 
effective in rendering large shipments of wood chips free of plant 
pests that are found in Chile, and is easily applied to large 
shipments. We do not believe that this change would have a significant 
economic impact on U.S. wood chip producers because import from Chile 
would not be in direct competition with wood chips produced in the 
United States. An immediate positive impact would be that several U.S. 
pulp producers at risk of being forced to reduce production or close 
due to lack of wood chip supply would be able to remain in production. 
This rule would also allow certain cork and bark, and kiln dried 
lumber, to be imported under a general permit, and would allow solid 
wood-packing material used with nonregulated articles to be imported 
without an importer document.

[[Page 62261]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ms. Jane Levy, Operations Officer, Program Support 
Staff, PPQ, APHIS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road UNIT 60, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8295
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AA82
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




289. ADDITION OF CERVIDAE TO THE REGULATIONS CONCERNING TUBERCULOSIS IN 
LIVESTOCK

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  21 USC 105; 21 USC 111 to 113; 21 USC 114; 21 USC 
114a; 21 USC 115 to 117; 21 USC 120 to 121; 21 USC 134b; 21 USC 134f

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 77; 9 CFR 91

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Bovine tuberculosis is a contagious, infectious, and 
communicable disease affecting cattle, bison, and other species, 
including humans. The spread of bovine tuberculosis in the United 
States could have serious consequences for the United States cattle and 
bison industries, as well as for human health. Currently, the 
regulations concerning control and eradication programs for bovine 
tuberculosis in livestock only regulate cattle, bison, and swine. 
Recent outbreaks in the United States of bovine tuberculosis in semi-
domesticated herds of cervidae (such as deer and elk) have made 
apparent the need to also regulate these animals in order to prevent 
the spread of bovine tuberculosis.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/04/96                    61 FR 14982
NPRM Comment Period End         06/03/96
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Analysis: Regulatory Flexibility Analysis

Agency Contact: Dr. Joseph VanTiem, Senior Staff Veterinarian, VS, 
Cattle Diseases and Surveillance, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 36, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8715
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AA53
_______________________________________________________________________




290. ANIMAL WELFARE--STANDARDS FOR MARINE MAMMALS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department regulates the treatment of certain marine 
mammals under the Animal Welfare Act. The present standards for 
treatment of these animals have been in effect for over 10 years. 
During this time, advances have been made and new information has been 
developed with regard to the housing and care of marine mammals. The 
Department has given notice of its review of the present standards to 
determine what revisions or additions might be necessary, and has 
requested comments on appropriate specific standards for treatment of 
marine mammals. The Department is conducting negotiated rulemaking (Reg 
Neg) and developing proposed changes to the regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/23/93                    58 FR 39458
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/06/93
NPRM                            01/23/95                     60 FR 4383
NPRM Comment Period End         02/22/95
NPRM Comment Period Extended 
(Swim With the Dolphins (SWTD)) 02/28/95                    60 FR 10810
NPRM Comment Period Extended 
(SWTD)                          03/09/95                    60 FR 12908
NPRM Reopened and Extended 
Comment Period (SWTD)           03/24/95                    60 FR 15524
Notice, Establish a Committee 
(Reg Neg)                       05/22/95                    60 FR 27049
Correction (Reg Neg)            06/02/95                    60 FR 28834
FRM Final Action for (SWTD); 
Final Action for (SWTD)         12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Barbara Kohn, Veterinary Medical Officer, REAC, 
Animal Care, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-7833

RIN: 0579-AA59
_______________________________________________________________________




291. IN VITRO TESTS FOR SERIAL RELEASE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 151 to 159

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 113

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act, veterinary biologics are 
required to be pure, safe, potent, and efficacious (not contaminated, 
dangerous, harmful, or worthless). Before a licensed veterinary 
biological product can be released for market, it must be demonstrated 
to be potent and efficacious. This is ordinarily done by determining 
the immunogenicity of the product. The use of fewer animals for 
immunogenicity testing will be consistent with the intent of animal 
welfare legislation to reduce dependence on animals for testing when 
feasible. The rule will allow the use of in vitro tests in place of 
animal tests for determining the immunogenicity of veterinary 
biologics,

[[Page 62262]]

provided that the in vitro tests meet the requirements of a ``parallel 
line assay'' so that the relative antigenic potency of a biological 
product can be determined by comparison with a reference preparation of 
known antigenicity. The rule should not have a significant economic 
impact on manufacturers of veterinary biologics and other small 
businesses since immunogenicity testing is already required under the 
regulations pertaining to the preparation of veterinary biologics (9 
CFR part 113). Under the rule, manufacturers will retain the option 
whether or not to use in vitro tests in place of animal tests, based 
upon cost or feasibility.
The rule will also require that reference preparations used in the 
determination of relative antigenic potency be updated periodically so 
as to ensure that reference preparations continue to be correlated with 
immunogenicity. Not to require requalification of references could 
result in the preparation of a worthless biological product.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/17/95                    60 FR 26381
NPRM Public Hearing             08/01/95
NPRM Comment Period End         09/14/95
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Albert Morgan, Chief Staff Veterinarian, BBEP, 
Veterinary Biologics, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 148, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1237
Phone: 301 734-8245

RIN: 0579-AA66
_______________________________________________________________________




292. IMPORTATION OF ANIMALS AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 147a; 7 USC 150ee; 7 USC 161 to 162; 7 USC 450; 
7 USC 1622; 19 USC 1306; 21 USC 102 to 105; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114a; 21 
USC 134a to 134d; 21 USC 134f; 21 USC 135; 21 USC 136; 21 USC 136a; 31 
USC 9701; ...

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 92; 9 CFR 93; 9 CFR 94; 9 CFR 95; 9 CFR 96; 9 CFR 
98

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS would amend the animal and animal product importation 
regulations that currently identify entire countries as those that are 
either free of certain diseases or those in which the diseases exist. 
The proposed change would allow for regionalization of countries--i.e., 
disease classification of parts of a country, an entire country, or 
groups of countries. The rule change would also recognize levels of 
disease risk in regions. Although APHIS anticipates expanding these 
proposed provisions to apply to the importation of all regulated 
animals and animal products, at this time the rule changes would apply 
to ruminants and swine, and their products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/18/96                    61 FR 16978
NPRM Comment Period End         07/17/96
NPRM Comment Period Extended    09/16/96                    61 FR 36520
Final Rule                      03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Agency Contact: Dr. Gary Colgrove, Chief Staff Veterinarian, VS, 
National Center for Import and Export, Department of Agriculture, 
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 38, 
Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8590
Fax: 301 734-3222

RIN: 0579-AA71
_______________________________________________________________________




293. GENETICALLY ENGINEERED ORGANISMS; SIMPLIFICATION OF REQUIREMENTS 
AND PROCEDURES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 150aa to 150jj; 7 USC 151 to 167; 7 USC 1622n; 
31 USC 9701

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 340

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The introduction of regulated articles is required to be 
conducted under permit or under notification procedures acknowledged by 
APHIS. The latter procedures require that the regulated article meet 
certain eligibility criteria and performance standards. Field data 
reports are required to be submitted to APHIS after completion of a 
field test. The effect would be to simplify procedures for the 
introduction of certain genetically engineered organisms, requirements 
for certain determinations of nonregulated status, and procedures for 
the reporting of field tests under notification. It would allow most 
genetically engineered plants that are considered regulated articles to 
be introduced under notification procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/22/95                    60 FR 43567
NPRM Comment Period End         10/23/95
Final Action                    11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Michael Schechtman, Domestic Programs Leader, 
Biotechnology, Programs, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road Unit 146, Riverdale, 
MD 200737-1237
Phone: 301 734-7601

RIN: 0579-AA73
_______________________________________________________________________




294. HUMANE TREATMENT OF DOGS AND CATS; TETHERING AND TEMPERATURE 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 1; 9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend the regulations for the humane 
treatment of dogs and cats under the Animal Welfare Act by removing the 
provisions for tethering dogs as a means of primary enclosure. This 
rule would also amend the regulations by revising the temperature 
requirements for indoor, sheltered, and mobile and traveling housing 
facilities, and for primary conveyances used in transportation, to 
state that the ambient

[[Page 62263]]

temperature must never exceed 90 degree F (32.2 degree C) when dogs or 
cats are present. We are taking these actions because our experience in 
enforcing the Animal Welfare Act has led us to conclude that continuous 
confinement of dogs by a tether is inhumane. Also, the current 
temperature requirements (that the temperature may not exceed 85 degree 
F for more that four hours); have proven difficult to enforce. These 
actions would help ensure that dogs and cats in facilities regulated 
under the Animal Welfare Act will be treated in a humane manner. We do 
not expect these actions to have any significant impact on affected 
businesses. Very few businesses regulated under the Animal Welfare Act 
use a tether as a means of primary enclosure. Dog and cat dealers who 
do not wish to install air conditioning to meet the temperature 
requirement could choose from a number of less costly alternatives, 
such as installing electric fans or establishing outdoor shelters or 
runs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/02/96                    61 FR 34386
NPRM Comment Period End         09/03/96
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Mr. Stephen Smith, Staff Animal Health Technician, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
REAC, APHIS, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-4972
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AA74
_______________________________________________________________________




295. HUMANE TREATMENT OF DOGS AND CATS; WIRE FLOORING

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend the regulations for the humane 
treatment of dogs and cats under the Animal Welfare Act to prohibit 
bare wire flooring in primary enclosures for dogs and cats. The rule 
would further require that, if the floor of a primary enclosure for 
dogs or cats is constructed of wire, the wire must be coated with a 
material such as plastic or fiberglass. We believe that bare wire 
floors are inadequate in providing for the comfort and well-being of 
dogs and cats because of their potential to cause foot injuries and 
because they are difficult to clean and sanitize thoroughly. Requiring 
coated wire to be used for wire floors in primary enclosures would 
improve comfort, help eliminate foot injuries, and help provide clean 
and sanitary housing for dogs and cats. The cost to affected businesses 
of replacing bare wire flooring with coated wire is expected to be a 
considerable initial expense. However, coated wire flooring is more 
durable and needs to be replaced less often than bare wire flooring.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/02/96                    61 FR 34389
NPRM Comment Period End         09/03/96
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mr. Stephen Smith, Staff Animal Health Technician, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
REAC, APHIS, 4700 River Road Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-4972
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AA78
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




296. IMPORTATION OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 319.56

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Ms. Jane Levy
Phone: 301 734-8259

RIN: 0579-AA58
_______________________________________________________________________




297. IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN EMBRYOS AND ANIMAL SEMEN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 98

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/08/93                    58 FR 36625
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/07/93
NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Roger Perkins
Phone: 301 734-8170

RIN: 0579-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________




298. HSTAIC REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE FEES

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 92.430; 9 CFR 92.522

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Joan Montgomery
Phone: 301 734-8172

RIN: 0579-AA69

[[Page 62264]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




299. EXOTIC NEWCASTLE DISEASE IN ALL BIRDS AND POULTRY; PSITTACOSIS AND 
ORNITHOSIS IN POULTRY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 82

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/05/96                    61 FR 56877

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mr. Kelly Preston
Phone: 301 734-8240
Fax: 301 734-7817

RIN: 0579-AA22
_______________________________________________________________________




300. CHICKEN DISEASE CAUSED BY SALMONELLA ENTERITIDIS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 82

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Salmonella Program 
Transferred to FSIS in 1995.    10/01/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Allen Hogue
Phone: 301 734-4363

RIN: 0579-AA48
_______________________________________________________________________




301. IMPORT/EXPORT USER FEES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 130

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/07/96                    61 FR 20421
Final Action Effective          06/06/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Barbara Thompson, Chief
Phone: 301 734-5901

RIN: 0579-AA67
_______________________________________________________________________




302. USER FEES--COMMERCIAL AIRCRAFT AND VESSELS; PHYTOSANITARY 
CERTIFICATES

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 354.3

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/29/96                     61 FR 2660
Final Action Effective          03/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donna Ford
Phone: 301 734-5901

RIN: 0579-AA68
BILLING CODE 3410-34-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES)



_______________________________________________________________________




303. HIGHER EDUCATION MULTICULTURAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM; ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 3152(b)(5); PL 103-111; PL 103-330; PL 104-37

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3409

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulations will establish the procedures to be followed 
annually in the solicitation of proposals, the evaluation of such 
proposals and the award of project grants under the Multicultural 
Scholars Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/96
Final Action                    03/00/97
Final Action Effective          03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Jeffrey L. Gilmore, Higher Education National 
Program Leader, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, Rm 3430 South Agriculture Building, 
14th Street & Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20250-2251
Phone: 202 720-1973
Fax: 202 720-2030
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA09
_______________________________________________________________________




304. AGRICULTURAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 3318

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to establish Administrative Provisions for the 
Agricultural Telecommunications Program to institute procedures to be 
followed in preparing proposals, to outline requirements which grant 
recipients must meet, to provide instructions on how to apply for a 
grant, and to provide general information about post-award 
administration of grants under the program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip A. Carter, Policy Advisor, Policy & Program, 
Liaison Staff, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, STOP 2245, Washington, DC 20250-2245
Phone: 202 720-9181
Fax: 202 401-3237
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA12

[[Page 62265]]

_______________________________________________________________________




305.  THE NATIONAL AQUACULTURE PLAN

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 2801; PL 94-282; 42 USC 6601 et seq; EO 12881

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service 
proposes to revise the National Aquaculture Development Plan of 1983 
(1983 Plan). The revision, the National Aquaculture Development Plan of 
1996 (1996 Plan) was deemed necessary by the Joint Subcommittee on 
Aquaculture (JSA), a committee of the National Science and Technology 
Council (NSTC), because developing a strong domestic aquaculture 
industry in the 21st Century is in the national interest due to factors 
such as declining global and U.S. capture fisheries stocks, substantial 
U.S. reliance on imported seafood, and a burgeoning global aquaculture 
industry. The National Aquaculture Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-362, Stat. 
1198. 16 USC 2801) provided the original authority for the JSA to 
undertake development of the original National Aquaculture Development 
Plan and any future revisions. President Clinton established the 
National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) by Executive Order on 
November 23, 1993.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Dr. Meryl Broussard, Principal Aquaculture Scientist, 
Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and 
Extension Service, USDA/CSREES/PAPPP, Ag Box 2204, Suite 302, Aerospace 
Center, Washington, DC 20250-2204
Phone: 202 401-6438
Fax: 202 401-1602
Email: MB[email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA16
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES)



_______________________________________________________________________




306. HIGHER EDUCATION CHALLENGE GRANTS PROGRAM; ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 3152

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3405

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulation will establish the procedures to be followed 
annually in the solicitation of proposals, the evaluation of such 
proposals, and the award of project grants under the Higher Education 
Challenge Grants Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/19/95                    60 FR 65444
NPRM Comment Period End         01/18/96
Final Action                    10/00/96
Final Action Effective          10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Jeffrey L. Gilmore, Higher Education National 
Program Leader, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, Rm 3430 South Agriculture Building, 
14th Street & Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20250-2251
Phone: 202 720-1973
Fax: 202 720-2030
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA02
_______________________________________________________________________




307. 1890 INSTITUTION CAPACITY BUILDING GRANTS PROGRAM; ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 3152(b)(4)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3406

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulation will establish the procedures to be followed 
annually in the solicitation of proposals, the evaluation of such 
proposals, and award of project grants under the 1890 Institution 
Capacity Building Grants Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/20/95                    60 FR 66014
NPRM Comment Period End         01/19/96
Final Action                    10/00/96
Final Action Effective          10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Hood, Higher Education National Program Leader, 
Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and 
Extension Service, Rm 3436 South Agriculture Building, 14th Street & 
Independence Ave. SW., Washington DC 20250-2251
Phone: 202 720-1973
Fax: 202 720-2030
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA03
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES)



_______________________________________________________________________




308. SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH PROGRAM ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3403

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/20/96                    61 FR 25366
Final Action Effective          05/20/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Carter
Phone: 202 720-9181
Fax: 202 401-3237
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA08

[[Page 62266]]

_______________________________________________________________________




309. ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL FOR FEDERAL EXCESS PERSONAL PROPERTY LOANED 
TO STATE COOPERATIVE RESEARCH ACTIVITIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3408

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ralph Dillard
Phone: 202 720-7681

RIN: 0524-AA13
_______________________________________________________________________




310. PERSONAL PROPERTY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  None

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ralph Dillard
Phone: 202 720-7681

RIN: 0524-AA14
_______________________________________________________________________




311. RANGELAND RESEARCH GRANTS PROGRAM; ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3401

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/31/96                    61 FR 27752
Final Action Effective          05/31/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Carter
Phone: 202 720-9181
Fax: 202 401-3237
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA15
BILLING CODE 3410-22-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Rural Housing and Community Development Service (RHCDS)



_______________________________________________________________________




312. FARM LABOR HOUSING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1471 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1944 subpart D; 7 CFR 1930 subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Make needed program changes to improve compliance with FmHA 
Instruction 1930-C and clarify servicing instruction as they relate to 
oversight of program operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/00/96
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James E. Vollmer, Loan Specialist, Multi Family 
Housing, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 5331 South 
Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1060

RIN: 0575-AC03
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Housing and Community Development Service (RHCDS)



_______________________________________________________________________




313. COMMUNITY PROGRAMS GUARANTEED LOANS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980 subpart I

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To amend subject regulation which will provide more 
comprehensive guidance to applicants, lenders, and agency staff 
regarding financial assistance for essential guaranteed community 
facilities loans. Justification: These regulatory changes are necessary 
to streamline and reduce the burden on the public. These changes will 
also expand the use of the Community Facilities (CF) guarantee program 
by providing the ability to guarantee tax- exempt loans, and (in 
general) make the program more accessible to rural lenders. Finally, 
these changes will reflect our new Agency structure under USDA's 
reorganization.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Melvin Padgett, Loan Specialist, Community Programs 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, Stop 3222, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Wasington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1495

RIN: 0575-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________




314. SECURITY SERVICING FOR MULTIPLE-FAMILY HOUSING LOANS

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1980; 41 USC 1480; 5 USC 301

[[Page 62267]]

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1965 subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Housing Service is proposing to streamline its 
regulations; especially those governing transfers. The revisions are 
aimed at delivering programs in a more efficient manner yet preserve 
accountability and protect the Government's security interests.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/04/90                    55 FR 35907
NPRM Comment Period End         11/03/90
NPRM Protects Governments 
Security Interests              11/00/96
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Public Compliance Cost: Initial Cost: $89,975; Yearly Recurring Cost: 
$89,975; Base Year for Dollar Estimates: 1997

Agency Contact: Maryanne Galloway, Loan Specialist, Multi Family 
Housing, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 5331 South 
Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-0759

RIN: 0575-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




315. FMHA INSTRUCTION 1942-A, ``COMMUNITY FACILITY LOANS''

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1942 subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is implementing the following changes to FmHA 
Instruction 1942-A to: (1) provide a definition of essential community 
facilities; (2) expand eligibility to include recreational type 
projects and telecommunications projects; (3) change review process for 
health care plan reviews to conform to state requirements (deleting 
certifications from HHS); (4) determine that facilities housing 
primarily Federal/quasi- Federal Agencies are ineligible projects: (5) 
revise processing requirements for appraisals; (6) revise requirement 
for financial feasibility reports.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jennifer Barton, Loan Specialist, Community Programs 
Divison, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, Stop 3222, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1504

RIN: 0575-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




316.  NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 4001 to 4201; PL 91-152; PL 93-234; PL 103-325

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1926 subpart B; 7 CFR 1806 subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency plans to initiate a complete rewrite of the 
regulations to conform to the requirements of the National Flood 
Insurance Act of 1994 (NFIA).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Don Stander, Environmental Protections Specialist, 
Program Support Staff, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and 
Community Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 6309 
South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2960

RIN: 0575-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




317.  ACCESSIBILITY OF EXISTING MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING COMPLEXES

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1924 subpart A; 7 CFR 1944 subpart E; 7 CFR 1965 
subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Housing Service proposes to amend its regulations 
to establish a cost basis for defining substantial alterations or 
rehabilitations to existing rural rental housing complexes, and to 
require that such complexes undergoing substantial rehabilitations be 
made accessible to persons with disabilities in accordance with Uniform 
Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS) to the maximum extent feasible. 
The action is taken to provide consistent criteria for requiring that 
existing housing complexes be made accessible during rehabilitation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/96
Final Action                    02/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Vernon M. Rozas, Architect, Program Support Staff, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community Development 
Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 6309 South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1499

RIN: 0575-AC08
_______________________________________________________________________




318.  MANAGEMENT AND SUPERVISION OF MULTIPLE FAMILY HOUSING 
BORROWERS AND GRANT RECIPIENTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1941 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1930 subpart C

[[Page 62268]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Modify servicing regulations to reduce the Direct involvement 
of the Agency, increase accountability and protect program integrity. 
Streamline and clarify Multiple Family Policies to strengthen program 
performance and efficiency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry Anderson, Senior Loan Specialist, Multi Family 
Housing, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 5329 South 
Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1611

RIN: 0575-AC09
_______________________________________________________________________




319.  COMMUNITY FACILITY GRANTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3570 subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is establishing a new grant program for community 
facilities. Grant purposes are the same, as the Community Facilities 
direct and guaranteed programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jennifer Barton, Loan Specialist, Community Programs 
Divison, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Stop 3222, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1504

RIN: 0575-AC10
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Housing and Community Development Service (RHCDS)



_______________________________________________________________________




320. DENYING CREDIT TO APPLICANTS DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1910 subpart A; 7 CFR 1942 subpart A; 7 CFR 1942 
subpart C; 7 CFR 1942 subpart G; 7 CFR 1944 subpart A; 7 CFR 1944 
subpart D; 7 CFR 1944 subpart E; 7 CFR 1944 subpart J; 7 CFR 1948 
subpart B; 7 CFR 1948 subpart C; 7 CFR 1951 subpart E; 7 CFR 1980 
subpart E; 7 CFR 1980 subpart G; 7 CFR 1980 subpart I

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: OMB Circular A-129 dated November 25, 1988, recommends that 
the processing of applications for Federal direct loans be suspended 
and require private lenders to suspend processing of loan guarantee 
applications when an applicant is found to be delinquent on a Federal 
debt. The Federal Debt Collections Procedures Act of 1990 also requires 
that credit be denied if an outstanding judgment lien obtained by the 
United States in a Federal Court (other than the United States Tax 
Court), which has been recorded, is found.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/04/94                    59 FR 23018
NPRM Comment Period End         07/05/94
Final Action                    08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: A. Sherie Hinton, Director, Financial Management 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 5310 South 
Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4439
Fax: 202 720-5184

RIN: 0575-AA66
_______________________________________________________________________




321. HOUSING PRESERVATION GRANTS FOR REPLACEMENT OF HOUSING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1490m

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1944 subpart N

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Housing Preservation Grant program will be expanded to 
include Housing Preservation Grant funds to be used for replacement 
housing. Funds will be used to provide loans or grants, not to exceed 
$15,000 per unit, to owners of single family housing to replace 
existing housing if repairs or rehabilitation of the housing is not 
practicable and the owner of the housing is unable to afford a loan 
under Section 502 for replacement housing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/17/95                    60 FR 19168
NPRM Comment Period End         06/17/95
Final Action                    12/00/96
Final Action Effective          01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sue M. Harris, Senior Loan Officer, Mutli-Family 
Housing Processing Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing 
and Community Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 
5343 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1606

RIN: 0575-AB43
_______________________________________________________________________




322. ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 91-190

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1940 subpart G

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 62269]]

Abstract: Section 1940.311 of FmHA Instruction 1940-G, describes 
certain utility systems which meet the criteria for environmental 
review using the format for a Class I environmental assessment. There 
has been some confusion as to what constitutes a ``substantial 
increase'' in withdrawal or discharge, and there has also been some 
confusion as to what criteria should be used when calculating a 50,000 
gallon per day withdrawal from surface or groundwater. It is expected 
that the effect of this action will be to eliminate this unnecessary 
confusion, and reduce documentation and paperwork on the part of Rural 
Housing Service, and Rural Utilities Service, employees in the 
preparation and review of Class I environmental assessments based on 
these sections.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/15/95                    60 FR 13928
NPRM Comment Period End         05/15/95
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: On March 15, 1995, the NPRM for RIN 0575-AB64 
was published at 60 FR 13928 with incorrect RIN 0575-AB66.

