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



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Part IV



Department of Commerce



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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                                           


  



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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

15 CFR Subtitle A; Subtitle B, Chs. I, III, VII, VIII, IX, XI, and 
XXIII

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

50 CFR Chs. II, III, IV, and VI

April 1997 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866 entitled ``Regulatory 
Planning and Review'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended, 
the Department of Commerce, in April and October of each year, 
publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of regulations under 
development or review over the next 12 months. Rulemaking actions are 
grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed rules, final rules, long-
term actions, and rulemaking actions completed since the October 1996 
agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide information to the 
public on regulations currently under review, being proposed, or issued 
by the Department. The agenda is intended to facilitate comments and 
views by interested members of the public.

    The Department's April 1997 regulatory agenda includes 
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the 
period April 1, 1997, through March 31, 1998.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Specific: For additional information about specific regulatory actions 
listed in the agenda, contact the individual identified as the contact 
person.

General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the agenda 
should be directed to Michael A. Levitt, Assistant General Counsel for 
Legislation and Regulation, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 
20230; telephone: 202-482-0846.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to 
publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration 
pursuant to this order. By memorandum of December 30, 1996, the Office 
of Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the 
preparation and publication of the April 1997 Unified Agenda of Federal 
Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 
U.S.C. 601 et seq., requires agencies to publish, in April and October 
of each year, a regulatory flexibility agenda which contains a brief 
description of the subject area of any rule which is likely to have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
The agenda also identifies those entries that have been selected for 
periodic review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

Explanation of Information Contained in the Agenda

    Within the Department, the Office of the Secretary and various 
operating units may issue regulations. Operating units, such as the 
Bureau of Export Administration, the International Trade 
Administration, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
(NOAA), and the Patent and Trademark Office, issue the greatest 
share of the Department's regulations.

    A large number of regulatory actions reported in the agenda 
deal with fishery management programs of NOAA's National Marine 
Fisheries Service (NMFS). To avoid repetition of programs and 
definitions, as well as to provide some understanding of the 
technical and institutional elements of the NMFS programs, a 
section on ``Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS 
Regulatory Entries'' is provided below.

Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

    The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 
(16 U.S.C. 1801 et seq.) (Act) governs the management of fisheries 
within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The EEZ refers to those 
waters from the outer edge of the State boundaries, generally 3 
nautical miles, to a distance of 200 nautical miles. Fishery 
Management Plans (FMPs) are to be prepared for fisheries which 
require conservation and management measures. Regulations 
implementing these FMPs regulate domestic fishing and foreign 
fishing where permitted. Foreign fishing can be conducted in a 
fishery for which there is no FMP only if a preliminary fishery 
management plan has been issued to govern that foreign fishing. 
Under the Act, eight Regional Fishery Management Councils 
(Councils) prepare FMPs or amendments to FMPs for fisheries within 
their respective areas. In the development of such plans or 
amendments and their implementing regulations, the Councils are 
required by law to conduct public hearings on the draft plans and 
to consider the use of alternative means of regulating.

    The Council process for developing FMPs and amendments makes it 
difficult for NMFS to determine the significance and timing of some 
regulatory actions under consideration by the Councils at the time 
the semiannual regulatory agenda is published.

    The DOC April 1997 regulatory agenda follows.

Dated: March 3, 1997.

Paul Joffe,

Acting General Counsel.

                                  Office of the Secretary--Proposed Rule Stage                                  
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
400         Streamlining of Commerce Acquisition Process..........................................    0690-AA26 
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                                    Office of the Secretary--Final Rule Stage                                   
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
401         Guidelines for Empowerment Contracting................................................    0690-AA25 
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                                   Office of the Secretary--Long-Term Actions                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
402         Standards of Ethical Conduct--Department of Commerce Supplemental Regulations.........    0690-AA23 
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                                Bureau of Economic Analysis--Proposed Rule Stage                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
403         Annual Survey of Royalties, License Fees, and Other Receipts and Payments for                       
            Intangible Rights Between U.S. and Unaffiliated Foreign Persons.......................    0691-AA28 
404         Benchmark Survey of Foreign Direct Investment in the United States--1997..............    0691-AA29 
405         Annual Survey of Selected Services Transactions With Unaffiliated Foreign Persons.....    0691-AA30 
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                                 Bureau of Economic Analysis--Completed Actions                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
406         Benchmark Survey of Selected Services Transactions With Unaffiliated Foreign Persons..    0691-AA27 
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                                    Bureau of the Census--Proposed Rule Stage                                   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
407         Cutoff Dates for Recognition of Boundary Changes for the 2000 Decennial Census of                   
            Population and Housing................................................................    0607-AA18 
408         Changes to the Foreign Trade Statistical Regulations (FTSR) To Clarify the Definition               
            of Exporter...........................................................................    0607-AA20 
409         Changes to the Foreign Trade Statistical Regulations (FTSR) Requiring a Designator                  
            When the Export Shipment Is a Foreign Military Sale...................................    0607-AA22 
410         Changes to the Foreign Trade Statistical Regulations (FTSR) Requiring the Filing of                 
            Shipper's Export Declarations (SEDs) for Company-Owned Tools of Trade.................    0607-AA23 
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                                     Bureau of the Census--Long-Term Actions                                    
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
411         Changes to the Foreign Trade Statistical Regulations (FTSR) to Conform Requirements                 
            and Wording to the U.S. Customs Service Requirements for the Automated Export System                
            (AES).................................................................................    0607-AA19 
412         Special Services and Studies by the Bureau of the Census; General.....................    0607-AA24 
413         Furnishing Personal Census Data From Census of Population Schedules; General                        
            Requirements..........................................................................    0607-AA25 
414         Furnishing Personal Census Data From Census of Population Schedules: General                        
            Requirements..........................................................................    0607-AA26 
415         Special Services and Studies by the Bureau of the Census; Fee Structure for Age Search              
            and Citizenship Information...........................................................    0607-AA27 
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                                     Bureau of the Census--Completed Actions                                    
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
416         Changes to the Foreign Trade Statistical Regulations (FTSR) To Add a Requirement To                 
            Collect Information on Canadian Province of Origin for U.S. Imports from Canada.......    0607-AA21 
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                              Economic Development Administration--Final Rule Stage                             
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
417         General Requirements for Financial Assistance--Excess Capacity........................    0610-AA55 
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                                    General Administration--Final Rule Stage                                    
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
418         Uniform Administrative Requirement for Grants and Agreements With Institutions of                   
            Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other Nonprofits and Commercial Organizations........    0605-AA09 
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                             International Trade Administration--Proposed Rule Stage                            
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
419         Proposed Change in Definition of Scientific Instruments and Apparatus for Florence                  
            Agreement Program.....................................................................    0625-AA47 
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                              International Trade Administration--Final Rule Stage                              
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
420         Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Proceedings; Administrative Protective Order                    
            Procedures and Procedures for Imposing Sanctions for Violation of a Protective Order..    0625-AA43 
421         Antidumping Duties; Countervailing Duties.............................................    0625-AA45 
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                              Bureau of Export Administration--Proposed Rule Stage                              
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
422         Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS)......................................    0694-AA02 
423         Implementation of Chemical Weapons Convention.........................................    0694-AB06 
424         Chemical Weapons Convention Implementing Regulations (Enforcement)....................    0694-AB39 
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                                Bureau of Export Administration--Final Rule Stage                               
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
425         Revision of Foreign Boycott Provisions of Export Administration Regulations...........    0694-AA11 
426         Transfer of Dual-Use Items From U.S. Munitions List to the Commerce Control List......    0694-AA52 
427         Transfer of Certain Remote Sensing Satellites From the U.S. Munitions List to the CCL.    0694-AB09 
428         Clarification of Enhanced Proliferation Control Initiative (EPCI) ``Catch-All''                     
            Provision and Validated License Requirements..........................................    0694-AB10 

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429         Revisions to the EAR: Establishment of a Standard Saving Clause.......................    0694-AB15 
430         Revisions to Licensing Policy for North Korea.........................................    0694-AB19 
431         Administration of State Log Exports Ban...............................................    0694-AB25 
432         Libya: Expansion of Foreign Policy Controls...........................................    0694-AB28 
433         Changes to the Commerce Control List to Accord With the Wassenaar Arrangement on                    
            Export Controls for Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies.............    0694-AB35 
434         Changes to the Export Administrative Regulations To Implement the Guidelines and                    
            Information Sharing Provisions of the Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls for                  
            Conventional Arms and Dual-Use........................................................    0694-AB40 
435         Change the Commerce Control List To Revise Controls on Communication Intercepting                   
            Devices (Export Commerce Control Number ECCN 5A980)...................................    0694-AB41 
436         Export Regulation for Certain Exports of Business Equipment for Support to the Cuban                
            People................................................................................    0694-AB43 
437         Clarification of License Exception GFT (Humanitarian Donations).......................    0694-AB49 
438         Revisions to EAR as a Result of the Addition of Brazil and Ukraine to the Nuclear                   
            Suppliers Group.......................................................................    0694-AB50 
439         Revisions to Commerce Control List: Addition of Technology and Software Controls for                
            Certain Crime Control Commodities.....................................................    0694-AB53 
440         Revisions and Clarifications to the Export Administration Regulations; Commerce                     
            Control List..........................................................................    0694-AB55 
441         Revisions and Clarifications to the Export Administration Regulations.................    0694-AB56 
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                               Bureau of Export Administration--Long-Term Actions                               
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
442         Licensing of, and Expansion of National Security and Foreign Policy Controls on,                    
            Recoverable Encryption Software.......................................................    0694-AB47 
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                               Bureau of Export Administration--Completed Actions                               
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
443         Exports to Iran, Syria and Sudan; Revision of Foreign Policy Control..................    0694-AA62 
444         Simplification of the Export Administration Regulations...............................    0694-AA67 
445         Implementation of the Cuba Democracy Act..............................................    0694-AA77 
446         Revision to the EAR; Supplement No. 2 to Part 778.....................................    0694-AB12 
447         Countries Eligible to Receive Supercomputers Under Special Licensing Procedures.......    0694-AB16 
448         Editorial Clarification and Corrections to the Export Administration Regulations;                   
            Removal of ECCN 1C65..................................................................    0694-AB23 
449         Proliferation Entity List.............................................................    0694-AB24 
450         Revision to the EAR: ELAIN Accepts Classification Request.............................    0694-AB26 
451         Revision to General License GCG (Shipments to Agencies of Cooperating Governments)....    0694-AB34 
452         Change the Commerce Control List to Revised Controls on Shotguns (Export Commerce                   
            Control Number ECCN 0A84C)............................................................    0694-AB42 
453         Further Expansion of General License GLX..............................................    0694-AB45 
454         Revisions to the Commerce Control List: Export of Mixtures Containing Trace Quantities              
            of Precursor Chemicals................................................................    0694-AB46 
455         Incorporation of the Wassenaar Arrangement Into Category 2 of the Commerce Control                  
            List; Expansion of License Exception CIV..............................................    0694-AB48 
456         Revision to EAR License Exceptions....................................................    0694-AB51 
457         Revisions to EAR As Result of Addition of Republic of South Korea to Australia Group                
            Membership............................................................................    0694-AB52 
458         Revision to the EAR; Computer Revision................................................    0694-AB54 
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                         National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Prerule Stage                         
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                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
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459         Fisheries Obligation Guarantee Program - Statutory Amendments to Establish ``Central                
            Title and Lien Registry for Limited Access Permits''..................................    0648-AJ77 
460         Joint Draft Policy for Safe Harbor and Candidate Species Conservation (CSC) Agreements    0648-AJ54 
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                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage                      
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
461         Secretarial Amendment to the FMP for Atlantic Swordfish...............................    0648-AE09 
462         Amendment 10 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic Surf Clam and Ocean                    
            Quahog Fisheries......................................................................    0648-AF41 
463         Fishery Management Plan for Tilefish..................................................    0648-AF87 
464         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Billfish......................    0648-AF88 
465         Amendment 8 to the Fishery Management Plan for Coastal Migratory Pelagic Resources of               
            the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic (FMP)...........................................    0648-AG25 
466         Amendment 8 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the                   
            South Atlantic........................................................................    0648-AG27 
467         Regulatory Amendment To Establish a Certification Program for At-Sea Scales...........    0648-AG32 
468         General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries--Standard Definitions.......................    0648-AG46 
469         Regulatory Amendment To Impose Restrictions on Fishing Black Rockfish Off Oregon......    0648-AG81 
470         Regulatory Amendment for Managing Pelagic Fisheries by U.S. Vessels Beyond EEZ                      
            Throughout Pacific....................................................................    0648-AG85 
471         Amendment 3 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Fishery of Puerto Rico                 
            and the U.S. Virgin Islands...........................................................    0648-AG87 
472         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for Corals and Reef-Associated Plants and                
            Invertebrates for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.............................    0648-AG88 
473         Regulatory Amendment To Facilitate Monitoring and Enforcement in the Pacific Coast                  
            Groundfish Fishery....................................................................    0648-AH21 
474         Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for American Lobster.......................    0648-AH41 
475         Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of                    
            Mexico................................................................................    0648-AH52 
476         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic Bluefish......................    0648-AH63 
477         FMP Amendment 36 for the Groundfish Fishery of the BSAI and FMP Amendment 39 for the                
            Groundfish of the GOA.................................................................    0648-AH67 
478         Regulatory Amendment Requiring Longline Vessel Operators in the Western Pacific                     
            Pelagic Fisheries To Carry Observers at No Cost to U.S. Government....................    0648-AI31 
479         Amendment 7 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan.......................    0648-AI36 
480         Regulatory Amendment To Adjust the Annual Total Allowable Catch for Royal Red Shrimp                
            in the Gulf of Mexico.................................................................    0648-AI39 
481         Regulatory Amendment To Require Electronic Submission by Alaska Groundfish Processors               
            of Weekly Production Reports and Check In/Out Reports.................................    0648-AI66 
482         Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic Herring Fishery..............................    0648-AI78 
483         Pacific Whiting Allocation Among Non-Tribal Sectors and Seasonal Framework............    0648-AI80 
484         Amendment 12 to FMP for Salmon Fisheries Off the Coasts of Washington, Oregon, and                  
            California............................................................................    0648-AI82 
485         Regulatory Amendment To Revise the Product Recovery Rate Regulations..................    0648-AI87 
486         Proposed Rule to Implement Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements under the High                  
            Seas Fishing Compliance Act of 1995...................................................    0648-AI99 
487         Regulatory Amendment to Limited Access Management of Federal Fisheries In and Off of                
            Alaska................................................................................    0648-AJ00 
488         Options for Angling Category Season for the Atlantic Season for the Atlantic Bluefin                
            Tuna Fisheries........................................................................    0648-AJ04 
489         Fishery Data Reporting for Western Pacific Pelagic Fisheries..........................    0648-AJ08 
490         Regulatory Amendment To Establish Total Allowable Catch Limits for the Atlantic and                 
            Gulf of Mexico Groups of King and Spanish Mackerel for the 1997-98 Fishing Year.......    0648-AJ12 
491         Regulatory Amendment To Adjust Reef Fish Management Measures to the Gulf of Mexico for              
            the 1997 Season.......................................................................    0648-AJ13 
492         Amendment 15 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of              
            Mexico................................................................................    0648-AJ14 
493         Weakfish Regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)............................    0648-AJ15 
494         Amendment 11 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of              
            Mexico - Resubmitted Measures.........................................................    0648-AJ16 
495         Regulatory Amendment To Implement 1997 Nontrawl Sablefish Harvest Regime..............    0648-AJ19 
496         Regulatory Amendment To Restrict Pacific Groundfish Limited Entry Permit Transfers....    0648-AJ20 
497         Regulatory Amendment To Extend California Gillnet Regulations to the EEZ..............    0648-AJ21 
498         Amendment 10 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish FMP Regarding Salmon Bycatch in                        
            Groundfish Trawl......................................................................    0648-AJ22 
499         Amendment 9 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish FMP to Require Endorsements in the                      
            Sablefish Fishery.....................................................................    0648-AJ23 
500         Guidelines for the Description, Identification, Conservation, and Enhancement of                    
            Essential Fish Habitat................................................................    0648-AJ30 

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501         Amendment 49 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the BSAI........................    0648-AJ36 
502         Implementation of Use of Interactive Voice Response (IVR) System To Monitor Commercial              
            Landings of Quota Managed Species on Weekly Basis.....................................    0648-AJ37 
503         Implementation of Measures To Avoid Sea Birds in the Alaska Longline Groundfish                     
            Fishery...............................................................................    0648-AJ39 
504         Amendment 40 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian                   
            Islands...............................................................................    0648-AJ45 
505         Regulatory Amendment to Establish a Program for the Collection and Use of Fees in the               
            Individual Fishing Quota and Community Development Quota Programs.....................    0648-AJ52 
506         Adjustment of area closure for northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) Lobster Fishery                 
            for Vessels with Vessel Monitoring System Equipment...................................    0648-AJ57 
507         Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; National Standards Guidelines........................    0648-AJ58 
508         Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; Foreign Fishing Vessels in Internal Waters...........    0648-AJ59 
509         Implementation of Pacific Insular Area Fishing Agreement Provisions of the Magnuson-                
            Stevens Act...........................................................................    0648-AJ60 
510         Atlantic Swordfish Fishery; Quotas....................................................    0648-AJ63 
511         Atlantic Shark Fisheries; Amendment 2 (including rebuilding schedule).................    0648-AJ64 
512         Atlantic Tuna Fisheries; Effort Controls..............................................    0648-AJ65 
513         Atlantic Tuna Fisheries; Regulatory Adjustments.......................................    0648-AJ66 
514         Atlantic Tuna Fisheries; Fishery Management Plan Implementation.......................    0648-AJ67 
515         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Take Reduction Team Plan Implementation............    0648-AJ68 
516         Atlantic Tuna Fisheries; Annual Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Quotas..........................    0648-AJ69 
517         Proposed rule to Implement Procedures for Issuance of Permits Under Section 204(d) of               
            the Magnuson-Stevens Fishing Conservation and Management Act..........................    0648-AJ70 
518         Interim final rule to the Fishery Management Plan for the American Lobster Fishery....    0648-AJ74 
519         Implementation of Data Collection and Reporting Requirements to the Fishery Management              
            Plan for the American Lobster Fishery.................................................    0648-AJ75 
520         Regulatory Amendment and Guidelines for Safety and Living Conditions on Vessels                     
            Carrying Observers....................................................................    0648-AJ76 
521         List of Fisheries for 1998............................................................    0648-AJ85 
522         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking of Marine Mammals Under the ATA Permit               
            After February 28, 1994...............................................................    0648-AG36 
523         Designated Critical Habitat; Pacific Steelhead........................................    0648-AG49 
524         Designated Critical Habitat; Pacific Coho Salmon......................................    0648-AG56 
525         Designated Critical Habitat; Umpqua River Sea-Run Cutthroat Trout.....................    0648-AG58 
526         Proposed Designation of Critical Habitat for Puget Sound Salmon Stocks................    0648-AH11 
527         Proposed Rule To Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import and                 
            Export of Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine                
            Mammal Inventory......................................................................    0648-AH26 
528         Proposed Rule Governing the Issuance of Permits for Marine Mammal Photography.........    0648-AH31 
529         Amend Regulations Governing the Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals................    0648-AH83 
530         Critical Habitat Designation for Green and Hawksbill Sea Turtle in Culebra, Puerto                  
            Rico..................................................................................    0648-AH88 
531         Implementation of 1997 MMPA Amendments Affecting Yellowfin Tuna Purse Seine Fishing in              
            the Eastern Tropical Pacific..........................................................    0648-AI85 
532         Amendment 10 to the Summer Flounder Fishery Management Plan...........................    0648-AJ55 
533         Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.................................................    0648-AE41 
534         Allowance of Small-Scale Non-Intrusive Jade Collecting in Monterey Bay National Marine              
            Sanctuary.............................................................................    0648-AI06 
535         Revision of Overflight Regulations....................................................    0648-AI91 
536         Licensing of Private Remote-Sensing Space Systems.....................................    0648-AC64 
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                        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
537         Regulatory Amendment To Implement Permit, Reporting, and Recordkeeping and Observer                 
            Requirements for Processing Vessels Over 125 Feet and Their Catcher Vessels: Pacific                
            Coast Groundfish......................................................................    0648-AE01 
538         Financial Disclosure of Fishery Management Council Nominees, Members, and Executive                 
            Directors.............................................................................    0648-AG16 
539         Regulatory Adjustments to the FMP for Sharks of the Atlantic Ocean....................    0648-AH77 
540         Plan Amendment to FMP for Sharks of the Atlantic Ocean That Would Limit Entry.........    0648-AH78 
541         Regulatory Amendment To Establish Management Measures for Atlantic and Gulf Groups of               
            King and Spanish Mackerel for the 1996-97 Fishing Year................................    0648-AI13 
542         Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the South                      
            Atlantic..............................................................................    0648-AI15 

[[Page 21526]]

