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


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Part III





Department of Agriculture





_______________________________________________________________________



Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                                       


  



_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Office of the Secretary

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

9 CFR Chs. I-IV

36 CFR Ch. II

41 CFR Ch. 4

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, April 2001

AGENCY:  Office of the Secretary, USDA.

ACTION:  Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY:  This agenda provides summary descriptions of significant and 
not significant regulations being developed in agencies of the U.S. 
Department of Agriculture (USDA) in conformance with Executive Order 
12866 ``Regulatory Planning and Review.'' The agenda also describes 
regulations affecting small entities as required by section 602 of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act, Public Law 96-354. This agenda also 
identifies regulatory actions that are being reviewed in compliance 
with section 610(c) of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We invite public 
comment on those actions.

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

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

Dated: March 12, 2001.

 Jacquelyn Y. Chandler,

Chief, Legislative and Regulatory and Automated Systems Staff.

                               Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1           Processed Fruits and Vegetables: Qualified Through Verification (QTV)...............     0581-AB58
2           General Specifications for Dairy Plants Approved for USDA Inspection and Grading....     0581-AB59
3           Tobacco Fees and Charges for Permissive Inspection: Fee Increase....................     0581-AB86
4           Hass Avocado Promotion, Research, and Information Order.............................     0581-AB92
5           Revision of User Fees for 2001 Crop Cotton Classification Services to Growers (CN-00-    0581-AB94
            010)................................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6           Voluntary Shell Egg Regulations; Repackaging of Shell Eggs Under USDA's Grading          0581-AB56
            Program.............................................................................
7           Honey Research, Promotion, and Consumer Information Order...........................     0581-AB84
8           Tobacco Fees and Charges for Mandatory Inspection: Fee Increase.....................     0581-AB87
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9           National Laboratory Accreditation Program...........................................     0581-AB42
10          Olive Oil Promotion, Research, and Information Order................................     0581-AB62
11          Changes in Fees for Federal Grading and Certification of Livestock for Chicago           0581-AB66
            Mercantile Exchange Futures Deliveries..............................................
12          Program To Assess Organic Certifying Agencies.......................................     0581-AB70
13          Regulations Governing the Inspection of Eggs........................................     0581-AB74
14          Voluntary Grading of Shell Eggs (PY-01-002).........................................     0581-AB88
15          Discontinue the Official Grading of Imported Beef, Lamb, Veal, and Calf Carcasses        0581-AB90
            Under the Authority of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946.......................
16          Subpart A--Regulations Governing the Inspection and Grading Service of Manufactured      0581-AB93
            or Processed Dairy Products.........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 25169]]