Agency Contact: Susan Wieferich, Senior Environmental Protection 
Specialist, Program Support Staff, Department of Agriculture, Rural 
Housing and Community Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., 
Room 6309 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9619

RIN: 0575-AB64
_______________________________________________________________________




323. COMMUNITY FACILITY LOANS: INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE TAXPAYERS 
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1942; 7 CFR 1948; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1980

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To amend subject regulations to comply with OMB Circular A-
129 and simplify procedures for the Agency's field staff. Specifically, 
the changes will implement the requirement to use the Internal Revenue 
Service Taxpayers Identification number in the borrower's case number 
and will provide mechanism for documentation of contacts with lenders. 
Additionally, some sections have been modified to provide clarification 
of the rules.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/15/94                    59 FR 30717
NPRM Comment Period End         06/15/94
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Yoonie MacDonald, Loan Specialist, Community Programs 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, Stop 3222, 1400 Independence Ave SW., Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1501

RIN: 0575-AB77
_______________________________________________________________________




324. RURAL RENTAL AND RURAL COOPERATIVE HOUSING LOAN POLICIES, 
PROCEDURES, AND AUTHORIZATIONS--POINT SCORE SYSTEM TO PRIORITIZE RURAL 
RENTAL HOUSING LOANS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1489; 5 USC 301; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1944 subpart E

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory action provides guidance for participation 
loans, addresses eligibility requirements for applicants with 
noncompliance issues or fair housing violations and allows the use of a 
market survey to establish market feasibility on a case-by-case basis 
for proposals of 12 or fewer units.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/17/96                     61 FR 1153
NPRM Comment Period End         03/18/96
Interim Final Rule              12/00/96
Final Action                    03/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obediah G. Baker, Jr., Director, Multi-Family Housing, 
Processing Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and 
Community Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 5339 
South Building, Washington, DC 20250ing
Phone: 202 720-1604

RIN: 0575-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________




325. REENGINEERING AND REINVENTION OF THE DIRECT SECTION 502 AND 504 
SINGLE FAMILY HOUSING PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 31 USC 3700

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1806; 7 CFR 1900; 7 CFR 1944; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 
1955; 7 CFR 1956; 7 CFR 1965

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Rural Housing Service (RHS) has purchased a state-of-the-art 
dedicated loan origination servicing system (DLOSS) which includes 
escrow capability. To conform to this new system, RHS proposes to make 
further amendments to the regulations to allow the agency to provide 
escrow services to Single Family Housing borrowers which follow 
industry standards. In addition, the agency proposes to amend its 
regulations to conform to processes and techniques currently utilized 
by the private sector.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/08/96                    61 FR 15395
NPRM Comment Period End         06/07/96
Final Action                    11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

[[Page 62270]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Jean Leavitt, Senior Loan Specialist, Single Family 
Housing, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, Room 5313 South Building, 1400 Independence Ave 
SW., Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1462

RIN: 0575-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________




326. SERVICING CASES WHERE UNAUTHORIZED LOAN OR OTHER FINANCIAL 
ASSISTANCE WAS RECEIVED--MULTIPLE FAMILY HOUSING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951 subpart N

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation is being revised to reflect needed changes as 
to how unauthorized assistance is being serviced. Also, this revision 
reflects new terminology.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/19/91                    56 FR 58325
NPRM Comment Period End         01/21/92
Final Action                    01/00/97
Final Action Effective          03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Local

Sectors Affected:  All

Agency Contact: Ernest W. Harris, Senior Loan Specialist, Multiple 
Family Housing, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing and Community 
Development Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 5321 South 
Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1613
Fax: 202 720-0302

RIN: 0575-AC02
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Rural Housing and Community Development Service (RHCDS)



_______________________________________________________________________




327. CIVIL RIGHTS COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS--1901-E TO 1940-D

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 15; 12 CFR 202; 28 CFR 42; 45 CFR 90; 41 CFR 60 to 
64; 24 CFR 14; 7 CFR 1940 subpart D; 7 CFR 1901 subpart E

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is a paperwork burden associated with this 
action.

Agency Contact: Carlton L. Lewis
Phone: 202 245-5530

RIN: 0575-AA83
_______________________________________________________________________




328. OFFSETS OF FEDERAL PAYMENTS TO AGENCY BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951 subpart C; 7 CFR 2.23; 7 CFR 2.70

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/02/94                    59 FR 22548
NPRM Comment Period End         06/01/94
Final Action                    00/00/00
Final Action Effective          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Larry Dye
Phone: 314 539-2150

RIN: 0575-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________




329. PLANNING AND PERFORMING CONSTRUCTION AND OTHER DEVELOPMENT AND 
RELATED CONSTRUCTION SEISMIC SAFETY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1924 subpart A; 7 CFR 1942 subpart A; 7 CFR 1942 
subpart C; 7 CFR 1948 subpart C; 7 CFR 1980 subpart E; 7 CFR 1980 
subpart G; 7 CFR 1944

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/25/95                    60 FR 44283
NPRM Comment Period End         10/24/95
Final Action                    00/00/00
Final Action Effective          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sam Hodges III
Phone: 202 720-9653

RIN: 0575-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




330. SECTION 515 NONPROFIT SET-ASIDE FUNDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1940 subpart L; 7 CFR 2.23; 7 CFR 2.70

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/21/93                    58 FR 38949
Final Action                    10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Obediah G. Baker, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-1604

RIN: 0575-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________




331. ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM STREAMLINE ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  40 CFR 300; 40 CFR 260; 40 CFR 700; 40 CFR 400

[[Page 62271]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Susan Wieferich
Phone: 202 720-9619

RIN: 0575-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




332. PROVIDE INFORMATION REGARDING LEASE WRITE-OFF AND ANNUAL LEASE 
STATEMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1955 subpart B

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Kristine Kenniston
Phone: 314 539-2261

RIN: 0575-AC01
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Housing and Community Development Service (RHCDS)



_______________________________________________________________________




333. RECAPTURE OF SECTION 502, RURAL HOUSING SUBSIDY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1951 subpart I

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn Incorporated into AB9908/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phil Girard
Phone: 202 720-1461

RIN: 0575-AA29
_______________________________________________________________________




334. SECTION 502 RURAL HOUSING LOAN POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND 
AUTHORIZATIONS (DEFERRED MORTGAGE PROGRAM)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1944 subpart A; 7 CFR 1951 subpart G

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/27/95                    60 FR 55112
Final Action Effective          10/27/95

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James Craun
Phone: 202 720-1474

RIN: 0575-AA87
_______________________________________________________________________




335. HOUSING FOR RURAL HOMELESS AND MIGRANT FARMWORKERS; POLICIES, 
PROCEDURES, AND AUTHORIZATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1944 subpart H (New)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn Has not been funded, 
no plan to complete this action.08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is a 
statutory requirement. There is a paperwork burden associated with this 
action.

Agency Contact: John Pentecost
Phone: 202 720-1606

RIN: 0575-AB14
_______________________________________________________________________




336. DISPOSITION OF INTERESTS IN INDIAN TRUST LAND

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1965

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Incorporated into 
RIN 0575-AB99                   08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jean Leavitt
Phone: 202 720-1462

RIN: 0575-AB17
_______________________________________________________________________




337. DEBT SETTLEMENT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1956 subpart B

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Incorporated into 
RIN 0575-AB99                   08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jean Leavitt
Phone: 202 720-1462
Fax: 202 205-2476

RIN: 0575-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________




338. REQUIRE ALL SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING BORROWERS AND NONPROGRAM 
BORROWERS WHO HAVE PURCHASED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE TO PAY ONE-TIME TAX 
SERVICE FEE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1944; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1965

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Incorporated into 
RIN 0575-AB99                   08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jean Leavitt
Phone: 202 720-1462
Fax: 202 205-2476

RIN: 0575-AC00

[[Page 62272]]

_______________________________________________________________________




339. DAVIS-BACON AND RELATED ACTS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1901 subpart D; 7 CFR 1940 subpart C; 7 CFR 1924 
subpart A; 7 CFR 1944 subpart D

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/31/96                    61 FR 56114
Final Action Effective          10/31/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Keith A. Suerdieck
Phone: 202 720-9619

RIN: 0575-AC06
BILLING CODE 3410-07-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




340. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; PEANUT CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation hereby proposes 
regulations for provisions to insure peanuts. The provisions will be 
used in conjunction with the common crop insurance policy which 
contains standard terms and conditions common to most crops. The 
intended effect of this action is to provide automatic coverage for 
late and prevented planting as well as make other minor policy changes 
to better meet the needs of the insured. This rule proposes to remove 
the peanut endorsements which are currently a ``stand-alone'' policy 
located in part 425 and part 401.141 of the General Crop Insurance 
provisions and move them under part 457, Common Crop Insurance 
provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AA85
_______________________________________________________________________




341. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; ONION CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation hereby proposes 
regulations for provisions to insure onions. The provisions will be 
used in conjunction with the Common Crop Insurance Policy which 
contains standard terms and conditions common to most crops. The 
intended effect of this action is to provide automatic coverage for 
late and prevented planting as well as make other minor policy changes 
to better meet the needs of the insured. The previous onion crop 
insurance policy was located at 401.126 General Crop Insurance 
Provisions. This rule proposes that the onion policy fall under the 
Common Crop Insurance regulations located in part 457.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AA87
_______________________________________________________________________




342. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; NORTHERN POTATO CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation hereby proposes 
regulations for provisions to insure northern potatoes. The provision 
will be used in conjunction with the Common Crop Insurance policy which 
contains standard terms and conditions common to most crops. The 
intended effect of this action is to provide automatic coverage for 
late and prevented planting as well as make minor policy changes to 
better meet the needs of the insured. This rule proposes to remove the 
potato policy which is currently a ``stand-alone'' policy located in 
part 422 and move it under part 457, Common Crop Insurance provisions. 
A separate rule proposes provisions for central-southern potatoes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 62273]]

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AA89
_______________________________________________________________________




343. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; SUGARBEET CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation hereby proposes 
regulations for provisions to insure sugarbeets. The provisions will be 
used in conjunction with the Common Crop Insurance Policy which 
contains standard terms and conditions common to most crops. The 
intended effect of this action is to provide automatic coverage for 
late and prevented planting as well as make other minor policy changes 
to better meet the needs of the insured. This rule proposes to remove 
the Sugarbeet policy which currently is a ``stand-alone'' policy 
located in part 430 and move it under part 457, Common Crop Insurance 
Provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AA93
_______________________________________________________________________




344. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; CANNING AND PROCESSING TOMATO 
CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation hereby proposes 
regulations for provisions to insure canning and processing tomatoes. 
The provisions will be used in conjunction with the Common Crop 
Insurance Policy which contains standard terms and conditions common to 
most crops. The intended effect of this action is to provide automatic 
coverage for late and prevented planting as well as make other minor 
policy changes to better meet the needs of the insured. This rule 
proposes to remove the Canning and Processing tomato policy which 
currently is located at Part 401.114 under the General Crop Insurance 
Regulations and move under part 457, Common Crop Insurance Regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AA94
_______________________________________________________________________




345. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; FRESH MARKET TOMATO (GUARANTEED 
PRODUCTION) CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation hereby proposes 
regulations for provisions to insure fresh market tomatoes (guaranteed 
production plan). The provisions will be used in conjunction with the 
common crop insurance policy which contains standard terms and 
conditions common to most crops. The intended effect of this action is 
to provide automatic coverage for late and prevented planting as well 
as make other minor policy changes to better meet the needs of the 
insured. This rule proposes to remove the fresh market tomato 
(guaranteed production plan) policy which currently is a ``stand-
alone'' policy located at part 454 and move it under part 457, common 
crop insurance regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AA95
_______________________________________________________________________




346. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; DRY BEAN CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation hereby proposes

[[Page 62274]]

regulations for provisions to insure dry beans. The provisions will be 
used in conjunction with the Common Crop Insurance Policy which 
contains standard terms and conditions common to most crops. The 
intended effect of this action is to provide automatic coverage for 
late and prevented planting as well as make other minor policy changes 
to better meet the needs of the insured. This rule proposes to remove 
the dry bean policy which currently is a ``stand-alone'' policy located 
at part 433 and move it under part 457, Common Crop Insurance 
Regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB02
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




347. GROUP RISK PLAN CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS; PART 407

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 407

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) hereby proposes 
to issue provisions which will outline a new risk management tool to be 
known as the Group Risk Plan of Insurance (GRP). This plan will insure 
against the widespread loss of production of certain crops in a county 
and is intended primarily for use by those farmers whose yields tend to 
follow the county average yield. GRP pays only when the average yield 
of the entire county drops below the expected county yield for the 
insured crop set by the FCIC. Payment is based on the percentage of 
county or area wide loss below the insured's trigger yield. Specific 
GRP Crop Insurance Provisions will be proposed for cotton, wheat, 
barley, corn, grain, sorghum, soybeans, forage production, and peanuts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/08/96                    61 FR 52717
Final Action                    01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB06
_______________________________________________________________________




348. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART N; DISASTER ASSISTANCE 
ACT OF 1988

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400, subpart N

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes to revise subpart N of the General 
Administrative Regulations by repealing obsolete disaster guidelines 
and requiring the mandatory purchase of catastrophic crop insurance for 
program crops as a prerequisite for obtaining benefits under any 
commodity price subpart, production adjustment, or conservation program 
administered by USDA, or any farmer loan program, whether these 
programs are administered by FCIC or CFSA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB20
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




349. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; TOBACCO (GUARANTEED PLAN) CROP 
INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 401.129

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AA84
_______________________________________________________________________




350. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; HIGH RISK LAND REGULATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400

[[Page 62275]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AA98
_______________________________________________________________________




351. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART D; APPLICATION FOR CROP 
INSURANCE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400, subpart D

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB00
_______________________________________________________________________




352. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART U; INELIGIBLE FILE - 
CROP INSURANCE INELIGIBILITY

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/31/96                    61 FR 56151
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB01
_______________________________________________________________________




353. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; RICE, FIG, ALMOND, RAISIN, 
FORAGE PRODUCTION, HYBRID SORGHUM SEED, PEAR, APPLE, CANNING AND 
PROCESSING SWEET CORN, DOLLAR PLAN FRESH MARKET TOMATO,

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final: Figs             03/01/94                     59 FR 9614
Final Rule: Nursery Crops       06/15/95                    60 FR 31375
Final Rule: Figs                07/25/95                    60 FR 37934
NPRM                            04/25/96                    61 FR 18293
NPRM Comment Period End         05/28/96
Final Rule: Pears               11/07/96                    61 FR 57578
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB03
_______________________________________________________________________




354. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; NONSTANDARD CLASSIFICATION 
SYSTEM; SUBPART O

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400, subpart O

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/07/96                    61 FR 57595
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB05
_______________________________________________________________________




355. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART S; REGULATIONS FOR 
INSURANCE COVERAGE BY WRITTEN AGREEMENT

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400, subpart S

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB07
_______________________________________________________________________




356. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART V; SUPPLEMENTAL AND 
ALTERNATIVE CROP INSURANCE POLICY APPROVAL PROCESS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400, subpart V

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB15
_______________________________________________________________________




357. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART J; APPEAL PROCEDURE 
REGULATIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400, subpart J

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/29/95                    60 FR 67298
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB17
_______________________________________________________________________




358. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; FEDERAL JURISDICTION AND 
STATUTE OF LIMITATION FOR SUITS BASED UPON DENIAL OF CLAIMS FOR 
INDEMNITY

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB21

[[Page 62276]]

_______________________________________________________________________




359. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; ACTUAL PRODUCTION HISTORY 
COVERAGE PROGRAM; TRANSITIONAL YIELDS FOR PRODUCERS OF FEED OR FORAGE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB23
_______________________________________________________________________




360. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS: SUBPART Q: COLLECTION AND 
STORAGE OF SOCIAL SECURITY ACCOUNT NUMBERS AND EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION 
NUMBERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400, subpart Q

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB26
_______________________________________________________________________




361. 1996 CROP YEAR PLANTAIN AND BANANA INSURANCE PROGRAM AND BANANA 
CROP INTENSIVE CULTIVATION INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR PUERTO RICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR Not yet determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB30
_______________________________________________________________________




362. 1996 CROP YEAR COFFEE CROP INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR PUERTO RICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB33
_______________________________________________________________________




363. 1996 CROP YEAR COFFEE PLANTATION INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR PUERTO RICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB34
_______________________________________________________________________




364. 1996 CROP YEAR FRUIT CROP (AVOCADO, ORANGES, MANGO, CITRON, LEMON, 
PAPAYA, PASSION) INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR PUERTO RICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB35
_______________________________________________________________________




365. 1996 CROP YEAR FRUIT TREES (AVOCADO, ORANGES, MANGO, CITRON, LEMON) 
INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR PUERTO RICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB36
_______________________________________________________________________




366. 1996 CROP YEAR SUGARCANE INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR PUERTO RICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB40
_______________________________________________________________________




367. 1996 CROP YEAR VEGETABLE INSURANCE PROGRAM FOR PUERTO RICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB41

[[Page 62277]]

_______________________________________________________________________




368. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; SUNFLOWER SEED CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457.108

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB42
_______________________________________________________________________




369. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; REINSURANCE AGREEMENT STANDARDS 
FOR APPROVAL

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400.169

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/01/95                    60 FR 20135
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB44
_______________________________________________________________________




370. TOBACCO, QUOTA PLAN CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 435

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB47
_______________________________________________________________________




371. POPCORN CORN INSURANCE REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 447

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________




372. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; TEXAS CITRUS TREE CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/29/96                    61 FR 45369
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB50
_______________________________________________________________________




373. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS: FLORIDA CITRUS FRUIT CROP 
INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 401.143; 7 CFR 457

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/15/96                    61 FR 10699
NPRM Comment Period End         04/15/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________




374.  COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS--ELS COTTON CROP 
INSURANCE PROVISIONS--UNIT DIVISIONS AND CANCELLATION AND TERMINATION 
DATES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1501 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 475.105

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will clarify the unit division guidelines for 
non-irrigated corners of center pivot irrigation systems and change the 
cancellation and termination dates of March 15 to February 28 for all 
states except New Mexico. The date change is necessary to comply with 
moving the sales closing date 30 days earlier for all spring-planted 
crops. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/27/96                    61 FR 43999
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________




375.  COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS--COTTON

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1501

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457.104

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will clarify the unit division guidelines for 
non-irrigated corners of center pivot irrigation systems and change the 
cancellation and termination dates of February 15 to January 15. The 
date change is necessary to comply with moving the sales closing date 
30 days earlier for all spring-planted crops. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/03/96                    61 FR 46401
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525

[[Page 62278]]

Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB53
_______________________________________________________________________




376.  COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS--SUGAR BEET

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will provide specific provisions for the 
insurance of sugar beets. They will be used in conjunction with the 
Common Crop Insurance Policy Basic Provisions, which contain standard 
terms and conditions common to most crops. The intended effect of this 
action is to provide policy changes to better meet the needs of the 
insured and include the current sugar beet endorsement with the Common 
Crop Insurance Policy for ease of use and consistency of policy terms. 
No significant cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/31/96                    61 FR 27315
NPRM Comment Period End         07/30/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________




377.  CATASTROPHIC RISK PROTECTION PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1508

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: This action will provide noninsured producers, policyholders, 
and insurance companies with a catastrophic risk protection program in 
conformance with the Federal Crop Insurance Reform Act of 1994. It will 
also implement requirements of the Federal Agriculture Improvement Act 
of 1996 that allows producers to not obtain crop insurance if they 
waive eligibility for emergency crop loss assistance and still retain 
eligibility for certain other farm program benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




378.  CATASTROPHIC RISK PROTECTION ENDORSEMENT

Priority:  Economically Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1508

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 402

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: The catastrophic risk plan of insurance provides a basic 
level of insurance to producers. The Federal Agriculture Improvement 
and Reform Act of 1996 allows producers to forego obtaining crop 
insurance if they sign a waiver of eligibility for emergency crop loss 
assistance and still be eligible for certain other farm program 
benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB58
_______________________________________________________________________




379.  FEDERAL CROP INSURANCE ON HIGHLY ERODIBLE LAND AND 
WETLANDS--PART 400

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 3811; 16 USC 3821

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400.47

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: This action will implement requirements of the Federal 
Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 to provide that 
producers will no longer be required to be in compliance with the 
highly erodible land and wetland conservation provisions of the Food 
Security Act of 1985 in order to be eligible to obtain crop insurance. 
No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/23/96                    61 FR 38057
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




380.  FEDERAL CROP INSURANCE ON HIGHLY ERODIBLE LAND AND 
WETLANDS--PART 401

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 3811; 16 USC 3821

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 401.8

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: This action will implement requirements of the Federal 
Agricultural Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 to provide that 
producers will no longer be required to be in compliance with the 
highly erodible land and wetland conservation provisions of the Food 
Security Act of 1985 in order to be eligible to obtain crop insurance. 
No cost is expected.

[[Page 62279]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/26/96                    61 FR 39048
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




381. CATASTROPHIC RISK PROTECTION ENDORSEMENT; PART 402

Priority:  Economically Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 402

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/20/96                    61 FR 42979

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB09
_______________________________________________________________________




382. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS: SUBPART T; FEDERAL CROP 
INSURANCE REFORM ACT OF 1994; REGULATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION

Priority:  Economically Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 400, subpart T

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/20/96                    61 FR 42970

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB11
_______________________________________________________________________




383. NONINSURED CROP DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM, PART 404

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 404

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/27/96                     61 FR 7193

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB13
_______________________________________________________________________




384. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; SMALL GRAINS (INCLUDING MALTING 
BARLEY), COTTON, ELS COTTON, AND COARSE GRAINS CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 401.101; 7 CFR 401.102; 7 CFR 457.101; 7 CFR 
457.103 to 457.105; 7 CFR 457.113

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/06/96                     61 FR 8851

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB24
_______________________________________________________________________




385.  COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS--TEXAS CITRUS FRUIT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1506

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action provides specific crop provisions for the 
insurance of Texas citrus fruit. They will be used in conjunction with 
the Common Crop Insurance Policy Basic Provisions, which contain 
standard terms and conditions common to most crops. The intended effect 
of the action is to provide policy changes to better meet the needs of 
the insured and to combine the current Texas Citrus Endorsement with 
the Common Crop Insurance Policy for ease of use and consistency of 
terms. No cost is expected.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/05/96                    61 FR 28512
NPRM Comment Period End         07/05/96
Final Action - (Correction 11/
07/96, 61 FR 57583)             08/08/96                    61 FR 41297

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0525, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250-0525
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB56
BILLING CODE 3410-08-F

[[Page 62280]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




386.  WEIGHING REGULATIONS REVIEW

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  PL 94-582; 7 USC 71

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 800.96; 7 CFR 800.97; 7 CFR 800.98; 7 CFR 800.99

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking is being taken as part of the President's 
initiative on regulatory reform. It results from an agency review of 
material in the U.S. Grain Standards Act and 7 CFR 800.99 related to 
checkweighing procedures for sacked grain. The action removes 4 pages 
from the CFR. It is administrative in nature and will not change the 
Agency's present grain weight certification or checkweighing policies.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
Final Action                    02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Wollam, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
Room 0623-S, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0292
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA49
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




387. FEES FOR COMMODITY INSPECTION

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1621 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 868

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration 
is proposing to make changes to fees charged for inspection services 
for commodities other than rice, performed under the Agricultural 
Marketing Act of 1946. These revisions are designed to generate revenue 
sufficient to cover projected operating costs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/08/96                    61 FR 35687
NPRM Comment Period End         08/07/96
Final Action                    12/00/96
Final Action Effective          01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Wollam, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
P.O. Box 96454, Room 0623 South Building, Washington, D. C. 20090-6454
Phone: 202 720-0292
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA48
_______________________________________________________________________




388.  CLEAR TITLE - PROTECTION FOR PURCHASERS OF FARM PRODUCTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1631; PL 104-127; PL 99-198

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 205.101; 9 CFR 205.105; 9 CFR 205.202; 9 CFR 
205.209

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amends regulations relating to the establishment and 
management of statewide central filing systems pertaining specifically 
to the filing of ``effective financing statements'' for ``farm 
products'' as defined in Sec. 1324 of the Food Security Act of 1985 by 
allowing electronic filing of effective financing statements without 
the signature of the debtor provided State law authorizes such a 
filing. This amendment brings the regulations into conformity with Sec. 
662 and 663 of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 
1996.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/22/96                    61 FR 54727
Final Action                    01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Wollam, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
Room 0623-s, 1400 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0292
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA50
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




389. FEES FOR OFFICIAL INSPECTION AND WEIGHING SERVICE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 800

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/22/96                    61 FR 43301
Final Action Effective          10/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Wollam
Phone: 202 720-0292

RIN: 0580-AA40

[[Page 62281]]

_______________________________________________________________________




390. REGULATIONS AND STATEMENTS OF GENERAL POLICY UNDER THE PACKERS AND 
STOCKYARDS ACT (GROUP 2)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 201.49; 9 CFR 201.53; 9 CFR 201.55; 9 CFR 201.69; 
9 CFR 201.70; 9 CFR 201.71; 9 CFR 201.73; 9 CFR 201.76; 9 CFR 201.98; 9 
CFR 201.100; 9 CFR 201.108(1); 9 CFR 201.200; 9 CFR 203.4; 9 CFR 
203.18; 9 CFR 203.19; ...