                                                                                                                
543         Withdrawal of Federal Fisheries Regulations...........................................    0648-AI16 
544         Consolidation of Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Regulations........................    0648-AI28 
545         Regulatory Amendment To Revise the Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements for                     
            Groundfish Fisheries of the EEZ off of Alaska.........................................    0648-AI68 
546         Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Scallop Fishery Off Alaska.........    0648-AI88 
547         A Moratorium on Issuance of New Permits for Fishing in the Mau Zone Portion of the                  
            NWHI Bottomfish Fishery...............................................................    0648-AJ02 
548         Proposed Rule To Implement Amendment 6 to the Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic                  
            Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries.............................................    0648-AJ06 
549         1997-98 Management Measures for Commercial, Recreational, and Treaty Indian Salmon                  
            Fisheries Off the Coasts of WA, OR, and CA............................................    0648-AJ09 
550         Consolidation of the rules for Spiny Lobster Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico and South                
            Atlantic and Stone Crab Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico.................................    0648-AJ28 
551         Framework Adjustment 23 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Northeast Multispecies               
            Fishery...............................................................................    0648-AJ32 
552         Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery.......    0648-AJ33 
553         Implementation of Measures Contained in Framework Adjustment 21 to the Northeast                    
            Multispecies FMP......................................................................    0648-AJ34 
554         Regulatory Amendment to Require a Six-Hour Notice of Landing of Individual Fishing                  
            Quota (IFQ) Species...................................................................    0648-AJ35 
555         Amendment of Consolidated Regulations at 50 CFR 679 To Include the High Seas Salmon                 
            Fishery Off Alaska Regulations........................................................    0648-AJ38 
556         Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery, 1997 Summer Flounder Recreational                
            Fishery Specifications................................................................    0648-AJ42 
557         Final rule to implement Framework Adjustment 20 to the Fishery Management Plan for the              
            Northeast Multispecies Fishery........................................................    0648-AJ43 
558         Amendment 9 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan.....................    0648-AJ44 
559         Framework Adjustment 22 to the Northeast Multispecies and Framework Adjustment 4 to                 
            the American Lobster Fishery Management Plans.........................................    0648-AJ48 
560         Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries; 1997 Scup Recreational Fishery                 
            Specifications........................................................................    0648-AJ53 
561         1997 Harvest Guideline for Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Lobster Fishery..............    0648-AJ56 
562         Adjustment of northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI) lobster harvest guideline system to              
            prevent overfishing...................................................................    0648-AJ61 
563         Framework Adjustment 9 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan............    0648-AJ62 
564         Procedures Governing Establishment and Operation of Fishery Negotiation Panels........    0648-AJ72 
565         Withdrawal of the Fishery Management Plan for the American Lobster Fishery............    0648-AJ73 
566         Final Rule To Add Regulation Implementing the Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic              
            Bluefish Fishery to the Consolidated Northeast Fisheries Regulations..................    0648-AJ78 
567         Final Rule to Implement Framework Adjustment 18 to the Fishery Management Plan for the              
            Northeast Multispecies Fishery........................................................    0648-AJ79 
568         Final Rule to Implement Framework Adjustment 16 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery               
            Management Plan.......................................................................    0648-AJ80 
569         Final Rule To Incorporate the Regulations Governing the Northern Anchovy Into the                   
            Consolidated Regulations for Fisheries Off the West Coast and in the Western Pacific..    0648-AJ81 
570         Regulatory Amendment to Change Membership Requirements for the Regional Fishery                     
            Management Councils...................................................................    0648-AJ82 
571         Take of Marine Mammals by the U.S. Navy Incidental to Military Activities in the South              
            Atlantic of the United States.........................................................    0648-AG55 
572         Final Rule To Establish Guidelines for Nonlethally Deterring Marine Mammals From                    
            Endangering Personal Safety or Damaging Public or Private Property....................    0648-AH19 
573         General Authorization for Scientific Research Involving Level B Harassment............    0648-AH20 
574         North Atlantic Right Whale Protection; Interim Final Rule.............................    0648-AH47 
575         Final Rule; Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Consolidation of Regulations......    0648-AI89 
576         Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.............................    0648-AH91 
577         Revision of Coastal Zone Management Act Regulations to Conform to Statutory Changes...    0648-AJ24 
578         National Weather Service Modernization Criteria for Automation of D-Service Level NWS               
            Sites.................................................................................    0648-AJ83 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
579         Regulatory Amendment for the Gulf of Alaska Seamount Fisheries........................    0648-AG94 
580         Amendment 39 to the FMP for Groundfish Fishery of BSAI, Amendment 41 to the FMP for                 
            Groundfish of the GOA and Amendment 5 to the FMP for Commercial King & Tanner Crab                  
            Fisheries of the BSAI.................................................................    0648-AH65 

[[Page 21527]]

                                                                                                                
581         Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for the American Lobster Fishery Management Plan    0648-AI14 
582         Amendment to the Observer Program.....................................................    0648-AI69 
583         Regulations of Greater Amberjack, Lesser Amberjack, Banded Rudderfish, and/or                       
            Almacojack Under the FMP for Reeffish Resources of GOM................................    0648-AJ27 
584         Regulatory Amendment to Prevent Overfishing and Rebuild Stocks........................    0648-AJ46 
585         Regulatory Amendment to Implement Bycatch Reduction Measures..........................    0648-AJ47 
586         Amendments to the BSAI and GOA Fishery Management Plans to Implement a Data Collection              
            Program for Recreational, Charter, and Commercial Fishing.............................    0648-AJ49 
587         Regulatory Amendment to Revise Definitions............................................    0648-AJ50 
588         Amendment 3 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Scallop Fishery Off Alaska.........    0648-AJ51 
589         Amendment 49 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Gulf of               
            Alaska................................................................................    0648-AJ71 
590         Final Definition of the Zero Mortality Rate Goal......................................    0648-AJ84 
591         Civil Procedures......................................................................    0648-AF96 
592         Performance Standards for Tuna Vessel Operators.......................................    0648-AD03 
593         Procedure for Setting Quotas on Removal of Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins From the                    
            Waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Florida's East Coast.................................    0648-AD39 
594         Sea Turtle Monitoring and Conservation Measures for Nonshrimp Fisheries...............    0648-AE54 
595         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Dolphin Mortality Limits During Purse Seine                 
            Sets on Marine Mammals in the Eastern Tropical Pacific................................    0648-AF07 
596         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; ``Dolphin-Safe'' Tuna Labeling................    0648-AF08 
597         Proposed Rule To Require Certain Fish From Mexico To Retain Heads and Tails Intact in               
            Order To Protect the Endangered Totoaba...............................................    0648-AF32 
598         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Fisheries-Related Research.....................    0648-AF50 
599         Designated Critical Habitat; Johnson's Seagrass.......................................    0648-AF79 
600         Foreign Nations' Marine Mammal Program Amendments.....................................    0648-AG05 
601         Designation of Critical Habitat for the Gulf of Maine Population of Harbor Porpoise...    0648-AG06 
602         Direct Take of Threatened Salmon by Native Americans..................................    0648-AG15 
603         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals: Tuna Purse Seine Vessel Observer Expenses.....    0648-AG35 
604         General Provisions; Endangered Fish or Wildlife; Threatened Fish and Wildlife; Sea                  
            Turtle Conservation Measures (Section 9 Protection)...................................    0648-AG38 
605         Designated Critical Habitat; Atlantic Salmon..........................................    0648-AG50 
606         Proposed Rule To Authorize Lethal Takings of Marine Mammals by State Authorities......    0648-AG79 
607         Final Rule To Amend Marine Mammal Regulations To Authorize Incidental Takings of                    
            Marine Mammals by Harassment as Authorized by Public Law 103-238......................    0648-AG80 
608         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals: Proposed Rule Prohibiting U.S. Citizens From                
            Encircling Marine Mammals During Tuna Fishing Operations..............................    0648-AH04 
609         Shrimp Vessel Registration Requirement................................................    0648-AH87 
610         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Take Reduction                
            Plan Regulations and Emergency Regulations............................................    0648-AI84 
611         Revision of Federal Consistency Regulations Under the Coastal Zone Management Act.....    0648-AD83 
612         Regional Marine Research Program......................................................    0648-AF20 
613         NOAA Climate and Global Change Program--Proposal Submission Guidelines................    0648-AG51 
614         National Undersea Research Program Funding Regulations................................    0648-AH90 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions                       
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
615         Fishery Management Plan for the Queen Conch Fishery of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin              
            Islands...............................................................................    0648-AD91 
616         Regulatory Amendment To Require Electronic Communication of Observer Data in the                    
            Groundfish Fishery of the GOA and BSAI................................................    0648-AE78 
617         Regulatory Amendment To Implement Trawl Mesh Restrictions for the BSAI Trawl Fisheries    0648-AF57 
618         Amendment 8 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish FMP To Implement Individual Quotas for the              
            Fixed-Gear Sablefish Fishery (or Regulatory Amendment for Nontrawl Trip Limits).......    0648-AF90 
619         Amendment 1 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the South                      
            Atlantic..............................................................................    0648-AG26 
620         Amendment 12 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of              
            Mexico................................................................................    0648-AG29 
621         Regulatory Amendment Allowing Year-Round Individual Fishing Quota Fishing in the                    
            Aleutian Islands Area.................................................................    0648-AG97 

[[Page 21528]]

                                                                                                                
622         Regulatory Amendment to Increase Individual Fishery Quota Limits......................    0648-AH02 
623         Amendment 9 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan..    0648-AH06 
624         FMP Amendment 37 to the Groundfish Fishery of the BSAI................................    0648-AH28 
625         Striped Bass Regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)........................    0648-AH57 
626         Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf of              
            Mexico................................................................................    0648-AI47 
627         Interim Final Rule To Implement High Seas Fishing Compliance Act of 1995; Permit                    
            Application Process...................................................................    0648-AI50 
628         Regulatory Amendment To Adjust Red Snapper Management Measures in the Gulf of Mexico                
            for 1997 Season.......................................................................    0648-AI54 
629         Negotiated Rulemaking on Mid-Atlantic Tuna Fishery Dispute............................    0648-AI60 
630         Amendment 43 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian                   
            Islands and Amendment 43 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Gulf of Alaska..    0648-AI61 
631         Amendment 41 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian                   
            Islands...............................................................................    0648-AI62 
632         Regulatory Amendment To Establish a Date of December 1 for the Reopening of a Bering                
            Sea Pollock and/or Cod Fishery if Sufficient Amounts of Fish Remain for a Directed                  
            Fishery...............................................................................    0648-AI64 
633         Regulatory Amendment To Revise Maximum Allowable Bycatch Amounts Established for the                
            Alaska Groundfish Fisheries...........................................................    0648-AI65 
634         Interim Final Rule to the North Pacific Fisheries Research Plan.......................    0648-AI67 
635         Amendment 46 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian                   
            Islands...............................................................................    0648-AI70 
636         Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Red Drum Fishery of the Gulf Of                  
            Mexico (FMP)..........................................................................    0648-AI73 
637         Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the                   
            South Atlantic........................................................................    0648-AI74 
638         Amendment 5 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery.......    0648-AI77 
639         Amendment 6 to the American Lobster Fishery Management Plan (FMP) Amendment 6 to the                
            Atlantic Sea Scallop FMP, and Amendment 8 to the Northeast Multispecies FMP...........    0648-AI83 
640         Regulatory Amendment to Establish Trip Limits Applicable to the Commercial Fishery For              
            Atlantic Migratory Group of King Mackerel.............................................    0648-AI92 
641         Amendment 47 to the BSAI FMP; Amendment 47 to the GOA FMP and Amendment 6 to the                    
            Commercial King and Tanner Crab FMP of the BSAI.......................................    0648-AI95 
642         Regulatory Amendment to Allow Use of Longline Pot Gear in the Directed Sablefish                    
            Fishery in the Bering Sea.............................................................    0648-AI96 
643         Regulatory Amendment Under the Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Fishery of Puerto              
            Rico and the Virgin Islands (FMP) Concerning Red Hind Aggregation Closure.............    0648-AI97 
644         Regulatory Amendment To Increase the Halibut Individual Fishing Quota Use Limitations               
            in International Pacific Halibut Commission Area 4....................................    0648-AJ05 
645         Regulatory Amendment To Increase Observer Coverage in the BSAI During the Pollock                   
            ``A'' or Roe Season...................................................................    0648-AJ10 
646         International Fisheries Regulations; Pacific Halibut Fisheries; Catch Sharing Plans...    0648-AJ11 
647         Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multispecies Fishery; Monkfish               
            Exempted Trawl Fishery................................................................    0648-AJ25 
648         Framework Adjustment 19 to the FMP for the Northeast Multispecies Fishery.............    0648-AJ26 
649         Fishery of the Northeastern United States; Northeast Multi- Species Fishery: Framework              
            Adjustment 17.........................................................................    0648-AJ31 
650         Atlantic Tuna Fishery; Permit Requirements............................................    0648-AJ41 
651         Fishing Vessel Capital Construction Fund Procedures-- Eligibility for Safety                        
            Improvements..........................................................................    0648-AF22 
652         Civil Enforcement Proceedings: Opportunity for In-Person Hearing......................    0648-AI53 
653         Identification of Special Sea Turtle Conservation Areas and Appropriate Conservation                
            Measures..............................................................................    0648-AH89 
654         Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary................................................    0648-AD85 
655         Restricting or Prohibiting Attracting Sharks in the Monterey Bay National Marine                    
            Sanctuary.............................................................................    0648-AH92 
656         National Weather Service Modernization Criteria for Closure Certification.............    0648-AI90 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  National Telecommunications and Information Administration--Completed Actions                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
657         Public Telecommunications Facilities Program..........................................    0660-AA09 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage                                
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
658         Patent Process Reengineering..........................................................    0651-AA84 

[[Page 21529]]

                                                                                                                
659         Miscellaneous Changes to TTAB Rules...................................................    0651-AA87 
660         Limitations in Patent Claims..........................................................    0651-AA91 
661         Revision of Patent and Trademark Fees for Fiscal Year 1998............................    0651-AA92 
662         Requirements for Registration to Practice Before the PTO in Patent Cases..............    0651-AA93 
663         1997 Changes to Patent Practice and Procedure.........................................    0651-AA94 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
664         Changes to Implement 18-Month Publication of Patent Applications......................    0651-AA75 
665         Rules of Practice in Patent Cases; Reexamination Proceedings..........................    0651-AA79 
666         1996 Changes to Patent Practice and Procedure.........................................    0651-AA80 
667         Changes Implementing International Acceptable Nucleotide and/or Amino Acid Sequence                 
            Listings..............................................................................    0651-AA88 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Long-Term Actions                                 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
668         Patent Application Electronic Submission Rules........................................    0651-AA50 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Technology Administration--Final Rule Stage                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
669         Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under                 
            Government Grants, Contracts, and Cooperative Agreements..............................    0692-AA14 
670         Acquisition and Protection of Foreign Rights in Inventions............................    0692-AA15 
671         Licensing of Foreign Patents Acquired by the Government...............................    0692-AA16 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Technology Administration--Long-Term Actions                                  
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation 
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier 
  Number                                                                                               Number   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
672         Promotion of Private Sector Industrial Technology Partnerships........................    0692-AA13 
673         Licensing of Government-Owned Inventions..............................................    0692-AA17 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (OS)



_______________________________________________________________________




400. STREAMLINING OF COMMERCE ACQUISITION PROCESS

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:  41 USC 251

CFR Citation:  48 CFR 1301 to 1353

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department has reengineered its acquisition processes and 
is planning to implement the new processes Departmentwide. The 
Department is also testing the effectiveness of the new processes at 
two pilot sites within the agency. The intended effect is to create a 
more customer-friendly acquisition process that is less complex, less 
time

[[Page 21530]]

consuming and less expensive for the Department as well as the vendor 
community, and is more responsive to meeting the Department's program 
objectives. In order to implement the new processes on a Departmentwide 
basis a class deviation to the Federal Acquisition Regulations 
provisions is required. The Department will request public comment on 
the changes. Commerce Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR 13) will be 
amended to incorporate the reengineered acquisition processes. A draft 
of changes to the regulation will be published for public comment prior 
to issuance of the final regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/26/96                    61 FR 60068
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/10/97
NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Sectors Affected:  All

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: Joe Gray, Procurement Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Office of the Secretary, Office of Acquisition Management, Room 6422, 
14th and Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4185
Email: Joe Gray@APP@OAM or JG[email protected]

RIN: 0690-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (OS)



_______________________________________________________________________




401. GUIDELINES FOR EMPOWERMENT CONTRACTING

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  EO 13005, Empowerment Contracting

CFR Citation:  None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of Executive Order 13005 is to strengthen the 
economy and secure broad-based competition for Federal contractors in 
economically distressed communities. The Order charged the Secretary of 
Commerce, in consultation with Secretaries of Housing and Urban 
Development, Labor and Defense and the Administrators of the General 
Service Administration, the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration, the Small Business Administration, and the Office of 
Federal Procurement Policy, to develop policies and procedures to 
ensure that Federal agencies, when awarding contracts in unrestricted 
competitions, grant qualified large and small businesses appropriate 
price or evaluation incentives to encourage business activity in areas 
of general economic distress. The Department plans to issue guidelines 
which will serve as the basis for a proposed revision to the Federal 
Acquisition Regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/13/96                    61 FR 48463
NPRM Comment Period End         12/01/96                    61 FR 55616
NPRM Comment Period Extended to 01/06/97                    61 FR 64321
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

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: Joe Levine, Attorney-Advisor, Department of Commerce, 
Office of the Secretary, 14th and Constitution NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-1071

RIN: 0690-AA25
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Office of the Secretary (OS)



_______________________________________________________________________




402. STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT--DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE SUPPLEMENTAL 
REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Karen Kucik
Phone: 202 219-9132

RIN: 0690-AA23

[[Page 21531]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




403. ANNUAL SURVEY OF ROYALTIES, LICENSE FEES, AND OTHER RECEIPTS AND 
PAYMENTS FOR INTANGIBLE RIGHTS BETWEEN U.S. AND UNAFFILIATED FOREIGN 
PERSONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  22 USC 3101 to 3108, Intl Investment & Trade in Svc 
Survey Act

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This is annual survey of international transactions with 
unaffiliated foreign persons involving rights to use patents, 
trademarks, copyrights, and other intangible property (BE-93), which 
will cover transactions beginning in 1997. It is conducted to obtain 
data that are needed for compiling the balance of payments and national 
income and product accounts, and will be used in developing U.S. trade 
policy and supporting U.S. trade policy initiatives. Consideration is 
being given to expanding coverage to include transactions in copyrights 
and other intellectual property rights that are related to computer 
software. At present, such transactions are covered on another BEA 
survey, which would be revised simultaneously.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97
Final Action Effective          01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: R. David Belli, Asst. Chief, International Investment 
Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9800
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA28
_______________________________________________________________________




404. BENCHMARK SURVEY OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN THE UNITED 
STATES--1997

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  22 USC 3101 to 3108, Intl Investment & Trade in Svc 
Survey Act

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 806

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend existing 15 CFR 806.17 to provide for 
the conduct of the BE-12, Benchmark Survey of Foreign Direct Investment 
in the United States-1997, as required in the International Investment 
and Trade in Services Survey Act, 22 USC 3101 to 3108 (see especially 
section 4(b) or the Act). The existing rule covers a similar survey for 
1992 which has been completed and which the new survey will update.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    10/00/97
Final Action Effective          11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: R. David Belli, Assistant Chief, International 
Investment Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic 
Analysis, (BE-50), Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9800
Fax: 202 606-5318

RIN: 0691-AA29
_______________________________________________________________________




405. ANNUAL SURVEY OF SELECTED SERVICES TRANSACTIONS WITH UNAFFILIATED 
FOREIGN PERSONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  22 USC 3101 International Investment & Trade in Svcs 
Survey Act

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This is the annual survey of selected services transactions 
with unaffiliated foreign persons (BE-22), which will cover 
transactions beginning in 1997. It is conducted to obtain annual sample 
data on a variety of business and professional services, such as 
advertising; computer and data processing services; management, 
consulting, and public relations; legal services; and 
telecommunications. The data will be used to produce universe level 
estimates for 1997 and beyond based on data reported in the proposed 
1996 BE-20 benchmark survey of selected services. The data are needed 
to compile the balance of payments and national income and product 
accounts, and to support U.S. trade policy. Categories of services 
covered on the BE-22 survey may be modified to bring them into 
conformity with the proposed 1996 BE-20 survey.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97
Final Action Effective          01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: R. David Belli, Asst. Chief, International Investment 
Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis, (BE-50), 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9800
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA30

[[Page 21532]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




406. BENCHMARK SURVEY OF SELECTED SERVICES TRANSACTIONS WITH 
UNAFFILIATED FOREIGN PERSONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 801

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/13/97                     62 FR 1665
Final Action Effective          02/12/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: R. David Belli
Phone: 202 606-9800
Fax: 202 606-5318

RIN: 0691-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




407. CUTOFF DATES FOR RECOGNITION OF BOUNDARY CHANGES FOR THE 2000 
DECENNIAL CENSUS OF POPULATION AND HOUSING

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  13 USC 4 and 6

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 70.1 to 70.3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Census Bureau proposes to amend 15 CFR part 70 to reflect 
the cutoff dates for recognition of boundary changes for the 2000 
Census of Population and Housing (Census 2000). For the tabulation and 
dissemination of data from the 2000 Census of Population and Housing, 
the Bureau of the Census will recognize only those boundaries legally 
in effect on January 1, 2000 that have been reported officially to the 
Bureau of the Census no later than March 1, 2000. The Bureau of the 
Census enumerates all residents of the United States and its 
territories on the date of the decennial census as residing within the 
legal limits of municipalities, county subdivisions, counties, states, 
and statistically equivalent entities as those limits exist on January 
1, 2000.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Joel L. Morrison, Chief, Geography Division, Department 
of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, SPC, Room 101, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 457-1132
Fax: 301 457-4710