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17          National Organic Program............................................................     0581-AA40
18          Livestock Mandatory Reporting Act of 1999...........................................     0581-AB64
19          Regulations Governing the Certification of Sanitary Design and Fabrication of            0581-AB69
            Equipment Used in the Processing of Livestock and Poultry Products..................
20          Changes in Fee for Voluntary Federal Fruits and Vegetables, Processed...............     0581-AB85
21          Changes in Fees for Science and Technology Laboratory Service (S&T-99-008 PR).......     0581-AB91
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Farm Service Agency--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22          Regulatory Streamlining of the Farm Service Agency's Direct Farm Loan Programs......     0560-AF60
23          Livestock Indemnity Program and Livestock Indemnity Program for Contract Growers....     0560-AG33
24          Conservation Reserve Program--Failure To Establish Cover and Good Faith Reliance....     0560-AG37
25          Implementation of the U.S. Warehouse Act of 2000....................................     0560-AG45
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                      Farm Service Agency--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
26          Part 1946 Mediation; Subpart A--Agricultural Loan Mediation Program.................     0560-AE26
27          Lamb Meat Adjustment Assistance Program.............................................     0560-AG17
28          Reduction of Amortized Shared Appreciation Recapture Interest Rate..................     0560-AG43
29          Collecting Guaranteed Loss Payments from FSA Farm Loan Program Borrowers............     0560-AG44
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Farm Service Agency--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30          Selection and Functions of Farm Service Agency State and County Committees..........     0560-AE33
31          Amendments to the Standards for Approval of Warehouse for Commodity Credit               0560-AE50
            Corporation Storage Contracts.......................................................
32          Deletion of FSA Regulations Regarding Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program.     0560-AE54
33          Amendments to the Debt Settlement Policies and Procedures To Conform to the Debt         0560-AF22
            Collection Improvement Act of 1996..................................................
34          Amendment to the Farm Reconstitution Regulations....................................     0560-AF36
35          Dairy Recourse Loan Program.........................................................     0560-AF41
36          1999-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Burley Tobacco................     0560-AF50
37          Remove Internal Agency Provisions From FSA Farm Credit Program Regulations for           0560-AF53
            Liquidation of Loans Secured by Real Estate and Acquisition of Real and Chattel
            Property............................................................................
38          Small Hog Operation Payment Plan....................................................     0560-AF70
39          Low Documentation Loan..............................................................     0560-AF71
40          Streamlining of the Emergency Farm Loan Program Regulations.........................     0560-AF72
41          Amendments to the Conservation Reserve Program Regulations Regarding Land                0560-AF77
            Eligibility.........................................................................
42          2000-Crop Peanuts National Poundage Quota, National Average Loan Rates for Quota and     0560-AF83
            Additional Peanuts and Minimum Export-Edible Sales Price for Additional Peanuts.....
43          2000-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Flue-Cured Tobacco............     0560-AF84
44          Disaster Set-Aside Program..........................................................     0560-AF91
45          Designation of Non-Auction Tobacco..................................................     0560-AG07
46          Agricultural Disaster and Market Assistance.........................................     0560-AG14
47          Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program Regulations for the 2001 and Succeeding      0560-AG20
            Crop Years..........................................................................
48          Northeast Interstate Dairy Compact..................................................     0560-AG25
49          Emergency Conservation Program......................................................     0560-AG26
50          2001-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Flue-Cured Tobacco............     0560-AG28

[[Page 25170]]