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/10/96                    61 FR 36279
Final Action Effective          08/09/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Harold W. Davis
Phone: 202 720-7063

RIN: 0580-AA44
_______________________________________________________________________




391. REGULATIONS AND STATEMENTS OF GENERAL POLICY UNDER THE PACKERS AND 
STOCKYARDS ACT (GROUP 3)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 201.10; 9 CFR 201.27; 9 CFR 201.28; 9 CFR 201.29; 
9 CFR 201.30; 9 CFR 201.31; 9 CFR 201.32; 9 CFR 201.33; 9 CFR 201.34

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/10/96                    61 FR 36277
Final Action Effective          08/09/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Harold W. Davis
Phone: 202 720-7063

RIN: 0580-AA45
_______________________________________________________________________




392. STATEMENT OF GENERAL POLICY UNDER THE PACKERS AND STOCKYARDS ACT: 
CARE AND HANDLING OF LIVESTOCK

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 203.20

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       05/17/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Harold W. Davis
Phone: 202 720-7063

RIN: 0580-AA46
_______________________________________________________________________




393. FEES FOR RICE INSPECTION

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 868

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/03/96                    61 FR 34714
Final Action Effective          08/02/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Wollam
Phone: 202 720-0292
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA47
BILLING CODE 3410-EN-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Food and Consumer Service (FCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




394. NOTICE OF NEW PRIVACY ACT SYSTEM OF RECORDS--FOOD STAMP RETAILER 
INFORMATION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 93-579

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This notice proposes to create a new Privacy Act system of 
records entitled ``Food Stamp Retailer Information.'' This will enable 
FCS to share personal information with other Federal agencies 
pertaining to store owners currently participating in the Food Stamp 
Program, as well as those store owners who have previously participated 
in the program. Some of the identifying information which will be 
shared with other Federal agencies are the names and home addresses of 
owners, owners' Social Security Numbers, and dates of birth. (95-020)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC19

[[Page 62282]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Food and Consumer Service (FCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




395. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN 
(WIC): FOOD DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 1 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________




396. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FOR VICTIMS OF DISASTERS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2013 (b); 7 USC 2014 (h)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273; 7 CFR 274; 7 CFR 280

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would define special eligibility and issuance 
procedures during disasters. The rule addresses the eligibility and 
issuance of food stamps by the Food Stamp Program during a disaster. 
(86-029)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/97
Final Action                    01/00/98
Final Action Effective          03/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AA85
_______________________________________________________________________




397. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN 
(WIC): MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1786

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule responds to a variety of program concerns, 
most of which have been expressed by WIC State agencies. The proposal 
strengthens the provision of services to participants in the areas of 
eligibility determination and nutrition education and increases State 
agency flexibility regarding the sharing of participant information 
with other programs. Several minor clarifications and technical 
corrections are also made. Principal provisions include: (1) mandatory 
minimum content requirements for nutrition education participant 
contacts; and (2) additional flexibility for State agencies to share 
participant information with related programs. (89-515)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________




398. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS--PAPERWORK REDUCTION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  PL 101-147

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 250; 7 CFR 251; 7 CFR 253

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will implement the food distribution portion of the 
recommendations of the August 1990 task force on paperwork reduction. 
These recommendations were included in a report to Congress and 
included perpetual State/Federal agreements and longer contract 
duration for warehouses. (94-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB27
_______________________________________________________________________




399. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS--IMPLEMENTATION OF 1990 FARM BILL

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  PL 101-624

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 250; 7 CFR 251

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 30, 1992.

Abstract: This rule will revise the requirements for evaluation of 
State warehousing and distribution systems and conversion to commercial 
systems. (91-004)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB28
_______________________________________________________________________




400. COMMODITY SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM: ELDERLY-ONLY SITES, 
ADMINISTRATIVE FUNDING, REFERRALS TO HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES, 
CASELOAD ALLOCATION PROCESS, PRIORITY SYSTEM, AND MISCELLANEOUS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 612c

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 247

[[Page 62283]]

Legal Deadline:
Final, Statutory, October 1, 1990, for funding provisions.
Final, Statutory, October 1, 1991, for all other provisions.

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend regulations governing the 
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) to replace the current 
method of assigning caseload with a system that is based on the 
allocation of grants to the State agencies. (91-015)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/97
Final Action                    08/00/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB37
_______________________________________________________________________




401. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: 1995 QUALITY CONTROL TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 to 2032

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 271.2; 7 CFR 275.3; 7 CFR 275.10; 7 CFR 275.11; 7 
CFR 275.12; 7 CFR 275.13; 7 CFR 275.23

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food and Consumer Service is proposing technical changes 
to the Food Stamp Program's Quality Control System which will reduce 
the workload on State agencies and improve the efficiency of the 
quality control system. The proposed changes would: (1) permit State 
agencies to reduce their sample sizes; (2) clarify the minimum size of 
the Federal subsample; (3) clarify State sampling procedures; (4) 
change the formulas for calculating Federal subsample sizes; (5) 
clarify the process of conducting a quality control review of negative 
subsystem cases and add suspended cases, those cases that are certified 
for the Program but do not receive benefits, to the sample universe of 
cases that are reviewed under the negative subsystem; (6) change the 
error dollar tolerance level; (7) modify the requirements regarding a 
home visit in active quality control reviews; (8) provide a variance 
exclusion under certain circumstances for errors resulting from 
incorrect policy issued in written State agency policies or directives; 
(9) adjust the case completion standard; and (10) codify into 
regulations those circumstances under which Federal quality control 
findings or disposition for a case will be changed. (92-006)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/10/96                    61 FR 47680
NPRM Comment Period End         11/12/96
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Additional Information: RIN 0584-AB07 has been withdrawn, and the 
actions in that proposed rule have been included in this action.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB38
_______________________________________________________________________




402. PROVISIONS OF COMPUTER MATCHING AND PRIVACY PROTECTION ACT OF 1988, 
AMENDMENTS OF 1990, AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DISQUALIFIED RECIPIENT 
SUBSYSTEM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 552(a) Computer Matching and Privacy Protection 
Act; 7 USC 2015(b) Food Stamp Act

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In accordance with the Computer Matching and Privacy 
Protection Act, PL 100-503, and the Computer Matching and Privacy 
Protection Amendments of 1990, PL 101-508, the Food Stamp Program must 
extend certain protections to persons whose benefits could be adversely 
affected by computer matches. These protections include independent 
verification of computer information, notification to the affected 
individual and provision of an opportunity to respond to the 
information before an adverse action becomes effective.
In addition, this proposed rule describes requirements for State 
agencies to report information on individuals disqualified from the 
program for intentional program violations to FCS and the related FCS 
computer matching program known as the Disqualified Recipient Subsystem 
(DRS). (89-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/97
Final Action                    10/00/97
Final Action Effective          01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________




403. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ANTICIPATING INCOME AND REPORTING CHANGES

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 to 2032

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 273

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes several revisions in Food Stamp Program 
reporting and budgeting requirements. The changes in prospective 
budgeting and change reporting rules are intended to improve procedures 
for anticipating the eligibility and benefits of households whose 
income fluctuates unpredictably. The proposed revisions would provide a 
more stable level of benefits for these households by

[[Page 62284]]

requiring them to report a change in employment status rather than a 
change in the amount of earnings. The rule also would allow suspension, 
as opposed to termination, of prospectively budgeted households that 
become ineligible for one month because of income fluctuations. (93-
005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




404. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: ELIMINATION OF WHOLE COW'S MILK 
FROM THE INFANT MEAL PATTERN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1751 to 1760; 42 USC 1779

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220; 7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action proposes an amendment that would affect meal 
pattern requirements for infants under the National School Lunch 
Program, School Breakfast Program, and Child and Adult Care Food 
Program, parts 210, 220, and 226, respectively. This rule proposes to 
prohibit the service of whole cow's milk to infants ages 8 months 
through 11 months and would require that breast milk or iron-fortified 
formula be served for an infant's entire first year of life. This 
proposal would also add or amend tables describing infant meal 
requirements to clarify which meals containing breast milk in place of 
iron-fortified formula may fulfill the infant meal pattern. Finally, 
this proposal would correct the definition of ``infant formula'' in 
part 226 and make the wording consistent with the definition currently 
in parts 210 and 220. (95-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    11/00/97
Final Action Effective          12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________




405. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: FOOD STAMP RECIPIENT CLAIM ESTABLISHMENT AND 
COLLECTION STANDARDS

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 2 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AB88
_______________________________________________________________________




406. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: REVISIONS IN RETAIL FOOD STORE ELIGIBILITY 
CRITERIA AND IN ELIGIBILITY GUIDANCE AND PROGRAM AUTHORIZATION

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 3 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________




407. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: RETAILER APPLICATION PROCESSING

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 to 2032

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 278.1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would increase from 30 to 90 days the initial 
application processing timeframe for stores that apply for 
authorization. It would also allow FCS to request specific 
documentation to verify applicant firms' eligibility. Such information 
would include, but would not be limited to, business licenses, 
photographic identification cards, bills of sale, deeds, leases, sales 
contracts, certificates of incorporation, sales records, invoice 
records, and tax records. This documentation would be used to confirm 
self-reported information provided on the application form and to 
obtain third-party verification. (95-008)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




408. SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM: PROGRAM MEAL SERVICE DURING THE SCHOOL 
YEAR

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 103-448; 42 USC 1769a

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 225

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Implements provision of PL 103-448 which permits Summer Food 
Service Program (SFSP) meal service to be provided at non-school sites 
to children who are not in school for a period during the months of 
October through April due to a natural disaster, building repair, court 
order, or similar cause. Rule also simplifies the SFSP sponsor 
application and State monitoring requirements in order to eliminate 
unnecessary paperwork and reduce administrative burden for sponsors and 
State agencies. (95-011)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC06

[[Page 62285]]

_______________________________________________________________________




409. AMENDMENT TO REMOVE FORMULATED GRAIN--FRUIT PRODUCT SECTION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1773; 42 USC 1779

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 220 app A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Formulated grain-fruit products are specially fortified 
pastry type products which are currently authorized for use in the 
School Breakfast Program (SBP) to meet one bread/bread alternate and 
the fruit/vegetable requirements of the meal pattern. Originally 
intended to increase participation in the SBP by comprising a 
reimbursable meal when served with milk, subsequent additions to the 
meal patterns have made this impossible. In addition, these products do 
not make favorable contributions to a healthy diet. There is a minimum 
of 22% fat in the product specification, and high sugar levels are also 
necessary to meet the calorie minimum and produce a palatable product. 
These products are also low in fiber. Interest in these products from 
the food industry is low; only a few companies have approved grain-
fruit products. These companies could reformulate their existing 
products into lower fat, tastier products without the constraints of 
this regulation. This regulation is no longer necessary or effective in 
promoting participation in the SBP. (95-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC09
_______________________________________________________________________




410. CONSOLIDATION OF NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST 
PROGRAM INTO COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL MEAL PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  PL 103-448

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, May 2, 1996.

Abstract: Sec. 301 of P.L. 103-448 required the consolidation of the 
school lunch program and the school breakfast program into a 
comprehensive school meal program. In establishing the comprehensive 
school meal program, (a) children who are eligible for free and reduced 
price benefits will continue to receive such benefits; (b) the meals 
will continue to meet the nutritional requirements of sec. 9(a)(1) of 
the National School Lunch Act (NSLA) and sec. 4(e)(1) of the Child 
Nutrition Act (CNA); and (c) breakfast and lunch payments will continue 
to meet the requirements of sec. 4 and 11 of the NSLA and sec. 4 of the 
CNA. This regulation will consolidate the two programs by making 
structural changes to the framework of 7 CFR Part 210 to accommodate 
the incorporation of the breakfast program and by removing repetitive 
and obsolete provisions. Further, 7 CFR Part 220 will be removed in its 
entirety. (95-013)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC10
_______________________________________________________________________




411. FSP: RETAILER DELINQUENT DEBT COLLECTION: OFFSETTING FEDERAL INCOME 
TAX REFUND

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  PL 98-369; PL 100-203; PL 100-485; PL 102-164

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 278.6

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule notifies the public that FCS will begin offsetting 
Federal income tax refunds in 1997 to collect delinquent debts against 
food stamp retailers. These debts represent monetary penalties which 
FCS assessed against retailers who have violated Food Stamp Program 
rules and regulations. The offset will be made from Federal income tax 
refunds payable to retailers who are on FCS' records as having 
delinquent debts. This rule implements authority granted by the Cash 
Management Improvements Act, as amended. (95-014)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC11
_______________________________________________________________________




412. MODIFICATION OF THE ``VEGETABLE PROTEIN PRODUCTS'' PORTION OF 
APPENDIX A OF 7 CFR PARTS 210, 225, AND 226

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1758; 42 USC 1759a; 42 USC 1761; 42 USC 1762a; 
42 USC 1765; 42 USC 1766

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210 app A; 7 CFR 210.10(k)(3)(i); 7 CFR 
210.10a(d)(2)(i); 7 CFR 225 app A; 7 CFR 225.16(f)(3); 7 CFR 226 app A; 
7 CFR 220 app A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The usage level of vegetable protein products (VPP) is 
currently limited to a 30% substitution of meat, fish or poultry. A 
nutritional profile has been established which specifies fortification 
of certain nutrients as well as a protein quality requirement. This 
regulation could better serve the child nutrition programs if it is 
modified to allow an increased utilization of foods containing VPP. The 
food industry has requested that we allow 100% soy products to serve as 
meat alternates in the food based system, since there are no 
restrictions on their use under the nutrient based system. In addition, 
current fortification levels of iron and

[[Page 62286]]

zinc established for the VPP used in the child nutrition programs were 
based on early dietary research. It is now believed that these levels 
may be excessive if the VPP is used at greater than a 30% level of 
substitution in the diet. The Department intends to propose a rule to 
modify the regulations governing the use of vegetable protein products 
in the child nutrition programs which will provide a consistent 
nutritional policy regardless of menu planning system used, and will 
remove confusing regulatory burdens from programs and industry. (95-
018)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________




413. RELEASE OF FREE AND REDUCED PRICE SCHOOL MEAL ELIGIBILITY 
INFORMATION

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 103-448, sec 108

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would allow the disclosure and use of a student's 
free and reduced price school meal or free milk eligibility information 
when needed for certain educational programs, to facilitate eligibility 
determinations in other means tested programs, and for certain 
monitoring and investigative purposes. The rule would (1) establish 
limits on the persons and programs that may have access to a student's 
free and reduced price school meal or free milk eligibility 
information, (2) require that households be notified that information 
may be shared, and (3) provide penalties for unauthorized disclosures. 
The proposed amendments are intended to facilitate children's access to 
certain programs serving low-income children and protect free and 
reduced price eligibility information from misuse and unauthorized 
disclosures. (95-022)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    10/00/97
Final Action Effective          11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC21
_______________________________________________________________________




414. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: REGULATORY REVIEW/PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 to 2032

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273.15; 7 CFR 273.16; 7 CFR 
274; 7 CFR 275; 7 CFR 276; 7 CFR 277; 7 CFR 281; 7 CFR 284; 7 CFR 285

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Agriculture is proposing substantial 
revisions to the Food Stamp Program regulations governing State agency 
administrative and management requirements. This action is being taken 
to incorporate certain provisions from the Personal Responsiblity and 
Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Welfare Reform) in 
response to the President's Regulatory Reform effort and as part of the 
Department's ongoing effort to expand State flexibility. This action 
will provide the State agencies with more flexibility in operating the 
Food Stamp Program by eliminating outdated or overly prescriptive 
requirements. This rule also proposes to implement provisions of the 
Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 (GRPA), which shifts the 
focus of Federal agencies from managing processes to achieving results. 
(95-023)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/97
Final Action                    10/00/97
Final Action Effective          12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC22
_______________________________________________________________________




415. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM INITIATIVE

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1758; 42 USC 1766

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking proposes to incorporate in the Child and 
Adult Care Food Program regulations several recommendations suggested 
by the Department's Office of Inspector General as a result of several 
audits recently conducted. The audits concluded that high levels of 
noncompliance by sponsors and family day care homes were evident in 
several areas of Program operations.
The Department also proposes to incorporate in the regulations several 
recommendations from a State-Federal task Force in the areas of (1) 
State approval of both new and renewing sponsoring organizations; (2) 
State oversight of sponsor operations; and (3) training and operational 
requirements for child care institutions, sponsors of family day care 
homes, outside-school-hours care centers, and family day care home 
providers.
As a result of the Task Force's recommendations, this rulemaking also

[[Page 62287]]

proposes other changes to the CACFP regulations which are intended to 
streamline the operation of the Program at the State and local levels, 
improve its integrity, and strengthen oversight control. (95-024)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________




416.  DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY FOR FREE & REDUCED PRICE MEALS AND 
FREE MILK IN SCHOOLS: PROVISION 2 AND PROVISION 3

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  PL 103-448

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Currently, schools that serve all meals free for 3 
consecutive years may determine free and reduced price school meal 
eligibility and take daily meal counts by category (free, reduced price 
and paid) once every 3 years. In years when actual meal counts by 
category are not taken, schools claim meals for reimbursement based on 
claiming percentages. This counting and claiming alternative is 
commonly referred to as Provision 2. This rule would allow schools to 
extend current procedures an additional 2 years if the socioeconomic 
status of the schools population remains stable and allow subsequent 5-
year cycles. This rule would also add another alternative for schools 
that serve all meals free for 4 consecutive years. These schools would 
receive the same level of cash and commodity assistance they received 
in the last year free and reduce price eligibility determinations were 
made. For both alternatives, meal costs that exceed reimbursement must 
be paid for with other than Federal funds. (96-003)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________




417.  FSP: ELECTRONIC BENEFITS TRANSFER CARD SPECIFICATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 to 2034

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 274.12

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action proposes to amend Food Stamp regulations 
affecting standards for approval and operation of Food Stamp Electronic 
Benefit Transfer (EBT) Systems in relation to card specifications. The 
revisions would prescribe additional card requirements and security 
features beyond the minimum industry standard currently required. These 
enhancements have been devised to deter counterfeiting and other 
fraudulent activities and will ensure a uniform minimum card standard 
across states. (96-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive Room 
308, Alexandria VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC27
_______________________________________________________________________




418.  FOOD STAMP PROGRAM REGULATORY REVIEW: CERTIFICATION OF 
ELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 to 2026

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 273

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action proposes to amend Food Stamp Program rules 
governing the certification of eligible households. It results from a 
comprehensive, page-by-page review of all existing Food Stamp Program 
regulations conducted in response to the President's regulatory reform 
initiative. The proposed changes would empower States to set their own 
procedures for case management and customer service; remove overly 
prescriptive, outdated, and redundant provisions; and emphasize 
recipient responsibility for complying with Program requirements. (96-
006)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive Room 
308, Alexandria VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC28
_______________________________________________________________________




419.  WIC: MINOR WIC FOOD PACKAGE ADJUSTMENTS AND CORRECTIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1786

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposal would make minor adjustments and corrections in

[[Page 62288]]

the Federal regulations for the WIC food packages, to recognize new 
container sizes for and physical forms of several of the allowable WIC 
foods. This rule would also propose allowing more alternative physical 
forms of the current WIC foods (e.g., shelf-stable concentrated adult 
juices packaged in tetra boxes which are new on the market compared to 
frozen concentrated forms of adult juices). (96-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97
Final Action Effective          12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AC29
_______________________________________________________________________




420.  WIC: BLOODWORK REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1786

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would propose revisions to the bloodwork 
requirements for WIC applicants. Currently, to be certified as eligible 
for the Program, applicants must be determined at nutritional risk. In 
determining nutritional risk, at a minimum height or length and weight 
must be measured, and a hematological test for anemia must be 
performed. This rule would eliminate the requirement for a 
hematological test for anemia as part of the certification process if 
another risk factor is present that would qualify the applicant as 
nutritionally at risk. Hematological test data for anemia would still 
be required for counseling and food package purposes. (96-008)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/97
Final Action                    08/00/97
Final Action Effective          08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AC30
_______________________________________________________________________




421.  PART 240, CASH IN LIEU OF DONATED FOODS AND PART 250, FOOD 
DISTRIBUTION REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  PL 103-448

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 240; 7 CFR 250

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will incorporate provisions of the Healthy Meals 
for Healthy Americans Act of 1994 relative to schools participating in 
the National School Lunch Program. (96-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AC31
_______________________________________________________________________




422.  SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, 
AND CHILDREN (WIC): ACCOMMODATION OF CULTURAL FOOD PREFERENCES IN THE 
WIC PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1786

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would address issues surrounding the 
accommodation of food preferences and cultural needs of WIC's diverse 
population. The rulemaking would explore adding new and different types 
of foods to WIC food packages within the program's current cost 
strictures. (96-011)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/23/94                    59 FR 32406
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/20/94
NPRM                            02/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AC32
_______________________________________________________________________




423.  SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS 
AND CHILDREN (WIC): INFANT FORMULA COST CONTAINMENT REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1786

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would update current cost containment 
regulations to ensure that free and open competition is maintained to 
achieve the greatest cost savings for infant formula. The rule would 
require State agencies to evaluate new infant formula

[[Page 62289]]

rebate contracts on the basis of the lowest net cost of the formula 
unless the State agency can demonstrate that there is less than 5 
percent variance in the retail prices in the State for different brands 
of infant formula. The rule will also address issues regarding the 
maintenance of contracts. (96-012)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    03/00/98
Final Action Effective          03/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is a 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC33
_______________________________________________________________________




424.  NUTRITION EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1788

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 227

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend the Nutrition Education and 
Training Program (NET) regulations to comply with the statutory mandate 
of Public Law 101-147 and 103-448.
Section 124 of Public Law 101-147 amends the National School Lunch Act 
by requiring that school food service personnel be trained in the 
principles and practices of food service management, in cooperation 
with materials developed at any food service management institute 
established as authorized by section 21(a)(2) of the National School 
Lunch Act.
In addition to schools and child care institutions, nutrition education 
activities are also required to be conducted in institutions offering 
summer food service programs under section 13 of the National School 
Lunch Act. Also, the State Plan requirement to solicit advice from the 
National Advisory Council on Child Nutrition will be deleted because 
the council requirement has been deleted.
Additionally, section 214 of Public Law 101-147 amends the National 
School Lunch Act by requiring States to modify their NET plans annually 
rather than resubmitting the entire plan each year. This proposed rule 
would bring the NET regulations into conformance with the National 
School Lunch Act by requiring States to submit a full plan for the 
first year of the five-year reauthorization mandated by Public Law 101-
147, and thereafter to submit annual updates. (96-013)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC34
_______________________________________________________________________




425.  REVISION OF THE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE DETERMINATION OF 
ELIGIBILITY FOR FREE AND REDUCED PRICE MEALS AND FREE MILK IN SCHOOLS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1779

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Part 245, the regulations governing the determinations of 
eligibility for free and reduced price benefits under the school 
nutrition programs is proposed to be revised to clarify requirements, 
remove obsolete and unnecessary provisions, and streamline procedure. 
The intent of the proposal is to simplify provisions for both 
households applying for free and reduced price meals or free milk in 
schools and for school officials responsible for making eligibility 
determinations. The proposal will also include the removal of Part 245. 
Rather, the regulations governing the determination of free and reduced 
price school meal and milk benefits will be added to the consolidation 
of the school lunch and breakfast program regulations, Parts 210 and 
220, into a comprehensive school meals program under part 210 when that 
action is completed. (96-015)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC36
_______________________________________________________________________




426.  FOOD STAMP PROGRAM REGULATORY REVIEW: FSP STANDARDS FOR 
APPROVAL AND OPERATION OF FOOD STAMP ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER SYSTEMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 TO 2034

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 274.12

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes revisions to food stamp regulations 
affecting the standards and administration of EBT systems for food 
stamp issuance. Current regulations at 7 CFR 274.12 delineate the 
standards that EBT systems must meet in order to be approved for 
operation. This rule will revise those regulations to provide the State 
agency more flexibility in

[[Page 62290]]

implementing and operating those systems. Clarifications and FCS 
settlement improvements will also be incorporated into the rule. (96-
016)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AC37
_______________________________________________________________________




427.  NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST 
PROGRAM: ADDITIONAL MENU PLANNING ALTERNATIVES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-149

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Public Law 104-149, enacted on May 29, 1996, establishes 
additional menu planning alternatives for the school meals programs and 
requires the secretary to establish guidelines for the use of these 
additional alternatives. One alternative specified in the statute was 
the meal pattern in effect for the 1994-95 school year; the other was 
``any reasonable approach.'' This proposed regulation would reestablish 
the meal pattern as a menu planning alternative and provide guidelines 
for school food authorities to develop a difference approach to menu 
planning. (96-017)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AC38
_______________________________________________________________________




428.  FSP: PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY PROVISIONS OF THE PERSONAL 
RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 4 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AC39
_______________________________________________________________________




429.  FSP: STATE FLEXIBILITY AND CERTIFICATION PROVISIONS OF 
PUBLIC LAW 104-193

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 5 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AC40
_______________________________________________________________________




430.  FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: SIMPLIFIED FOOD STAMP PROGRAM 
PROVISIONS OF THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY & WORK OPPORTUNITY 
RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-193, sec 854

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would implement section 854 of the 
Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 
and provides State agencies with an option to align food stamp and 
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program requirements in 
determining benefit levels for low-income eligible families. 96-023

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Sectors Affected:  None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2446

RIN: 0584-AC43
_______________________________________________________________________




431.  ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER (EBT) PROVISIONS OF THE 
PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-193, sec 825

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 274.12

Legal Deadline:  Other, Statutory, October 1, 2002.
Statutory implementation date of EBT systems per section 825.