RIN: 0607-AA18
_______________________________________________________________________




408. CHANGES TO THE FOREIGN TRADE STATISTICAL REGULATIONS (FTSR) TO 
CLARIFY THE DEFINITION OF EXPORTER

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  13 USC 301 to 307

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 30.4; 15 CFR 30.7

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Census Bureau proposes to amend the FTSR definition of 
exporter for purposes of clarifying responsibility to report trade 
information. The FTSR also will be amended to reinforce the requirement 
for filing a power of attorney when an agent acts for an exporter 
specifying the essential provisions to be included with additional 
requirements if the exporter does not have a permanent U.S. residence.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bruce C. Walter, Assistant Division Chief, Foreign 
Trade Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, FB3, Room 
2104, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 457-2210
Fax: 301 457-2645

RIN: 0607-AA20
_______________________________________________________________________




409. CHANGES TO THE FOREIGN TRADE STATISTICAL REGULATIONS (FTSR) 
REQUIRING A DESIGNATOR WHEN THE EXPORT SHIPMENT IS A FOREIGN MILITARY 
SALE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  13 USC 301 to 307

CFR Citation:  15 CFR subpart A, 30.7

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Census Bureau proposes to amend the FTSR to require 
exporters or their designated agents to provide a foreign military 
sales indicator when merchandise is exported from the United States 
under the Department of Defense (DOD) Foreign Military Sales (FMS) 
Program. The indicator would be inserted in the area on the SED 
currently reserved for the Harmonized System Check Digit. This action 
is taken to assist the Bureau of Economic Analysis in collecting actual 
FMS value data. Currently this information is derived from crude 
estimates provided by DOD.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Bruce C. Walter, Assistant Division Chief, Foreign 
Trade Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, FB3, Room 
2104, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 457-2210
Fax: 301 457-2645

RIN: 0607-AA22
_______________________________________________________________________




410. CHANGES TO THE FOREIGN TRADE STATISTICAL REGULATIONS (FTSR) 
REQUIRING THE FILING OF SHIPPER'S EXPORT DECLARATIONS (SEDS) FOR 
COMPANY-OWNED TOOLS OF TRADE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  13 USC 301 to 307

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 30.56(b)(1)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Census Bureau proposed to amend the FTSR to eliminate the 
requirement for filing SEDs for

[[Page 21533]]

temporary exports of tools of trade when these tools are company owned. 
Currently, privately owned tools of trade do not require SEDs when 
exported temporarily for a period of less than one year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Bruce C. Walter, Assistant Division Chief, Foreign 
Trade Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, FB3, Room 
2104, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 457-2210
Fax: 301 457-2645

RIN: 0607-AA23
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




411. CHANGES TO THE FOREIGN TRADE STATISTICAL REGULATIONS (FTSR) TO 
CONFORM REQUIREMENTS AND WORDING TO THE U.S. CUSTOMS SERVICE 
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM (AES)

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:  15 CFR 30.1; 15 CFR 30.3; 15 CFR 30.4; 15 CFR 30.5

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Bruce C. Walter
Phone: 301 457-2210
Fax: 301 457-2645

RIN: 0607-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________




412. SPECIAL SERVICES AND STUDIES BY THE BUREAU OF THE CENSUS; GENERAL

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 50.1(d)

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stanley M. Domzalski
Phone: 812 288-3579
Fax: 812 288-3293

RIN: 0607-AA24
_______________________________________________________________________




413. FURNISHING PERSONAL CENSUS DATA FROM CENSUS OF POPULATION 
SCHEDULES; GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 80.1(c)

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stanley M. Domzalski
Phone: 812 288-3579
Fax: 812 288-3293

RIN: 0607-AA25
_______________________________________________________________________




414. FURNISHING PERSONAL CENSUS DATA FROM CENSUS OF POPULATION 
SCHEDULES: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 80.1(g)

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stanley M. Domzalski
Phone: 812 288-3579
Fax: 812 288-3293

RIN: 0607-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________




415. SPECIAL SERVICES AND STUDIES BY THE BUREAU OF THE CENSUS; FEE 
STRUCTURE FOR AGE SEARCH AND CITIZENSHIP INFORMATION

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 50.5

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stanley M. Domzalski
Phone: 812 288-3579
Fax: 812 288-3293

RIN: 0607-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




416. CHANGES TO THE FOREIGN TRADE STATISTICAL REGULATIONS (FTSR) TO ADD 
A REQUIREMENT TO COLLECT INFORMATION ON CANADIAN PROVINCE OF ORIGIN FOR 
U.S. IMPORTS FROM CANADA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 30.80

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/29/96                    61 FR 60531
Final Action Effective          02/27/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bruce C. Walter
Phone: 301 457-2210
Fax: 301 457-2645

RIN: 0607-AA21

[[Page 21534]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Economic Development Administration (EDA)



_______________________________________________________________________




417. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE--EXCESS CAPACITY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  42 USC 3211; 43 USC 3212

CFR Citation:  13 CFR 316

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: EDA intends to clarify its rule regarding studies, reports, 
and exemptions necessary pursuant to its statutory requirement that 
financial assistance is not extended to any project when the result 
would be to increase the production of goods, materials, or 
commodities, or the availability of services or facilities in excess of 
the demand for such goods or services.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Sectors Affected:  Multiple

Agency Contact: Edward M. Levin, Acting Chief Counsel, Department of 
Commerce, Economic Development Administration, 14th & Constitution 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4687
Fax: 202 482-5671
Email: Edward Levin@OCC@EDA

RIN: 0610-AA55
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


General Administration (ADMIN)



_______________________________________________________________________




418. UNIFORM ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENT FOR GRANTS AND AGREEMENTS WITH 
INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION, HOSPITALS, AND OTHER NONPROFITS AND 
COMMERCIAL ORGANIZATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  5 USC 301

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 14

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On November 29, 1993, Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 
Circular A-110, ``Uniform Administrative Requirements for Grants and 
Agreements, with Institutions of Higher Education, Hospitals, and Other 
Non-Profit Organizations'' was published in the Federal Register (58 FR 
62992). In the published revised circular, OMB specified as ``required 
action'' that Federal agencies responsible for awarding and 
administering grants and other agreements to recipients described 
therein, shall adopt the language of the Circular unless other 
provisions are required by Federal Statute or exceptions or deviations 
are approved by OMB. This interim final rule adopts the provisions of 
the Circular and its language to the maximum extent feasible with minor 
language changes made to make the language apply specifically to the 
DOC and its operating units.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John J. Phelan III, Director, Office of Executive 
Assistance Management, Department of Commerce, Office of 
Administration, 14th Street & Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-4115

RIN: 0605-AA09
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




419. PROPOSED CHANGE IN DEFINITION OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS AND 
APPARATUS FOR FLORENCE AGREEMENT 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:  19 USC 1202; PL 89-651 (80 Stat 897)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action invites public comment on a proposal to change 
the definitions of scientific instruments and apparatus to include 
components for instruments too large to be preassembled.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jim Von Dundas, Program Manager, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade Administration, SIPS Room 4211, 
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: 202 482-4216
Fax: 202 482-0949

RIN: 0625-AA47

[[Page 21535]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




420. ANTIDUMPING AND COUNTERVAILING DUTY PROCEEDINGS; ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROTECTIVE ORDER PROCEDURES AND PROCEDURES FOR IMPOSING SANCTIONS FOR 
VIOLATION OF A PROTECTIVE ORDER

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; 19 USC 1677f

CFR Citation:  19 CFR 351; 19 CFR 354

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department needs to enhance the administrative efficiency 
of its investigations of alleged violations of administrative 
protective orders (APOs) and of the process for imposing sanctions for 
violations, as well as the fairness of the procedures to all concerned 
parties. In addition, the Department needs to simplify and streamline 
the APO administrative process and reduce the administrative burdens on 
the ITA and trade practitioners. The Department is considering a 
variety of amendments to its existing regulations to achieve these 
goals. With respect to APO violations and sanctions, the Department is 
considering (1) expedited procedures for certain APO violations that 
are uncontested, inadvertent, and technical; (2) providing for warnings 
to be issued where a finding of a violation would lead to unjustifiably 
harsh sanctions; (3) where warranted, permitting the agency to dismiss 
a charge without prejudice without the appointment or approval of an 
administrative law judge; (4) providing for a sunset provision that is 
fairer to past violators and that eases the administrative burden; and 
(5) permitting a private reprimand as a sanction without requiring as a 
precondition that parties engage in settlement discussions. The 
Department expects to benefit from gains in administrative efficiency 
and fairness without incurring any additional costs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/08/96                     61 FR 4826
NPRM Comment Period End         03/11/96
Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Joan MacKenzie, Senior Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade Administration, Room H4621, 14th Street & 
Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-1310

RIN: 0625-AA43
_______________________________________________________________________




421. ANTIDUMPING DUTIES; COUNTERVAILING DUTIES

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:  19 USC 1671 et seq; 19 USC 1673 et seq; 19 USC 1303

CFR Citation:  19 CFR 351; 19 CFR 353; 19 CFR 355

Legal Deadline:  Other, Statutory, January 1, 1996.
Section 103(b) of the Uruguay Round Agreements Act establishes January 
1, 1996, as the deadline for interim final regulations.

Abstract: Revisions of the antidumping and countervailing duty 
regulations are necessary due to enactment of legislation implementing 
the results of the Uruguay Round multilateral trade negotiations. 
Clarifying the methodologies and procedures used in administering the 
antidumping and countervailing duty laws will enhance the efficiency 
and fairness of these laws at little, if any, additional cost.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/03/95                       60 FR 80
ANPRM Comment Period End        02/24/95
Interim Final Rule              05/11/95                    60 FR 25130
Interim Final Rule Effective    05/11/95
NPRM                            02/27/96                     61 FR 7308
NPRM Comment Period End         06/17/96
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard N. Moreland, Director, Office of Antidumping 
Investigations, Department of Commerce, International Trade 
Administration, Room 3093, 14th Street & Constitution Avenue NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-1768

RIN: 0625-AA45
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of Export Administration (BXA)



_______________________________________________________________________




422. DEFENSE PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS SYSTEM (DPAS)

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:  50 USC app 2061 et seq; 50 USC app 468; EO 12656; EO 
12742; EO 12919

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS) 
implements the priorities and allocations authority of title I of the 
Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended, and the priorities 
authority of section 18 of the Selective Service Act of 1948. The DPAS 
was published as a final rule on July 30, 1984. Based on the findings 
and recommendations of an interagency sponsored study concerning the 
controlled materials program, and comments from both defense agency and 
industry users, this proposed rule would amend the DPAS to remove the 
controlled materials provisions and make certain revisions to its 
procedural requirements. These amendments will

[[Page 21536]]

have no costs associated with them, would reduce the regulatory and 
information reporting burden on industry and make the DPAS more 
effective and efficient, would result in cost savings for defense 
contractors, would update certain other provisions to conform to 
statutory and jurisdictional changes, and would make the DPAS more 
compatible with current industry practices.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected:  Multiple

Agency Contact: Richard V. Meyers, DPAS Program Manager, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Export Administration, Off of Strategic Industries 
Econ Security, National Security Preparedness Div., Room 3878, 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3634
Fax: 202 482-5650
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AA02
_______________________________________________________________________




423. IMPLEMENTATION OF CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 40 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1995 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Export Administration is developing regulations 
and procedures that specify industry obligations under the chemical 
weapons convention.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/23/94                    59 FR 66291
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/23/95
NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Crowe, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB06
_______________________________________________________________________




424. CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION IMPLEMENTING REGULATIONS (ENFORCEMENT)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  Chemical Weapons Convention Implementation 
Legislation Proposed

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will set forth the acts which constitute a 
violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention Implementing Regulations 
and the penalties for violations. They will also set forth the 
administrative enforcement procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William H. Arvin, Special Assistant to the Assistant 
Secretary for Export Enforcement, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-1564
Fax: 202 482-4173
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB39
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of Export Administration (BXA)



_______________________________________________________________________




425. REVISION OF FOREIGN BOYCOTT PROVISIONS OF EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  50 USC 1701 et seq; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; EO 12002; 
EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12924; Note of August 14, 1996, (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 769

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department proposes to revise the foreign boycott 
provisions of the Export Administration Regulations. The revisions 
would clarify the application of: (1) the intent provision to the 
reporting requirement; (2) the jurisdictional requirements relating to 
the implementation of letters of credit; (3) the furnishing information 
prohibitions to information about the nationality of directors and 
about blacklisted persons; (4) the shipping requirement exception to 
refusals to use blacklisted vessels; and (5) the import and shipping 
document exception to information about the nationality of carriers and 
residence of manufacturers or suppliers. The revisions are intended to 
clarify areas of confusion. In addition, the proposal would remove many 
references and provisions dealing with effective dates and grace 
periods that are no longer applicable.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/26/89                    54 FR 39415
NPRM Comment Period End         10/26/89
Final Action                    09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Frederick S. Davidson, Senior Policy Analyst, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-5775

RIN: 0694-AA11
_______________________________________________________________________




426. TRANSFER OF DUAL-USE ITEMS FROM U.S. MUNITIONS LIST TO THE COMMERCE 
CONTROL LIST

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 74301(e); 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

[[Page 21537]]

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 799.1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The former COCOM Industrial List (IL) controls so-called 
dual-use items, which have both civil and military uses. There is not a 
direct correspondence between the IL and BXA's Commerce Control List 
(CCL) because some IL items are controlled by the State Department in 
the U.S. Munitions List. In his November 15, 1990, memorandum of 
disapproval of H.R. 4653, the President determined that, ``By June 1, 
1991, the United States will remove from the U.S. Munitions List all 
items contained on the COCOM dual-use list unless significant U.S. 
national security interests would be jeopardized.'' This rule will 
implement BXA controls through the CCL on those items removed from the 
U.S. Munitions List as a result of the President's decision.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Transfer of Communications 
Satellites                      10/23/92                    57 FR 48312
Navigation and Avionics         06/23/93                    58 FR 34211
Final Rule: Transfer of 
Commercial Communication 
Satellites                      09/08/93                    58 FR 47322
Transfer of Items From the USMI 
to the CCL; Imposition of 
Certain Foreign Policy Controls 10/26/93                    58 FR 57549
Final Action                    09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James A. Lewis, Director, Office of Strategic Trade & 
Foreign Policy Controls, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export 
Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196
Fax: 202 482-4094
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________




427. TRANSFER OF CERTAIN REMOTE SENSING SATELLITES FROM THE U.S. 
MUNITIONS LIST TO THE CCL

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The former COCOM Industrial List (IL) controls dual-use 
items, which have both civil and military applications. At present, 
there is not a direct correspondence between the IL and the Commerce 
Control List (CCL) because some IL items are controlled by the State 
Department under the United States Munitions List (USML). In his 
November 15, 1990 memorandum disapproving H.R. 4653, former President 
Bush determined that ``by June 1, 1991, the United States will remove 
from the U.S. Munitions List all items contained on the COCOM dual-use 
list unless significant U.S. national security interests would be 
jeopardized.'' This rule will implement Commerce controls on those 
items removed from the USML as a result of the President's 1990 
decision. Remote sensing satellites are such an item, and this rule 
specifically provides for their transfer from the USML to the CCL.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/21/96                    61 FR 54540
Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James A. Lewis, Director, Office of Strategic Trade and 
Foreign Policy Control, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export 
Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196
Fax: 202 482-4094
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB09
_______________________________________________________________________




428. CLARIFICATION OF ENHANCED PROLIFERATION CONTROL INITIATIVE (EPCI) 
``CATCH-ALL'' PROVISION AND VALIDATED LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 11912; 
EO 12924; Notice of August 14, 1995 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations to 
clarify and make more effective provisions that require exporters and 
others to submit individual validated license applications if they 
``know'' or are ``informed'' of certain proliferation activities. These 
changes are among those directed by the Trade Promotion Coordinating 
Committee, a 19-member interagency group chaired by the Secretary of 
Commerce. Specifically, this rule creates categories of items subject 
to the EPCI licensing requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________




429. REVISIONS TO THE EAR: ESTABLISHMENT OF A STANDARD SAVING CLAUSE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 40 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule establishes a standard saving clause (a grace 
period after the date of imposition of controls within which shipments 
that are en route to the point of export may be exported under the 
previously applicable authorization) when a validated license 
requirement is imposed on items and/or destinations that formerly were 
eligible for a general license or special license procedure.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/97

[[Page 21538]]

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB15
_______________________________________________________________________




430. REVISIONS TO LICENSING POLICY FOR NORTH KOREA

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996, (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule further implements the October 21, 1994, U.S.-North 
Korea Agreed Framework. This is part of the initial steps the United 
States is taking in response to North Korea's decisions to freeze its 
nuclear program and facilities and cooperate with the United States and 
IAEA to verify the freeze and ensure safe storage of spent nuclear 
fuel.
This rule amends Commerce Department license policy on exports of 
telecommunications items to support international gateways. Export 
applications for such projects will be reviewed on a case-by-case 
basis.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Crowe, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB19
_______________________________________________________________________




431. ADMINISTRATION OF STATE LOG EXPORTS BAN

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule will provide the Department of Commerce's 
regulations implementing the ban on the export of unprocessed timber 
originating from non-Federal public lands in 17 western states, 
pursuant to the Forest Resource Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 
1990, as amended (FRCSRA). This rule defines the actions the Department 
will take to implement the State log export ban.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/07/95                    60 FR 30030
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/07/95
Final Action                    09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Bernard Kritzer, Manager, Short Supply Programs, 
Chemical/Biological Control, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export 
Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-0894
Fax: 202 482-0751

RIN: 0694-AB25
_______________________________________________________________________




432. LIBYA: EXPANSION OF FOREIGN POLICY CONTROLS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7450(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will bring the licensing policy for Libya into 
conformance with the licensing policy for Iran and Syria. This rule 
will not increase the amount of Libyan reexport authorization requests 
submitted to the Department of Commerce, but will increase the amount 
of items falling under the general policies of denial and case-by-case 
review.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB28
_______________________________________________________________________




433. CHANGES TO THE COMMERCE CONTROL LIST TO ACCORD WITH THE WASSENAAR 
ARRANGEMENT ON EXPORT CONTROLS FOR CONVENTIONAL ARMS AND DUAL-USE GOODS 
AND TECHNOLOGIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States and 27 allied countries are implementing a 
new regime to succeed the Coordinating Committee for Multilateral 
Export Controls (COCOM) which dissolved on March 31, 1994. The new 
organization, called the Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls for 
Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies, is expected to 
implement controls in April 1996. New lists of goods to be controlled 
have been agreed by the members, who will each have to amend their 
existing national procedures to harmonize them with the Wassenaar 
Arrangement. Commerce will need to make extensive changes in the 
Commerce Control List when the Wassenaar Arrangement dual-use control 
list becomes effective.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

[[Page 21539]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James A. Lewis, Director, Office of Strategic Trade and 
Foreign Policy Controls, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export 
Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196
Fax: 202 482-4094
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB35
_______________________________________________________________________




434. CHANGES TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS TO IMPLEMENT THE 
GUIDELINES AND INFORMATION SHARING PROVISIONS OF THE WASSENAAR 
ARRANGEMENT ON EXPORT CONTROLS FOR CONVENTIONAL ARMS AND DUAL-USE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States and 27 allied countries are implementing a 
new regime to replace the Coordinating Committee for Multilateral 
Export Controls (COCOM) which dissolved on March 31, 1994. The new 
organization, called The Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls for 
Conventional Arms and Dual-Use Goods and Technologies, is expected to 
implement controls in April 1996. Procedural guidelines and provisions 
for sharing information between members will have to be harmonized in 
members' national regulations. Commerce will need to alter the Export 
Administration Regulations to reflect the Wassenaar guidelines and 
information sharing provisions agreed on by the members.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James A. Lewis, Director, Office of Strategic Trade and 
Foreign Policy Controls, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export 
Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196
Fax: 202 482-4094

RIN: 0694-AB40
_______________________________________________________________________




435. CHANGE THE COMMERCE CONTROL LIST TO REVISE CONTROLS ON 
COMMUNICATION INTERCEPTING DEVICES (EXPORT COMMERCE CONTROL NUMBER ECCN 
5A980)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Individual validated licenses are required for the export of 
all communication intercept devices to all destinations (including 
Canada). The Export Administration Regulations specify that such 
exports will only be issued to: (1) a provider of wire or electronic 
communication service or an officer, agent or employee of or person 
under contract with such a provider in the normal course of the 
business of providing that wire or electronic communication service; or 
(2) officers, agents, or employees of, or person under contract with 
the United States, one of the 50 States, or a political subdivision 
thereof, when engaged in the normal course of government activities. 
Commerce will need to make changes to the Commerce Control List and the 
Export Administration Regulations to clarify the requirements for 
issuing export licenses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James A. Lewis, Director, Office of Strategic Trade and 
Foreign Policy Controls, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export 
Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196
Fax: 202 482-4094
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB41
_______________________________________________________________________