 
51          2001-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Burley Tobacco................     0560-AG29
52          2001-Crop Marketing and Price Support Levels for Five Kinds of Tobacco..............     0560-AG30
53          2001-Crop Peanuts National Poundage Quota, National Average Loan Rates for 2001-Crop     0560-AG31
            Quota and Additional Peanuts and Minimum Export Edible Sales Price for Additional
            Peanuts.............................................................................
54          Conservation of Farmable Wetlands...................................................     0560-AG38
55          Tobacco Loss Assistance Program and Amendments to the Tobacco Marketing Quota            0560-AG40
            Regulations.........................................................................
56          Collection of Appraisal Fees for Farm Loan Programs, Insured Loans..................     0560-AG42
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Farm Service Agency--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
57          Small Farmer Outreach Training and Technical Assistance Program.....................     0560-AE17
58          Amendments to the Farmer Account Servicing Policies.................................     0560-AE42
59          Amendment to the Cotton Warehouse Regulations Regarding the Definition of                0560-AF13
            ``Unnecessary Delay''...............................................................
60          Amendments to the Forage Provisions of the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance           0560-AF23
            Program.............................................................................
61          Sugar Program Information Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements..................     0560-AF31
62          Debt Settlement for Indian Tribal Land Acquisition Loans............................     0560-AF43
63          Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program Regulations for the 1998 and Succeeding      0560-AF46
            Crop Years..........................................................................
64          Cleaning and Reinspection of Farmers' Stock Peanuts.................................     0560-AF56
65          Amendments to the Regulations Governing the Peanut Poundage Quota and Price Support      0560-AF61
            Programs............................................................................
66          Production Flexibility Contracts for Wheat, Feed Grains, Rice, and Upland Cotton....     0560-AF79
67          Suspension of Collection of Recapture Amount for Borrowers with Certain Shared           0560-AF80
            Appreciation Agreements.............................................................
68          2000-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Burley Tobacco................     0560-AF85
69          2000-Crop Marketing Quotas and Price Support Levels for Five Kinds of Tobacco.......     0560-AF86
70          Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program Regulations for the 1999 and Succeeding      0560-AF90
            Years...............................................................................
71          Farm Storage Facility Loan Program..................................................     0560-AG00
72          Clarification of Cash Flow Margin Requirements for Farm Service Agency Guaranteed        0560-AG15
            Loans...............................................................................
73          Bioenergy Program...................................................................     0560-AG16
74          2000-Crop Agricultural Disaster and Market Assistance...............................     0560-AG18
75          Market Assistance for Tobacco, Wool and Mohair, and Cottonseed......................     0560-AG19
76          Amendments to the Tobacco Program Regulations.......................................     0560-AG21
77          Grazing Payments for 2001 Wheat, Barley, or Oats....................................     0560-AG22
78          Special Apple Program and Emergency Loan for Seed Producers Program.................     0560-AG23
79          Handling Payments from the Farm Service Agency to Delinquent Farm Credit Program         0560-AG24
            Borrowers...........................................................................
80          Sugar Payment-In-Kind Program.......................................................     0560-AG27
81          Livestock Assistance, American Indian Livestock Feed, Pasture Recovery, and Dairy        0560-AG32
            Price Support Programs..............................................................
82          Dairy, Honey, and Cranberry Market Loss Assistance and Sugar Programs...............     0560-AG34
83          Wool, Mohair, and Apples............................................................     0560-AG35
84          2000 Crop Disaster Program..........................................................     0560-AG36
85          2001 Dairy Indemnity Payment Program................................................     0560-AG39
86          Limited California Cooperative Insolvency Payment Program...........................     0560-AG41
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
87          Plant Pest Regulations; Update of Current Provisions (Section 610 Review)...........     0579-AA80
88          Importation of Solid Wood Packing Material..........................................     0579-AA99
89          Blood and Tissue Collection at Livestock Slaughtering Establishments................     0579-AB13
90          Importation of Unshu Oranges........................................................     0579-AB17
91          Phytosanitary Certificates for Imported Fruits and Vegetables.......................     0579-AB18
92          Bees, Beekeeping Byproducts, and Beekeeping Equipment (Section 610 Review)..........     0579-AB20
93          Exportation of Livestock (Section 610 Review).......................................     0579-AB21
94          Veterinary Diagnostic User Fees--5-Year Plan for Fees (Section 610 Review)..........     0579-AB22

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95          Nursery Stock Regulations (Section 610 Review)......................................     0579-AB23
96          Animal Welfare--Standards for Marine Mammals (Section 610 Review)...................     0579-AB24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
97          Karnal Bunt.........................................................................     0579-AA83
98          Interstate Movement of Sheep and Goats From States That Do Not Quarantine Scrapie-       0579-AA90
            Infected and Source Flocks (Section 610 Review).....................................
99          Animal Welfare; Inspection, Licensing, and Procurement of Animals (Section 610           0579-AA94
            Review).............................................................................
100         Irradiation Phytosanitary Treatment of Imported Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.........     0579-AA97
101         Establishment of Regions in the European Union for Hog Cholera, Foot-and-Mouth           0579-AB03
            Disease, and Swine Vesicular Disease................................................
102         Commercial Transportation of Equines to Slaughter...................................     0579-AB06
103         Citrus Canker; Payments for Commercial Citrus Tree Replacement and Lost Production       0579-AB15
            Income..............................................................................
104         Plum Pox Compensation...............................................................     0579-AB19
105         Animal Welfare; Policy on Environment Enhancement for Nonhuman Primates.............     0579-AB25
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
106         Importation of Certain Embryos and Animal Semen (Section 610 Review)................     0579-AA63
107         Importation of Fuji Apples From the Republic of Korea...............................     0579-AA93
108         Restrictions on the Importation of Ruminants, Meat and Meat Products From Ruminants,     0579-AA98
            and Certain Other Ruminant Products.................................................
109         Requiring Treatment of Solid Wood Packing Material From China.......................     0579-AB01
110         Importation of Unmanufactured Wood Articles From Mexico.............................     0579-AB02
111         Horse Protection; Horse Industry Organizations......................................     0579-AB04
112         Noxious Weeds; Weed Categories and Priorities (Section 610 Review)..................     0579-AB07
113         Noxious Weeds; Restrictions on Interstate Movement..................................     0579-AB08
114         Aquaculture; Farm-Raised Fin Fish...................................................     0579-AB09
115         Pseudorabies in Swine; Payment of Indemnity.........................................     0579-AB10
116         Importation of Beef From Brazil.....................................................     0579-AB16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
117         Animal Welfare--Standards for Marine Mammals........................................     0579-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
118         Higher Education Multicultural Scholars Program; Administrative Provisions..........     0524-AA09
119         Hispanic-Serving Institutions Education Grants Program Administrative Provisions....     0524-AA17
120         Community Food Projects Administrative Provisions...................................     0524-AA19
121         Small Business Innovation Research Program Administrative Provisions................     0524-AA20
122         Biotechnology Risk Assessment Research Grants Program Administrative Provisions.....     0524-AA21