Abstract: On August 22, 1996, the President signed the Personal 
Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-193). This 
rule proposes to implement the Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) 
provisions found in Section 825 of this law which affect the Food Stamp 
Program. These provisions are meant to encourage implementation of EBT 
systems to replace food stamp coupons. 96-024

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC44
_______________________________________________________________________




432.  FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: WORK PROVISIONS OF THE PERSONAL 
RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 6 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AC45

[[Page 62291]]

_______________________________________________________________________




433.  FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: RETAILER INTEGRITY, FRAUD REDUCTION 
AND PENALTIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-193; PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 278; 7 CFR 279

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will implement the three-tiered legislative 
initiative for combating retailer fraud in the Food Stamp Program: (1) 
Pre-authorization screening - tightens applicant retailer verification 
requirements to ensure only legitimate stores are authorized; (2) Post-
authorization controls - allows FCS to: move quickly to immediately 
suspend stores that are caught trafficking; access more information 
from more sources about business and tax integrity; and, better track 
stores using up-to-date technology; (3) Stiffer penalties - will impose 
tougher penalties on retailers found violating the program. 96-026

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food and Consumer Service (FCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




434. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: AUTHORITY TO COLLECT OVERCLAIMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1766

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Establishes the Department's authority to collect overclaims 
where participating institutions fail to comply with regulatory 
recordkeeping requirements. (87-514)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/05/95                    60 FR 62227
NPRM Comment Period End         02/05/96
Final Action                    12/00/96
Final Action Effective          01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB19
_______________________________________________________________________




435. PERMANENT AGREEMENTS/DIRECT CERTIFICATION IN NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH, 
SCHOOL BREAKFAST, AND SPECIAL MILK PROGRAMS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 101-147

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 215; 7 CFR 220; 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, July 1, 1990.

Abstract: The Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 1989 made 
the agreement between the school and the State agency to operate the 
school nutrition programs a permanent document to be amended as 
necessary. This law also authorized schools to certify children as 
eligible for free meals using information obtained directly from food 
stamp/AFDC offices attesting that these children are receiving food 
stamps or AFDC benefits. This rule implements these statutory 
provisions. In accordance with a provision in Welfare Reform, this rule 
will also make the school food authority's free and reduced price 
policy statement permanent unless there are substantive changes to the 
original policy statement. (89-520)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/28/91                    56 FR 24033
NPRM Comment Period End         07/29/91
Final Action                    03/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB35
_______________________________________________________________________




436. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS--DISASTER PROVISIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 100-707

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 250

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will propose to: (1) allow simultaneous 
distribution of commodities and food stamps during disaster; (2) allow 
commodity distribution to households during situations of distress. 
This rule will also define necessary accountability procedures. (90-
0001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/08/95                    60 FR 62999
NPRM Comment Period End         02/06/96
Final Action                    01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer

[[Page 62292]]

Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________




437. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS--OKLAHOMA WAIVER 
AUTHORITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  PL 97-98, Sec 1338; PL 95-113

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This interim rule will extend the Department's authority to 
grant waivers to serve urban places in excess of 10,000 people. This 
authority expired on September 30, 1985. (94-002)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/00/97
Final Action                    01/00/98
Final Action Effective          03/00/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB56
_______________________________________________________________________




438. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: PAYMENT OF CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF 
STATE AGENCIES

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 to 2032; PL 103-66, sec 13961

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 277

Legal Deadline:  Other, Statutory, April 1, 1994.
The Act requires funding rate reduction effective 04/01/94.

Abstract: State agencies are reimbursed by FCS at standard or enhanced 
Federal reimbursement level for all allowable costs incurred in the 
State's operation of the Food Stamp Program. This proposed rule would 
reduce the Federal reimbursement rate for State agencies for fraud 
control, system development, and immigration status verification to the 
standard 50 percent rate. It would also limit the time period during 
which State agencies may file a claim for retroactive funding, and 
allows the cost of certifying aid to families with dependent children 
to be charged to the Food Stamp Program for purposes of Federal 
reimbursement. (93-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/22/94                    59 FR 60079
NPRM Comment Period End         01/23/95
Final Action                    01/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB66
_______________________________________________________________________




439. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS: DEFINITION OF 
INDIAN TRIBAL HOUSEHOLD

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  PL 88-525; PL 97-98, sec 1338; PL 95-113

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 253; 7 CFR 254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule will amend part 253 to permit households 
containing a Native American living in ``near areas'' to participate in 
the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) regardless 
of the Native American's tribal affiliation or age. It will also amend 
part 254 to permit households containing a Native American to 
participate in FDPIR in Oklahoma regardless of the Native American's 
age. (82-217)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/20/87                    52 FR 39158
Interim Final Rule              01/11/94                     59 FR 1447
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB67
_______________________________________________________________________




440. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: QUALITY CONTROL PROVISIONS OF THE MICKEY LELAND 
CHILDHOOD HUNGER RELIEF ACT

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 103-66, sec 13951

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 275

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To implement quality control changes to the Food Stamp Act 
required by section 13951 of the Mickey Leland Childhood Hunger Relief 
Act in the following areas: 1) interest on quality control claims, 2) 
the formula for determining quality control claim amounts, 3) variance 
exclusion for the application of new regulations, 4) time frames for 
completion of the arbitration process, 5) time frames for determining 
final error rates, the national average payment error rate, and the 
amounts of payment claims against State agencies, 6) time frames for 
notifying State agencies of payment claims, 7) the addition of specific 
criteria for a determination that ``good cause'' exists for not 
imposing a payment claim, and 8) the transfer of authority to make 
``good cause'' determinations from FNS to the Administrative Law 
Judges. These provisions are nondiscretionary and will not result in an 
annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more, or a major 
increase in costs or prices for consumers, individuals, industries, 
Federal, State or local government agencies, or geographical regions. 
(93-018)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/23/95                    60 FR 32615
NPRM Comment Period End         08/22/95
Final Action                    01/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

[[Page 62293]]

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________




441. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: REVISIONS IN USE AND DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION 
PROVIDED BY RETAIL FOOD STORES AND WHOLESALE FOOD CONCERNS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 103-225; 7 USC 2018(c)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 278.1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule sets forth changes required by provisions 
of the Food Stamp Program Improvements Act of 1994, PL 103-225, Title 
II, 108-109 (1994). The purpose of this rule is to implement these 
statutory changes to the Food Stamp Act of 1977, as amended. It would 
permit the use and disclosure of information provided by stores to 
State and Federal law enforcement and investigative agencies for the 
purposes of administering or enforcing the Food Stamp Act, and 
establishes penalties against persons who misuse any of the 
information. (94-022)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/12/95                    60 FR 25625
NPRM Comment Period End         06/12/95
Final Action                    10/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB87
_______________________________________________________________________




442. SCHOOL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: TECHNICAL AND NONDISCRETIONARY 
AMENDMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  PL 103-488

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 215; 7 CFR 235; 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule proposes to (1) allow USDA to withhold State 
Administrative Expense (SAE) funds when State agencies are seriously 
deficient in program administration and to withhold SAE funds from 
State agencies unwilling to participate in studies; (2) remove the 
authority for child care centers in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to 
participate in the lunch and breakfast program; and (3) make other 
technical amendments to remove obsolete references. (96-001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC01
_______________________________________________________________________




443. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS AND 
CHILDREN (WIC): IMPLEMENTATION OF WIC MANDATES OF THE HEALTHY MEALS FOR 
HEALTHY AMERICANS ACT OF 1994

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1786

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule implements the WIC-related reauthorization 
provisions mandated in Pub. L. 103-448, the Healthy Meals for Healthy 
Americans Act of 1994. All of the WIC-related provisions may be deemed 
nondiscretionary. These provisions include: counting the unborn child 
of an otherwise income-ineligible pregnant woman, allowing State 
agencies to deem income-eligible pregnant women presumptively eligible 
for a period not to exceed 60 days, an increase in the national 
breastfeeding promotion and support expenditure, and a requirement that 
Medicaid managed care providers be included in the programs to which 
WIC must make referrals. (95-004)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96
Final Action Effective          12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC02
_______________________________________________________________________




444. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: CHILD NUTRITION AND WIC 
REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 1989 AND OTHER AMENDMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 101-147; PL 102-342; PL 102-375

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This interim rule implements changes required in the Child 
and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) by the Child Nutrition and WIC 
Reauthorization Act of 1989 (P.L. 101-147), the Child Nutrition 
Improvement Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-342) and the Older Americans Act 
Amendments of 1992 (P.L. 102-375) by: (1) allowing the Governor of a 
State to designate a State administering agency for the adult day care 
component of the Program that is different from the State agency which 
administers the child care component; (2) changing the basis for making 
commodities available to State agencies; (3) permitting private for-
profit child care centers to participate in CACFP if at least 25 
percent of their enrolled children or 25 percent of their licensed 
capacity, whichever is less, are Title XX recipients; (4) allowing 
adult day care centers to participate in the CACFP if they provide day 
care services to qualified persons in a group setting outside their 
homes, or in a group living arrangement; and (5)

[[Page 62294]]

making three specific technical adjustments in Program regulations. 
This interim rule also makes a discretionary change which allows 
households participating in the Food Distribution Program on Indian 
Reservations (FDPIR) to be categorically eligible as free meal 
recipients under the CACFP. These changes are intended to reduce the 
level of administrative burden at the Federal, State and local levels. 
(95-009)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/00/97
Final Action                    08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




445. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM REGULATORY REVIEW: ALASKA, PUERTO RICO, 
COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS, AND DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 2011 to 2032

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 282; 7 CFR 284; 7 CFR 285

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action proposes to amend Food Stamp Program rules 
affecting Alaska, The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, 
Puerto Rico, and demonstration projects. This action is one result of a 
comprehensive page by page review of all existing Food Stamp Program 
regulations which was conducted in response to the President's efforts 
to reform the Federal regulatory system. The changes will eliminate 
prescriptive detailed processes and empower States to set their own 
procedures for case management and customer service; eliminate outdated 
and redundant regulatory requirements; and emphasize recipient 
responsibility for applying and reporting their circumstances properly. 
(95-015)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/24/96                     61 FR 1849
NPRM Comment Period End         03/25/96
Final Action                    10/00/96
Final Action Effective          12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC14
_______________________________________________________________________




446. CREDITING OF YOGURT IN THE SCHOOL MEALS PROGRAMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1758

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would allow yogurt to be credited as a meat/meat 
alternate in the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast 
Program when the school uses a food-based menu planning system. (95-
021)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/05/96                    61 FR 35152
NPRM Comment Period End         09/03/96
Final Action                    02/00/97
Final Action Effective          03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC15
_______________________________________________________________________




447. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: CHILD NUTRITION AND WIC 
REAUTHORIZATION ACT AMENDMENTS AND HEALTHY MEALS FOR HEALTHY AMERICANS 
ACT OF 1994

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1758; 42 USC 1766

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement changes to the Child and Adult Care 
Food Program (CACFP) as required by the Child Nutrition and WIC 
Reauthorization Act of 1989 and the Healthy Meals for Healthy Americans 
Act of 1994 by: (1) providing administrative funds to family day care 
home sponsors for expansion into low-income or rural areas; (2) 
permitting State agencies to allow three-year applications from child 
and adult care institutions; (3) granting Federally funded income-
eligible Head Start participants automatic eligibility for free CACFP 
meals without further application or eligibility determination; (4) 
granting pre-kindergarten Even Start participants automatic eligibility 
for free CACFP meals without further applications or eligibility 
determination; and (5) allowing the use of administrative funds to 
conduct outreach and recruitment to unlicensed day care homes. WIC. 
These revisions are intended to encourage Program participation in low-
income and rural areas and to reduce paperwork burden for Federal, 
State and local Program administrators and for program participants. 
(90-508)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/00/97
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC20

[[Page 62295]]

_______________________________________________________________________




448. SFSP IMPLEMENTATION OF HEALTHY MEALS FOR HEALTHY AMERICANS ACT OF 
1994

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1758; 42 USC 1761; 42 USC 1762a

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 225

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This interim rule implements five amendments to section 13 of 
the National School Lunch Act that are mandated by the Healthy Meals 
for Healthy Americans Act of 1994 (Pub. L. 103-448) to improve Summer 
Food Service Program (SFSP) delivery, outreach, and access. The law 
revises the ``sponsor priority list'' used by States to approve 
applications to give private nonprofit organizations that have 
successfully participated in SFSP higher priority than prospective 
service institutions that are new to the program. Further, it removes 
the requirement that a private nonprofit organization be prohibited for 
one year from serving an area previously served by a school or public 
sponsor. It also removes the requirement that State agencies collect 
and report to USDA all information gathered on food service management 
companies that wish to participate in SFSP. That requirement is 
replaced by a provision that allows USDA to maintain records on all 
food service management companies, but requires State agencies to 
report information only when a company is seriously deficient in its 
performance. Pub. L. 103-448 also reduces the number of required 
components in the Management and Administration Plan (MAP) which State 
agencies submit annually by eliminating reporting by States of sponsor 
applications schedules, efforts to encourage self-preparation or school 
preparation of meals, plans for food service management company 
registration, plans to determine and process reimbursement payments to 
sponsors, and hearing procedures for sponsors. In addition, it removes 
the requirement that sponsor applications for nonprofit organizations 
contain specific warnings of penalties for improper or unsuccessful 
program participation. (95-025)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC23
_______________________________________________________________________




449.  FSP: NONDISCRETIONARY PROVISIONS OF THE PERSONAL 
RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 7 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AC41
_______________________________________________________________________




450.  IMPROVED TARGETING OF DAY CARE HOME REIMBURSEMENTS IN THE 
CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 8 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AC42
_______________________________________________________________________




451.  SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS 
AND CHILDREN (WIC): DISQUALIFICATION OF WIC VENDORS WHO ARE DISQUALIFIED 
FROM THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1786

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would establish criteria for the disqualification 
of WIC vendors who are disqualified from the Food Stamp Program, as 
required by Pub. L. 104-193, the Personal Responsibility and Work 
Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. As mandated in Pub. L. 104-193, 
such disqualifications are for the same period of time as the Food 
Stamp Program disqualification and are not subject to judicial or 
administrative review.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC50
_______________________________________________________________________




452.  SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS 
AND CHILDREN (WIC): IMPLEMENTATION OF WIC-RELATED PROVISIONS OF PUB. L. 
104-193, THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 1786

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement the WIC-related provisions of Pub. 
L. 104-193, the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 
1996. These provisions include: sharing of WIC information with the 
Immigration and Naturalization Service; revision to the definition of 
homeless individual; and the elimination of several current 
requirements including annual evaluation of nutrition education and 
breastfeeding promotion and support efforts, provision of written 
information on certain programs, and timeframes for action on local 
agency applications for program participation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/30/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302

[[Page 62296]]

Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC51
_______________________________________________________________________




453.  IMPLEMENTATION OF LEGISLATIVE CHANGES IN THE CHILD AND 
ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: PL 104-193

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This interim rulemaking will implement non-discretionary 
changes to the Child and Adult Care Food Program regulations mandated 
by Public Law 104-193, the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity 
Reconciliation Act of 1996. This rule will not implement changes to 
section 708(e) of P.L. 104-193, targeting reimbursement for meals 
served in family daycare homes, which is being addressed in a separate 
interim rulemaking.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/00/97
Final Action                    03/00/98
Final Action Effective          03/00/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC52
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Food and Consumer Service (FCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




454. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN 
(WIC): FOOD COST CONTAINMENT REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/15/90                     55 FR 9709


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is a 
statutory requirement. There is a paperwork burden associated with this 
action.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB11
_______________________________________________________________________




455. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN 
(WIC): INFANT FORMULA PROCUREMENT ACT OF 1992

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is a 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________




456. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: UTILITY REIMBURSEMENT EXCLUSION

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/16/94                    59 FR 30864


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB79
_______________________________________________________________________




457.  NSLP / SBP / SMP / FDP / CACFP / SFSP / WIC: 
NONPROCUREMENT DEBARMENT

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  PL 103-448

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will propose procedures and clarifications that are 
needed to enhance the Department's ability to promote the prevention 
and deterrence of fraud, bidrigging and other anticompetitive 
activities in the procurement of products for the child nutrition 
programs. In addition to proposing those fraud-deterrence provisions 
that are exclusive to the child nutrition programs, the rule will 
augment already existing provisions concerning debarment of persons and 
companies that are convicted of violations of anti-trust laws, fraud or 
other types of offenses that breach public agreements or transactions. 
(96-004)

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is a 
statutory requirement. The agency has not yet determined whether there 
is a paperwork burden associated with this action.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 
308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 305-2921

RIN: 0584-AC26

[[Page 62297]]

_______________________________________________________________________




458.  FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM: REGULATORY IMPLEMENTATION OF 
PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996, 
(P.L. 104-193, 110 STAT. 2105)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-193

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 250 to 251 (Revision); 7 CFR 253 (Revision)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Definition of eligible TEFAP recipient agencies; change of 
definition of ``Emergency Feeding Organization.'' TEFAP State Plan: 
change annual submission requirement to every four (4) years. 
Miscellaneous commodity distribution: eliminate Secretary's authority 
to modify TEFAP 60/40 formula, delete description of types and 
varieties of commodities to be purchased, extend deadline for delivery 
of commodities to States. Allowable administrative costs: broaden State 
authority to use administrative funds for indirect costs associated 
with distribution and processing of USDA and non-USDA commodities. 
Repeal of Section 110 of Hunger Prevention Act of 1988: removes 
authority for SK/FB program, former beneficiaries of which will be 
served under TEFAP, under revised definition (above). Alien Provisions, 
FDPIR: grants State and Indian Tribal Organizations authority to serve 
unqualified aliens, if they so choose. 96-029

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2777

RIN: 0584-AC49
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food and Consumer Service (FCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




459. MISCELLANEOUS FARM BILL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE AUTHORIZATION OF 
RETAIL FIRMS AND WHOLESALE FOOD CONCERNS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 274; 7 CFR 278

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/15/96                    61 FR 53595
Final Action Effective          02/10/92

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB02
_______________________________________________________________________




460. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND 
CHILDREN (WIC): PART 246.10, FOOD PACKAGE III, PARTICIPANTS WITH CERTAIN 
MEDICAL CONDITIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 246

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB09
_______________________________________________________________________




461. DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR FREE MEALS BY SUMMER FOOD SERVICE 
PROGRAM SPONSORS AND FREE AND REDUCED PRICE MEALS BY CHILD AND ADULT 
CARE FOOD PROGRAM INSTITUTIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 225; 7 CFR 226

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/22/96                    61 FR 25550
Final Action Effective          06/21/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB17
_______________________________________________________________________




462. NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM: REVIEW OF FREE AND REDUCED PRICE 
APPLICATION UNDER THE COORDINATED REVIEW EFFORT

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn will be included in 
RIN 0584-AC10.                  05/19/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB50
_______________________________________________________________________




463. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: CHILD SUPPORT DEDUCTION

Priority:  Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 273

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/17/96                    61 FR 54282
Final Action Effective          12/16/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB58
_______________________________________________________________________




464. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: EXCESS SHELTER EXPENSE LIMIT AND STANDARD 
UTILITY ALLOWANCES

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 273

[[Page 62298]]

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn because of new 
legislation                     08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




465. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: SIMPLIFICATION OF PROGRAM RULES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 273

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/17/96                    61 FR 54303
Final Action Effective          11/18/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________




466. FSP: TARGETING FOR INCOME AND ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 272

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn Due to Legislative 
Changes                         08/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB74
_______________________________________________________________________




467. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: CERTIFICATION PROVISIONS OF THE MICKEY LELAND 
CHILDHOOD HUNGER RELIEF ACT

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 271.2; 7 CFR 273.1; 7 CFR 273.2; 7 CFR 273.7; 7 
CFR 273.8; 7 CFR 273.9; 7 CFR 273.10; 7 CFR 273.12; 7 CFR 273.21

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/17/96                    61 FR 54270
Final Action Effective          12/16/96

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB76
_______________________________________________________________________




468. NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH, SPECIAL MILK, SCHOOL BREAKFAST, CHILD AND 
ADULT CARE FOOD AND SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAMS: PURCHASE OF FOOD 
PRODUCTS PRODUCED IN THE U.S

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 215; 7 CFR 220; 7 CFR 225; 7 CFR 226

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - will be included in 
RIN0584-AC10 for school nutri 
progs                           05/19/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is a 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB82
_______________________________________________________________________




469. TREATMENT OF EDUCATIONAL AND TRAINING ASSISTANCE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/17/96                    61 FR 54292
Final Action Effective          12/17/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB84
_______________________________________________________________________




470. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM AUTOMATED DATA PROCESSING EQUIPMENT AND 
SERVICES; REDUCTION IN REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 277

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/28/96                    61 FR 33641
Final Action Effective          07/29/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. There is no paperwork burden associated with 
this action.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________




471. MONTHLY REPORTING ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS PROVISION OF FOOD STAMP 
PROGRAM IMPROVEMENTS ACT OF 1994

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 273.21

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/17/96                    61 FR 54298
Final Action Effective          12/16/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

[[Page 62299]]

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




472. REMOVAL OF THE ``CHEESE ALTERNATE PRODUCTS'' REQUIREMENTS FROM THE 
NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 210.10 (k)(3)(i); 7 CFR 210.10a (d)(2)(i); 7 CFR 
210 app A; 7 CFR 225.16 (f)(3)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/19/96                    61 FR 37670
Final Action Effective          07/19/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________




473. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL, STATE, OR LOCAL WORK PROGRAM 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 273

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/01/96                    61 FR 19155
Final Action Effective          05/31/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC08
_______________________________________________________________________




474. AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION AND RECORDS TO THE PUBLIC

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 295.1 to 295.10

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/26/96                    61 FR 39047
Final Action Effective          08/26/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246

RIN: 0584-AC13
BILLING CODE 3410-30-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