436. EXPORT REGULATION FOR CERTAIN EXPORTS OF BUSINESS EQUIPMENT FOR 
SUPPORT TO THE CUBAN PEOPLE

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The President has authorized transactions intended to provide 
support for the Cuban people including activities of recognized human 
rights and nongovernmental organizations and individuals which promote 
independent activity in Cuba. The new measures support the President's 
announcement of October 1995 designed to increase support for the Cuban 
people through a regulation that would permit U.S. persons to export 
business related equipment to eligible Cuban entities and equipment for 
the establishment of news bureaus. The action is consistent with the 
Cuban Democracy Act of 1992. Individual license applications will be 
processed consistent with Executive Order 12981 regarding export 
licensing procedures and timeframes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James A. Lewis, Director, Office of Strategic Trade and 
Foreign Policy Controls, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export 
Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196
Fax: 202 482-4094
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB43
_______________________________________________________________________




437. CLARIFICATION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION GFT (HUMANITARIAN DONATIONS)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710

[[Page 21540]]

et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 
2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 
42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations by 
clarifying the terms and conditions of applying to the shipment of 
humanitarian donations under license exception GFT. This rule provides 
guidance on the types of donors, end-users, and items that are eligible 
for this license exception.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB49
_______________________________________________________________________




438.  REVISIONS TO EAR AS A RESULT OF THE ADDITION OF BRAZIL AND 
UKRAINE TO THE NUCLEAR SUPPLIERS GROUP

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2570 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 24091 et seq; 46 USC 466 9e 0; EO 
12924; Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: As a result of Brazil and Ukraine being admitted to the 
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), this rule adds Brazil and Ukraine to 
Supplement Number 1 to part 740-, Country Group A, Column A:4 (Nuclear 
Suppliers) and removes Brazil and Ukraine from the Commerce Country 
Chart, NP Column 1 (Nuclear Nonproliferation). The subscribing 
governments have agreed to establish export licensing procedures for 
the transfer of items identified on the Annex to the ``Nuclear-Related 
Dual-Use Equipment, Materials, and Related Technology List,'' which is 
published by the International Atomic Energy Agency and adhered to by 
the United States and other subscribing governments in the Nuclear 
Suppliers Group.
This action will lessen the administrative burden on U.S. Exporters by 
decreasing licensing requirements for exports of items controlled for 
nuclear nonproliferation reasons to Brazil and Ukraine.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB50
_______________________________________________________________________




439.  REVISIONS TO COMMERCE CONTROL LIST: ADDITION OF TECHNOLOGY 
AND SOFTWARE CONTROLS FOR CERTAIN CRIME CONTROL COMMODITIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2570 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  14 CFR 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Export Administration is amending the Commerce 
Control List (CCL) of the Export Administration Regulations (15 CFR 
parts 730 to 774) to add technology and software controls for certain 
crime control commodities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB53
_______________________________________________________________________




440.  REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS; COMMERCE CONTROL LIST

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 11912; 
EO 12924; Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 425527)R

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Export Administration (BXA) published an 
interim final rule on March 25, 1996 (61 FR 12714) that restructured 
and reorganized the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The 
interim final rule clarified the language of the EAR and simplified the 
application and made the export control regulatory regime more user-
friendly. BXA now plans to amend the Commerce Control List of the EAR 
by making certain revisions and clarifications, and in some cases, 
inserting material inadvertently omitted from the March 25 interim 
final rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Muldonian, Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________




441.  REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2501 et seq; 30 USC 185; 10 USC 7429; 50 USC 
1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC 
app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 11912;

[[Page 21541]]

EO 12924; Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 730 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Export Administration (BXA) published an 
interim final rule on March 25, 1996 (61 FR 12714) that restructures 
and reorganized the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The 
interim final rule clarified the language of the EAR and simplified the 
application and made the export control regulatory regime more user-
friendly. BXA will issue a rule to amend the EAR by making certain 
revisions and clarifications and, in some cases, inserting material 
inadvertently omitted from the March 25, 1996, interim final rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Muldonian, Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB56
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of Export Administration (BXA)



_______________________________________________________________________




442. LICENSING OF, AND EXPANSION OF NATIONAL SECURITY AND FOREIGN POLICY 
CONTROLS ON, RECOVERABLE ENCRYPTION SOFTWARE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Licensing of Key Escrow 
Encryption Equipment and 
Software                        12/13/96                    61 FR 65460
Encryption Items Transferred 
From the USMC to the CCC        12/30/96                    61 FR 68572
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Crowe
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB47
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of Export Administration (BXA)



_______________________________________________________________________




443. EXPORTS TO IRAN, SYRIA AND SUDAN; REVISION OF FOREIGN POLICY 
CONTROL

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 771; 15 CFR 785; 15 CFR 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Incorporated Into RIN 0694-AA67 03/25/97                    61 FR 12714

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Muldonian
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AA62
_______________________________________________________________________




444. SIMPLIFICATION OF THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 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.

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 730 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/25/96                    61 FR 12714

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Muldonian
Phone: 202 482-2446
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AA67
_______________________________________________________________________




445. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE CUBA DEMOCRACY ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Incorporated Into RIN 0694-AA67 03/25/96                    61 FR 12714

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AA77
_______________________________________________________________________




446. REVISION TO THE EAR; SUPPLEMENT NO. 2 TO PART 778

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With RIN 0694-AA67       03/25/96                    61 FR 12714

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440

RIN: 0694-AB12

[[Page 21542]]

_______________________________________________________________________




447. COUNTRIES ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE SUPERCOMPUTERS UNDER SPECIAL 
LICENSING PROCEDURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Incorporated Into RIN 0694-AA67 03/25/96                    61 FR 12714

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB16
_______________________________________________________________________




448. EDITORIAL CLARIFICATION AND CORRECTIONS TO THE EXPORT 
ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS; REMOVAL OF ECCN 1C65

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Incorporated Into RIN 0694-AA67 03/25/96                    61 FR 12714

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB23
_______________________________________________________________________




449. PROLIFERATION ENTITY LIST

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/03/97                     62 FR 4910
Final Action Effective          02/03/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB24
_______________________________________________________________________




450. REVISION TO THE EAR: ELAIN ACCEPTS CLASSIFICATION REQUEST

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Incorporated Into RIN 0694-AA67 03/25/96                    61 FR 12714

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB26
_______________________________________________________________________




451. REVISION TO GENERAL LICENSE GCG (SHIPMENTS TO AGENCIES OF 
COOPERATING GOVERNMENTS)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 771

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Incorporated Into RIN 0694-AA67 03/25/96                    61 FR 12714

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB34
_______________________________________________________________________




452. CHANGE THE COMMERCE CONTROL LIST TO REVISED CONTROLS ON SHOTGUNS 
(EXPORT COMMERCE CONTROL NUMBER ECCN 0A84C)

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/29/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James A. Lewis
Phone: 202 482-4196
Fax: 202 482-4094
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB42
_______________________________________________________________________




453. FURTHER EXPANSION OF GENERAL LICENSE GLX

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 730 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Incorporated Into RIN 0694-AB35 04/01/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Crowe
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________




454. REVISIONS TO THE COMMERCE CONTROL LIST: EXPORT OF MIXTURES 
CONTAINING TRACE QUANTITIES OF PRECURSOR CHEMICALS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 700 to 799

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/12/97                     62 FR 6687
Final Action Effective          02/12/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Crowe
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB46
_______________________________________________________________________




455. INCORPORATION OF THE WASSENAAR ARRANGEMENT INTO CATEGORY 2 OF THE 
COMMERCE CONTROL LIST; EXPANSION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION CIV

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 774

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Incorporated Into RIN 0694-AB35 04/01/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________




456.  REVISION TO EAR LICENSE EXCEPTIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2570 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(e); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

[[Page 21543]]

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 730 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule revises the Export Administration Regulations 
by reorganizing those License Exceptions that are referenced on the 
Commerce Control List such as shipments of limited value (LVS), 
shipments to group B countries (GBS), civil end-users (CIV), technology 
and software under restriction (TSR), and computers (CTP). These 
License Exceptions had been bundled together in a single section, 
bearing a group symbol to be used for export clearance purposes. This 
rule splits the list-based License Exceptions into separate sections, 
each with its own clearance symbol. This rule makes conforming changes 
throughout the EAR. Finally, this rule makes corrections and 
clarifications to certain sections of the EAR affected by the changes 
to the License Exceptions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/04/96                    61 FR 64272
Final Action Effective          12/04/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________




457.  REVISIONS TO EAR AS RESULT OF ADDITION OF REPUBLIC OF 
SOUTH KOREA TO AUSTRALIA GROUP MEMBERSHIP

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2570 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(e); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 730 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations to 
reflect South Korea's membership in the Australia Group. In addition, 
this rule makes a clarification to the exemption for sample shipments 
in ECCN 1C350 and a correction to Supplement No. 1 to part 738 in CB 
column 3 (Chemical and Biological Weapons), by removing the license 
from Romania and South Africa that was inadvertently included in 
previous regulations.
This action will lessen the administrative burden on U.S. exporters by 
decreasing license application requirements for exports of items 
controlled for CB reasons to South Korea, Romania, and South Africa.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/12/97                     62 FR 6682
Final Action Effective          02/12/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________




458.  REVISION TO THE EAR; COMPUTER REVISION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  18 USC 2510 et seq; 30 USC 185; 42 USC 6212; 10 USC 
7429; 10 USC 7430(e); 50 USC 1710 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 
2139(a); 43 USC 1354; 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 46 USC 466(c); EO 12924; 
Notice of August 14, 1996 (61 FR 42527)

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 730 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On March 25, 1996, the Bureau of Export Administration (BXA) 
published an interim final rule (61 FR 12714) that restructured and 
reorganized the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The interim 
final rule clarified the language of the EAR and simplified the 
application and made the export control regulatory regime more user-
friendly. This rule amends the EAR by making certain revisions and 
clarifications and in some cases, inserts material inadvertently 
omitted from the March 25 interim final rule for the export and 
reexport of computers as described in the Commerce Control List and 
described by License Exception CTP. Among other revisions, this rule 
provides that ``No License Required'' (NLR) applies to the export and 
reexport of digital computers with a CTP of 2,000 Mtops or less, except 
to embargoed or terrorist-supporting destinations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/23/96                    61 FR 67448

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Muldonian, Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Export Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355

RIN: 0694-AB54

[[Page 21544]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



459.  FISHERIES OBLIGATION GUARANTEE PROGRAM - STATUTORY 
AMENDMENTS TO ESTABLISH ``CENTRAL TITLE AND LIEN REGISTRY FOR LIMITED 
ACCESS PERMITS''

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  46 USC 1271 to 1279

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 253; 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking and Request for 
Comments regarding establishment of a central title and lien registry 
as required by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management 
Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles L. Cooper, Program Leader, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2396
Fax: 301 589-2686

RIN: 0648-AJ77
_______________________________________________________________________




460.  JOINT DRAFT POLICY FOR SAFE HARBOR AND CANDIDATE SPECIES 
CONSERVATION (CSC) AGREEMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service and the Fish and 
Wildlife Service will be jointly proposing these policies, which would 
allow non-federal landowners to obtain ESA section 10(a)(1)(A) 
enhancement of survival permits associated with a Safe Harbor or CSC 
Agreements. The Agreements would be between NMFS and/or FWS and non-
Federal landowners to provide a net conservation benefit to endangered, 
threatened, candidate, proposed, and other unlisted species. After 
terms of the Agreement are completed, the enrolled lands could be 
returned to the baseline or agreed upon conditions through incidental 
taking authorized in the permit. These enhancement permits will provide 
non-Federal landowners, who undertake voluntary conservation activities 
agreed to in the agreements, assurances that future land use will not 
be restricted as a result of their conservation efforts. The 
enhancement of survival permits would authorize the incidental taking 
in performing management actions to achieve the net conservation 
benefit as well as incidental take authorized to return the land to 
target conditions upon the completion of all the management action. 
Participating landowners will derive regulatory certainty, because the 
ESA will not prohibit them from returning their land to original or 
agreed upon conditions once the Agreement is fulfilled. The Agreements 
encourage beneficial land-use, which helps imperiled species. The FWS 
have their own permit regulations and have made a similar request under 
EO12866, their request number is RIN 108-AD95.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           04/01/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Eric Ostrovsky, Marine Management Specialist, NMFS, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301 713-0376

RIN: 0648-AJ54
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



461. SECRETARIAL AMENDMENT TO THE FMP FOR ATLANTIC SWORDFISH

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory. Other, Statutory.
NPRM 15 days and final action 110 days after beginning of review.

Abstract: FMP Amendment to reduce overfishing by placing a moratorium 
on issuance of new permits and developing a limited entry system of 
management.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AE09
_______________________________________________________________________




462. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE ATLANTIC SURF 
CLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG FISHERIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory.
NPRM 15 days from date amendment review begins and council is sent copy 
for comments.

Abstract: This amendment would manage the fishery for mahogany clams

[[Page 21545]]

(ocean quahogs) off a portion of the coast of Maine, in the EEZ.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, 
Northeast Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AF41
_______________________________________________________________________




463. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR TILEFISH

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory. Other, Statutory.
NPRM 15 days and final action 110 days after receipt from a regional 
fishery management council.

Abstract: This FMP would manage tilefish (Lopholatilus 
chamaeleonticeps) in the EEZ along the Atlantic Coast north of the 
Virginia/North Carolina border to rebuild the stock.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    10/00/97
Final Action Effective          11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, 
Northeast Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9300

RIN: 0648-AF87
_______________________________________________________________________




464. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR ATLANTIC BILLFISH

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 644

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory. Other, Statutory.
NPRM 15 days and final action 110 days after beginning of review.

Abstract: This amendment will define overfishing for Atlantic billfish, 
clarify the plan objectives and the definition of optimum yield, and 
implement regulatory changes to reduce fishing mortality.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-7334

RIN: 0648-AF88
_______________________________________________________________________




465. AMENDMENT 8 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR COASTAL MIGRATORY 
PELAGIC RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO AND SOUTH ATLANTIC (FMP)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: Amendment 8 would: Establish a 5-year moratorium on issuing 
new commercial permits for the king mackerel fishery (Gulf of Mexico 
and South Atlantic exclusive economic zone); revise the FMP framework 
rulemaking procedure to change overfishing and optimum yield 
definitions, the type of measures that can be modified, and other 
changes; specify allowable gear for Atlantic group king and Spanish 
mackerel and other FMP-managed species and restrict incidental catches 
by non-conforming gear to applicable bag limits; extend the northern 
limit of the cobia management area to the New York/Connecticut 
boundary; change the eligibility and transfer requirements for 
commercial mackerel fishery permits; establish commercial fishery trip 
limits for Atlantic group king mackerel; and give the South Atlantic 
Fishery Management Council authority to recommend annual management 
measures for Gulf group king mackerel in the November-March fishery off 
Florida's east coast.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AG25
_______________________________________________________________________




466. AMENDMENT 8 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: Amendment 8 would: Limit permit holders to those vessel 
owners who can demonstrate landings of at least 1,000 pounds of 
snapper-grouper species in 2 of the 3 years - 1993, 1994, and 1995, and 
have held a valid snapper-grouper permit for those years; control 
fishing effort by establishing trip limits for identified sub-unit

[[Page 21546]]

groups of species within the management unit of the Fishery Management 
Plan for Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the South Atlantic Region (FMP); 
redefine the FMP's definition of overfishing and optimum yield; revise 
minimum size limits and reduce bag limits for red porgy, vermilion 
snapper, gag, black sea bass, and amberjack; designate a black sea bass 
Special Management Zone; require escape vents and escape panels with 
degradable fasteners in black sea bass pots; establish measures for 
greater amberjack that would extend the April closure throughout the 
South Atlantic exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and prohibit sale during 
April, implement a commercial quota and trip limit, change the start of 
the fishing year from January 1 to July 1, and prohibit coring; 
establish effective January 1, 1998, an annual commercial quota for 
vermilion snapper; prohibit all harvest of gag January through March; 
require logbook reporting by the 10th of the month following the month 
of activity; establish a zone in the South Atlantic EEZ through which 
vessels carrying fish traps could transit if they have valid Gulf reef 
fish permits and fish trap endorsements; restrict vessels with bottom 
longline gear on board to possessing only snowy grouper, warsaw 
grouper, yellowedge grouper, misty grouper, golden tilefish, blueline 
tilefish, and sand tilefish; allow use of one bait net per boat, up to 
50 feet long by 10 feet high with a stretched mesh size of 1.5 inches 
or smaller; also, allow possession and use of cast nets for catching 
bait; allow possession of fish (whole or fillets) caught in Bahamian 
waters while the vessel transits the EEZ provided that valid Bahamian 
fishing and cruising permits are on board; and establish an aggregate 
snapper-grouper recreational bag limit of 20-25 fish inclusive of all 
species in the snapper-grouper fishery management unit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AG27
_______________________________________________________________________




467. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH A CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR AT-
SEA SCALES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulatory amendment to establish requirements for testing 
and certifying scales used by processor vessels to comply with 
requirements to weigh catch at sea.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/20/96                     61 FR 6337
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/21/96
NPRM                            10/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97
Final Action Effective          12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AG32
_______________________________________________________________________




468. GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR DOMESTIC FISHERIES--STANDARD DEFINITIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would standardize definitions for: vessels-for-
hire engaged in recreational fishing (VHERF), charter boat, headboat; 
and marine recreational and commercial fishing and fishermen.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    08/00/97
Final Action Effective          09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Richard H. Schaefer, Chief, Staff Office for 
Intergovernmental and Recreational Fisheries Affairs, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 8484 Georgia 
Avenue Suite 425, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 427-2014
Fax: 301 427-2313 Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration
Phone: 301 713-2339

RIN: 0648-AG46
_______________________________________________________________________




469. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO IMPOSE RESTRICTIONS ON FISHING BLACK 
ROCKFISH OFF OREGON

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory action would impose trip limits and time/area 
closures on black rockfish fishing off the coast of Oregon in order to 
preserve declining stocks of black rockfish. Restrictions on harvest 
and areas fished would adversely affect fishermen in the short term, 
but these measures are designed to protect black rockfish and encourage 
the rebuilding of stocks in the long term. These measures will be 
developed by the State of Oregon and complement measures in state 
waters.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/97
Final Action                    02/00/98
Final Action Effective          03/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of

[[Page 21547]]

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 7600 Sand 
Point Way NE., BIN C15700, Bldg. 1, Seattle, WA 98115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AG81
_______________________________________________________________________




470. REGULATORY AMENDMENT FOR MANAGING PELAGIC FISHERIES BY U.S. VESSELS 
BEYOND EEZ THROUGHOUT PACIFIC

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would extend permit, reporting, and 
observer placement requirements on longline vessels of the U.S. that 
are fishing stocks in the management unit for the Fishery Management 
Plan for Pelagic Fisheries of the Western Pacific Region beyond the 
exclusive economic zone in the Pacific Ocean. The rule is necessary for 
comprehensive monitoring of all vessels fishing common stocks and 
possibly affecting the status of the shared stocks, other fishery 
interests, or protected resources so that the need for conservation and 
management measures can be determined.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    11/00/97
Final Action Effective          01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 West Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90804-
4213
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AG85
_______________________________________________________________________




471. AMENDMENT 3 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: Amendment 3 would: Revise the overfishing definition for red 
hind to ensure better conservation of this highly utilized resource and 
restrict the use of gillnets in the exclusive economic zone of the 
Caribbean.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97
Final Action Effective          01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AG87
_______________________________________________________________________




472. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR CORALS AND REEF-
ASSOCIATED PLANTS AND INVERTEBRATES FOR PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN 
ISLANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: Amendment 1 would establish marine conservation districts to 
conserve representative reef areas and fishery habitat in the exclusive 
economic zone of the Caribbean.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/97
Final Action                    11/00/97
Final Action Effective          12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AG88
_______________________________________________________________________




473. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO FACILITATE MONITORING AND ENFORCEMENT IN 
THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement new regulatory provisions and 
modify existing regulatory provisions to facilitate monitoring of 
fishing activities and enforcement in the Pacific Coast groundfish 
fishery. This includes requiring that all groundfish species caught be 
sorted and copies of fish tickets be kept on board the vessel.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    10/00/97
Final Action Effective          11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN C15700, Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 98115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AH21
_______________________________________________________________________




474. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR AMERICAN LOBSTER

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 649

[[Page 21548]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment is designed to address overfishing of American 
lobster in four different effort management areas for this species. 
Measures may include effort control provisions such as trip limit-sea 
allocations or gear restrictions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AH41
_______________________________________________________________________




475. AMENDMENT 9 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY 
OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: Amendment 9 would address the issue of the incidental catch 
(bycatch) of fish, particularly red snapper, in shrimp trawls. 
Management measures being considered include: requiring the use of 
NMFS-approved bycatch reduction devices (BRDs)in the shrimp trawls in 
the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of the Gulf of Mexico within the 110-
fathom contour; requiring the use of NMFS-approved BRDs in shrimp 
trawls in specified areas of the Gulf of Mexico EEZ; criteria for NMFS 
approval of BRDs, including specifications for exclusion of bycatch and 
retention of shrimp; and seasonal and area restrictions to reduce 
bycatch.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    05/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AH52
_______________________________________________________________________




476. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR ATLANTIC BLUEFISH

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment would revise the management of the fishery and 
include measures which will be specified annually for commercial quotas 
and recreational possession limits for Atlantic Bluefish in the U.S. 
EEZ.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, 
Northeast Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AH63
_______________________________________________________________________




477. FMP AMENDMENT 36 FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BSAI AND FMP 
AMENDMENT 39 FOR THE GROUNDFISH OF THE GOA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of end of NPRM comment 
period.