475. MEAT AND POULTRY STANDARDS OF IDENTITY AND COMPOSITION

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is carrying out a thoroughgoing regulatory review that 
will decide the future of its standards of identity and composition for 
meat and poultry products. These standards, established over many 
years, define particular products or product categories in terms of 
meat and poultry content or other characteristics. The standards are 
enforced through prior approval of labeling and by other means. Because 
of new technologies, changing lifestyles, changed consumer 
expectations, and the information now available to consumers through 
ingredient and nutrition labeling, the usefulness of many of the 
standards is in question. FSIS is soliciting information from the 
interested public on what direction reform of its food standards 
regulations should take, including suggestions on whether to 
fundamentally alter or eliminate entirely this regulatory program. FSIS 
recognizes that the current program impedes innovation, slowing the 
introduction of nutritionally beneficial products in the marketplace. 
FSIS seeks information on how its product standards--if they are needed 
at all--can provide sound and reliable consumer protection, while being 
flexible enough to encourage the development and marketing of improved 
meat and poultry products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/09/96                    61 FR 47453
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/25/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post, Chief, Food Standards and Ingredients 
Branch, Regulatory Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 254-2588

RIN: 0583-AC01
_______________________________________________________________________




476. TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS 
FOODS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 305; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), in conjunction 
with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), plans to publish an 
advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) addressing possible 
transportation and storage requirements for potentially hazardous 
foods. (A potentially hazardous food is one, either natural or 
synthetic, that is in a form capable of supporting the rapid and 
progressive growth of infectious or toxigenic microorganisms.) For 
purposes of this ANPR, potentially

[[Page 62300]]

hazardous foods include meat, poultry, egg, seafood, and dairy 
products.
In the past, FSIS and FDA regarded their ability to control adulterated 
food products in commerce, combined with the standard practices of 
transportation and storage firms, as adequate to prevent public health 
problems from occurring. However, FSIS and FDA are now considering 
efforts to ensure that potentially hazardous foods outside food 
processing establishments will be handled in a way that will minimize 
the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and prevent the introduction of 
new pathogenic organisms or other hazards. The ANPR will solicit 
comments and information on various aspects of the transportation and 
storage of potentially hazardous foods.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/00/96
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Ralph Stafko, Deputy Director, Policy, Evaluation and 
Planning Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection 
Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 205-0700

RIN: 0583-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




477. FOOD STANDARDS: REQUIREMENTS FOR PROCESSED MEAT AND POULTRY 
PRODUCTS NAMED BY USE OF AN EXPRESSED NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIM AND A 
STANDARDIZED TERM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 319; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend the Federal meat and poultry 
regulations to establish a general definition and standard of identity 
for standardized meat and poultry food products that have been modified 
to qualify for use of certain expressed nutrient content claims as part 
of the product name. These products would be identified by a nutrient 
content claim, such as ``fat free,'' in conjunction with an appropriate 
standardized product name, e.g., ``fat free frankfurter.'' The general 
standard proposes to set requirements that would allow for modified 
versions of standardized meat and poultry food products, i.e., 
``substitute standardized products.'' These products would be 
formulated and processed with ingredients otherwise not in or in 
amounts greater than that allowed by FSIS regulatory food standards in 
9 CFR parts 319 and 381, subpart P.
FSIS is taking this action to: (1) Assist consumers in maintaining 
healthy dietary practices by providing for substitute versions of 
standardized processed meat food and poultry food products that have 
reductions in certain constituents that are of health concern to 
consumers, such as fat and cholesterol, (2) increase regulatory 
flexibility and support product innovation in accord with Executive 
Orders 12861 and 12866 and with President Clinton's Memorandum to Heads 
of Departments and Agencies, ``Regulatory Reinvention Initiative,'' 
dated March 4, 1995, and (3) provide consumers with an informative 
nutrition labeling system.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/29/95                    60 FR 67474
NPRM COMMENT PERIOD EXTENDED    02/27/96                    61 FR 26470
NPRM Comment Period End         11/25/96
Final Action                    03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards, Director, Product Assessment Division, 
Regulatory Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________




478. USE OF TRISODIUM PHOSPHATE (TSP) ON RAW, UNCHILLED POULTRY 
CARCASSES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend the poultry products 
inspection regulations to permit the application of trisodium phosphate 
(TSP) on raw, unchilled poultry carcasses. TSP would be permitted as an 
antimicrobial agent on raw, unchilled poultry carcasses. Tests 
conducted by industry and FSIS have shown that the use of TSP reduces 
microbial populations on raw, unchilled poultry carcasses. This 
proposed rule is in response to a petition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alice Thaler, Slaughter Inspection Standards and 
Procedures Division, Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture, 
Food Safety and Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3219

RIN: 0583-AB80

[[Page 62301]]

_______________________________________________________________________




479. NUTRITION LABELING; NEW PRODUCT CATEGORIES AND REFERENCE AMOUNTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend the Federal meat and poultry 
products inspection regulations by adding three new product categories 
and reference amounts to the new product categories and reference 
amounts chart. FSIS has received requests through public comments and 
the labeling application process to add new product categories and 
reference amounts for ``Beans with meat, plain or in sauce,'' 
``Appetizers,'' and ``Major condiments.'' FSIS is also proposing to 
allow manufacturers of meal-type products packaged in volumes greater 
than one serving to be labeled as the fractional statement of the 
promoted serving size (e.g., 1/2 package, 1/4 package).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards, Director, Product Assessment Division, 
Regulatory Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________




480. CONTINUOUS CHILLING OF SPLIT TURKEY PORTIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend the poultry products 
inspection regulations to permit the chilling of split turkey portions 
in a continuous chiller. Under the current regulations, turkey 
carcasses must be intact in one piece before they may be chilled in a 
continuous chiller. They may not be continuously chilled if they have 
been split into major portions unless the carcasses have been trimmed 
or otherwise salvaged. This amendment would permit establishments to 
intentionally split dressed turkey carcasses into major portions prior 
to being placed into a continuous chiller. Permitting the splitting of 
whole turkey carcasses into major portions prior to chilling would have 
several benefits. First, it would improve public safety by reducing the 
amount of time needed to cool the whole carcasses. A decrease in the 
chilling time significantly diminishes the period that the carcass 
portion is in the ``danger zone'' for microbial growth. The process 
itself would not cause the product to become adulterated or 
unwholesome. Second, it would provide the inspector with easier access 
to the interior of the carcass. This in turn would allow for a better 
visual inspection of the cavity than is possible with a whole carcass. 
Finally, the separated portions of the carcass would be appropriately 
handled immediately after splitting. The white meat portion would 
immediately be chilled to the proper temperature for direct sale to 
consumers while the dark meat portion, which is usually processed, 
could be directly deboned and used in further processed cooked 
products. This rulemaking is being initiated in response to a petition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alice M. Thaler, Slaughter Inspection Standards and 
Procedures Division, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3119

RIN: 0583-AB95
_______________________________________________________________________




481. GLYCERINE USED AS A HUMECTANT IN SHELF STABLE MEAT SNACKS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 317

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
amend the Federal meat inspection regulations to permit the use of food 
grade glycerine as a humectant in shelf stable meat snacks. It is 
proposing that the glycerine be used at a level not to exceed 2 percent 
of the formulation weight of the product. This proposed rule is in 
response to a petition. As a humectant, glycerine controls moisture in 
meat products and, at the 2 percent level, it reduces the amount of 
water available for microbial growth to occur. This use is Generally 
Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by FDA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards, Director, Product Assessment Division, 
Regulatory Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________




482. USE OF SORBITOL IN COOKED ROAST BEEF PRODUCTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to amend the Federal meat inspection 
regulations to permit the use of sorbitol in cooked roast beef 
products. Sorbitol is listed in 21 CFR 184.1835 as a substance 
generally recognized as safe for various uses when used in accordance 
with good manufacturing practices. Sorbitol functions as a sweetening 
agent and prevents charring of meat and meat

[[Page 62302]]

food products due to its moisture-retention properties. Sorbitol could 
be used for these two purposes in cooked roast beef products, at a 
level not more than two percent of the weight of the formula excluding 
the formula weight of water or ice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards, Director, Product Assessment Division, 
Regulatory Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 254-2588

RIN: 0583-AC02
_______________________________________________________________________




483. ELIMINATION OF PRIOR APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS FOR EGG AND EGG PRODUCTS 
ESTABLISHMENT DRAWINGS AND SPECIFICATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1621 et seq; 7 USC 1031 to 1056 Egg Products 
Inspection Act

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 55; 7 CFR 59

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
amend the Federal eggs and egg products inspection regulations by 
removing current requirements for prior approval by FSIS of 
establishment drawings and specifications prior to the construction or 
remodeling of official establishments. Requirements involving the 
comparison of blueprints and specifications with actual facilities and 
equipment would end. FSIS would continue to verify through inspection 
that good sanitation is being achieved. This action is taken to 
streamline and modernize the eggs and egg products food safety 
regulations, to separate the roles of Government and the regulated 
industry, to encourage innovations that will improve food safety, and 
to remove unnecessary regulatory burdens on inspected egg 
establishments. In addition, the proposal represents an important shift 
away from FSIS's ``command-and-control'' regulatory approach and toward 
a less bureaucratic approach consistent with the Agency's food safety 
mission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paula M. Cohen, Director, Regulations Development, 
Policy, Evaluation and Planning Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food 
Safety and Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 720-7164

RIN: 0583-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________




484.  GRANT AND INAUGURATION OF INSPECTION

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 304; 9 CFR 305

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to streamline and clarify the regulations 
in 9 CFR Parts 304 and 305, which provide for grant and inauguration of 
inspection in meat and poultry establishments.
Under the current regulations, prior to commercial operation, 
establishments must apply for grant of inspection by submitting for 
FSIS review and approval establishment floor plans and blueprints, 
equipment specifications, and other information. If FSIS approves this 
information and grants inspection, a circuit supervisor visits the 
establishment to inform the operator of the applicable regulations. 
Subsequently, FSIS inspection is inaugurated and the establishment may 
begin manufacturing product for commercial distribution.
FSIS is proposing to streamline these requirements by eliminating the 
provisions regarding inauguration of inspection and clarifying that 
FSIS will provide a conditional grant of inspection to establishments 
following completion of written sanitation standard operating 
procedures and a HACCP plan. As set forth in Docket 93-016F, the 
conditional grant of inspection would last for 90 days, during which 
the establishment would be required to validate its HACCP plan. After 
HACCP plan validation, FSIS will provide the establishment with a 
permanent grant of inspection.
This action will also revise the regulations in light of a related 
proposal (Docket No. 95-032P) to eliminate the requirement that floor 
plans, blueprints, equipment specifications be preapproved by FSIS 
before inspection is granted.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Paula M. Cohen, Director, Regulations Development, 
Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Policy, 
Evaluation and Planning Staff, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 720-3530

RIN: 0583-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




485.  BEEF OR PORK WITH BARBECUE SAUCE; REVISION OF STANDARDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 319

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has been

[[Page 62303]]

petitioned to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations by removing 
a meat yield requirement for the standardized products ``Beef With 
Barbecue Sauce'' and ``Pork With Barbecue Sauce.'' Current regulations 
for these products require that the product contain not less than 50 
percent of the species identified on the label, and that the weight of 
the cooked pork or beef not exceed 70 percent of the uncooked weight of 
the meat. The first requirement is consistent with other meat and sauce 
requirements, but the second requirement is not. The petitioner asserts 
that the product standard (promulgated in 1952) does not reflect 
current production practices or the commercial marketability of beef or 
pork with barbecue sauce. The petitioner further states that producers 
of these products are at a competitive disadvantage with other meat an 
sauce producers, because other meat and sauce producers do not have a 
70 percent yield requirement. For example, producers of the 
standardized products ``Beef with Gravy,'' ``Meat Pies,'' and 
``Spaghetti with Meat and Sauce'' and similar standardized products do 
not have any meat yield requirements.
FSIS has determined that the petitioner's request should be granted. 
This action would permit fair competition between meat and barbecue 
sauce producers, and poultry and sauce producers, and would provide 
consistent requirements in both the meat and poultry inspection 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Everett Lail, Food Labeling Division, Regulatory 
Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection 
Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 254-2588

RIN: 0583-AC09
_______________________________________________________________________




486.  USE OF CORN SYRUP, CORN SYRUP SOLIDS AS FLAVORING AGENTS 
IN SAUSAGE PRODUCTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service plans to amend the 
meat inspection regulations to permit the use of corn syrup in sausages 
as a flavoring agent at an amount sufficient for that purpose. Corn 
Syrup is listed in 21 CFR 184.1865 as a substance generally recognized 
as safe with no limitation on its use other than good manufacturing 
practice. This action is in response to a petition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Post, Chief, Food Standards and Ingredient 
Branch, Product Assessment Division, Department of Agriculture, Food 
Safety and Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 254-2588

RIN: 0583-AC10
_______________________________________________________________________




487.  USE OF SODIUM DIACETATE AND SODIUM ACETATE AS FLAVORING 
AGENTS IN MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 450; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) plans to amend 
the Federal meat and poultry products inspection regulations to permit 
the use of sodium diacetate and sodium acetate as flavoring agents in 
meat and poultry products. Sodium diacetate and sodium acetate would be 
permitted at a level of 0.25 percent in meat and poultry products. Use 
of these substances is listed in FDA regulations 21 CFR 1721 and 21 CFR 
1754 as generally recognized as safe and consistent with good 
manufacturing practice. This action is in response to a petition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards, Director, Product Assessment Division, 
Regulatory Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AC11
_______________________________________________________________________




488.  PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS FOR OFFICIAL ESTABLISHMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 335; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to amend the Federal meat and poultry 
inspection regulations by streamlining and consolidating the rules of 
practice governing FSIS procedures to: refuse or withdraw inspection 
service because of unfitness of responsible establishment officials to 
engage in a business requiring inspection, or because of failure to 
maintain sanitary conditions; withdraw inspection service because of 
failure to destroy condemned carcasses,

[[Page 62304]]

parts, or products; suspend inspection service because of inhumane 
slaughtering or because of threats against, intimidation or assault of 
an FSIS employee; or suspend or withdraw inspection service because of 
inadequate hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP) systems. 
The proposed amendments would ensure procedural due process for 
official establishments under FSIS's ``Pathogen Reduction; HACCP 
Systems regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Paula M. Cohen, Director, Regulations Development, 
Policy, Evaluation and Planning Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food 
Safety and Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 720-7164

RIN: 0583-AC12
_______________________________________________________________________




489.  USE OF LIQUID NITROGEN FOR CONTACT FREEZING MEAT AND MEAT 
PRODUCTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS plans to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations 
to permit the use of liquid nitrogen for contact freezing of meat and 
meat products. Liquid nitrogen is listed in 21 CFR 184.1540 as a 
substance generally recognized as safe as a direct human food 
ingredient when used as a propellant, aerating agent, and gas as 
defined in 21 CFR 170.3(o)(25), at levels not to exceed current good 
manufacturing practice. When used as a direct-contact freezing agent 
for food, liquid nitrogen must be of a purity suitable for its intended 
use.
Liquid nitrogen is an extremely effective and efficient freezing/
cooling agent. Liquid nitrogen is already approved for use in the 
poultry products inspection regulations (9 CFR 381.147(f)(4)) as a 
contact freezing agent for poultry or poultry products. Its use on meat 
and meat products will ensure the microbiological safety of those 
products and will be an effective process control in a HACCP program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Paula M. Cohen, Director, Regulations Development, 
Policy, Evaluation and Planning Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food 
Safety and Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 720-7164

RIN: 0583-AC14
_______________________________________________________________________




490.  NUTRITION LABELING; REFERENCE DAILY INTAKES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
amend the list of Reference Daily Intakes (RDI's) in the Federal meat 
and poultry products inspection regulations by adding RDI values for 
vitamin K, selenium, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, and chloride. 
FSIS is also proposing to modify the units of measure for the RDI 
values for calcium, folate, biotin, and phosphorous. This action would 
provide consistency between the Food and Drug Administration's and 
FSIS's nutrition labeling requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards, Director, Product Assessment Division, 
Regulatory Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AC15
_______________________________________________________________________




491.  USE OF TWO KINDS OF POULTRY WITHOUT LABEL CHANGE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has been 
petitioned to amend the poultry products inspection regulations by 
permitting the use of different amounts of two kinds of poultry to be 
used in a poultry product without changing the product's ingredients 
statement. Currently, the Federal meat inspection regulations provide 
that beef and pork may be interchanged in a product formulation without 
requiring new labels for each formulation. In these situations, the 
word ``and,'' instead of a comma, between the declaration of the two 
meat components in the ingredients statement indicates that the order 
of predominance of the two meat components may be interchanged.
The regulation for meat products was promulgated to allow meat 
processors flexibility in utilizing least cost formulations, while 
maintaining label integrity. Formulations can be modified within set 
parameters without requiring new labels, thus reducing required label 
inventories and lowering costs.
FSIS has determined that the petition should be granted. There are no 
health or safety issues involved with this proposed change. The 
ingredients statement of the product will still list both kinds of 
poultry that are present in the product. However, under this proposal, 
poultry producers, like their meat counterparts, would not need to 
change labels when the order of predominance of the poultry ingredients 
changes.
This action would make the regulations consistent with regard to the 
flexibility afforded meat and poultry processors to adjust product 
formulations without having to change labels.

[[Page 62305]]



Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Cheryl Wade, Food Labeling Division, Department of 
Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Regulatory Programs, 
Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 254-2590

RIN: 0583-AC17
_______________________________________________________________________




492.  PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CERTAIN MEAT 
AND POULTRY PRODUCTS WITH ESTABLISHED STANDARDS OF IDENTITY

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 319; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
amend the Federal meat and poultry inspection regulations by 
establishing food safety performance standards for certain raw, 
partially cooked, and ready-to-eat meat and poultry products listed in 
9 CFR 319. Performance standards spell out the objective level of 
performance establishments must meet during their operations to produce 
safe products, but allow the use of customized, plant-specific 
processing procedures. The standards of identity or composition in Part 
319 define these products in terms of meat and poultry content, 
ingredients, methods of processing and preparation, or other 
characteristics relative to product content, representation, and 
labeling. However, currently there are few food safety standards or 
requirements specific to the processing or handling of these products 
in the regulations. FSIS must rely upon statutory authorities, general 
regulations, regulations for similar products, or FSIS directives when 
regulating these products. Establishing food safety performance 
standards specific to these products would provide FSIS with a better 
regulatory mechanism for ensuring their safety and would grant 
establishments flexibility to comply with the new requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Chief, Quality Control and Systems 
Development Branch, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 501-7319

RIN: 0583-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________




493.  PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE THERMAL PROCESSING OF MEAT 
AND POULTRY PRODUCTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to replace the current, ``command-and-
control'' procedures for the thermal processing of meat and poultry 
products with performance standards. The current regulations are highly 
prescriptive, redundant with HACCP, and inhibit the adoption by the 
industry of new, more efficient technologies. The proposed performance 
standards, which spell out the objective level of performance 
establishments must meet during their operations, would permit the use 
of alternative processing procedures by establishments. Establishments 
would be required to develop written process schedules describing their 
alternative procedures, but could incorporate these schedules into 
their HACCP plans. FSIS would allow establishments that do not develop 
alternative procedures to follow the current regulations, which would 
be retained as ``safe harbors.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dorothy Stringfellow, Director, Processed Products 
Inspection Division, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Science and Technology, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 501-7319

RIN: 0583-AC19
_______________________________________________________________________




494.  PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE IRRADIATION OF POULTRY TO 
CONTROL FOODBORNE PATHOGENS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to amend the Federal poultry products 
inspection regulations to replace the current ``command-and-control'' 
procedures for the irradiation of poultry to control foodborne 
pathogens with performance standards. The current regulations are 
highly prescriptive, redundant with HACCP, and inhibit the adoption by 
the industry of new, more efficient technologies. The proposed 
performance standards spell out the objective level of performance 
establishments must meet during their operations to produce safe 
products, but allow the use of customized, plant-specific procedures. 
Establishments would be required to develop written process schedules 
describing their alternative procedures, but could incorporate these 
schedules into their HACCP plans. FSIS would allow establishments that 
do not develop alternative procedures to follow the

[[Page 62306]]

current regulations, which would be retained as ``safe harbors.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dorothy Stringfellow, Director, Processed Products 
Inspection Division-HACCP, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Science and Technology, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 501-7319

RIN: 0583-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________




495.  PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE HANDLING, CHILLING, AND 
FREEZING OF POULTRY

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to replace the current, ``command-and-
control'' procedures for the handling, chilling, and freezing of 
poultry products in 9 CFR 381.66 with performance standards. The 
current regulations are highly prescriptive, redundant with HACCP, and 
inhibit the adoption by the industry of new, more efficient 
technologies. The proposed performance standards, which spell out the 
objective level of performance establishments must meet during their 
operations, would permit the use of alternative procedures, but could 
incorporate these schedules into their HACCP plans. FSIS would allow 
establishments that do not develop alternative procedures to follow the 
current regulations, which would be retained as ``safe harbors.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: William James, Director, Slaughter Inspection Standards 
and Procedures Division, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Science and Technology, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3219

RIN: 0583-AC21
_______________________________________________________________________




496.  PREVENTION OF PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL CONTAMINATION OF MEAT 
AND POULTRY PRODUCTS OR PRODUCT INGREDIENTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to replace with performance standards the 
current regulations ensuring that meat and poultry products and product 
ingredients are not physically or chemically contaminated. Performance 
standards spell out the objective level of performance establishments 
must meet during their operations to produce safe products, but allow 
the use of customized, plant-specific processing procedures. Under 
requirements for mandatory establishment-operated HACCP systems, the 
performance standards and establishment-developed procedures could be a 
part of establishment HACCP plans. FSIS would allow establishments that 
do not develop alternative procedures to follow the current 
regulations, which would be retained as ``safe harbors.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dorothy Stringfellow, Director, Processed Products 
Inspection Division -- HACCP, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Science and Technology, Washington, DC 20250-
3700
Phone: 202 501-7319

RIN: 0583-AC22
_______________________________________________________________________




497.  LABELING OF EGG PRODUCTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 1031 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 59

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
amend the egg products inspection regulations by revising current egg 
product labeling requirements to make them consistent with the labeling 
requirements for meat and poultry products. On October 1, 1995, FSIS 
became responsible for the review and approval of egg product labels, 
and the Agency is now reviewing and approving labels for egg products.
The current system for the review and approval for egg product labels, 
developed by the Agricultural Marketing Service, is inconsistent with 
the system FSIS applies to meat and poultry labels. FSIS's current 
system of label approval places the responsibility for the preparation 
of the label approval request on the industry. This system maximizes 
the label reviewer's time available for review and decisionmaking, 
rather than for clerical tasks. FSIS proposes to amend the egg products 
inspection regulations to establish the same system for egg product 
labels.
FSIS's new rule on prior label approval, effective July 1996, allows 
meat and poultry manufacturers to prepare and use labels that meet 
certain conditions without any preapproval from FSIS (generic 
approvals). In contrast, the egg product inspection regulations require 
that any change to a label, no matter how minor, must be approved at 
headquarters. FSIS is proposing to amend the egg products inspection 
regulations to provide for the generic approval of egg product labels 
that

[[Page 62307]]

meet certain conditions, which would parallel those governing meat and 
poultry labels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Cheryl Wade, Food Labeling Division, Regulatory 
Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection 
Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 254-2590

RIN: 0583-AC23
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




498. REQUIREMENTS FOR FOREIGN COUNTRY IMPORT CERTIFICATION AND LIVE 
ANIMAL IMPORTATION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 99-198

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 327; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will respond to amendments to the Federal Meat 
Inspection Act by the Food Security Act of 1985. The amendments require 
that FSIS periodically certify residue control programs submitted by 
foreign countries desiring to export meat and poultry products to the 
United States. The amendments also provide the Secretary with the 
authority to issue an order prohibiting the importation of livestock 
for immediate slaughter that have been administered a drug or 
antibiotic banned for use in the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/26/88                    53 FR 27998
NPRM Comment Period End         09/26/88
Reproposal                      03/09/90                     55 FR 8956
Reproposal Comment Period End   04/09/90
Final Action                    03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lawrence Skinner, Director, Foreign Programs Division, 
International Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6933

RIN: 0583-AA47
_______________________________________________________________________




499. SUBSTANCES APPROVED FOR USE IN THE PREPARATION OF MEAT FOOD AND 
POULTRY PRODUCTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will amend the Federal meat and poultry products 
inspection regulations to simplify the procedures by which FSIS 
approves food additives and Generally Recognized as Safe substances to 
be used as ingredients in meat food products and poultry products. The 
proposed rule will be developed in cooperation with the Food and Drug 
Administration to make the Federal regulation of food additives and 
other substances that may be used as ingredients in meat food and 
poultry products more efficient and uniform.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/29/95                    60 FR 67459
NPRM Comment Period End         05/06/96
Final Action                    03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ralph E. Stafko, Deputy Director, Policy, Evaluation 
and Planning Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-8168

RIN: 0583-AB02
_______________________________________________________________________




500. NUTRITION LABELING: HEALTH CLAIMS ON MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will amend the Federal meat and poultry products 
inspection regulations to permit the use of health claims that 
characterize the relationship of a substance to a disease-related or 
health-related condition on labeling of meat and poultry products. The 
rule will also establish a labeling application process for such health 
claims. This action stems from the final nutrition labeling 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/25/94                    59 FR 27144
NPRM Comment Period End         07/25/94
Final Action                    12/00/96
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards, Director, Product Assessment Division, 
Regulatory Programs, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AB64

[[Page 62308]]

_______________________________________________________________________




501. ELIMINATION OF PRIOR APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ESTABLISHMENT 
DRAWINGS AND SPECIFICATIONS, FACILITIES EQUIPMENT, AND CERTAIN PARTIAL 
QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAMS

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 9 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________




502. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR CERTAIN MEAT PRODUCTS AND POULTRY 
PRODUCTS

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 10 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AB94
_______________________________________________________________________




503.  NET WEIGHT STATEMENT FOR SHINGLE-PACKED BACON

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 317

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has been 
petitioned to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations by removing 
a labeling requirement for certain sizes of shingle packed bacon. 
Current regulations for shingle packed bacon require that the labeling 
of packages that are not 8 ounces, 16 ounces (1 pound), or 2 ounces (2 
pounds) display the net quantity of the contents (net weight statement) 
in the same size as the largest feature of the label.
Historically, shingle packed bacon was sold in 8-ounce, 1-pound, or 2-
pound packages. Over time, the weight of the bacon was reduced, but the 
industry continued to sell the product in the same size packaging. To 
ensure that consumers were aware that there as less product in the same 
size packages, FSIS promulgated the current regulation to highlight (to 
consumers) the net weight statement on these packages. However, with 
heightened consumer awareness, the use of nutritional labeling, and the 
use of unit pricing at the retail level, FSIS agrees with the 
petitioner that this labeling requirement is no longer needed.
This action would provide the same net weight labeling requirements for 
all package sizes of bacon.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               08/14/96                    61 FR 42143
Comment Period End              10/15/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Irvin Dubinsky, Processed Products Inspection Division, 
Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 501-7319

RIN: 0583-AC08
_______________________________________________________________________




504.  FEE INCREASE FOR INSPECTION SERVICES

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 391

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service is proposing to 
increase the fees FSIS charges meat and poultry establishments, 
importers and exporters for providing voluntary inspection, 
identification, and certification services and overtime and holiday 
services. These fee increases are based upon the Agency's analysis of 
projected costs for fiscal year 1996, which identifies increased costs 
resulting from the January 1996 FSIS national and locality pay raise 
average of 2.4 percent for Federal employees and increased health 
insurance costs.
FSIS also is proposing to reduce the fees charged for providing 
laboratory services to meat and poultry establishments. The Agency's 
analysis of projected costs for fiscal year 1996 identified decreased 
costs resulting from the use of automated equipment for testing 
laboratory samples and for other inspection related services not 
covered under the base time, overtime, and holiday costs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/03/96                    61 FR 34747
NPRM Comment Period End         08/02/96
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William L. West, Director, Budget and Finance Division, 
Administrative Management, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 720-3367

RIN: 0583-AC13
_______________________________________________________________________




505.  USE OF A BLEND OF CARAGEENAN, LOCUST BEAN GUM, AND XANTHAN 
GUM AS A BINDER MATRIX IN WATER-ADDED HAMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS plans to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations 
to permit the use of a blend of carageenan, locust bean gum, and 
xanthan gum as a binder to prevent purging of brine solution in water-
added hams. Carageenan and xanthan gum are permitted as direct food 
additives under 21 CFR 172.620 and 172.695 at use-levels consistent 
with good manufacturing practice as stabilizers, emulsifiers, or 
thickeners. The currently permitted use-level for carageenan is 1.5 
percent of the formulation of water-added hams. The Federal meat and 
poultry products inspection regulations already allow the use of 
xanthan gum in various meat and poultry products without a restriction 
for use as a binder. Locust bean gum is listed in 21 CFR 184.1343 as a 
substance generally recognized as safe at a maximum use-level of 0.5 
percent as a stabilizer and thickener.
The maximum use-level for the binder matrix will be 0.5 percent, 
consisting of 70 percent carageenan, 15 percent xanthan gum, and 15 
percent locust bean gum. Permitting the use of this binder matrix in 
water-added hams will provide ham processors with another

[[Page 62309]]

binder option from which to choose when formulating their product.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Paula M. Cohen, Director, Regulations Development, 
Policy, Evaluation and Planning Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food 
Safety and Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250-3700
Phone: 202 720-7164

RIN: 0583-AC16
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




506. NUTRITION LABELING OF GROUND BEEF AND HAMBURGER

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/24/94                    59 FR 26916
NPRM Extension of Comment Period07/05/94                    59 FR 34396
NPRM Comment Period End         07/08/94
NPRM Extension of Comment Period 
End                             08/22/94
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AB74
_______________________________________________________________________




507. USE OF SOY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE AND FOOD STARCH--MODIFIED AS BINDERS 
IN CURED PORK PRODUCTS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AB82
_______________________________________________________________________




508. FSIS AGENDA FOR CHANGE: REGULATORY REVIEW; FOOD STANDARDS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 301 to 350; 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/29/95                    60 FR 67469
ANPRM Reopening of Comment 
Period                          03/11/96                     61 FR 9655
ANPRM Comment Period End        05/10/96


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Paula M. Cohen
Phone: 202 720-7164

RIN: 0583-AB89
_______________________________________________________________________




509. REFRIGERATION AND LABELING REQUIREMENTS FOR SHELL EGGS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 56; 7 CFR 59

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/27/92                    57 FR 48569
NPRM Comment Period End         12/28/92


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patrick Clerkin
Phone: 202 205-0700

RIN: 0583-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




510. USE OF TRISODIUM PHOSPHATE ON RAW, CHILLED POULTRY CARCASSES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 381

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/29/96                    61 FR 39273
Final Action Effective          08/28/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William O. James
Phone: 202 720-3219

RIN: 0583-AB65
_______________________________________________________________________




511. PATHOGEN REDUCTION; HAZARD ANALYSIS AND CRITICAL CONTROL POINT 
(HACCP) SYSTEMS

Priority:  Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments and the private sector.

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 304; 9 CFR 308; 9 CFR 310; 9 CFR 320; 9 CFR 327; 9 
CFR 381; 9 CFR 416; 9 CFR 417

[[Page 62310]]

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/25/96                    61 FR 38806
Final Action Effective          07/25/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Paula M. Cohen
Phone: 202 720-7164
Fax: 202 690-4794

RIN: 0583-AB69
_______________________________________________________________________




512. SODIUM CITRATE BUFFERED WITH CITRIC ACID USED AS AN ANTIMICROBIAL 
AGENT IN CURED AND NONCURED MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 381

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/24/96                    61 FR 18047
Final Action Effective          06/24/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Edwards
Phone: 202 254-2565

RIN: 0583-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




513. LABELING OF SAUSAGES MADE WITH NATURAL CASINGS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Policy Statement      07/31/96                    61 FR 39853

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Cheryl Wade
Phone: 202 254-2590

RIN: 0583-AB98
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




514.  EXPORT SALES REPORTING REQUIREMENT

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 5712

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 20

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Consideration of a proposal to add meat and meat products to 
the list of commodities to be reported under the Export Sales Reporting 
requirements. The Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking will ask for 
public comment on the benefits, costs, and methods for collecting meat 
export sales information.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/00/96
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957-S, Washington, DC 
20250-1000
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA51
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




515. DAIRY TARIFF RATE IMPORT QUOTA LICENSING

Priority:  Economically Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 624; 19 USC 1202; 31 USC 9701; PL 103-465

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 6.20 to 6.34

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, January 1, 1995.

Abstract: This rule would supersede the import regulation which governs 
the administration of the Import Licensing System for certain dairy 
products which are subject to in-quota tariff rates established in the 
harmonized tariff schedule of the United States resulting from the 
entry into force of certain provisions in the Uruguay Round Agreement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/02/94                    59 FR 28495
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/01/94
Interim Final Rule              05/02/95                    60 FR 21425
Interim Final Rule              09/13/95                    60 FR 47453
NPRM                            01/18/96                     61 FR 1233
NPRM Comment Period End         03/18/96
Final Rule                      10/09/96                    61 FR 53002
Proposed                        09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957 South Building, 
Washington, D. C. 20250
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________




516. SUGAR IMPORT LICENSING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  19 USC 1202

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1530 subpart A; 7 CFR 1530 subpart B; 7 CFR 1530 
subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 62311]]

Abstract: This notice of proposed rulemaking addresses some 
administrative changes to the sugar import licensing programs. These 
changes are intended to increase the regulatory efficiency, assist in 
verifying program compliance and provide for the adherence of the 
applicable sugar provisions of the North American Free Trade Agreement.
The NPRM will also provide for implementation of certain changes to the 
lead note to chapter 17 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United 
States, pursuant to the Uruguay Round agreement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/04/94                    59 FR 23017
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/08/94
NPRM                            08/06/96                    61 FR 40749
NPRM Comment Period End         10/07/96
Final Action                    02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957 South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250-1000
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA39
_______________________________________________________________________




517. REGULATION GOVERNING THE FINANCING OF COMMERCIAL SALES OF 
AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES (PL 480, TITLE I)

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1701 to 1705; 7 USC 1736a; 7 USC 1736c; 7 USC 
5676; EO 1220

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 17

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule revises the P.L. 480, title I financing 
regulations to simplify and streamline the purchasing and shipment of 
commodities by --Removing the requirement that the buyer open letters 
of credit through a U.S. bank for the commodity and for ocean freight 
costs financed by CCC. Instead, CCC would pay the suppliers directly. -
-Permitting any suppliers eligible under the GSM-102 or GSM-103 
programs to participate in title I, without submitting additional 
information --Eliminating the requirement that suppliers report to USDA 
any payments to representatives of the importer or importing country, 
due to repeal of the underlying legislation. --Deleting Appendices A 
and B from the regulations; the specific contracting and documentation 
requirements for the commodity will be placed in each purchase 
authorization. --Defining the term ``private entity'' based on the 1996 
FAIR Act, which provided that Title I agreements may be signed with 
private entities as well as with foreign governments. --Requiring 
shipping agents to provide background information only once per fiscal 
year instead of with every nomination. --Transferring to FAS the notice 
of sale, price review, and vessel approval functions for cotton, which 
are now performed by the Kansas City Commodity Office, FSA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/13/95                    60 FR 47495
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/12/95
NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957 South Building, 
14th and Independence Ave.,SW, Washington, DC 20250-1060
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA42
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




518. REGULATIONS GOVERNING IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MARKET ACCESS PROGRAM 
(MAP) OVERSEAS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1485

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1736; 7 CFR 1485

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These regulations are promulgated to provide minimum 
requirements and criteria for parties interested in participating in 
the Market Access Program (MAP) as authorized by the Agricultural Trade 
Act of 1978, as amended, and how they may apply and participate.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/26/90                    55 FR 17618
NPRM Comment Period End         06/26/90
Interim Final Rule              08/16/91                    56 FR 40745
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/15/91
Second Interim Final Rule       11/17/93                    58 FR 60549
Final Rule                      02/01/95                     60 FR 6352
NPRM                            01/10/96                      61 FR 704
Third Interim Final Rule        02/01/96                     61 FR 3548
NPRM Comment Period End         02/09/96
Final Rule                      05/14/96                    61 FR 24205
Final Rule                      10/11/96                    61 FR 53303
Final Action                    11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957 South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA24
_______________________________________________________________________




519. CCC EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAM (GSM-102) AND CCC INTERMEDIATE 
EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAM (GSM-103)

Priority:  Economically Significant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 714(b); 15 USC 714(f); 7 USC 5602; 7 USC 5622; 
7 USC 5661; 7 USC 5663; 7 USC 5664; 7 USC 5676

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1493

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 62312]]

Abstract: The final rule will amend regulations for CCC export credit 
guarantee programs by adding a new subpart D, supplier credit guarantee 
program. Subpart D will establish the terms and conditions by which 
U.S. exporters of U.S. agricultural commodities and products may obtain 
CCC credit guarantees for short term credits extended directly to 
foreign buyers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      10/19/94                    59 FR 52866
NPRM                            07/19/95                    60 FR 37025
Interim Final Rule              07/01/96                    61 FR 33825
Final Action                    07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957 South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________




520. FACILITY GUARANTEE PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 5622(b)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 17; 7 CFR 1493

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulations will provide the terms and conditions of 
obtaining a Commodity Credit Corporation Export Credit Guarantee for 
the establishment or improvement of an agricultural related facility in 
an emerging market that will primarily benefit the export of U.S. 
Agricultural Commodities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Effective    03/01/93
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/01/93
Final Action                    01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: CCC will issue a second interim final rule for 
the facilities guarantee program. The rule will make changes to 
substitute ``Emerging Market'' for ``Emerging Democracy'' as per the 
1996 Fair Act. The interim rule will provide operational requirements 
for applicants to apply for facility guarantees. The interim final will 
be pilot tested before a final rule is developed.

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957 South Building, 
14th & Independence Ave SW., Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________




521. EXPORT SALES REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 5712

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 20

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulation to be revised to add sunflowerseed and 
sunflowerseed oil to the list of commodities to be reported under the 
Export Sales Reporting requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/23/96                    61 FR 38107
NPRM Comment Period End         09/23/96
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957 South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA44
_______________________________________________________________________




522.  EXPORT BONUS PROGRAMS CCC EXPORT CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAMS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  7 USC 5602; 7 USC 5622; 7 USC 5661 to 5664; 7 USC 
5676; 7 USC 714b; 7 USC 714c; 7 USC 5651; 15 USC 714c

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1493; 7 CFR 1494

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule changes the definition of a United States 
Agricultural Commodity under the EEP, DEIP, GSM-102, GSM-103, and SCGP 
in response to a provision of the 1996 Fair Act which became effective 
April 4, 1996. The revised definition contains two subparagraphs. The 
first subparagraph is similar to the former definition of a U.S. 
Agricultural Commodity. The second subparagraph applies only to a 
product of an agricultural commodity that has been designated by the 
Secretary as a high value product.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Riston, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 4957-S, Washington, DC 
20250-1000
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA50

[[Page 62313]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




523. PROPOSED REGULATIONS GOVERNING IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COOPERATOR 
MARKET DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM OVERSEAS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1550

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________




524. FOREIGN DONATION OF AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Major: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1499

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/14/94                     59 FR 6916
NPRM Comment Period End         04/15/94
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA38
_______________________________________________________________________




525. REFORM OF EXPORT BONUS PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1494; 7 CFR 1570

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/26/95                    60 FR 32923
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/26/95


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA41
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




526. PROGRAM CRITERIA FOR THE SUNFLOWERSEED OIL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 
(SOAP) AND THE COTTONSEED OIL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (COAP)

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1570

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/17/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA31
_______________________________________________________________________




527. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS RELATED TO TOBACCO EXPORTS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1525

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       04/04/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA32
_______________________________________________________________________




528. SUNFLOWERSEED OIL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OPERATIONS (SOAP) AND 
COTTONSEED OIL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM OPERATIONS (COAP)

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1570 subpart B; 7 CFR 1570 subpart C

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/17/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA33
_______________________________________________________________________




529. REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE FINANCING OF COMMERCIAL SALES OF 
AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES (P.L. 480, TITLE I)

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 17

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/23/96                    61 FR 17823
Final Action Effective          05/23/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 730-6713

RIN: 0551-AA43
_______________________________________________________________________




530. LIMITATION ON IMPORTS OF MEAT

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 16

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/17/96                    61 FR 37199
Final Action Effective          07/17/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA45
_______________________________________________________________________




531. SECTION 22 IMPORT FEES

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 6.50 to 6.55; 7 CFR 6.66; 7 CFR 6.57

[[Page 62314]]

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/06/96                    61 FR 28723
Final Action Effective          06/06/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA46
_______________________________________________________________________




532. REENTRY OF COTTON INTO THE UNITED STATES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 6.71 to 6.75

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/06/96                    61 FR 28723
Final Action Effective          06/06/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA48
_______________________________________________________________________




533. CALCULATION OF MARKET STABILIZATION PRICE

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 6.100 to 6.102

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/06/96                    61 FR 28723
Final Action Effective          06/06/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Riston
Phone: 202 720-6713

RIN: 0551-AA49
BILLING CODE 3410-10-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




534. NATIONAL FOREST PROHIBITIONS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 683; 7 USC 1011(f); 16 
USC 1246(i); 16 USC 1133(c) to 1133(d)(1); 16 USC 4306; 16 USC 4307

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 261

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulations at 36 CFR 261, subpart A, set out the acts 
prohibited on National Forest System (NFS) lands. These prohibitions 
derive from either statutes governing National Forest programs or other 
regulations. The regulations at Subpart B authorize Regional Foresters, 
Forest Supervisors, or Station Directors to close National Forest 
System lands under their jurisdiction to certain uses or to restrict 
some uses of NFS lands. These closures are issued by order. Comments on 
the first proposed rule have been reviewed. Because of the high level 
of public interest in this rulemaking the Agency has decided to issue a 
second proposed rule for comment. This action no longer includes the 
minor revisions to Part 262, Law Enforcement Support Activities, which 
is now described as a separate action.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Review                    10/01/87
End Review                      08/01/88
NPRM                            02/16/94                     59 FR 7880
NPRM Comment Period End         05/18/94
Second NPRM                     05/00/97
Second NPRM Comment Period End  07/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: RIN 0596-AA65 was combined with RIN 0596-AA75

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AA75
_______________________________________________________________________




535. SMALL TRACTS ACT REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 521(c) to 521(i)

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 254, subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Implementation of the Agency's Small Tracts regulations has 
revealed an inadvertent inconsistency between the regulations at 36 CFR 
254.35(f) and 254.41(a) and the legislative history of the Small Tracts 
Act of January 12, 1983. The regulations imply that the disposal of 
mineral fractions by sale can only be made in response to an 
application from an abutting landowner, thus discouraging the 
conveyance by sale to the public. The Act clearly authorizes sale of 
mineral fractions to the public through public sale, as well as 
individual applications, provided that certain conditions are met. The 
revisions will clarify the application of the Act to ensure that both 
individual applications and public sale are permissible means of 
disposing of qualifying tracts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090

[[Page 62315]]

Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AA79
_______________________________________________________________________




536. ISOLATED CABIN POLICY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 477 to 482; 16 USC 551

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Agency policy is to terminate isolated cabin authorizations 
on National Forest System land that were constructed without advance 
authorization and subsequently authorized by special-use permit. These 
cabins are used for part- or full-time occupancy. These cabins differ 
from recreation residences which were established in tracts specific 
for this purpose and built with Agency approval and supervision. 
Isolated cabins originated in several ways, including encroachment and 
mining claims. They restrict management of the surrounding National 
Forest land and deprive the public the use and enjoyment of the land 
actually occupied and the surrounding area. The action proposed is to 
seek input from the public as to whether the present policy should be 
continued, or whether it should be revised so as to examine each 
isolated occupancy and determine whether, in the interest of fairness 
and equity, the cabin should be converted to a recreation residence. 
This proposal to revise current policy was originally included in 
proposed policy on recreation residences (RIN No. 0596-AB06).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    01/00/98
Final Action Effective          01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AA85
_______________________________________________________________________




537. TIMBER SALE PERFORMANCE AND PAYMENT BOND FORM REVISION

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  31 USC 9301 to 9309; 31 USC 223 to 225

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Following a period of high-priced timber sales bid prior to 
1982, the Forest Service experienced a number of contract defaults on 
these sales. Subsequently, the Forest Service has had difficulty 
collecting from some sureties on the bonds guaranteeing performance on 
these sales. As part of a financial security initiative affecting 
future sales, the Forest Service is proposing to revise the payment and 
performance bonds to clarify surety's obligation in regard to what is 
being guaranteed, when payment is due in case of default, what 
additional charges will be assessed if payment is not made when due and 
when collection action may be suspended. Other alternatives include 
eliminating surety bonds as a form of security, reducing surety 
guarantee to mid-point and periodic payment and retention of current 
bond forms. Upon adoption, the final revised bond forms will be issued 
for use by Forest Service Contracting and Fiscal Officers for future 
timber sale contracts. The former title, Surety Bond Form Revision, has 
been modified to more accurately reflect the content of the proposed 
rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/17/89                     54 FR 1742
NPRM Comment Period End         03/20/89
Second NPRM                     01/00/97
Second NPRM Comment Period End  04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Final action on this entry was delayed to 
obtain advice of the Comptroller General. Because of the lengthy delay 
this action will be published as proposed once more.

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AA94
_______________________________________________________________________




538. DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST TIMBER; CANCELLATION OF TIMBER SALE 
CONTRACTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  16 USC 551

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223.40; 36 CFR 223.116

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Current regulations governing cancellation of National Forest 
timber sale contracts do not adequately protect the Government's 
financial interests in the event the Forest Service is forced to cancel 
contracts due to events beyond its control arising from compliance with 
environmental statutes. This rulemaking would remove an unworkable 
compensation-of-damages formula and establish a termination-for 
environmental-protection clause in timber sale contracts, a standard in 
most Federal procurement contracts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00
Final Action Effective          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB21
_______________________________________________________________________




539. SPECIES SURPLUS TO DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING NEEDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 620 et seq

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223.200

[[Page 62316]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend 36 CFR 223.200, to list 
species proposed to be surplus to domestic manufacturing needs. This 
proposed rule would implement a portion of section 620a(b) of the 
Forest Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990 (16 USC 
620 et seq). Section 620a(a) of the Act provides that no person who 
acquires unprocessed timber originating from Federal lands west of the 
100th meridian in the contiguous 48 States may export such timber from 
the United States, or sell, trade, exchange or otherwise convey such 
timber from the United States, unless such timber has been determined 
under subsection (b) to be surplus to the needs of timber manufacturing 
facilities in the United States. Section 620a(b) of the Act provides 
that the prohibition contained in section (a) shall not apply to 
specific quantities of grades and species of unprocessed timber 
originating in Federal lands which the Secretary concerned determines 
through rulemaking to be surplus to domestic manufacturing needs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00
Final Action Effective          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB27
_______________________________________________________________________




540. RETENTION OF DOWNPAYMENT ON TIMBER SALE CONTRACTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 472(a); 16 USC 618

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223.49

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Timber Sale Contract Payment Modification Act 
directs the Forest Service to require purchasers to make downpayments 
and periodic payment on timber sales. The objective of these 
requirements is to discourage speculative bidding on National Forest 
System timber sales. This rule will identify the requirements to hold 
downpayments until the timber sale contract is substantially completed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/02/94                     59 FR 4879
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/04/94
NPRM                            03/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00
Final Action Effective          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Public Compliance Cost: Initial Cost: $10,000; Yearly Recurring Cost: 
$0

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB28
_______________________________________________________________________




541. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING FOREST 
SERVICE MANUAL CHAPTER 1920

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1600 et seq

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed manual policy would incorporate all direction 
for land and resource management planning into one Forest Service 
Manual chapter (FSM 1920). The proposed policy would clarify how the 
revised land and resource management planning regulations at 36 CFR 219 
will be implemented. The proposal will focus on implementing forest 
plans: monitoring, evaluating, amending, and revising forest plans; and 
clarifying the relationship between forest planning and project 
decisionmaking. (See entry for RIN 0596-AB20.)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/97
Final Action                    01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB31
_______________________________________________________________________




542. COLLECTION OF REIMBURSABLE COSTS FOR PROCESSING SPECIAL-USE 
APPLICATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION OF SPECIAL-USE AUTHORIZATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  43 USC 1764; 30 USC 181

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The objective of this proposal is to incorporate into 
regulation the authority contained in the Mineral Leasing Act and the 
Federal Land Policy and Management Act to reimburse the United States 
for reasonable administrative costs associated with the issuance and 
administration of special-use authorizations on National Forest System 
lands.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Cost reimbursement for processing special-use 
applications and administration of special-use authorizations was 
originally included under RIN 0596-AA36. All provisions pertaining to 
the special-use application and administration process have been merged 
with RIN 0596-AB35. Thus, this rulemaking addresses only the cost-
reimbursement provisions.