Abstract: These amendments delete osmerid and other forage species from 
the ``other species'' category. Osmerid species would either be 
established as a separate total allowable catch category or established 
as a prohibited species. The intent of this action is to prevent the 
development of a commercial fishery on important forage fish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    08/00/97
Final Action Effective          09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AH67
_______________________________________________________________________




478. REGULATORY AMENDMENT REQUIRING LONGLINE VESSEL OPERATORS IN THE 
WESTERN PACIFIC PELAGIC FISHERIES TO CARRY OBSERVERS AT NO COST TO U.S. 
GOVERNMENT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The current NMFS-funded longline fishery observer program 
would be replaced by an industry-funded program. NMFS would certify 
third-party providers of observer services, and vessel owners would 
contract with these third parties for observer services when advised 
that an observer must be carried by the vessel. An Observer Plan 
prepared by NMFS would establish the roles and relationships of NMFS, 
observer providers, and vessel owners.

[[Page 21549]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Analysis: Regulatory Flexibility Analysis

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 West Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90802-
4213
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AI31
_______________________________________________________________________




479. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Fishing effort for this fishery would be further consolidated 
through either individual transferable quotas or days at sea.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AI36
_______________________________________________________________________




480. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ADJUST THE ANNUAL TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH FOR 
ROYAL RED SHRIMP IN THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published at the end of the comment period on 
the proposed rule.

Abstract: This regulatory amendment, prepared under the framework 
rulemaking procedure of the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp 
Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico (FMP), would amend the regulations 
implementing the FMP to temporarily increase the total allowable catch 
(TAC) for royal red shrimp by 30 percent each year for two years, 
thereby increasing TAC from 392,000 pounds to 509,600 pounds.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI39
_______________________________________________________________________




481. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REQUIRE ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION BY ALASKA 
GROUNDFISH PROCESSORS OF WEEKLY PRODUCTION REPORTS AND CHECK IN/OUT 
REPORTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulatory amendment to require electronic submission of 
catch and processing location reports by processors participating in 
the Alaska groundfish fisheries. The extent of this action is to obtain 
more timely data on inseason fishing activities at less burden and cost 
to the industry and NMFS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action Effective          11/00/97
Begin Review                    01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI66
_______________________________________________________________________




482. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This fishery management plan would supersede the preliminary 
management plan and regulate fishing activity in the EEZ.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AI78
_______________________________________________________________________




483. PACIFIC WHITING ALLOCATION AMONG NON-TRIBAL SECTORS AND SEASONAL 
FRAMEWORK

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The current 3-year allocation for Pacific whiting was 
effective 1994-

[[Page 21550]]

1996. A new allocation for 1997 and beyond will allocate the resource 
among non-tribal sectors and provide for processing fish waste at sea 
outside the main season.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN C15700, Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 98115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AI80
_______________________________________________________________________




484. AMENDMENT 12 TO FMP FOR SALMON FISHERIES OFF THE COASTS OF 
WASHINGTON, OREGON, AND CALIFORNIA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment would allow retention of salmon bycatch in 
trawl fisheries for monitoring purposes, establish management 
objectives for species listed under the Endangered Species Act 
consistent with immediate conservation needs and long-term recovery of 
the species, and update the FMP with no change in management 
objectives.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN C15700 Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 98115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AI82
_______________________________________________________________________




485. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE THE PRODUCT RECOVERY RATE 
REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulatory amendment to implement new product codes for 
certain species for conversion of product weight to round weight for 
groundfish fisheries off of Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI87
_______________________________________________________________________




486. PROPOSED RULE TO IMPLEMENT REPORTING AND RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS 
UNDER THE HIGH SEAS FISHING COMPLIANCE ACT OF 1995

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 5501

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement a system of recordkeeping and 
reporting for U.S. vessels licensed to fish on the high seas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, Md. 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 301 713-0596

RIN: 0648-AI99
_______________________________________________________________________




487. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO LIMITED ACCESS MANAGEMENT OF FEDERAL 
FISHERIES IN AND OFF OF ALASKA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulatory amendment to clarify certain Individual Fishing 
Quota program provisions. Technical clarification of official weight of 
fish at landing, overages/underages; weighing of fish at time of 
landing; and establish standard allowance for deducting weight of ice 
and slime.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ00
_______________________________________________________________________




488. OPTIONS FOR ANGLING CATEGORY SEASON FOR THE ATLANTIC SEASON FOR THE 
ATLANTIC BLUEFIN TUNA FISHERIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1601 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 21551]]

Abstract: Adjusts regulations to provide for an equitable distribution 
of the Angling category quota for bluefin tuna. Prohibit the retention 
of ABT less than 73'' by General category vessels. Require logbooks for 
General category vessels. Prohibit all fishing by persons aboard 
General category vessels on restricted-fishing days. Prohibit use of 
Spotter aircraft except in purse seine fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Hgwy, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ04
_______________________________________________________________________




489. FISHERY DATA REPORTING FOR WESTERN PACIFIC PELAGIC FISHERIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will ensure collection and availability of data 
on catch, effort, and economic values needed to develop, implement, 
evaluate, and modify pelagic fisheries management measures under the 
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The 
regulations will require fishery participants to report to NMFS if 
existing state data systems are not providing data when, where, and in 
the format needed for management decisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 
90802
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AJ08
_______________________________________________________________________




490. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH TOTAL ALLOWABLE CATCH LIMITS FOR 
THE ATLANTIC AND GULF OF MEXICO GROUPS OF KING AND SPANISH MACKEREL FOR 
THE 1997-98 FISHING YEAR

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: This regulatory amendment, prepared under the framework 
rulemaking procedure of the Fishery Management Plan for Coastal 
Migratory Pelagic Resources of the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic 
(FMP), would amend the regulations implementing the FMP to establish 
the total allowable catch limits for Atlantic and Gulf groups of king 
and Spanish mackerel for the 1997-98 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AJ12
_______________________________________________________________________




491. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ADJUST REEF FISH MANAGEMENT MEASURES TO THE 
GULF OF MEXICO FOR THE 1997 SEASON

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
public comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: This regulatory amendment prepared under the framework 
procedure of the Fishery Managment Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of 
the Gulf of Mexico, (FMP) for establishing annual total allowable catch 
(TAC) and related management measures in support of achieving the TAC 
would modify the current regulations implementing the FMP to: Provide 
that the second part of the 1997 commercial red snapper season (for 
harvesting the second part of the annual quota) will open at noon on 
September 2 and close at noon on September 15 (assuming that the second 
part of the quota has not been taken earlier)--thereafter, the 
commercial red snapper fishery would open at noon on the first day of 
each month and close at noon on the fifteenth day of each month or 
close whenever the second part of the 1997 commercial red snapper quota 
is taken; as required by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act (section 407(d)), establish a red snapper recreational 
fishery quota, changing the current recreational allocation (unenforced 
through fishery closures) and authorize the Reginal Administrator to 
close the recreational fishery in Federal waters (reduce the 
recreational bag limit to zero) at such time necessary to prevent the 
recreational quota from being exceeded; and maintain the 1997 red 
snapper TAC at 9.12 million pounds as currently provided for by the 
FMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

[[Page 21552]]

Agency Contact: Andrew Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AJ13
_______________________________________________________________________




492. AMENDMENT 15 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: Amendment 15 proposes a comprehensive limited access system 
for the commercial red snapper fishery in the Gulf of Mexico to begin 
with the 1998 season.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AJ14
_______________________________________________________________________




493. WEAKFISH REGULATIONS FOR THE EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE (EEZ)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 5101 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement regulations in the EEZ off the 
Atlantic coast to control the harvest of weakfish and support the 
implementation of a coastal fisheries management plan for the species, 
which was developed and implemented by the Atlantic States Marine 
Fisheries Commission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/97
Final Action                    06/01/97
Final Action Effective          07/01/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Additional Information: The weakfish stock along the Atlantic coast is 
in serious decline. State actions to reduce fishing on the species are 
being implemented through the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries 
Commission (ASMFC). Federal action is needed to support ASMFC.

Agency Contact: Richard H. Schaefer, Chief, Staff Office for 
Intergovernmental and Recreational Fisheries Affairs, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 8484 Georgia 
Avenue Suite 425, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 427-2014
Fax: 301 427-2313

RIN: 0648-AJ15
_______________________________________________________________________




494. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO - RESUBMITTED MEASURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council will revise a 
measure of Amendment 11 previously disapproved by the National Marine 
Fisheries Service. The revised and resubmitted measure would revise the 
definition for optimum yield for each management species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: This action was part of RIN 0648-AG29. It was 
split from this RIN and assigned a new RIN to better allow display of 
the full information required for each separate regulatory action.

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AJ16
_______________________________________________________________________




495. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO IMPLEMENT 1997 NONTRAWL SABLEFISH HARVEST 
REGIME

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Adoption of management regime to replace the derby fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN C15700, Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 98115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AJ19
_______________________________________________________________________




496. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO RESTRICT PACIFIC GROUNDFISH LIMITED ENTRY 
PERMIT TRANSFERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

[[Page 21553]]

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would impose restrictions on 
transferring limited entry permits in the Pacific Coast groundfish 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN C15700 Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 98115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AJ20
_______________________________________________________________________




497. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO EXTEND CALIFORNIA GILLNET REGULATIONS TO 
THE EEZ

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Potential extension to Federal waters of California 
regulations closing certain areas to use of set (gill) nets.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    08/00/97
Final Action Effective          09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN, C15700 Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 48115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AJ21
_______________________________________________________________________




498. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FMP REGARDING SALMON 
BYCATCH IN GROUNDFISH TRAWL

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
NPRM 15 days and final action 110 days after receipt from the Pacific 
Fishery Management Council

Abstract: Regulations implementing Amendment 10 to the Pacific Coast 
Groundfish FMP would require retention, landing, and reporting of 
salmon caught in whiting and other groundfish trawl fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN C15700, Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 98115-070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AJ22
_______________________________________________________________________




499. AMENDMENT 9 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FMP TO REQUIRE 
ENDORSEMENTS IN THE SABLEFISH FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
NPRM 15 days and final action 110 days after receipt from the Pacific 
Fishery Management Council

Abstract: Regulations implementing Amendment 9 would require limited 
entry longline and fish pot vessels to hold a sablefish endorsement to 
participate in the primary sablefish fishery north of the Conception 
Management Area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/97
Final Action                    05/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN C15700, Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 98115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AJ23
_______________________________________________________________________




500.  GUIDELINES FOR THE DESCRIPTION, IDENTIFICATION, 
CONSERVATION, AND ENHANCEMENT OF ESSENTIAL FISH HABITAT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, April 11, 1997.

Abstract: Guidelines to assist Fishery Management Councils in the 
description and identification of essential fish habitat (EFH), 
including adverse impacts on EFH, and in the consideration of actions 
to conserve and enhance EFH, in fishery management plans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/08/96                    61 FR 57843
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/09/96
Second ANPRM                    01/09/97                     62 FR 1306
Second ANPRM Comment Period End 02/12/97
NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: James P. Burgess, Acting Director, Office of Habitat 
Conservation, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910-3282
Phone: 301 713-2325

[[Page 21554]]

Fax: 301 713-1043
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AJ30
_______________________________________________________________________




501.  AMENDMENT 49 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE 
BSAI

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Implement an improved retention and utilization plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ36
_______________________________________________________________________




502.  IMPLEMENTATION OF USE OF INTERACTIVE VOICE RESPONSE (IVR) 
SYSTEM TO MONITOR COMMERCIAL LANDINGS OF QUOTA MANAGED SPECIES ON WEEKLY 
BASIS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement an interactive voice response 
system to monitor dealer purchases of quota-managed species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ37
_______________________________________________________________________




503.  IMPLEMENTATION OF MEASURES TO AVOID SEA BIRDS IN THE 
ALASKA LONGLINE GROUNDFISH FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Require gear modifications, seabird avoidance device, or 
change in fishing methods designed to reduce the incidental mortality 
of seabirds in the directed groundfish fisheries in the Gulf of Alaska 
and Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands by the longline fleet.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ39
_______________________________________________________________________




504.  AMENDMENT 40 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE 
BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period of the proposed rule.

Abstract: This amendment would establish prohibited species catch 
limits for snow crab (chinoecetes opilio).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrtor, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ45
_______________________________________________________________________




505.  REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH A PROGRAM FOR THE 
COLLECTION AND USE OF FEES IN THE INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA AND COMMUNITY 
DEVELOPMENT QUOTA PROGRAMS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would establish a program for the 
collection and use, including the procedures, of fees in the Individual 
Fishing Quota (IFQ) and Community Development Quota (CDQ) Programs. The 
collection of fees would recover the costs of managing and enforcing 
IFQ and CDQ programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/97
Final Action                    01/00/98
Final Action Effective          02/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ52

[[Page 21555]]

_______________________________________________________________________




506.  ADJUSTMENT OF AREA CLOSURE FOR NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN 
ISLANDS (NWHI) LOBSTER FISHERY FOR VESSELS WITH VESSEL MONITORING SYSTEM 
EQUIPMENT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will allow vessels equipped with vessel 
monitoring system equipment to be closer to fishing grounds before the 
season opens and thus improve the economics of their performance. VMS 
units allow NMFS enforcement of the prohibition of fishing prior to the 
season opening.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 W. Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AJ57
_______________________________________________________________________




507.  MAGNUSON-STEVENS ACT PROVISIONS; NATIONAL STANDARDS 
GUIDELINES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS implements guidelines to national standards 1, 2, and 4, 
and adds new national standards 8, 9, and 10, as required by the 
Sustainable Fisheries Act. The national standards apply to fishery 
management plans and amendments developed by the Regional Fishery 
Management Councils under authority of the Magnuson-Stevens Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/97
Final Action                    10/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ58
_______________________________________________________________________




508.  MAGNUSON-STEVENS ACT PROVISIONS; FOREIGN FISHING VESSELS 
IN INTERNAL WATERS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS implements new reporting requirements for foreign 
fishing vessels in internal waters of the United States, as required by 
the Sustainable Fisheries Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ59
_______________________________________________________________________




509.  IMPLEMENTATION OF PACIFIC INSULAR AREA FISHING AGREEMENT 
PROVISIONS OF THE MAGNUSON-STEVENS ACT

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement provisions of the Sustainable 
Fisheries Act that authorize the Secretary of State to negotiate 
Pacific Insular Areas Fishing Agreements under which foreign vessels 
could have access to portions of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone 
around insular ``States'' such as Guam, American Samoa, and the 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, or around U.S. 
Possessions in the Pacific. Fees paid to the U.S. for such access would 
revert to the government of the insular area around which the fishing 
occurred. PIAFAs could only be entered into with the agreement of the 
Governor of the relevant insular area. Conservation plans, which must 
be prepared in consultation with the Western Pacific Fishery Management 
Council and must be consistent with relevant fishery management plans, 
would specify such things as allowable levels of fishing and activities 
for which funds collected would be spent. Foreign fishing permits would 
specify conditions and restrictions governing foreign vessel 
activities. The rule would provide guidance concerning Conservation 
Plan contents and processes for approval.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97
Final Action Effective          01/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 W. Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90802-
4213
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AJ60
_______________________________________________________________________




510.  ATLANTIC SWORDFISH FISHERY; QUOTAS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 971 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS amends the regulations governing the Atlantic

[[Page 21556]]

Swordfish fishery by setting the total allowable catch by gear and 
season.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ63
_______________________________________________________________________




511.  ATLANTIC SHARK FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 2 (INCLUDING 
REBUILDING SCHEDULE)

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Magnuson-Stevens Fisheries Conservation & Management Act 
requires that the shark FMP be amended within one year. HMS intends to 
incorporate a new rebuilding schedule in that amendment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ64
_______________________________________________________________________




512.  ATLANTIC TUNA FISHERIES; EFFORT CONTROLS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes to amend regulations governing the Atlantic 
tuna fisheries to control effort in the Atlantic bluefin tuna General 
category.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ65
_______________________________________________________________________




513.  ATLANTIC TUNA FISHERIES; REGULATORY ADJUSTMENTS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes to amend regulations governing the Atlantic 
tuna fisheries to modify target catch requirements for the Incidental 
longline ABT fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    07/00/97
Final Action Effective          09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ66
_______________________________________________________________________




514.  ATLANTIC TUNA FISHERIES; FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN 
IMPLEMENTATION

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Magnuson Management Plan for Atlantic Tunas Fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ67
_______________________________________________________________________




515.  ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; TAKE REDUCTION TEAM 
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulations to implement the Atlantic Offshore Cetaceans Take 
Reduction Plan.

[[Page 21557]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ68
_______________________________________________________________________




516.  ATLANTIC TUNA FISHERIES; ANNUAL ATLANTIC BLUEFIN TUNA 
QUOTAS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 630

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment of Atlantic tuna fisheries regulations to set 
Atlantic bluefin tuna quotas for the 1997 fishing year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ69
_______________________________________________________________________




517.  PROPOSED RULE TO IMPLEMENT PROCEDURES FOR ISSUANCE OF 
PERMITS UNDER SECTION 204(D) OF THE MAGNUSON-STEVENS FISHING 
CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1824

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600 subpart F

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Sustainable Fisheries Act amended the Magnuson-Stevens 
Fishery Conservation and Management Act (MSFCMA) to, among other 
things, provide for the issuance of transshipment permits under the 
newly established Section 204(d) of the MSFCMA. This action will 
specify procedures to be used to issue permits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ70
_______________________________________________________________________




518.  INTERIM FINAL RULE TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 649

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would close the Exclusive Economic Zone to all 
fishing for lobster with mobile gear to help prevent overfishing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ74
_______________________________________________________________________




519.  IMPLEMENTATION OF DATA COLLECTION AND REPORTING 
REQUIREMENTS TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE AMERICAN LOBSTER 
FISHERY

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 649

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Data collection and reporting requirements would be 
implemented contingent upon the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries 
Commission not developing regulations under the Atlantic Coastal 
Fisheries Cooperative Management Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ75
_______________________________________________________________________




520.  REGULATORY AMENDMENT AND GUIDELINES FOR SAFETY AND LIVING 
CONDITIONS ON VESSELS CARRYING OBSERVERS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory.

Abstract: Regulations and guidelines for vessels carrying observers. 
The regulations will specify the safety equipment that must be on the 
vessel and the living conditions that must be provided. They will 
include guidance for those situations where the vessel does not meet 
the minimum standards.

[[Page 21558]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: William Bellows, Plan Reviewer, Domestic Fisheries 
Division, Office of Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West 
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2344
Fax: 301 713-0596

RIN: 0648-AJ76
_______________________________________________________________________




521.  LIST OF FISHERIES FOR 1998

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1361

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, December 30, 1997.
The List of Fisheries must be published at least annually.

Abstract: The List of Fisheries published pursuant to section 118 of 
the Marine Mammal Protection Act, classifies all U.S. commercial 
fisheries into one of three categories based on the level of incidental 
serious injuries and mortality to marine mammals. Participants in 
fisheries placed in Category I, II, or III are subject to different 
regulatory requirements under 50 FR 229.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97
Proposed List of Fisheries for 
1999                            05/01/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robyn Angliss, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Hwy., Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-0376
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AJ85
_______________________________________________________________________




522. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS 
UNDER THE ATA PERMIT AFTER FEBRUARY 28, 1994

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, March 1, 1994.

Abstract: The International Dolphin Conservation Act provides that, if 
no major purse seine tuna fishing country enters into an agreement for 
a moratorium on setting on marine mammals during the course of 
commercial fishing operations, the total dolphin mortalities authorized 
under the general permit issued to the American Tunaboat Association 
shall not exceed the number of dolphin mortalities which occurred under 
the permit during the preceding year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 West Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90802-
4213
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AG36
_______________________________________________________________________




523. DESIGNATED CRITICAL HABITAT; PACIFIC STEELHEAD

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1533

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory, February 16, 1995. Final, Statutory, 
August 9, 1998.
Endangered Species Act section 4(b)(3)(D)(ii). If steelhead are listed 
under the ESA by 8/9/97, then critical habitat designation will be due 
8/9/98.

Abstract: If proposed, the regulation will designate critical habitat 
for any coastal steelhead populations that are listed under the 
Endangered Species Act in California, Oregon, Idaho and, Washington.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, F/PR3, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AG49
_______________________________________________________________________




524. DESIGNATED CRITICAL HABITAT; PACIFIC COHO SALMON

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1533

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory, October 26, 1994. Final, Statutory, 
October 31, 1997.
Critical habitat designation for central California coast coho salmon 
is due one year after the listing, or 10/31/97. Critical habitat 
designation for other coho salmon populations (cont)

Abstract: The regulation will propose critical habitat designation for 
central California coast coho salmon and any other coho salmon 
populations that are listed in April 1997.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: LEGAL DEADLINE CONT: will be 1-year after final 
ESA listing.

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of

[[Page 21559]]

Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, F/PR3, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AG56
_______________________________________________________________________




525. DESIGNATED CRITICAL HABITAT; UMPQUA RIVER SEA-RUN CUTTHROAT TROUT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1533

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory, April 1, 1994. Final, Statutory, 
August 9, 1997.
Endangered Species Act sec. 4(b)(3)(D)(ii) Due August 9, 1997, which is 
one year after final listing of the species under the ESA.

Abstract: NMFS has issued a final rule to list the Umpqua River 
cutthroat trout in Oregon as endangered under the Endangered Species 
Act of 1973. Upon completion of an analysis on the critical habitat for 
the Umpqua River cutthroat trout, NMFS will make a determination on 
designating critical habitat for the species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: NMFS is planning to designate critical habitat 
on a multi-species level by combining it for several listed salmonids 
in one FR notice.

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, F/PR3, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AG58
_______________________________________________________________________




526. PROPOSED DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR PUGET SOUND SALMON 
STOCKS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1531 et seq The Endangered Species Act

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory, March 14, 1995. Final, Statutory, 
March 14, 1996.
A proposed listing of one or more of these stocks or a denial of the 
petition was due March 14, 1995. A final determination would be due one 
year after a proposed listing. Critical (cont)

Abstract: NMFS will propose critical habitat for Puget Sound salmon 
stocks if the species is/are proposed for listing under the Endangered 
Species Act. These stocks include (1) Hood Canal summer chum salmon, 
(2) Elwha River pink salmon, (3) Lower Dungeness River pink salmon, (4) 
North Fork Nooksack River spring chinook salmon, (5) South Fork 
Nooksack River spring chinook salmon, (6) Dungeness River spring 
chinook salmon, (7) Baker River sockeye salmon, (8) Discovery Bay chum 
salmon, and (9) White River spring chinook salmon. Mud Bay/Eld Inlet 
chum salmon were petitioned for listing on April 4, 1994, so this stock 
will be included in this rule, if warranted.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/97
Final Action                    12/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: LEGAL DEADLINE CONT: habitat designation is due 
no later than one year after date of publication of a final listing 
under the ESA.

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910-
3226
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AH11
_______________________________________________________________________




527. PROPOSED RULE TO PROVIDE REGULATIONS FOR PERMITS FOR CAPTURE, 
TRANSPORT, IMPORT AND EXPORT OF PROTECTED SPECIES FOR PUBLIC DISPLAY, 
AND FOR MAINTAINING A CAPTIVE MARINE MAMMAL INVENTORY

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:  16 USC 1372 (c)

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, January 1, 1995.

Abstract: This proposed rule would revise and simplify criteria and 
procedures specific to permits for taking, transporting, importing, and 
exporting protected species for public display and provide convenient 
formats for reporting marine mammal captive holdings and transports as 
required by amendments made in 1994 to the Marine Mammal Protection 
Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Ann Terbush, Chief, Permits Division, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________




528. PROPOSED RULE GOVERNING THE ISSUANCE OF PERMITS FOR MARINE MAMMAL 
PHOTOGRAPHY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1372 (c)(6)

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will provide for the issuance of permits to take 
marine mammals by only level B harassment for the purpose of 
educational or commercial photography.

[[Page 21560]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Ann Terbush, Chief, Permits Division, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AH31
_______________________________________________________________________




529. AMEND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE 
MAMMALS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1371 (a)(6)

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule implements certain changes in the 
prohibitions on importing or exporting marine mammals or marine mammal 
parts and products that occurred with the enactment of the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act Amendments of 1994 (Pub. L. 104-238). This action 
prohibits the export of marine mammals or marine mammal products for 
purposes other than public display, scientific research, or enhancing 
the survival of a species or stock and establishes three new categories 
of exceptions to the prohibition on importing marine mammal parts and 
products. This is a non-controversial action that is not significant as 
it will have only minor effects on a small number of people, most of 
whom will benefit by the new exceptions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Ann Terbush, Chief, Permits Division, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AH83
_______________________________________________________________________




530. CRITICAL HABITAT DESIGNATION FOR GREEN AND HAWKSBILL SEA TURTLE IN 
CULEBRA, PUERTO RICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NOAA proposes to designate critical habitat for the 
threatened Atlantic green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) and endangered 
Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricatta) pursuant to the Endangered 
Species Act of 1973 (ESA). The geographic area proposed for critical 
habitat designation comprises all coastal waters surrounding the 
islands of the Culebra archipelago, from the Mean High Water line out 
to 3 nautical miles (nm). Isla de Culebra (Culebra) lies approximately 
16 nm east of the northeast coast of Puerto Rico. This designation will 
provide green and hawksbill turtles with the necessary shelter, cover, 
and food resources for their survival region. The designation of 
critical habitat provides explicit notice to Federal agencies and the 
public that these areas and features are vital to the conservation of 
the species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/31/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Barbara Schroeder, Sea Turtle Coordinator, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-0376

RIN: 0648-AH88
_______________________________________________________________________




531. IMPLEMENTATION OF 1997 MMPA AMENDMENTS AFFECTING YELLOWFIN TUNA 
PURSE SEINE FISHING IN THE EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216.24

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would propose implementation of the 1996 amendments 
to the Marine Mammal Protection Act regarding regulation of the U.S. 
yellowfin tuna fishery and the importation of yellowfin tuna into the 
United States from other harvesting nations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Legislation amending the MMPA regarding the 
yellowfin tuna fishery will require implementation of regulations 3 
months after the effective date of the legislation.

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National 
Marine Fisheries Service, 501 West Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, 
CA 90802-4213
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AI85
_______________________________________________________________________




532.  AMENDMENT 10 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 10 would extend the moratorium for Summer Flounder, 
revise the commercial quota, and implement other management measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator,

[[Page 21561]]

Northeast Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ55
_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SURVEY/OFFICE OF COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



533. THUNDER BAY NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1431 to 1445

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These regulations will protect the ecological, recreational, 
and esthetic resources of the waters surrounding Thunder Bay if the 
area is designated as a national marine sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Completion of this regulation within the dates 
projected in the timetable is subject to the availability of 
appropriated funds for NOAA after March 15, 1996. At this time NOAA 
anticipates that sufficient funds will be appropriated to complete this 
project.

Agency Contact: Stephanie R. Thornton, Chief, Sanctuaries and Reserve 
Division, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1305 East-West Highway (N/ORM2), Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-3155

RIN: 0648-AE41
_______________________________________________________________________




534. ALLOWANCE OF SMALL-SCALE NON-INTRUSIVE JADE COLLECTING IN MONTEREY 
BAY NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1434(a)(5)

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Ocean Service, Sanctuaries and Reserve Division 
(SRD) is issuing an ANPRM to inform the public that it is considering 
allowing small-scale, non-intrusive jade collecting in the MBNMS, and 
to invite written comments, advice, and recommendations. There has been 
public interest in allowing jade collection in the MBNMS and this 
action will respond to and address those interests. If SRD determines 
to amend the regulations, it will issue a proposed rule with an 
additional 45-day comment period.
This action is considered not significant because the advance notice of 
proposed rulemaking simply presents an issue and course of action under 
consideration by SRD and requests comments from the public. This action 
will ensure that SRD takes into account all views on this issue. This 
action does not have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or 
more, nor does it adversely effect in a material way the economy, 
environment, public health or safety.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/09/95                    60 FR 40540
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/08/95
NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Completion of this regulation within the 
projected dates in the timetable is subject to the availability at 
appropriated funds for NOAA after March 15, 1996. At this time, NOAA 
anticipates that sufficient funds will be appropriated to completed 
this project.

Agency Contact: Elizabeth Moore, Sanctuaries and Reserves Office, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1305 East-West Highway (N/ORM2), Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-3145

RIN: 0648-AI06
_______________________________________________________________________




535. REVISION OF OVERFLIGHT REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1431 to 1445

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 922

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These regulations are being revised to clarify that they are 
for resource protection purposes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Completion of this regulation within the dates 
projected in the timetable is subject to the availability of 
appropriated funds for NOAA after March 15, 1996. At this time, NOAA 
anticipates that sufficient funds will be appropriated to complete this 
project.

Agency Contact: Elizabeth Moore, Sanctuaries and Resources Division, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1305 East-West Highway (N/ORM 2), Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-3145

RIN: 0648-AI91
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR


                    ________________________________



536. LICENSING OF PRIVATE REMOTE-SENSING SPACE SYSTEMS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 5624; PL 102-555

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 960

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Pub. L. 102-555 amends the Land Remote Sensing 
Commercialization Act of 1984 to transfer the LANDSAT program from the 
Department of Commerce to a joint NASA/DOD office. However, title II 
retains the basic provisions of title IV of the previous act 
authorizing the Secretary of Commerce to license private operators of 
land remote-sensing space systems who are subject to U.S. jurisdiction. 
The Secretary is required to consult with the Secretaries of Defense 
and State, who are responsible for determining conditions to protect 
national security and foreign policy concerns, respectively. The recent 
Act removes a regulatory restriction which required operators to make 
the data available to all customers on the same terms and conditions.

[[Page 21562]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/18/89                    54 FR 01945
NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kira Alvarez, Staff Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1325 East-West 
Highway, Room 18109, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0053

RIN: 0648-AC64
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



537. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO IMPLEMENT PERMIT, REPORTING, AND 
RECORDKEEPING AND OBSERVER REQUIREMENTS FOR PROCESSING VESSELS OVER 125 
FEET AND THEIR CATCHER VESSELS: PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulations would implement a comprehensive data collection 
and regulatory program for all processing vessels longer than 125 feet 
and for all harvesting vessels that deliver their catch to those 
vessels in the groundfish fishery off Washington, Oregon, and 
California. This program would consist of: (1) a requirement that 
processing vessels carry NMFS-certified observers; (2) a requirement 
for a mandatory Federal permit; (3) recordkeeping and reporting 
requirements; and (4) a definition for ``fishing trip'' for processing 
vessels over 125 feet in length for the purpose of applying trip 
landing and frequency limits. The action may be split into separate 
rules.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/19/92                    57 FR 54552
NPRM Comment Period End         12/21/92
Final Action                    10/00/97
Final Action Effective          03/00/98

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., BIN C15700, Bldg. 1, Seattle, 
WA 98115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AE01
_______________________________________________________________________




538. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE OF FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCIL NOMINEES, 
MEMBERS, AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 601

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule revises regulations concerning the practices, 
procedures and operations of the Regional Fishery Management Councils 
under the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act. It 
increases the detail and availability of information in required 
financial disclosures of Councils' nominees, voting members, and 
Executive Directors and is intended to reduce the likelihood of 
financial conflicts of interest.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/11/94                    59 FR 11557
Final Action                    05/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AG16
_______________________________________________________________________




539. REGULATORY ADJUSTMENTS TO THE FMP FOR SHARKS OF THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 678

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Would allow for certain regulatory adjustments within the FMP 
Framework.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/19/96                     61 FR 6295
NPRM Comment Period End         02/07/97                     62 FR 4239
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AH77
_______________________________________________________________________




540. PLAN AMENDMENT TO FMP FOR SHARKS OF THE ATLANTIC OCEAN THAT WOULD 
LIMIT ENTRY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 678

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment would allow for permit moratorium/limited entry 
into the Commercial Shark Fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/20/96                    61 FR 68202
NPRM Comment Period End         02/18/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

[[Page 21563]]

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary C.Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AH78
_______________________________________________________________________




541. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR ATLANTIC 
AND GULF GROUPS OF KING AND SPANISH MACKEREL FOR THE 1996-97 FISHING 
YEAR

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory.

Abstract: This regulatory amendment prepared under the framework 
rulemaking procedure of the Fishery Management Plan for Coastal 
Migratory Pelagic Resources of the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic 
(FMP) would amend the regulations implementing the FMP to: Reduce the 
commercial quotas for Atlantic group king and Spanish mackerel; reduce 
the commercial quota for Gulf group Spanish mackerel; revise the 
commercial trip limits in the eastern zone for Gulf group king 
mackerel; and establish a Gulf group king mackerel bag limit of zero 
for captains and crews of charter vessels and headboats.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/16/96                    61 FR 66008
NPRM Comment Period End         12/31/96
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI13
_______________________________________________________________________




542. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY 
OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: Amendment 2 would: Add brown and pink shrimp to the 
management unit of the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery 
of the South Atlantic Region; define overfishing for brown and pink 
shrimp; define optimum yield for brown and pink shrimp; require the use 
of certified bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) in all penaeid shrimp 
trawls in the exclusive economic zone of the south Atlantic, and 
establish a framework procedure for adding to the list of certified 
BRDs or modifying their specifications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/06/97                      62 FR 720
NPRM Comment Period End         02/20/97
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Reginal Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI15
_______________________________________________________________________




543. WITHDRAWAL OF FEDERAL FISHERIES REGULATIONS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

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

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 649

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Withdraws Federal fishery regulations for American lobster 
fishery that can be managed through regulations recommended by the 
Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM - Spiny Lobster            03/25/96                    61 FR 12055
NPRM - Stone Crab               03/25/96                    61 FR 12056
NPRM - Anchovy                  03/26/96                    61 FR 13148
NPRM - Salmon                   03/26/96                    61 FR 13149
NPRM - American Lobster         03/27/96                    61 FR 13478
NPRM - Bluefish                 03/28/96                    61 FR 13810
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Additional Information: The proposed withdrawals of the FMPs for 
northern anchovy, bluefish, stone crab, spiny lobster, and Alaska high 
seas salmon fisheries were withdrawn through published notices in the 
Federal Register published November 27, 1996, at 61 FR 60254.

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AI16
_______________________________________________________________________




544. CONSOLIDATION OF ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES 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:  16 USC 971 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 902; 50 CFR 285; 50 CFR 630; 50 CFR 644; 50 CFR 
678

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Consolidates existing Atlantic highly migratory species 
regulations to enhance usability and reduce regulatory text.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/06/96                    61 FR 57361
NPRM Comment Period End         12/23/96

[[Page 21564]]

Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Gary Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AI28
_______________________________________________________________________




545. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE THE RECORDKEEPING AND REPORTING 
REQUIREMENTS FOR GROUNDFISH FISHERIES OF THE EEZ OFF OF ALASKA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 773 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulatory amendment to regulations: (1) Clarifies check-out 
requirements for land-based buying stations and CDQ fisheries; (2) 
corrects requirements for weekly production reports and daily 
production reports; (3) revises Federal processor permit requirements; 
(4) establishes buying station permit requirements for land-based 
buying stations; (5) extends the renewal period for a Federal fisheries 
permit and Federal processor permit to 3 years; (6) removes 
requirements to record and report Federal and state areas of a 
reporting period; and (7) corrects three cross references.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/23/96                    61 FR 67524
NPRM Comment Period End         01/22/97
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI68
_______________________________________________________________________




546. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SCALLOP FISHERY 
OFF ALASKA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory. Other, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: This FMP amendment establishes a moratorium on the entry of 
new vessels into the scallop fishery to control continued growth in 
fishing capacity.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/26/96                    61 FR 67990
NPRM Comment Period End         02/10/97
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI88
_______________________________________________________________________




547. A MORATORIUM ON ISSUANCE OF NEW PERMITS FOR FISHING IN THE MAU ZONE 
PORTION OF THE NWHI BOTTOMFISH FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: A two-year moratorium on issuance of permits for the Mau Zone 
will provide a period of stability in which the Western Pacific Fishery 
Management Council will complete a restructuring of the management 
program for the northwestern Hawaiian Islands bottomfish fishery. The 
Council recently received economic data on the fishery as well as a new 
stock assessment. The Council will decide whether a new limited entry 
program should be instituted and whether the Ho'omalu Zone and Mau Zone 
should be combined. The new program should be in effect early in 1999.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/27/96                    61 FR 60255
NPRM Comment Period End         01/10/97
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 W. Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90275
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AJ02
_______________________________________________________________________




548. PROPOSED RULE TO IMPLEMENT AMENDMENT 6 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN FOR ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 6 would revise overfishing definitions for Loligo 
and Illex squid and Butterfish and implement management measures that 
would close the directed fisheries for Loligo and Illex squid and 
Butterfish when 95 percent of the domestic annual harvest is taken (as 
opposed to the current closure when 80 percent is taken), implement a 
10 percent bycatch restriction per trip of the species for which the 
fishery is closed and allow the Regional Director to impose seasonal 
closures in the Illex Fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/25/96                    61 FR 59857
NPRM                            12/09/96                    61 FR 64852
NPRM Comment Period End         01/21/97
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/24/97
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator,

[[Page 21565]]

Northeast Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 518 281-9250

RIN: 0648-AJ06
_______________________________________________________________________




549. 1997-98 MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR COMMERCIAL, RECREATIONAL, AND 
TREATY INDIAN SALMON FISHERIES OFF THE COASTS OF WA, OR, AND CA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Annual management measures for the 1997-98 fishing year would 
specify allowable ocean harvest levels (including quotas), allocations, 
management boundaries and zones, minimum size limits, gear definitions, 
seasons, selective fisheries, and in-season notice procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE., Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AJ09
_______________________________________________________________________




550.  CONSOLIDATION OF THE RULES FOR SPINY LOBSTER FISHERY OF 
THE GULF OF MEXICO AND SOUTH ATLANTIC AND STONE CRAB FISHERY OF THE GULF 
OF MEXICO

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

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

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposed to withdraw of the Fishery Management Plans for 
Spiny Lobster and stone crab (FMPs). Thus regulations implementing 
these plans were not included in the consolidated regulations for 
Fisheries of the Caribbean, Gulf, and South Atlantic at 50 CFR part 
622. Recently, NMFS withdrew the proposed rules that would have 
withdrawn the FMPs. This final rule will incorporate the rules 
implementing these FMPs in the consolidated regulations without 
substantive change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 9721 
Executive Center Drive, N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301
Fax: 813 570-5300

RIN: 0648-AJ28
_______________________________________________________________________




551.  FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 23 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR 
THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would prohibit the deployment and use of sink 
gillnet gear and other gear capable of catching multispecies in the 
Great South Channel Right Whale Critical Habitat from April 1 to June 
30 each year, and in the federal portion of Cape Con Bay Right Whale 
Critical Habitat from January 1 through May 15 of each year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ32
_______________________________________________________________________




552.  AMENDMENT 7 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 7 would allow vessels in the Atlantic sea scallop 
fishery to consolidate days at sea.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ33
_______________________________________________________________________




553.  IMPLEMENTATION OF MEASURES CONTAINED IN FRAMEWORK 
ADJUSTMENT 21 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FMP

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Would allow vessels with General category scallop to fish for 
scallops with small dredges within the Gulf of Maine small mesh 
northern shrimp fishery exemption area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930

[[Page 21566]]

Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ34
_______________________________________________________________________




554.  REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REQUIRE A SIX-HOUR NOTICE OF 
LANDING OF INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA (IFQ) SPECIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Require fishermen to submit notice of intended landing of 
catch at least six hours before the landing is scheduled to occur and 
require fishermen to make the landing at the time scheduled in the 
prior notice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/21/97                     62 FR 7993
NPRM Comment Period End         03/24/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99807
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ35
_______________________________________________________________________




555.  AMENDMENT OF CONSOLIDATED REGULATIONS AT 50 CFR 679 TO 
INCLUDE THE HIGH SEAS SALMON FISHERY OFF ALASKA REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Incorporate into 50 CFR part 679 the regulations implementing 
the High Seas Salmon Fishery off Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ38
_______________________________________________________________________




556.  SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS FISHERY, 1997 
SUMMER FLOUNDER RECREATIONAL FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: The measures include an increase in the possession limit from 
8 fish to 10 fish, and an increase in the minimum size limit from 14 
inches to 14.5 inches total length to achieve an estimated 22 percent 
reduction.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/15/97
NPRM Comment Period End         03/15/97
Final Action                    05/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930-2298
Phone: 508 281-9250
Fax: 508 281-9135

RIN: 0648-AJ42
_______________________________________________________________________




557.  FINAL RULE TO IMPLEMENT FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 20 TO THE 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This framework would implement management measures to achieve 
the 1997 fishing mortality objectives of the FMP, including a strategy 
to reduce gillnet fishing effort and an equivalent measure that would 
replace the haddock possession limit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ43
_______________________________________________________________________




558.  AMENDMENT 9 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 9 would implement management measures for the 
monkfish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ44

[[Page 21567]]

_______________________________________________________________________




559.  FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 22 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES AND 
FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 4 TO THE AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648; 50 CFR 649

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These framework adjustments would close certain areas to 
specific gear types, thereby alleviating the gear conflicts in Southern 
New England.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9272

RIN: 0648-AJ48
_______________________________________________________________________




560.  SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS FISHERIES; 1997 
SCUP RECREATIONAL FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: This action sets annual recreational harvest limits for 1997.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/15/97
NPRM Comment Period End         03/15/97
Final Action                    05/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930-2298
Phone: 508 281-9250
Fax: 508 281-9135

RIN: 0648-AJ53
_______________________________________________________________________




561.  1997 HARVEST GUIDELINE FOR NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS 
LOBSTER FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan for Crustacean 
Fisheries of the Western Pacific Region established a harvest 
limitation program under which an annual harvest guideline is 
established by the Southwest Administrative Director, NMFS, and 
published on or about March 31.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 W. Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AJ56
_______________________________________________________________________




562.  ADJUSTMENT OF NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS (NWHI) LOBSTER 
HARVEST GUIDELINE SYSTEM TO PREVENT OVERFISHING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 1996, the NWHI spiny lobster fishery regulations were 
modified to allow retention of all lobsters caught, regardless of size 
or sexual condition. It was thought that vessel operators would retain 
all lobsters caught and not cause excess wasteful fishing mortality by 
discarding small or berried lobsters. It appears however, that 
significant highgrading occurred, so that total fishing mortality 
exceeded the annual harvest limit. The intention of this regulatory 
adjustment, under the framework provisions of the FMP would be to limit 
the harvest and prevent overfishing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 W. Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AJ61
_______________________________________________________________________




563.  FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 9 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This framework would exempt general category permit holders 
fishing exclusively under the State Waters Exemption Program from the 
400 lb. trip limit and would also require these vessels to notify NMFS 
through the call-in system before fishing under the State Waters 
Exemption Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930

[[Page 21568]]

Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ62
_______________________________________________________________________




564.  PROCEDURES GOVERNING ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF 
FISHERY NEGOTIATION PANELS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  5 USC 561; 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, April 9, 1997.
Final regulations to be effective upon filing.