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB36

[[Page 62317]]

_______________________________________________________________________




543. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST TIMBER; INDICES TO DETERMINE 
MARKET-RELATED CONTRACT TERM ADDITIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  16 USC 618(b)

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223.50; 36 CFR 223.53 (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Based on General Accounting Office Testimony Report Number T-
RCED-92-58, 04/28/92, the Secretary of Agriculture agreed to reexamine 
the use of the Bureau of Labor Statistics unadjusted indices to 
determine whether wood product prices have shown a drastic decline. The 
Secretary of Agriculture indicated the Forest Service would develop and 
publish for comment a proposed rule to use an alternative method to 
determine whether wood prices have drastically declined and warrant 
granting of a Market-Related Contract Term Addition. The proposed 
rulemaking proposes minor changes in procedures to determine whether a 
drastic reduction in wood product prices has occurred.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/21/96                    61 FR 54589
NPRM Comment Period End         11/20/96
Final Action                    03/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB41
_______________________________________________________________________




544. APPEAL OF DECISIONS RELATING TO OCCUPANCY AND USE OF NATIONAL 
FOREST SYSTEM LANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 472; 16 USC 551

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251, subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed regulations are housekeeping amendments to 36 
CFR Part 251, Subpart C, to correlate with regulations at 36 CFR Part 
215 and with statutory direction. For example, changes to Part 251 
would clarify the application of this rule to the issuance of permits 
for occupancy and use of National Forest System lands. After further 
consideration, the Agency does not intend to proceed with timber sale 
set aside regulations as stated in the previous regulatory agenda since 
the set aside revisions are not related to special use permits. When 36 
CFR Part 251, Subpart C, regulations were promulgated in 1989, NEPA 
analysis and documentation was not consistently applied to issuance of 
permits or other authorizations. Now the issuance of permits and other 
authorization requires application of the NEPA process prior to 
issuance. In addition, since these regulations were implemented, 
Congress has passed the Appeal Reform Act. The proposed changes to Part 
251, Subpart C, are needed to make this regulation consistent with 
regulations at 36 CFR Part 215. Specific proposed changes to 36 CFR 
Part 251 include removing the second level of appeal opportunity, 
deleting the discretionary review option, shortening timeframes for 
scheduling oral presentations, and changes to conform with 36 CFR Part 
215, including consistent terminology and definitions as well as 
removal of the automatic stay on permit issuance prior to appeal 
resolution.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00
Final Action Effective          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________




545. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; EXTENSION OF 
TIMBER SALE CONTRACTS TO PERMIT URGENT REMOVAL OF OTHER TIMBER

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 472a

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223.50; 36 CFR 223.53

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule and policy change will provide for extension of 
National Forest System (NFS) timber sale contracts when such extension 
will permit the prompt removal and utilization of non-NFS owned timber 
damaged by catastrophic events. The change will define the 
responsibilities of the parties for requesting and approving such 
extensions and specify when such extension should be approved. This 
change will also allow for the use of scarce timber resources and the 
recovery of economic benefits from timber that might otherwise be lost 
because of contractual obligations to harvest undamaged timber.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/03/96                    61 FR 14618
NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00
Final Action Effective          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________




546. DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST TIMBER: TIMBER SALE CONTRACT REVISIONS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  PL 94-588; 16 USC 472a; 16 USC 528; 15 USC 631

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed policy would revise the 2400-6 and the 2400-6T 
timber sale contracts currently used by the Forest Service to sell 
National Forest System timber. The proposed timber sale contracts, 
included as part of the proposed policy, would reflect recent court 
decisions and recent natural resource and environmental legislation and 
would clarify the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of the

[[Page 62318]]

contracting parties. The proposed policy would address specific 
provisions in the current contract that have generated costly 
litigation in the past between the Government and the purchaser and 
would address the concerns regarding timber theft and log 
accountability.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________




547. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT; REVISED POLICY AND PROCEDURES

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  42 USC 4371

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed manual and handbook policy would be revised to 
clarify the environmental analysis process used by the Forest Service 
to implement the NEPA regulations at 40 CFR 1500. The proposal will 
focus on better defining the process for determining when projects are 
categorically excluded and expanding the categories of action that can 
be excluded under NEPA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Department of Agriculture, Forest 
Service, P. O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB54
_______________________________________________________________________




548. 36 CFR 223 SUBPART C-SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT OF TIMBER PURCHASERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  EO 12549; EO 12689

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223, subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On December 20, 1994, Federal Agencies proposed a common rule 
to ensure reciprocal governmentwide effect on debarments and 
suspensions. On January 6, 1996, the Department of Agriculture 
published its final rule (61 FR 250) to implement regulations for 
Nonprocurement Debarment and suspension in 7 CFR 3017. These rules 
became effective February 5, 1996. As such, Forest Service timber sale 
related debarments and suspensions will now be governed by the 
governmentwide common rule and USDA rule. Accordingly, Forest Service 
debarments and suspensions rules will be amended or removed as 
necessary to conform to the governmentwide common rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________




549. PREFERENCE FOR VISITOR SERVICE; ALASKA NATIONAL FOREST CONSERVATION 
SYSTEM UNITS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  16 USC 3197

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulations are proposed to define and establish procedures 
for administering the statutory rights and preferences established by 
the Alaska National Interest Lands Act of 1980 for historical 
operators, Native Corporations, and local residents to conduct revenue 
producing visitor services on certain National Forest System Lands in 
Alaska. The regulations are necessary to comply with section 1307 of 
the Alaska National Interest Lands Act which requires the Secretary of 
Agriculture to give preference to persons he determines by rule are 
local residents. The regulations would apply only to Conservation 
System Units administered by the Forest Service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Department of Agriculture, Forest 
Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




550.  FEE SCHEDULE FOR COMMUNICATION FACILITIES AUTHORIZED TO 
USE AND OCCUPY NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS IN REGIONS 8, 9, AND 10

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  43 USC 1764

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251.57

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service proposes to adopt a revised policy and fee 
schedule for determining annual rental charges for communications uses 
authorized on National Forest System lands in Regions 8, 9, and 10. The 
proposed schedule adopts a fee schedule and policy for communications 
uses similar to the fee schedule and policy adopted in Regions 1-6 on 
October 27, 1995 (60 FR 55089). The proposed fee schedule and policy is 
based on sound business management practices and reflect fair market 
value, as required by Title V of the Federal Land Policy and Management 
Act of 1976, the Independent Offices Appropriations Act of 1952, and 
the Office of Management and Budget Circular A-25.

[[Page 62319]]

The total number of communications uses in Regions 8, 9, and 10 (1,273 
permit holders) account for approximately 16 percent of all 
communication uses (7,756 permit holders) on the National Forests. 
Therefore, this proposed fee schedule and policy affect a relatively 
small number of interested parties, since communications fee issues do 
not attract the interest of the public at large. We expect controversy 
over this issue to be isolated to a few permit holders and do not 
expect Congressional interest due to the limited scope of this 
proposal.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Coordinator, Department 
of Agriculture, Forest Service, PO Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




551. HYDROPOWER APPLICATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 551; 43 USC 1761

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251.54; 36 CFR 251.57

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: A revision of Agency procedures is needed to reduce confusion 
regarding the role of the Forest Service in permitting hydropower uses 
on National Forest System lands. The goal of the directives will be to 
establish procedures, compatible with the procedures of the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), for obtaining various approvals 
and involvement of the Forest Service in a timely manner.
In addition, the directives will establish a fee system for hydropower 
uses as required by Title V, Section 501 of the Federal Land Policy and 
Management Act of 1976. The agency will propose streamlined procedures 
for hydropower use approval in response to public comments received on 
proposed policy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/22/95                    60 FR 27154
NPRM Comment Period Extended    07/17/95                    60 FR 36401
NPRM Comment Period End         09/05/95
Final Action                    11/00/96
Final Action Effective          12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AA47
_______________________________________________________________________




552. INDIAN ALLOTMENTS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1603; 43 USC 1740; 25 
USC 337

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 254, subpart D (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule sets forth Forest Service procedures and role in 
the regulation of Indian allotments on National Forest System land. The 
Indian Allotment Act, as amended, authorizes the Secretary of the 
Interior to make allotments of National Forest System lands to Indians 
for homesteading and agricultural and grazing purposes. The Forest 
Service has relied upon USDI rules and procedures at 43 CFR 2533 to 
govern its involvement in Indian allotment cases. Litigation and a 
decision by the Interior Board of Land Appeals require the Forest 
Service to set forth its own regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/22/87                    52 FR 23473
NPRM Comment Period End         07/22/87
Final Action                    11/00/96
Final Action Effective          11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________




553. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 11 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0596-AB20
_______________________________________________________________________




554. STATE AND PRIVATE FORESTRY ASSISTANCE STEWARDSHIP INCENTIVE PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  16 USC 2101 et seq

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 230

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule would incorporate streamlined procedural 
changes in response to public comments on the interim rule published 
December 4, 1991. The interim rule established the interim procedures 
for administration of the Stewardship Incentive Program. The Program is 
intended to encourage private landowners, through cost-share 
assistance, to manage their forest lands for economic, environmental, 
and social benefits. Only two alternatives were considered in detail: 
(1) to implement the Program in accordance

[[Page 62320]]

with 16 USC 2101, et seq, and (2) not to implement the Program, in 
which case there would be no accelerated program for multiple resource 
management on nonindustrial private forest lands. The overall effects 
of the Program over time will be environmentally beneficial by 
enhancing wetlands, wildlife habitat, forest health, forest 
productivity, and recreation. The Program will help meet future demand 
for commodity and noncommodity forest resources. There are no potential 
negative impacts anticipated for the Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/04/91                    56 FR 63581
Interim Final Rule Public 
Comment Period End              01/21/92
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB32
_______________________________________________________________________




555. SPECIAL-USE APPLICATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION OF SPECIAL-USE 
AUTHORIZATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  43 USC 1764; 31 USC 483(a); 30 USC 181; 16 USC 551

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service proposes to amend the regulations 
governing the use and occupancy of National Forest System lands to 
minimize application expenses, streamline and make more efficient 
environmental analysis of special use proposals, provide the ability to 
use one-time payments for easements as presently used in the 
marketplace, limit certain liability requirements to amounts determined 
by a risk assessment, make certain definitions more explicit, and 
clarify direction on renewal of existing special use regulations. The 
intended effect is to reduce costs to proponents and the agency, 
expedite decisionmaking, and administer authorizations in a more ``user 
friendly'' manner by removing certain requirements deemed unnecessary 
and/or outdated. This rulemaking responds to goals identified in the 
National Performance Review Regulatory Reform effort.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/14/92                    57 FR 36618
NPRM Comment Period End         09/28/92
Final Action                    11/00/96
Final Action Effective          01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB35
_______________________________________________________________________




556. SKI AREA PERMIT FEE SYSTEM

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  PL 99-522; 16 USC 497b

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251.57

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service proposes to revise existing procedures for 
determining permit fees for the use of National Forest System lands by 
ski areas. Permit fees for most ski areas operating on National Forest 
System lands are determined under the graduated rate fee system (GRFS). 
As applied to large ski areas, GRFS is complex and costly to 
administer, and has thus been the subject of several audits, appeals, 
and lawsuits. Under the proposed policy, the Agency would determine 
permit fees by site-specific appraisal of the use of National Forest 
System land by ski areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/13/95                    60 FR 36097
NPRM Comment Period End         09/11/95
Final Action                    11/00/96
Final Action Effective          03/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB49
_______________________________________________________________________




557. SUBSISTENCE MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS FOR PUBLIC LANDS IN ALASKA

Priority:  Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority:  PL 96-487

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 242; 50 CFR 100

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Judicial, April 5, 1996.

Abstract: The proposed rule would respond to rulemaking petitions 
submitted by the Northwest Arctic Regional Advisory Council (et al, 4/
12/94) and the Mentasta Village Council (et al, 7/15/93) regarding 
Federal regulation of subsistence hunting and fishing on lands, which 
have been selected from non-Federal and Federal land for conveyance to 
Alaska Native Corporations or to the State of Alaska, but which have 
not yet been conveyed. The proposed rule would also respond to the 
April 20, 1995, decision by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals regarding 
Federal subsistence management authority over hunting and fishing in 
navigable waters in Alaska. This proposed rulemaking will address 
identification of waters that meet the Alaska National Interest Lands 
Conservation Act definition of ``public lands,'' and will address 
Federal Subsistence Board authority to restrict or limit hunting or 
fishing on non-Federal lands that interferes with subsistence hunting 
or fishing on Federal public lands.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/04/96                    61 FR 15014
NPRM Comment Period End         06/14/96
Interim Final Rule              12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB56

[[Page 62321]]

_______________________________________________________________________




558.  DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; MODIFICATION OF 
TIMBER SALE CONTRACTS IN EXTRAORDINARY CONDITIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 472(a)

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223.115

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The interim rule revises the existing regulations regarding 
noncompetitive sale of timber based on the Secretary of Agriculture's 
determination that extraordinary conditions exist. The interim final 
rule authorizes forest officials, without advertisement, to make 
modifications to 2001(k) of the 1995 Rescissions Act timber sales, 
which result in the substitution of timber from outside the sale area 
specified in the contract for timber within the timber sale contract 
area. A final rule will be promulgated after the public comment period 
ends.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/03/96                    61 FR 14618
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB58
_______________________________________________________________________




559.  APPEAL OF DECISIONS RELATING TO OCCUPANCY AND USE OF 
NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS; MEDIATION OF GRAZING PERMIT DISPUTES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 5101 to 5106

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 251 subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under section 282 of the Federal Crop Insurance Reform and 
Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994, the Secretary of 
Agriculture is required to offer mediation of grazing permit disputes 
on National Forest System lands in those States which have USDA 
certified mediation programs. In response to the Act, the Forest 
Service proposes to publish an interim rule modifying the Agency's 
administrative appeal rule at 36 CFR Part 251, Subpart C, to allow for 
mediation of grazing permit disputes. the interim rule would be 
published, to be effective immediately, with request for public review 
and comment before a final rule is published.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, PO Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




560.  LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPPORT ACTIVITIES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1011(f); 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 559(a) 
to 559(g); 40 USC 484(m)

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 262

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In February, 1994, the Forest Service published proposed rule 
changes for 36 CFR, Parts 261 and 262. Due to the high level of 
interest in and comment on Part 261, the decision was made to publish a 
second proposed rule. Since few comments were received on Part 262, Law 
Enforcement Support Activities, the Forest Service has decided to 
proceed to adopt a final rule for this part. The majority of the public 
comment on Part 262 referred to the definition section which as been 
revised to respond to those comments. Proposed revisions to Part 261 
will proceed separately at a later time.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/16/94                     59 FR 7880
NPRM Comment Period End         05/18/94
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Coordinator, Department 
of Agriculture, Forest Service, PO Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




561. MANAGEMENT OF GRAZING USE WITHIN RANGELAND ECOSYSTEMS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 222, subpart A

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AA35

[[Page 62322]]

_______________________________________________________________________




562. SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL POLICY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 251

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/01/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AA92
_______________________________________________________________________




563. TIMBER SALE CONTRACTS; APPRAISAL PROCEDURES FOR DETERMINING FAIR 
MARKET VALUE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 223.60

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/14/96                     61 FR 5684
Final Action Effective          03/14/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB26
_______________________________________________________________________




564. USE OF FIXED ANCHORS FOR ROCK CLIMBING IN WILDERNESS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 261.16; 36 CFR 293.9

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/01/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB33
_______________________________________________________________________




565. SMITH RIVER NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  36 CFR 292, subpart G

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/03/96                    61 FR 14621

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 235-1488

RIN: 0596-AB39
BILLING CODE 3410-11-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Office of Chief Financial Officer (OCFO)



_______________________________________________________________________




566. AUDITS OF STATE, LOCAL, AND INDIAN TRIBAL GOVERNMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3015; 7 CFR 3016; 7 CFR 3050

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Allen Johnson
Phone: 202 720-8345

RIN: 0505-AA09
BILLING CODE 3410-KS-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




567. NONDISCRIMINATION IN USDA CONDUCTED PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 15

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes to revise regulations governing 
nondiscrimination in programs and activities conducted by the 
Department. The proposal would remove current regulation on this 
subject, place it in a new part; clarify that the regulation applies to 
all Department-conducted programs and activities; add familial status 
and marital status to the protected classes contained in the 
regulation; add a provision on Department agencies' compliance efforts; 
reflect that the Assistant Secretary for Administration has been 
delegated the authority to make final determinations as to whether 
prohibited discrimination occurred and the corrective action required 
to solve complaints; remove the Appendix to the regulation that lists 
the Department programs subject to these provisions; and make other 
clarifications to the regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/23/96
Final Action                    11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: George Robertson, Acting Director, Office of Civil 
Rights Department of Agriculture, Office of the

[[Page 62323]]

Secretary, Room 1322 South Building, Washington, D. C. 20250
Phone: 202 720-5212

RIN: 0503-AA15
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




568. SUPPLEMENTAL STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE 
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  5 CFR 2635

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Gary M. Whitaker
Phone: 202 720-3327

RIN: 0503-AA05
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




569. GRANTS AND AGREEMENTS WITH INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, 
HOSPITALS AND OTHER NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3019

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/24/95                    60 FR 44121
Final Action Effective          09/24/95

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gerald Miske
Phone: 202 720-1553

RIN: 0503-AA10
BILLING CODE 3410-90-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




570.  RURAL COOPERATIVE DEVELOPMENT GRANTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1932; PL 101-624

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 4284 subpart F; 7 CFR 1940 subpart L; 7 CFR 1951 
subpart E

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement changes and simplification of a 
grant program to fund the establishment and/or operation of cooperative 
development centers. Grants will be available to nonprofit 
organizations and institutions of higher learning. This action is 
necessary to comply with the Federal Agricultural Improvement and 
Reform Act of 1996, which eliminated ``Technology'' from the former 
Rural Technology and Cooperative Development Grant program. The purpose 
of this program is to encourage and stimulate the development of 
effective cooperative organizations in rural America as a part of the 
Department's total package of rural development efforts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: James E. Haskell, Assistance Deputy Administrator, 
Cooperative Services, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-
Cooperative Service, Room 4016 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-8460

RIN: 0570-AA20
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




571. RURAL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY GRANTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 7 USC 1926

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 4284; 7 CFR 1951

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service proposes to add a new 
regulation implementing a grant program to fund local technical 
assistance and planning activities in rural areas for the purpose of 
improving economic conditions in the areas. Grants will be available to 
public bodies and nonprofit organizations. This action is necessary to 
comply with P.L. 104-127. Grants may be used for technical assistance 
and training for small businesses, identifying and analyzing business 
opportunities in rural areas establishing business support centers, 
conducting local or

[[Page 62324]]

multi-county economic development planning, coordination of economic 
development activities, and leadership development training of local 
government officials.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Wayne Stansbery, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Indpendence Ave. 
SW., Room 2246- South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6819
Fax: 202 720-6003

RIN: 0570-AA05
_______________________________________________________________________




572. RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LOAN AND GRANT PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 940c

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1703 subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The current provisions that govern grant fund disbursement 
that were published on March 14, 1994, and October 27, 1994, need to be 
revised to provide more flexibility to advance grant funds to electric 
and telephone borrowers (the ``grantees''). The agency will review on a 
case-by-case basis the requirements for disbursement of funds and 
provide for the advance of funds on an appropriate basis. This rule 
will greatly improve the Agency's ability to advance grant funds in a 
manner that is in both the government and the grantee's best interest. 
The Agency and current grantees believe the changes should be made 
effective as soon as possible to avoid financial hardships for both the 
grantees and the ultimate recipients who will receive loans from the 
revolving loan funds.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Public Compliance Cost: Initial Cost: $25,000; Yearly Recurring Cost: 
$25,000; Base Year for Dollar Estimates: 1995

Sectors Affected:  None

Agency Contact: Mark Wyatt, Team Leader, Specialty Lenders Division, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 
2245 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0410

RIN: 0570-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________




573.  NATIONAL SHEEP INDUSTRY IMPROVEMENT CENTER

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127, sec 759

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 4286 subpart A

Legal Deadline:  Other, Statutory, April 4, 1997.
By PL 104-127, Board of Directors must hold public hearing on strategic 
plan by April 4, 1997.

Abstract: Rule will establish a National Sheep Industries Improvement 
Center as called for by the 1996 Farm Bill. Rule will establish 
procedures for appointing the Board of Directors who will operate the 
Center. The Center will have control over a revolving fund from which 
low or zero interest loans, grants, contracts, and agreements may be 
made. The Center's activities will focus on the production and 
marketing of meat, fiber and hair in order to assist and strengthen the 
U.S. sheep and goat industries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Thomas H. Stafford, Director, Cooperative Marketing 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, Stop 3252, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-2723

RIN: 0570-AA21
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




574. RURAL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE GRANTS AND TELEVISION DEMONSTRATION 
GRANTS

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  PL 102-552; 7 USC 1927; 7 USC 1939 (c)

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1942 subpart G; 7 CFR 4284 subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Public Law 102-554 authorizes grants to qualified nonprofit 
organizations for the provision of technical assistance and training to 
rural communities for the purpose of improving passenger transportation 
services or facilities; to amend the definition for small and emerging 
private business enterprise to agree with the program size standards 
established by the Small Business Administration; to clarify certain 
administrative regulatory guidelines in order to effect improved 
program administration; and also authorizes grants for educational 
purposes and distance learning networks.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

RBEG: Interim Final Rule Provide 
Educational/Job Training 
Instruction.                    05/23/94                    59 FR 26585
NPRM                            08/09/94                    59 FR 40478
NPRM Comment Period End         09/08/94
Final Action                    05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Mark Wyatt, Team Leader, Specialty Lenders Division, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 
2245 South Building, Washington, DC 20250

[[Page 62325]]

Phone: 202 720-0410

RIN: 0570-AA08
_______________________________________________________________________




575. RURAL BUSINESS LOAN STREAMLINING

Regulatory Plan:  This entry is Seq. No. 12 in Part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0570-AA09
_______________________________________________________________________




576. INTERMEDIARY RELENDING PROGRAM REWRITE

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1932 note; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1948

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory package is an initiative to enhance the 
program through revisions based on experience with operation of the 
program. The primary changes under consideration include the following: 
(1) Provide clarifications as to which requirements apply only to Rural 
Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) Intermediary Relending Program (IRP) 
loan funds and which apply to everything in the IRP revolving funds, 
(2) Authorize State Offices to accept and process applications, (3) 
Clarify conditions under which an intermediary that does not have 
lending experience may qualify, (4) Provide that proposed 
intermediaries that are delinquent on a Federal debt are not eligible, 
(5) Authorize loans for refinancing, (6) Provide general guidelines for 
interest rates and terms of loan to ultimate recipients, (7) Provide 
that intermediaries may receive a series of subsequent loans of up to 
$1 million each and raise the ceiling on loans to an ultimate recipient 
to $250,000, (8) Provide for a reserve for bad debts, (9) Allow 
intermediaries to draw up to 25 percent of their loan at loan closing, 
(10) Revise application requirements to eliminate some items, provide 
more detail and provide for streamlined subsequent loan applications, 
(11) Adjust the priority point scoring system, (12) Provide guidelines 
for RBS concurrence in proposed loans to ultimate recipients.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule To Raise Loan 
Limit From $2 Million to $4 
million                         05/12/94                    59 FR 24635
NPRM                            01/18/95                     60 FR 3566
NPRM Comment Period End         03/20/95
Second Interim Final Rule To 
raise loan limit from $2 million 
to $4 million                   02/22/96                     61 FR 6761
Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Additional Information: This entry was reported as RIN 0575-AB83 prior 
to the reorganization of USDA.