Abstract: Section 305(g) of the Magnuson-Stevens Act directs the 
Secretary to promulgate regulations providing for the optional use of 
``fishery negotiation panels'' and to establish procedures comparable 
to the procedures set forth in the Negotiated Rulemaking Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, Md. 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ72
_______________________________________________________________________




565.  WITHDRAWAL OF THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE AMERICAN 
LOBSTER FISHERY

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 649

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would withdraw approval of the Fishery Management 
Plan (FMP) and would remove the regulations implementing the FMP upon 
development of regulations by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries 
Commission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ73
_______________________________________________________________________




566.  FINAL RULE TO ADD REGULATION IMPLEMENTING THE FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE ATLANTIC BLUEFISH FISHERY TO THE CONSOLIDATED 
NORTHEAST FISHERIES REGULATIONS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 628; 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would add regulations implementing the fishery 
management plan for the Atlantic Bluefish fishery to the consolidated 
Northeast Fisheries Regulations at 50 CFR part 648.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9300

RIN: 0648-AJ78
_______________________________________________________________________




567.  FINAL RULE TO IMPLEMENT FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 18 TO THE 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework Adjustment 18 would allow Herring and Mackerel 
Harvest with Pelagic Mid-Water Trawls in areas of Georges Bank now 
closed to all gear capable of taking groundfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9300

RIN: 0648-AJ79
_______________________________________________________________________




568.  FINAL RULE TO IMPLEMENT FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 16 TO THE 
NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework Adjustment 16 would prohibit the use of all gillnet 
capable of catching multispecies during periods in which the Harbor 
Porpoise time/area closures are in effect, unless the gillnet meets 
certain specifications to avoid increasing the risk of Harbor Porpoise 
entanglements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

[[Page 21569]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9300

RIN: 0648-AJ80
_______________________________________________________________________




569.  FINAL RULE TO INCORPORATE THE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE 
NORTHERN ANCHOVY INTO THE CONSOLIDATED REGULATIONS FOR FISHERIES OFF THE 
WEST COAST AND IN THE WESTERN PACIFIC

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 eliminate existing text in the CFR.

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will remove part 662 from title 50 of the CFR and 
add the provisions of that part to the consolidated Federal fishery 
regulations at 50 CFR part 660. Part 662 contains the Federal 
regulations governing the northern anchovy fishery off the West Coast. 
NMFS, after publishing for public review and comment a proposed rule to 
rescind the northern anchovy regulations, concluded that rescission of 
the northern anchovy regulations is inappropriate. This rule is 
necessary to implement the President's regulation reform initiative, 
under which all Magnuson-Stevens Act fisheries regulations governing 
the fisheries of the west coast and western pacific are consolidated in 
50 CFR part 660. The northern anchovy regulations had not been included 
in the consolidated rule published at 60 FR 34570 (July 2, 1996) 
because NMFS, at that time, anticipated that the northern anchovy 
fishery management plan would be withdrawn, and the implementing 
regulations removed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero, Regional Administrator, Southwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 501 W. Ocean Blvd., Suite 4200, Long Beach, CA 90802-
4213
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AJ81
_______________________________________________________________________




570.  REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CHANGE MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS FOR 
THE REGIONAL FISHERY MANAGEMENT COUNCILS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulations governing the operation and membership of the 
Regional Fishery Management Councils will be revised based on 
provisions in the Sustainable Fisheries Conservation and Management 
Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gary Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ82
_______________________________________________________________________




571. TAKE OF MARINE MAMMALS BY THE U.S. NAVY INCIDENTAL TO MILITARY 
ACTIVITIES IN THE SOUTH ATLANTIC OF THE UNITED STATES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Navy has petitioned NMFS for regulations that would 
authorize a small take of marine mammals incidental to ship shock 
trials in oceanic waters offshore Florida or Virginia. Under the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act, NMFS is allowed to authorize these takings if 
certain findings are made and regulations are issued that include 
requirements for monitoring and reporting.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/14/96                    61 FR 30212
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/15/96
NPRM                            08/02/96                    61 FR 40377
NPRM Comment Period End         09/17/96
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          05/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, NMFS, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2055

RIN: 0648-AG55
_______________________________________________________________________




572. FINAL RULE TO ESTABLISH GUIDELINES FOR NONLETHALLY DETERRING MARINE 
MAMMALS FROM ENDANGERING PERSONAL SAFETY OR DAMAGING PUBLIC OR PRIVATE 
PROPERTY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1361 et seq The Marine Mammal Protection Act

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, January 1, 1995.

Abstract: On April 30, 1994, the President signed Pub. L. 103-238, the 
Marine Mammal Protection Act Amendments of 1994. One part of this law 
implemented a new section 101(a)(4) to authorize the nonlethal 
harassment takings by citizens of the United States to deter marine 
mammals from: (1) Damaging commercial fishing gear or catch; (2) 
damaging private property; (3) endangering public safety; or (4) 
damaging public property. The amendments require a list of guidelines 
for use in safely deterring marine mammals and provide for prohibiting 
certain deterrent measures that may have a significant adverse impact 
on marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/05/95                    60 FR 22345

[[Page 21570]]

NPRM Comment Period End         07/05/95
Final Action Effective          09/01/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910-
3226
Phone: 301 713-2055

RIN: 0648-AH19
_______________________________________________________________________




573. GENERAL AUTHORIZATION FOR SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH INVOLVING LEVEL B 
HARASSMENT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1151 et seq Fur Seal Act; 16 USC 1631 et seq 
Marine Mammal Protection Act

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, August 30, 1994.

Abstract: This final rule is required by the 1994 amendments to the 
Marine Mammal Protection Act. These regulations establish a general 
authorization for bona fide scientific research on non-endangered and 
non-threatened marine mammals that may result in harassment with only 
the potential to disturb. Inclusion under the general authorization is 
achieved by letter of intent to the National Marine Fisheries Service 
and a letter of confirmation from the Service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/03/94                    59 FR 50372
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/17/94
Final Action                    04/30/97
Final Action Effective          05/30/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Agency Contact: Ruth Johnson, Marine Resources Management Specialist, 
Office of Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic 
and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, 
MD 20910-3226
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AH20
_______________________________________________________________________




574. NORTH ATLANTIC RIGHT WHALE PROTECTION; INTERIM FINAL RULE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 742 et seq; 16 USC 1361 et seq; 16 USC 1531 et 
seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 217

Legal Deadline:  Final, Judicial, February 7, 1997.
This deadline is motivated by the Strahan V. Linnon litigation.

Abstract: Disturbance has been identified in the Final Recovery Plan 
for the Northern Right Whale (Recovery Plan) as among the principal 
human-induced factors impeding right whale recovery. Accordingly, as 
recommended in the Recovery Plan, NMFS is establishing a minimum 
approach distance to northern right whales in an attempt to reduce the 
current level of disturbance and potential for vessel interaction and 
injury. Specifically, this interim final rule will prohibit approaches 
within 500 yards (460m) of a right whale, whether by vessel, aircraft 
or other means. The rule will require right whale avoidance measures if 
a vessel or aircraft is within the restricted area. Generally, vessels 
are required to immediately depart from the whale. Exceptions are 
provided for emergency situations, where certain authorizations are 
provided, for aircraft operations (unless the aircraft is conducting 
whale watch activities), for certain right whale disentanglement/rescue 
efforts and investigations, and for a vessel restricted in its ability 
to maneuver and unable to comply with the right whale avoidance 
measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/27/94                    59 FR 66513
ANPRM Comment Period End        02/27/95
NPRM                            08/07/96                    61 FR 41116
NPRM Comment Period End         11/07/96
Interim Final Rule              04/00/97
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Margot Bohan, Marine Mammal Division, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2322

RIN: 0648-AH47
_______________________________________________________________________




575. FINAL RULE; TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; CONSOLIDATION 
OF REGULATIONS

Priority:  Routine and Frequent

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

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1151 to 1175; 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 215; 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To simplify NMFS' Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), NMFS 
issues this final rule to redesignate those regulations governing the 
take of northern fur seals for subsistence purposes on the Pribilof 
Islands. By this rule, an entire part within the CFR is removed. This 
final rule does not make substantive changes to the existing 
regulations. The purpose of this final rule is to make the regulations 
more concise, better organized, and thereby easier for the public to 
use. This action is consistent with the President's Regulatory Reform 
Initiative to simplify regulations and reduce the regulatory burden on 
the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Margot Bohan, Fishery Biologist, Marine Mammal 
Division, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Office of Protected Resources, National Marine 
Fisheries Service, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-0376

RIN: 0648-AI89

[[Page 21571]]

_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SURVEY/OFFICE OF COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



576. HAWAIIAN ISLANDS HUMPBACK WHALE NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1431 et seq (National Marine Sanctuary Act); 
PL 102-587 (Ocean Act of 1992), subtitle C-Hawaiian; Island National 
Marine Sanctuary Act

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulations implement the Congressional designation of the 
Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/15/95                    60 FR 49000
NPRM Comment Period End         12/14/95
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: The proposed rule, summary of draft management 
plan and notice of public availability of the draft environmental 
impact statement was published on September 15, 1995. The 90-day 
comment period ended December 14, 1995.
Completion of this project within the dates projected in the timetable 
is subject to the availability of appropriated funds for NOAA after 
March 15, 1996. At this time, NOAA anticipates that sufficient funds 
will be appropriated to complete this project.

Agency Contact: Stephanie R. Thornton, Chief, Sanctuaries and Reserves 
Division, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1305 East-West Highway (LN/ORM4), Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-3125

RIN: 0648-AH91
_______________________________________________________________________




577. REVISION OF COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT REGULATIONS TO CONFORM TO 
STATUTORY CHANGES

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1451 et seq; PL 104-150 (June 3, 1996), the 
Coastal Zone Protection Act of 19

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 921; 15 CFR 923; 15 CFR 930

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On June 3, 1996, the President signed the Coastal Zone 
Protection Act of 1996. This Act amends the Coastal Zone Management Act 
(16 USC 1451 et seq) to change the allowable uses and match 
requirements for certain grant funds and to change the process for 
consistency appeals. These revisions to the Coastal Zone Management Act 
regulations conform the regulations to the amended statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Vickie Allin, Chief, Policy Coordination Division, 
Office of Ocean & Coastal Resource Mgmt., Department of Commerce, 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1305 East-West Highway 
(N/ORM4), Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-3086

RIN: 0648-AJ24
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR


                    ________________________________



578.  NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MODERNIZATION CRITERIA FOR 
AUTOMATION OF D-SERVICE LEVEL NWS SITES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  PL 102-567; 15 USC 313 note

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 946; 15 CFR 946 app A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with the National 
Research Council and the Modernization Transition Committee, and after 
notice and opportunity for public comment, shall publish in the Federal 
Register modernization criteria (including all requirements and 
procedures) for certifying action to automate a field office under 
section 706 of Public Law 102-567.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/02/96                    61 FR 19594
NPRM Comment Period End         06/01/96
Interim Final Rule              04/01/97
Final Action                    10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nicholas Scheller, Implememtation Manager, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 
9348, 1325 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-0454
Fax: 301 713-1002

RIN: 0648-AJ83

[[Page 21572]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



579. REGULATORY AMENDMENT FOR THE GULF OF ALASKA SEAMOUNT FISHERIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AG94
_______________________________________________________________________




580. AMENDMENT 39 TO THE FMP FOR GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF BSAI, AMENDMENT 
41 TO THE FMP FOR GROUNDFISH OF THE GOA AND AMENDMENT 5 TO THE FMP FOR 
COMMERCIAL KING & TANNER CRAB FISHERIES OF THE BSAI

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AH65
_______________________________________________________________________




581. ADVANCE NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING FOR THE AMERICAN LOBSTER 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 649

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/27/96                    61 FR 13478
ANPRM Comment Period End        05/13/96


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AI14
_______________________________________________________________________




582. AMENDMENT TO THE OBSERVER PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI69
_______________________________________________________________________




583.  REGULATIONS OF GREATER AMBERJACK, LESSER AMBERJACK, BANDED 
RUDDERFISH, AND/OR ALMACOJACK UNDER THE FMP FOR REEFFISH RESOURCES OF 
GOM

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: See RIN: 0648-AJ13

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: This action is being withdrawn since it is now 
part of the regulatory amendment to adjust reef fish management 
measures in the Gulf of Mexico for the 1998 season.

Agency Contact: Andrew Kemmerer, Regional Administrator, Southeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AJ27
_______________________________________________________________________




584.  REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO PREVENT OVERFISHING AND REBUILD 
STOCKS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Implement criteria to identify overfishing and measures to 
prevent overfishing, end overfishing, and rebuild stocks.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ46
_______________________________________________________________________




585.  REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO IMPLEMENT BYCATCH REDUCTION 
MEASURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Implement management measures to lower economic discards and 
provide bycatch reduction incentives.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric

[[Page 21573]]

Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ47
_______________________________________________________________________




586.  AMENDMENTS TO THE BSAI AND GOA FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS TO 
IMPLEMENT A DATA COLLECTION PROGRAM FOR RECREATIONAL, CHARTER, AND 
COMMERCIAL FISHING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: Revise FMPs and regulations to implement data collection 
program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 21668
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ49
_______________________________________________________________________




587.  REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE DEFINITIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Repeal/replace bycatch, recreational, charter and commercial 
fishing, discards, habitat and essential fish habitat, fishing 
communities, IFQ, optimum yield, and vessel definitions in FMP 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ50
_______________________________________________________________________




588.  AMENDMENT 3 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SCALLOP 
FISHERY OFF ALASKA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of the end of the 
comment period on the proposed rule.

Abstract: This FMP amendment delegates management authority to the 
State of Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ51
_______________________________________________________________________




589.  AMENDMENT 49 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline:  NPRM, Statutory. Final, Statutory.
Final regulations to be published within 30 days of end of NPRM comment 
period end.

Abstract: This amendment would implement an improved retention and 
utilization plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer, Regional Administrator, Alaska Region, 
NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, P.O. Box 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ71
_______________________________________________________________________




590.  FINAL DEFINITION OF THE ZERO MORTALITY RATE GOAL

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1361

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline:  Other, Statutory, April 1, 1997.
NMFS must initiate a report to Congress on fisheries progress towards 
the Zero Mortality Rate Goal by April 1, 1997

Abstract: The Marine Mammal Protection Act, as amended in 1994, 
requires that commercial fisheries reduce incidental serious injury and 
mortality of marine mammals to insignificant levels approaching a zero 
mortality and serious injury rate by April 30, 2001. This rule provides 
the final definition of the Zero Mortality Rate Goal as part of the new 
management regime for the unintentional taking of marine mammals 
incidental to commercial fishing operators.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/15/95                    60 FR 31666
NPRM Comment Period End         09/14/95


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

[[Page 21574]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robyn Angliss, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Hwy., Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-0376
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AJ84
_______________________________________________________________________




591. CIVIL PROCEDURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 904

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/02/93                    58 FR 58484
Final Action                    04/00/98

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hugh Schratwieser
Phone: 301 427-2202

RIN: 0648-AF96
_______________________________________________________________________




592. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR TUNA VESSEL OPERATORS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/01/89                    54 FR 46086
NPRM Comment Period End         12/01/89
Interim Final Rule              05/17/90                    55 FR 20458
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/03/90


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AD03
_______________________________________________________________________




593. PROCEDURE FOR SETTING QUOTAS ON REMOVAL OF ATLANTIC BOTTLENOSE 
DOLPHINS FROM THE WATERS OF THE GULF OF MEXICO AND FLORIDA'S EAST COAST

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/31/90                    55 FR 22042
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/02/90


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Ann D. Terbush
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AD39
_______________________________________________________________________




594. SEA TURTLE MONITORING AND CONSERVATION MEASURES FOR NONSHRIMP 
FISHERIES

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 217; 50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 227

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/10/92                    57 FR 30709
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/08/92


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Therese Conant
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AE54
_______________________________________________________________________




595. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; DOLPHIN MORTALITY LIMITS 
DURING PURSE SEINE SETS ON MARINE MAMMALS IN THE EASTERN TROPICAL 
PACIFIC

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216.24

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/19/93                    58 FR 29127


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AF07
_______________________________________________________________________




596. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; ``DOLPHIN-SAFE'' TUNA 
LABELING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216; 50 CFR 247

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/19/91                    56 FR 47418


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AF08
_______________________________________________________________________




597. PROPOSED RULE TO REQUIRE CERTAIN FISH FROM MEXICO TO RETAIN HEADS 
AND TAILS INTACT IN ORDER TO PROTECT THE ENDANGERED TOTOABA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 227

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead
Phone: 301 713-2055

RIN: 0648-AF32
_______________________________________________________________________




598. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO FISHERIES-RELATED RESEARCH

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 228; 50 CFR 216

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/09/91                    56 FR 64234
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/08/92


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead
Phone: 301 713-2055

RIN: 0648-AF50
_______________________________________________________________________




599. DESIGNATED CRITICAL HABITAT; JOHNSON'S SEAGRASS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 226

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/04/94                    59 FR 39716
NPRM Comment Period End         10/13/94
Final Action                    06/15/98
Final Action Effective          07/15/98

[[Page 21575]]

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Margaret C. Lorenz
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AF79
_______________________________________________________________________




600. FOREIGN NATIONS' MARINE MAMMAL PROGRAM AMENDMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216.24(e)(5)(v)(B)

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AG05
_______________________________________________________________________




601. DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR THE GULF OF MAINE POPULATION OF 
HARBOR PORPOISE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 226

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michael Payne
Phone: 301 713-2322

RIN: 0648-AG06
_______________________________________________________________________




602. DIRECT TAKE OF THREATENED SALMON BY NATIVE AMERICANS

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 227.21

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AG15
_______________________________________________________________________




603. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS: TUNA PURSE SEINE VESSEL 
OBSERVER EXPENSES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216.24

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero
Phone: 301 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AG35
_______________________________________________________________________




604. GENERAL PROVISIONS; ENDANGERED FISH OR WILDLIFE; THREATENED FISH 
AND WILDLIFE; SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION MEASURES (SECTION 9 PROTECTION)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 217; 50 CFR 220; 50 CFR 221; 50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 
223; 50 CFR 224; 50 CFR 227

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/10/92                    57 FR 30709
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/08/92


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Robert C. Ziobro
Phone: 310 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AG38
_______________________________________________________________________




605. DESIGNATED CRITICAL HABITAT; ATLANTIC SALMON

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 226

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marta Nammack
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AG50
_______________________________________________________________________




606. PROPOSED RULE TO AUTHORIZE LETHAL TAKINGS OF MARINE MAMMALS BY 
STATE AUTHORITIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead
Phone: 301 713-2055

RIN: 0648-AG79
_______________________________________________________________________




607. FINAL RULE TO AMEND MARINE MAMMAL REGULATIONS TO AUTHORIZE 
INCIDENTAL TAKINGS OF MARINE MAMMALS BY HARASSMENT AS AUTHORIZED BY 
PUBLIC LAW 103-238

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:  50 CFR 216

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/31/95                    60 FR 28379
NPRM Comment Period End         10/16/95                    60 FR 35891
Interim Final Rule              04/10/96                    61 FR 15884
Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead
Phone: 301 713-2055

RIN: 0648-AG80
_______________________________________________________________________




608. TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS: PROPOSED RULE PROHIBITING 
U.S. CITIZENS FROM ENCIRCLING MARINE MAMMALS DURING TUNA FISHING 
OPERATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 216.24

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/12/94                    59 FR 51552
NPRM Comment Period End         11/14/94


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hilda Diaz-Soltero
Phone: 310 980-4001

RIN: 0648-AH04
_______________________________________________________________________




609. SHRIMP VESSEL REGISTRATION REQUIREMENT

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 227

[[Page 21576]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/13/95                    60 FR 47597
NPRM                            00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Therese Conant
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AH87
_______________________________________________________________________




610. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO COMMERCIAL FISHING 
OPERATIONS; TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS AND EMERGENCY REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 229

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Vicki Cornish/Michael Payne
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-0376

RIN: 0648-AI84
_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SURVEY/OFFICE OF COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



611. REVISION OF FEDERAL CONSISTENCY REGULATIONS UNDER THE COASTAL ZONE 
MANAGEMENT ACT

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 930

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Agency Contact: Margo F. Jackson
Phone: 301 713-2967

RIN: 0648-AD83
_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR


                    ________________________________



612. REGIONAL MARINE RESEARCH PROGRAM

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Don Scavia
Phone: 301 713-3338

RIN: 0648-AF20
_______________________________________________________________________




613. NOAA CLIMATE AND GLOBAL CHANGE PROGRAM--PROPOSAL SUBMISSION 
GUIDELINES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  Not yet determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Irma DuPree
Phone: 301 427-2089