Agency Contact: Wayne Stansbery, Loan Specialist, Specialty Lenders 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, Department of Agruculture, Stop 1521, 1400 Independence Ave. 
SW., Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6819

RIN: 0570-AA15
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




577.  DIRECT BUSINESS AND LOAN PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980 subpart A; 7 CFR 1980 subpart E; 7 CFR 1942 
subpart A; 7 CFR 1951 subpart E

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency has not received direct Business and Industry 
(B&I) funding in recent years, but some loan authority is possible in 
Fiscal Year 1997. The Agency currently utilizes FmHA Instructions 1980-
A and E, 1942-A, 1951-E to service existing direct (B&I) loans. These 
regulations contain very limited direction in direct B&I loan making. 
The Agency is writing a new regulation to replace the instructions for 
direct loan making and servicing. This program will complement the 
Agency's existing guaranteed (B&I) loan program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mr. Rick Bonnet, Loan Specialist, Business Programs 
Loan Servicing, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 6339 South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1804

RIN: 0570-AA22
_______________________________________________________________________




578.  RURAL BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL LOAN PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1980 subpart E; 7 CFR 4279 subpart A; 7 CFR 4279 
subpart B; 7 CFR 4287 subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposal will implement a provision of the 1996 Farm 
Bill which authorizes the establishment of a certified and preferred 
lender program for rural development guaranteed loan programs. This 
will further streamline the Business and Industry (B&I) Guaranteed Loan 
Program. Additional responsibility will be shifted to the lenders 
through the preferred lender program. The certified lender program is 
implemented in the proposed B&I regulations which were published in the 
Federal Register on February 2, 1996. We are also implementing a 
provision of the 1996 Farm Bill which authorizes designation of up to 
10 community development venture capital organizations for a rural 
venture capital demonstration project. Up to $15 million from the B&I 
National Reserve will be used to

[[Page 62326]]

guarantee up to 30 percent of funds in a rural investment pool to be 
established by the selected community development venture capital 
organizations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Kenneth F. Hennings, Loan Officer, Business Program 
Loan Processing, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, 1400 Independence Ave. SW., Room 6337 South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-3809

RIN: 0570-AA23
_______________________________________________________________________




579.  AFFIRMATIVE FAIR HOUSING MARKETING PLAN

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1948 subpart C; 7 CFR 1942 subpart G; 7 CFR 4284 
subpart B; 7 CFR 1980 subpart E; 7 CFR 4279 subpart B; 7 CFR 1703 
subpart B; 7 CFR 1980 Subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will incorporate the requirement for housing-
related projects (such as apartment buildings, nursing homes, group 
homes, and assisted living type facilities) to develop an Affirmative 
Fair Housing Marketing Plan (plan) when receiving funding from the 
Intermediary Relending Program, Rural Business Enterprise Grant 
Program, and the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Programs and 
the Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program. The plan will 
describe strategies to attract applications from all groups in housing 
market area and efforts to reach those persons in the market area who 
traditionally would not be expected to apply for housing. The Rural 
Housing Service Multi-Family Housing Program regulations currently 
include this borrower requirement. We estimate this action will impact 
a total of 100 housing related projects not previously required to 
complete a plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Rick Bonnet, Loan Specialist, Rural Business 
Cooperative Service, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-
Cooperative Service, Department of Agriculure, 1400 Independence Ave. 
SW., Room 6339 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1804

RIN: 0570-AA24
BILLING CODE 3410-07-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




580. ELECTRIC SYSTEM PLANNING AND DESIGN--POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1724

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will codify and update Agency policies and 
procedures for the planning and design of electrical systems of RUS 
borrowers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA48
_______________________________________________________________________




581. ELECTRIC STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR MATERIALS AND 
CONSTRUCTION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1728

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation provides RUS borrowers and the public with 
specifications for material and equipment as a complement to the list 
of construction standards and specifications incorporated by reference.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA67

[[Page 62327]]

_______________________________________________________________________




582. POST-LOAN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES COMMON TO INSURED AND GUARANTEED 
ELECTRIC LOANS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1717, A to F; 7 CFR 1717, J to K

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation will codify most basic post-loan policies and 
procedures common to insured and guaranteed electric loans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA71
_______________________________________________________________________




583. ELECTRIC SYSTEMS OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1730

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) proposes to codify and 
clarify RUS policy concerning operation and maintenance of borrower 
electric systems. In addition, it is proposed to add RUS policies 
relating to the review and evaluation of borrower systems and 
facilities financed with loans from RUS. These policies are presently 
contained in RUS Bulletin 161-5 which will be rescinded upon 
publication of the final rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA74
_______________________________________________________________________




584. RUS FIDELITY AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRIC AND 
TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1788

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is considering revising its 
regulations concerning the fidelity and insurance requirements for 
electric and telecommunications borrowers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           04/28/93                    58 FR 25786
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/28/93
NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Deputy Director, Program Support 
& Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 
14th & Independence Ave. SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA86
_______________________________________________________________________




585. USE OF GENERAL FUNDS INVESTMENTS, LOAN GUARANTEES, AND RETIREMENT 
OF CAPITAL CREDITS BY ELECTRIC BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1717 O

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will set forth procedures for RUS approval of a 
borrower's use of its own funds that are not the proceeds of RUS loans 
for additions to electric plan. RUS loans are secured by a first 
mortgage on the borrower's total electric system. RUS approvals are 
intended to ensure that the proposed capital additions will not 
adversely affect the borrower's ability to provide service consistent 
with the RE Act and to repay its RUS loans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: RUS is splitting the old RIN due to the fact 
that the four subparts of the old RIN were split into separate actions 
which are progressing at different rates in the regulatory process.

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Ave. SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 20250-
1500
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB01

[[Page 62328]]

_______________________________________________________________________




586. STREAMLINING THE RURAL UTILITIES SERVICE'S WATER AND WASTE PROGRAM 
REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1780

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS amends the regulations utilized to administer the Water 
and Waste disposal loan and grant programs. The rule will combine the 
water and waste loan and grant regulations into one regulation. 
Unnecessary and burdensome requirements for entities seeking financial 
assistance under the programs will be eliminated.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/12/96                    61 FR 48075
NPRM Comment Period End         10/15/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234-S, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB20
_______________________________________________________________________




587. ESTABLISH WATER AND WASTE DISPOSAL REGULATIONS WITHIN THE RURAL 
UTILITIES SERVICE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  7 USC 1989; 7 USC 1005; 7 USC 301

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1680; 7 CFR 1690; 7 CFR 1691; 7 CFR 1693; 7 CFR 
1694

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS amends the regulations originally published by the 
Farmers Home Administration (FMHA) and the Rural Development 
Administration (RDA). These amendments implement legislation directing 
the Secretary of Agriculture to establish the RUS with responsibility 
for the water and waste disposal programs formerly administered by FMHA 
and RDA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20250, Room 2234-S
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB21
_______________________________________________________________________




588.  DISTANCE LEARNING AND TELEMEDICINE PRE-AND POST-LOAN 
REGULATIONS (LOAN PROGRAM)

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1703 D

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service proposes to amend 7 CFR part 
1703, subpart D, to incorporate changes to the Distance Learning and 
Telemedicine regulations by adding a new loan program mandated by the 
1996 Farm Bill. The pre- and post-loan requirements for this new loan 
program will essentially mirror the existing grant program 
requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234-S, Washington, DC 20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-0736
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB28
_______________________________________________________________________




589.  RURAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS TO STATES

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Secretary is authorized to make a grant to a State for 
certain rural development purposes. A state can request an amount not 
to exceed 5 percent of the total amount of certain funds allocated each 
fiscal year for the state.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234-S, Washington, DC 20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-0736
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB29

[[Page 62329]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




590. LOAN ACCOUNT COMPUTATIONS, POLICIES, AND PROCEDURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1785; 7 CFR 1786 A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS proposes to codify, consolidate, and update the policies 
and procedures currently contained in RUS Bulletin 20-9:320-12.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/07/93                    58 FR 18043
NPRM Comment Period End         05/07/93
Final Action                    10/00/96
Final Action Effective          11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA65
_______________________________________________________________________




591. LONG-RANGE FINANCIAL FORECASTS OF ELECTRIC BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 to 950(b); PL 99-591

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1710 G

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) proposes to amend its pre-
loan regulations for electric loans to clarify and revise the 
requirement that borrowers submit to RUS a long-range financial 
forecast as part of an application for a loan, loan guarantee, lien 
accommodation. This proposed rule is intended to strengthen credit 
practices and to assist borrowers in preparing, and RUS staff in 
reviewing loan applications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/20/93                    58 FR 44288
NPRM Comment Period End         09/20/93
Final Action                    10/00/96
Final Action Effective          11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Ave. SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA89
_______________________________________________________________________




592. RUS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR MERGERS AND CONSOLIDATIONS OF 
ELECTRIC BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1710; 7 CFR 1714; 7 CFR 1717 D; 7 CFR 1786

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Vast changes are occurring in the regulatory and business 
environment of the electric industry. In response to these changes, 
many electric borrowers are considering measures that can result in 
operating efficiencies or other economies. One example of such a 
measure is a merger or consolidation

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/07/96                    61 FR 41025
NPRM Comment Period End         09/06/96
Final Action                    10/00/96
Final Action Effective          11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Ave. SW., Room 2234 South Building, Washington, DC 20250-
1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB24
_______________________________________________________________________




593.  RURAL ELECTRIFICATION ACT ``BUY AMERICAN''PROVISION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 et seq; PL 103-345; PL 103-456

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1726; 7 CFR 1753

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Uruguay Round Agreement Act amends the RE Act's ``Buy 
American'' provision. In the amended provision, ``Mexico, or Canada'' 
is replaced with ``or in any eligible country'' and who qualifies as an 
eligible country is determined by the USTR.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/96
Final Action Effective          11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 14th & 
Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB25
_______________________________________________________________________




594.  SETTLEMENT OF DEBT OWED BY ELECTRIC BORROWERS

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  7 USC 901 to 950b; PL 99-591; PL 103-354

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1717 subpt Y

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 62330]]

Abstract: On April 4, 1996, P.L. 104-127 amended section 331(b) of the 
Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to extend to RUS loans and 
loan guarantees to the Secretary of Agriculture's authority to 
compromise, adjust, reduce, or charge-off debts or claims owed to the 
Government. The Secretary of Agriculture has delegated most of the new 
authority to the Administrator of RUS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Director, Program Support & 
Regulatory, Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, 1400 Independence Ave., SW., STOP 1522, Washington, DC 20250-
1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB26
_______________________________________________________________________




595.  RUS PRIVATIZATION DEMONSTRATION PREPAYMENT PROGRAM FOR THE 
STATE OF ALASKA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority: PL 104-127

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1786 D

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement section 780 of the Federal 
Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 (HR 2854) (Farm Bill). 
Section 780 of the Farm Bill repealed section 311 of the Rural 
Electrification Act of 1938 (7 U.S.C. 940a). Section 311 established a 
privatization demonstration program that allowed borrowers in Alaska 
10, under certain circumstances, to prepay loans made by the Federal 
Financing Bank and guaranteed by RUS using private sector capital with 
a 90 percent guarantee. RUS regulations implementing this program are 
at 7 CFR 1786 subpart D.
This regulatory action will remove 7 CFR 1786 subpart D which 
implemented this now defunct program. This action will enhance the 
delivery of customer service by removing an obsolete regulation. 
Because the statutory authority for this program no longer exists, no 
period for public comment is needed.
RUS recommends that this regulation be designated ``not significant.''
Section 342 Subtitle E of the Federal Agriculture Improvement and 
Reform Act of 1996 (FAIRA) expands the membership and roles of State 
Technical Committees set forth in section 1261 of Subtitle G of the 
Food Security Act or 1985, as amended. Under these guidelines, the 
Secretary is required to establish a technical committee in each State 
to assist in making technical considerations relating to the 
implementation of conservation provisions. The Natural Resources 
Conservation Service (NRCS) uses these State Technical Committees in an 
advisory capacity. The rule will set forth the policies and procedures 
for the State Technical Committees by the United States Department of 
Agriculture, membership criteria, and the responsibilities assigned to 
these committees.
The NRCS has delivered the majority of the technical assistance 
provided to private landowners through the authorities provided in 7 
CFR Part 610.2. Section 610.2 has not yet been revised to provide for 
the responsibilities assigned to the NRCS beyond that of soil 
conservation. To more accurately reflect the broader mission of NRCS, 
particularly as it relates to technical assistance provided to private 
grazing land, Section 610.2 is being amended to acknowledge that one of 
NRCS's missions is to

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/96
Final Action Effective          11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F.Lamont Heppe, Jr., Director, Program Support & Reg 
Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW., Room 2234-S, Washington, DC 20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-0736
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB27
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




596. LOAN SECURITY DOCUMENTS--TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM
Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant
Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.
CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1744
Timetable: Next Action Undetermined
Small Entities Affected: None
Government Levels Affected: None
Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________




597. WHOLESALE CONTRACTS FOR THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF ELECTRIC POWER AND 
ENERGY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717.300 to 1717.349

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/21/90                    55 FR 38930
NPRM Comment Period End         11/20/90
Final Action                    00/00/00
Final Action Effective          00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550

[[Page 62331]]

Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA41
_______________________________________________________________________




598. MARGIN STABILIZATION PLANS AND REVENUE AND EXPENSE DEFERRALS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1767, subpart E

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA50
_______________________________________________________________________




599. CIVIL RIGHTS POLICIES APPLICABLE TO RUS BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1790

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA75
_______________________________________________________________________




600. LOAN DOCUMENTS--BANK PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1620

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA76
_______________________________________________________________________




601. DEPRECIATION RATES AND PROCEDURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1767 C

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________




602. PRESERVATION OF RECORDS ACCOUNTING REQUIREMENTS FOR RUS ELECTRIC 
BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1767 D

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA92
_______________________________________________________________________




603. RUS APPROVAL OF SALE OF CAPITAL ASSETS BY ELECTRIC BORROWERS

Priority:  Other Significant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1717 P

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB02
_______________________________________________________________________




604. LOAN DEFERMENTS FOR ENERGY RESOURCES CONSERVATION - ELECTRIC 
PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1717 L

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB03
_______________________________________________________________________




605. POWER REQUIREMENT STUDIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

[[Page 62332]]

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1710 E

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB05
_______________________________________________________________________




606. COMMUNITY FACILITY LOANS - TIMBER-DEPENDENT COMMUNITIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1942 subpart A

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Local

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB11
_______________________________________________________________________




607. LIQUIDATION OF LOANS AND ACQUISITION, MANAGEMENT AND DISPOSAL OF 
SECURITY PROPERTY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1696; 7 CFR 1697; 7 CFR 1951 subpart E; 7 CFR 1955 
subpart A; 7 CFR 1955 subpart B; 7 CFR 1955 subpart C; 7 CFR 2.23; 7 
CFR 2.70

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB13
_______________________________________________________________________




608. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT GRANTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1692; 7 CFR 1942 J

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB14
_______________________________________________________________________




609. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING GRANTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1691; 7 CFR 1942 subpart J

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB15
_______________________________________________________________________




610. WATER AND WASTE LOAN AND GRANT SERVICING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1782

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            00/00/00
NPRM Comment Period End         00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB23
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




611. ACCOUNTING REQUIREMENTS FOR RUS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1770 C

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/31/96                    61 FR 39844
Final Action Effective          08/30/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________




612. USE OF CONSULTANTS FUNDED BY BORROWERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1789

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/16/96                    61 FR 48605
Final Action Effective          10/16/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550

[[Page 62333]]

Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB17
_______________________________________________________________________




613. DISTANCE LEARNING AND TELEMEDICINE GRANT PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1703

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/27/96                    61 FR 33622
Final Action Effective          06/27/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB22
BILLING CODE 3410-15-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




614.  ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY INCENTIVE PROGRAM (EQUIP) 
ESTABLISHED IN THE FEDERAL AGRICULTURE IMPROVEMENT OF REFORM ACT OF 1996

Priority:  Economically Significant

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1466

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: EQUIP is established to assist producers deal with 
environmental and natural resource conservation improvements on their 
agricultural lands. Program funding will be $130 Million in FY 1996 & 
$200 Million in FY 1997 through FY 2002. One-half of the available 
funds are for conservation activities related to livestock production. 
Technical assistance, cost-share payments, incentive payments, and 
education will be focused on priority area and natural resource 
concerns identified in cooperation with State Technical Committees. 
Five to ten year contracts, based on conservation plans, will be used 
to implement the program. A priority evaluation process will be used to 
maximize environmental benefits per dollar expended under EQUIP. The 
Secretary, through the rule making process, will establish eligibility 
criteria for EQUIP assistance, including determining standards for 
large livestock operations which will be ineligible for cost sharing to 
construct animal waste management facilities. For 180 days after the 
date of enactment of the Act, an interim program will be administered 
using the term and conditions of the agricultural conservation program, 
the Great Plains conservation program, the water quality incentives 
program, and the Colorado River Basin salinity control program, which 
are eliminated by the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/11/96                    61 FR 53574

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Peter Zeck, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, National Resources Conservation Service, P.O. Box 2890, 
Room 5235-S, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 690-4860
Fax: 202 690-3174
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________




615.  CONSERVATION FARM OPTION (CFO)

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: A conservation farm option pilot program is established for 
producers of wheat, feed grains, cotton, and rice. Owners or operators 
with farms that have a production flexibility contract are eligible for 
participation. Under the pilot program producers may receive on 
consolidated USDA program payment in lieu of a list of specified 
payments. The producer must implement a conservation plan that 
addresses soil, water, and related resources, water quality, wetlands, 
and wildlife habitat. Participation is voluntary and based upon a 10-
year contract between the Secretary and the producer. Funding varies by 
year through 2002 with a total of $197.5 million, coming from CCC, 
dedicated to this option.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter Zeck, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, National Resources Conservation Service, PO Box 2890, Room 
5235-S, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 690-4860
Fax: 202 690-3174
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA20
_______________________________________________________________________




616.  WILDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVES PROGRAM (WHIP)

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127; 15 USC 714b to 714c; 7 USC 14452

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 1470

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Wildlife habitats of all types have become degraded as a 
result of development pressures of modern society. Some habitat types 
are disappearing from the face of the earth, such as natural prairie. 
As development encroaches and a habitat disappears, the wildlife 
dependent upon that habitat also disappear. The rate of species lost to 
extinction has exceeded any known prior extinction event and the 
single, most significant cause cited is the loss of habitat. The U.S. 
Department of Agriculture recognizes the environmental, social, 
economic, and aesthetic importance of wildlife.

[[Page 62334]]

The Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program (WHIP) provides landowners 
incentives for developing and restoring habitat for wildlife.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Peter Zeck, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, National Resources Conservation Service, PO Box 2890, Room 
5235-S, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 690-4860
Fax: 202 690-3174
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA21
_______________________________________________________________________




617.  7 CFR PART 610 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-129

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 610

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 342 Subtitle E of the Federal Agriculture Improvement 
and Reform Act of 1996 (FAIRA) expands the membership and roles of 
State Technical Committees set forth in Section 1261 of Subtitle G of 
the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended. Under these guidelines, the 
Secretary is required to establish a technical committee in each State 
to assist in making technical considerations relating to the 
implementation of conservation provisions. The Natural Resources 
Conservation Service (NRCS) uses these State Technical Committees in an 
advisory capacity. The rule will set forth the policies and procedures 
for the use of State Technical Committees by the United States 
Department of Argiculture, membership criteria, and the 
responsibilities assigned to these committees.
The NRCS has delivered the majority of the technical assistance 
provided to private landowners through the authorities provided in 7 
CFR Part 610.2. Section 610.2 has not yet been revised to provide for 
the responsibilities assigned to the NRCS beyond that of soil 
conservation. To more accurately reflect the broader mission of NRCS, 
particularly as it relates to technical assistance provided to private 
grazing land. Section 610.2 is being amended to acknowledge that one of 
NRCS's missions is to improve the quality of all agricultural lands, 
including grazing land, pastureland, rangeland, forestland, and 
cropland so that the long-term sustainability of the resource base is 
achieved.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/96

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter Zeck, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, National Resources Conservation Service, PO Box 2890, Room 
5235-S, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 690-4860
Fax: 202 690-3174
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA22
_______________________________________________________________________




618.  CONSERVATION OF PRIVATE GRAZING LAND (CPGL)

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments.

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127; 7 USC 2903; 7 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: CPGL provides producers on private grazing lands needed 
technical assistance from qualified grazing land management specialists 
to voluntarily implement management programs meeting the ecological, 
environmental and economic demands placed on the grazing land 
resources. Program funding is authorized through line item funding at 
$20 million for FY 1996, $40 million for FY 1997, and $60 million for 
1998 and each subsequent FY for the NRCS. Technical, informational, and 
related assistance will be developed to provide owners and managers of 
private grazing land public agencies, and the nation the benefits 
derived from a voluntarily implemented grazing land for the development 
of 2 grazing management districts as recommended by the grazing land 
conservation coalition steering committee to demonstrate the benefits 
of sound grazing management practice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter Zeck, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, National Resources Conservation Service, PO Box 2890, Room 
5235-S, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 690-4860
Fax: 202 690-3174
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA23
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




619.  HIGHLY ERODIBLE LAND AND WETLAND CONSERVATION

Priority:  Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments.

Legal Authority:  16 USC 3801 et seq

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 12

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory, July 3, 1996.

Abstract: Soil erosion and its results, including damage to water 
quality and air quality, loss of productive capacity of the land, and 
offsite damages, is caused in part by inadequate or inappropriate 
management systems. The 1985 Food Security Act required producer who 
farm highly erodible land to do so in accordance with an acceptable 
conservation system in order to remain eligible for most USDA program 
benefits. This act gave producers a major incentive to install 
conservation practices on the country's most fragile lands. The 1996 
Farm Bill refines these requirements.

[[Page 62335]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/06/96                    61 FR 47019
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Peter Zeck, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, National Resources Conservation Service, P.O. Box 2890, 
Room 5235-S, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 690-4860
Fax: 202 690-3174
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA17
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




620.  WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  PL 104-127, sec 342

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 610

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would allow the continuation of the enrollment of 
acres from prior sign-ups, respond to public suggestions and enable the 
NRCS to conduct a mid-summer sign-up in accordance with FAIRA 
enrollment goals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/14/96                    61 FR 42137

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter Zeck, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, National Resources Conservation Service, P. O. Box 2890, 
Room 5235-S, Washington, D. C. 20013
Phone: 202 690-4860
Fax: 202 690-3174

RIN: 0578-AA16
BILLING CODE 3410-16-F
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Office of Operations (OO)



_______________________________________________________________________




621. AGRICULTURE ACQUISITION REGULATION

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Reinventing Government: This rulemaking is part of the Reinventing 
Government effort. It will revise text in the CFR to reduce burden or 
duplication, or streamline requirements.

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 40 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 401 to 453 (Revision)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agriculture Acquisition Regulation is the Department of 
Agriculture's agency acquisition regulation, issued to implement or 
supplement the Federal Acquisition Regulation. This rule anticipates 
the need to make miscellaneous changes to the Agriculture Acquisition 
Regulation to implement and reflect the changes to the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected:  Multiple

Procurement: This is a procurement-related action for which there is no 
statutory requirement. The agency has not yet determined whether there 
is a paperwork burden associated with this action.

Agency Contact: Joseph Daragan, Procurement Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Office of Operations, Rm 1546 South Building, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5729
Fax: 202 720-8972

RIN: 0599-AA00
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Office of Operations (OO)



_______________________________________________________________________




622. NEW RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301; 31 USC 1352

CFR Citation:  7 CFR 3018

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Prescribes USDA policy and procedures for compliance with 
section 319 of the Department of the Interior and Related Agencies 
Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 1990 (31 USC 1352). Imposes 
restrictions and disclosure requirements on payments to persons for 
influencing activities in connection with contracts (excluding 
contracts subject to the Federal Acquisition Regulation), grants, 
cooperative agreements, loans, or commitments to insure or guarantee 
loans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/26/90                     55 FR 6736
Interim Final Rule              10/00/96
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Josephs J. Daragan, Procurement Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Office of Operations, Rm. 1546 South Building, 14th and 
Independence Ave SW., Washington, DC 20250

[[Page 62336]]

Phone: 202 720-5729
Fax: 202 720-8972

RIN: 0599-AA03
[FR Doc. 96-26266 Filed 11-27-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-13-F