RIN: 0648-AG51
_______________________________________________________________________




614. NATIONAL UNDERSEA RESEARCH PROGRAM FUNDING REGULATIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  None

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Henry Frey
Phone: 301 713-2448

RIN: 0648-AH90
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Completed Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________




615. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE QUEEN CONCH FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO 
AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/13/96                    61 FR 65481
Final Action Effective          01/13/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AD91
_______________________________________________________________________




616. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REQUIRE ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION OF 
OBSERVER DATA IN THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE GOA AND BSAI

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/02/96                    60 FR 63759
Final Action Effective          07/01/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AE78
_______________________________________________________________________




617. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO IMPLEMENT TRAWL MESH RESTRICTIONS FOR THE 
BSAI TRAWL FISHERIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action -NMFS does not 
intend to implement these 
management measures             10/30/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AF57

[[Page 21577]]

_______________________________________________________________________




618. AMENDMENT 8 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FMP TO IMPLEMENT 
INDIVIDUAL QUOTAS FOR THE FIXED-GEAR SABLEFISH FISHERY (OR REGULATORY 
AMENDMENT FOR NONTRAWL TRIP LIMITS)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn Magnuson-Stevens Act - 
section 303(d)                  02/04/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William Stelle
Phone: 206 526-6150

RIN: 0648-AF90
_______________________________________________________________________




619. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY 
OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/09/96                    61 FR 47446

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AG26
_______________________________________________________________________




620. AMENDMENT 12 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/16/96                    61 FR 65983

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AG29
_______________________________________________________________________




621. REGULATORY AMENDMENT ALLOWING YEAR-ROUND INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA 
FISHING IN THE ALEUTIAN ISLANDS AREA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn -NMFS does not intend 
to implement these management 
measures                        09/27/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AG97
_______________________________________________________________________




622. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO INCREASE INDIVIDUAL FISHERY QUOTA LIMITS

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Duplicate of Rule 
Published Under RIN 0648-AJ05   11/30/96                    61 FR 63812

RIN: 0648-AH02
_______________________________________________________________________




623. AMENDMENT 9 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 902; 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/16/96                    61 FR 58461
Final Action Effective          12/16/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Andrew A. Rosenberg
Phone: 518 281-9250

RIN: 0648-AH06
_______________________________________________________________________




624. FMP AMENDMENT 37 TO THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BSAI

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/16/96                    61 FR 65985
Final Action Effective          01/01/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AH28
_______________________________________________________________________




625. STRIPED BASS REGULATIONS FOR THE EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE (EEZ)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 656

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       12/05/96                    61 FR 64497

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Richard H. Schaefer
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AH57
_______________________________________________________________________




626. AMENDMENT 14 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/25/97                    62 FR 13983
Final Action Effective          04/24/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI47
_______________________________________________________________________




627. INTERIM FINAL RULE TO IMPLEMENT HIGH SEAS FISHING COMPLIANCE ACT OF 
1995; PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 300

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action - Completed by RIN 
0648-AI22                       07/05/96                    61 FR 35548

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary Matlock
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AI50

[[Page 21578]]

_______________________________________________________________________




628. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ADJUST RED SNAPPER MANAGEMENT MEASURES IN 
THE GULF OF MEXICO FOR 1997 SEASON

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/28/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI54
_______________________________________________________________________




629. NEGOTIATED RULEMAKING ON MID-ATLANTIC TUNA FISHERY DISPUTE

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:  50 CFR 285; 50 CFR 630; 50 CFR 644; 50 CFR 678

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/29/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock
Phone: 301 713-2334
Fax: 310 713-0596

RIN: 0648-AI60
_______________________________________________________________________




630. AMENDMENT 43 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BERING 
SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS AND AMENDMENT 43 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH 
FISHERY OF THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/26/96                    61 FR 67962
Final Action Effective          12/20/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI61
_______________________________________________________________________




631. AMENDMENT 41 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BERING 
SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/24/97                    62 FR 13839
Final Action Effective          04/23/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI62
_______________________________________________________________________




632. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH A DATE OF DECEMBER 1 FOR THE 
REOPENING OF A BERING SEA POLLOCK AND/OR COD FISHERY IF SUFFICIENT 
AMOUNTS OF FISH REMAIN FOR A DIRECTED FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - North Pacific FMC 
Declined Adoption at 12/96 
Meeting                         12/31/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI64
_______________________________________________________________________




633. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REVISE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE BYCATCH AMOUNTS 
ESTABLISHED FOR THE ALASKA GROUNDFISH FISHERIES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/11/97                    62 FR 11109
Final Action Effective          04/10/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI65
_______________________________________________________________________




634. INTERIM FINAL RULE TO THE NORTH PACIFIC FISHERIES RESEARCH PLAN

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/01/96                    61 FR 56425
Final Action Effective          01/01/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steve Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI67
_______________________________________________________________________




635. AMENDMENT 46 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BERING 
SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/20/96                    61 FR 59029
Final Action Effective          01/01/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI70
_______________________________________________________________________




636. AMENDMENT 2 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE RED DRUM FISHERY 
OF THE GULF OF MEXICO (FMP)

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/28/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI73
_______________________________________________________________________




637. AMENDMENT 9 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

[[Page 21579]]

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - Incorporated With 
Amendment 8                     01/28/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI74
_______________________________________________________________________




638. AMENDMENT 5 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE ATLANTIC SEA 
SCALLOP FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/14/97                     61 FR 1829
Final Action Effective          02/13/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AI77
_______________________________________________________________________




639. AMENDMENT 6 TO THE AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP) 
AMENDMENT 6 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FMP, AND AMENDMENT 8 TO THE 
NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FMP

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648; 50 CFR 649

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/10/97                     61 FR 1403
Final Action Effective          02/10/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AI83
_______________________________________________________________________




640. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH TRIP LIMITS APPLICABLE TO THE 
COMMERCIAL FISHERY FOR ATLANTIC MIGRATORY GROUP OF KING MACKEREL

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/17/96                    61 FR 48848
Final Action Effective          09/23/96

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI92
_______________________________________________________________________




641. AMENDMENT 47 TO THE BSAI FMP; AMENDMENT 47 TO THE GOA FMP AND 
AMENDMENT 6 TO THE COMMERCIAL KING AND TANNER CRAB FMP OF THE BSAI

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/01/96                    61 FR 56425
Final Action Effective          01/01/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI95
_______________________________________________________________________




642. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ALLOW USE OF LONGLINE POT GEAR IN THE 
DIRECTED SABLEFISH FISHERY IN THE BERING SEA

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/18/96                    61 FR 49076
Final Action Effective          09/12/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AI96
_______________________________________________________________________




643. REGULATORY AMENDMENT UNDER THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REEF 
FISH FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE VIRGIN ISLANDS (FMP) CONCERNING RED 
HIND AGGREGATION CLOSURE

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/05/96                    61 FR 64485
Final Action Effective          12/07/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew J. Kemmerer
Phone: 813 570-5301

RIN: 0648-AI97
_______________________________________________________________________




644. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO INCREASE THE HALIBUT INDIVIDUAL FISHING 
QUOTA USE LIMITATIONS IN INTERNATIONAL PACIFIC HALIBUT COMMISSION AREA 4

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/21/97                     62 FR 7947
Final Action Effective          03/24/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ05
_______________________________________________________________________




645. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO INCREASE OBSERVER COVERAGE IN THE BSAI 
DURING THE POLLOCK ``A'' OR ROE SEASON

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       12/31/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ10
_______________________________________________________________________




646. INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES REGULATIONS; PACIFIC HALIBUT FISHERIES; 
CATCH SHARING PLANS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 300

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/18/97                    12 FR 12759

Small Entities Affected: None

[[Page 21580]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steven Pennoyer
Phone: 907 586-7228

RIN: 0648-AJ11
_______________________________________________________________________




647.  FISHERIES OF THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES; NORTHEAST 
MULTISPECIES FISHERY; MONKFISH EXEMPTED TRAWL FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Allows a year-round exempted trawl fishery for monkfish south 
of 40 degree 10' N. Lat. and East of 72 degree 30' West Long. Allows 
additional bycatch species in the Cultivator Shoal Whiting Fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/17/96                    61 FR 54105

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ25
_______________________________________________________________________




648.  FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 19 TO THE FMP FOR THE NORTHEAST 
MULTISPECIES FISHERY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Changes the time and area of the current multispecies mid-
coast closure area within the Gulf of Maine and establishes an 
exemption to allow sink gillnet vessels to fish in the reopened area 
when utilizing acoustic devices (pingers) on their nets.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/29/96                    61 FR 55774

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ26
_______________________________________________________________________




649.  FISHERY OF THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES; NORTHEAST 
MULTI- SPECIES FISHERY: FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 17

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Restores unused days-at-sea (DAS) to vessels enrolled in the 
DAS effort-control call-in system that fished less than one-sixth of 
their amendment 7 DAS allocation during May and June 1996.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/14/96                    61 FR 58365
NPRM Comment Period End         11/25/96
Final Action                    01/17/97                     62 FR 2619

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andrew A. Rosenberg, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 508 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AJ31
_______________________________________________________________________




650.  ATLANTIC TUNA FISHERY; PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

Priority:  Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority:  16 USC 971 et seq

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 285

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Removes references to Regional Director for purposes of 
permit issuance.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/30/96                      62 FR 331
Final Action Effective          12/30/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary C. Matlock, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AJ41
_______________________________________________________________________




651. FISHING VESSEL CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION FUND PROCEDURES--ELIGIBILITY 
FOR SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 259

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/03/97                      62 FR 330
Final Action Effective          02/03/97

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles L. Cooper
Phone: 301 713-2396

RIN: 0648-AF22
_______________________________________________________________________




652. CIVIL ENFORCEMENT PROCEEDINGS: OPPORTUNITY FOR IN-PERSON HEARING

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 904

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/22/96                    61 FR 54729
Final Action Effective          10/22/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Joel LaBissonniere
Phone: 301 427-2202
Fax: 301 427-2211
Email: Joel R. LaBissonniere@GCEL@NOAA

RIN: 0648-AI53
_______________________________________________________________________




653. IDENTIFICATION OF SPECIAL SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION AREAS AND 
APPROPRIATE CONSERVATION MEASURES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  50 CFR 227; 50 CFR 217

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/19/96                    61 FR 66933
Final Action Effective          12/19/96

[[Page 21581]]

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Therese Conant
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AH89
_______________________________________________________________________




654. FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority:  Other Significant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 929

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/30/97                     62 FR 4578
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Stephanie R. Thornton
Phone: 301 713-3125

RIN: 0648-AD85
_______________________________________________________________________




655. RESTRICTING OR PROHIBITING ATTRACTING SHARKS IN THE MONTEREY BAY 
NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 922

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/19/96                    61 FR 66913
Final Action Effective          01/21/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Elizabeth Moore
Phone: 301 713-3145

RIN: 0648-AH92
_______________________________________________________________________




656. NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE MODERNIZATION CRITERIA FOR CLOSURE 
CERTIFICATION

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 946; 15 CFR 946 app A

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/11/96                    61 FR 53307
Final Action Effective          10/11/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nicholas Scheller
Phone: 301 713-0454
Fax: 301 713-1002

RIN: 0648-AI90
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Completed Actions


National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)



_______________________________________________________________________




657. PUBLIC TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES 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:  15 CFR 2301

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/08/96                    61 FR 57966
Final Action Effective          11/08/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bernadette McGuire-Rivera, Ph.D.
Phone: 202 482-5802
Fax: 202 482-2156
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0660-AA09
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




658. PATENT PROCESS REENGINEERING

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:  35 USC 6

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Implement changes required to support reengineered patent 
process.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stephen G. Kunin, Deputy Assistant Commissioner for 
Patent Policy and Projects, Department of Commerce, Patent and 
Trademark Office, Box DAC, Assistant Commissioner for Patents, 
Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-8825

RIN: 0651-AA84
_______________________________________________________________________




659. MISCELLANEOUS CHANGES TO TTAB RULES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  15 USC 1123

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 2.76(a) and (g); 37 CFR 2.85(e); 37 CFR 2.87(b); 
37 CFR 2.101(d)(1); 37 CFR 2.102(c) and (d); 37 CFR 2.111(b) and 
(c)(1); 37 CFR 2.117; 37 CFR 2.119(d); 37 CFR 2.120(a); 37 CFR 
2.121(d); 37 CFR 2.122(b) and (d); 37 CFR 2.123(b) and (f); 37 CFR 
2.127(b); 37 CFR 2.134(a); 37 CFR 2.146(e)(1); ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These changes clarify TTAB rules, conform the rules to 
current practice, make minor modifications to simplify practice, and 
make minor corrections.

[[Page 21582]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/97
Final Action                    09/00/97
Final Action Effective          09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Sams, Chief Administrative Trademark Judge, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, 2900 Crystal 
Drive, BOX TTAB, Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: 703 308-9300
Fax: 703 308-9333

RIN: 0651-AA87
_______________________________________________________________________




660. LIMITATIONS IN PATENT CLAIMS

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:  35 USC 6; 35 USC 112

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1.75

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will clarify claims and thereby expedite 
examination of patent applications. The rule will accomplish this by 
creating a framework for interpreting the language in claims.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth Corsello, Associate Solicitor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Box 8, Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 202 305-9041
Fax: 703 305-9373
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AA91
_______________________________________________________________________




661. REVISION OF PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 1998

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  35 USC 41; 35 USC 1115; 35 USC 6; 35 USC 376; 35 USC 
1051; 15 USC 1113; 15 USC 1123; PL 101-508; PL 102-204; PL 103-66

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1.16; 37 CFR 1.17; 37 CFR 1.18; 37 CFR 1.19; 37 
CFR 1.20; 37 CFR 1.21; 37 CFR 1.26; 37 CFR 1.445; 37 CFR 1.482; 37 CFR 
1.492; 37 CFR 2.6

Legal Deadline:  Final, Statutory, October 1, 1997.

Abstract: This rulemaking revises certain patent and trademark fees to 
reflect fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) consistent with 
the Patent and Trademark Authorization Act of 1991 (Public Law 102-
204).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/97
Final Action                    08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Lees, Systems Analyst, Office of Finance, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Commissioner of 
Patents and Trademarks, Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 305-8051

RIN: 0651-AA92
_______________________________________________________________________




662. REQUIREMENTS FOR REGISTRATION TO PRACTICE BEFORE THE PTO IN PATENT 
CASES

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  35 USC 31; 35 USC 32

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1.21; 37 CFR 10.7; 37 CFR 10.11

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking involves the restructuring of the 
administration and format of the Registration Examination for Patent 
Practitioners and the establishment of a continuing education 
requirement and annual fee for registered practitioners.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/30/96                    61 FR 51072
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/06/96
NPRM                            04/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/97
Final Action                    06/00/97
Final Action Effective          07/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Karen L. Bovard, Director of Enrollment and Discipline, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Commissioner of 
Patents and Trademarks, Box 4, Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 305-5316
Fax: 703 305-5276

RIN: 0651-AA93
_______________________________________________________________________




663.  1997 CHANGES TO PATENT PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

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:  35 USC 6

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule changes would simplify requirements, 
rearrange for better context, and eliminate unnecessary rules.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/97
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hiram H. Bernstein, Senior Legal Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Box DAC, Assistant Commissioner 
for Patents, Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 305-9285
Fax: 703 308-6916

RIN: 0651-AA94

[[Page 21583]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




664. CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT 18-MONTH PUBLICATION OF PATENT APPLICATIONS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  35 USC 6

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Congress is considering legislation that would mandate early 
publication of pending patent applications, except those under secrecy 
order. Early publication will require printing some information about 
pending patent applications 18 months after the effective filing date 
of each patent application. This rulemaking implements that 
legislation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Public Hearing and 
Request for Public Comments     12/12/94                    59 FR 63966
NPRM                            08/15/95                    60 FR 42352
NPRM Comment Period End         09/19/95
Final Action                    08/00/97
Final Action Effective          09/00/97
Procedures for Amending Patent Applications  Final Rule 08/19/96 (61 FR 
42790)  Final Rule Effective 09/23/96

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: This rulemaking incorporates RIN 0651-AA62: 
Procedures for Amending Patent Applications. Two final rules will issue 
from this action.

Agency Contact: Stephen G. Kunin, Deputy Assistant Commissioner for 
Patent Policy and Projects, Department of Commerce, Patent and 
Trademark Office, Box DAC, Assistant Commisioner for Patents, 
Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-8825

RIN: 0651-AA75
_______________________________________________________________________




665. RULES OF PRACTICE IN PATENT CASES; REEXAMINATION PROCEEDINGS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  35 USC 6

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1.901 to 1.907; 37 CFR 1.909; 37 CFR 1.911; 37 
CFR 1.913; 37 CFR 1.915; 37 CFR 1.917; 37 CFR 1.919; 37 CFR 1.921; 37 
CFR 1.923

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Proposed rules establish procedures for the Commissioner to 
reexamine U.S. patents. The rules afford third parties opportunity for 
greater participation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/11/95                    60 FR 41035
NPRM Comment Period End         09/22/95
Final Action                    08/00/97
Final Action Effective          09/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gerald A. Dost, Senior Legal Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Commissioner of Patents & 
Trademarks, Office of Petitions, Crystal Park 1, Rm. 520
Phone: 703 305-9282
Fax: 703 305-8825

RIN: 0651-AA79
_______________________________________________________________________




666. 1996 CHANGES TO PATENT PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE

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:  35 USC 6

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 3; 37 CFR 5; 37 CFR 7

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule changes would simplify requirements, 
rearrange for better context, and eliminate unnecessary rules.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/23/96                    61 FR 49820
NPRM Comment Period End         11/22/96
Final Action                    04/00/97
Final Action Effective          06/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hiram H. Bernstein, Senior Legal Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Box DAC, Assistant Commissioner 
for Patents, Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 305-9285
Fax: 703 308-6916

RIN: 0651-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________




667. CHANGES IMPLEMENTING INTERNATIONAL ACCEPTABLE NUCLEOTIDE AND/OR 
AMINO ACID SEQUENCE LISTINGS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  35 USC 6

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 1.77; 37 CFR 1.821; 37 CFR 1.822; 37 CFR 1.823; 
37 CFR 1.824; 37 CFR 1.825

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking simplifies the requirements for submitting 
nucleic acid or amino acid sequences in computer readable form.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/04/96                    61 FR 51855
NPRM Comment Period End         12/03/96
Final Action                    08/00/97
Final Action Effective          10/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Esther M. Kepplinger, Department of Commerce, Patent 
and Trademark Office, Box Comments-Patents, Assistant Commisioner for 
Patents, Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 308-2339
Fax: 703 308-3601
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AA88

[[Page 21584]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




668. PATENT APPLICATION ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION 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:  37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 2

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/30/92                    57 FR 56537
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/01/93


Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Paul Salmon
Phone: 703 305-8600

RIN: 0651-AA50
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Technology Administration (TA)



_______________________________________________________________________




669. RIGHTS TO INVENTIONS MADE BY NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND SMALL 
BUSINESS FIRMS UNDER GOVERNMENT GRANTS, CONTRACTS, AND COOPERATIVE 
AGREEMENTS

Priority:  Other Significant

Legal Authority:  35 USC 206

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 401

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are evaluating the comments and will be making minor 
changes to the regulation which permitted electronic reporting of 
inventions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/14/95                    60 FR 41811
Comment Period End              09/13/95
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Jon Paugh, Acting Director, Technology Competitiveness, 
Department of Commerce, Technology Administration, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2100

RIN: 0692-AA14
_______________________________________________________________________




670. ACQUISITION AND PROTECTION OF FOREIGN RIGHTS IN INVENTIONS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority:  EO 10096; 15 USC 3710d

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 101; 37 CFR 501

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On August 7, 1996, 37 CFR part 101 was abolished and 37 CFR 
part 501 expanded to cover foreign rights of inventions made by Federal 
employees.
We are evaluating the comments received on the interim final rule and 
will be making minor changes to the regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/07/96                    61 FR 40997
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: John H. Raubitschek, Patent Counsel, Department of 
Commerce, Technology Administration, RH4613, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-8010
Fax: 202 482-0523

RIN: 0692-AA15
_______________________________________________________________________




671. LICENSING OF FOREIGN PATENTS ACQUIRED BY THE GOVERNMENT

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:  EO 9865; 35 USC 207; 35 USC 208; 35 USC 209

CFR Citation:  37 CFR 102; 37 CFR 404

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On August 7, 1996 37 CFR part 102 was abolished.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/07/96                    61 FR 40997
Final Action                    04/00/97

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: John H. Raubitschek, Patent Counsel, Department of 
Commerce, Technology Administration, RH 4613, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-8010
Fax: 202 482-0528

RIN: 0692-AA16
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Technology Administration (TA)



_______________________________________________________________________




672. PROMOTION OF PRIVATE SECTOR INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY PARTNERSHIPS

Priority:  Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation:  15 CFR 1160 subpart A

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           00/00/00

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Mark Bohannon
Phone: 202 482-1984

RIN: 0692-AA13

[[Page 21585]]

_______________________________________________________________________




673. LICENSING OF GOVERNMENT-OWNED INVENTIONS

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:  37 CFR 404

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: None

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John H. Raubitschek
Phone: 202 482-8010
Fax: 202 482-0523

RIN: 0692-AA17
[FR Doc. 97-5790 Filed 04-24-97; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-BW-F