[[Page 25172]]

 
123         National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Administrative Provisions...     0524-AA22
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Rural Housing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
124         Civil Rights Compliance Requirements--1901-E to 1940-D..............................     0575-AA83
125         Servicing Community Programs Loans and Grants.......................................     0575-AC12
126         Multi-Family Housing Reinvention....................................................     0575-AC13
127         Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants...............................................     0575-AC20
128         Operating Assistance for Migrant Farmworker Projects................................     0575-AC24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Rural Housing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
129         Reengineering and Reinvention of the Direct Section 502 and 504 Single-Family            0575-AB99
            Housing Program.....................................................................
130         Guaranteed Rural Housing Loan Single Family.........................................     0575-AC18
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Rural Housing Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
131         Denying Credit to Applicants Delinquent on Any Federal Debt.........................     0575-AA66
132         Environmental Program...............................................................     0575-AB98
133         National Flood Insurance Regulations................................................     0575-AC07
134         Technical Assistance To Encourage the Development of Domestic and Migrant Farm Labor     0575-AC25
            Housing.............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Rural Housing Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
135         Rural Development Loan Payment and Collection Procedures............................     0575-AC22
136         Community Programs Guaranteed Loan Program..........................................     0575-AC23
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
137         General Administrative Regulations; Subpart D; Application for Crop Insurance.......     0563-AB00
138         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Coarse Grains Crop Insurance Provisions..........     0563-AB64
139         General Administrative Regulations; Movement of Business Among Insurance Providers..     0563-AB71
140         General Administrative Regulations; Sanctions.......................................     0563-AB73
141         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Blueberry Crop Insurance Provisions..............     0563-AB76
142         General Administrative Regulations; Civil Rights Data Collection....................     0563-AB78
143         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Nursery Crop Insurance Provisions................     0563-AB80
144         General Administrative Regulations; Actual Production History.......................     0563-AB83
145         General Administrative Regulations; Submission of Policies and Provisions of             0563-AB84
            Policies and Rates of Premiums......................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 25173]]


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
146         General Administrative Regulations; Subpart S; Regulations for Insurance Coverage by     0563-AB07
            Written Agreement...................................................................
147         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Small Grains Crop Insurance Provisions and Wheat      0563-AB63
            Winter Coverage Endorsement.........................................................
148         General Administrative Regulations; Nonstandard Underwriting Classification System..     0563-AB66
149         General Administrative Regulations; Premium Reductions; Payments of Rebates,             0563-AB70
            Dividends, and Patronage Refunds; and Payments to Insured-Owned and Record-
            Controlling Entities................................................................
150         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Millet Crop Insurance Provisions.................     0563-AB79
151         Catastrophic Risk Protection Endorsement; Group Risk Plan of Insurance Regulations;      0563-AB81
            Basic Provisions....................................................................
152         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Basic Provisions and General Administrative           0563-AB85
            Regulations, Subpart T, Regulations for Implementation..............................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
153         General Administrative Regulations; Interpretations of Statutory and Regulatory          0563-AB82
            Provisions..........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
154         Review Inspection Requirements......................................................     0580-AA58
155         Livestock Purchase or Sale: Prohibit Non-Reporting of Price.........................     0580-AA65
156         Fees for Official Inspection and Official Weighing Services.........................     0580-AA75
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                    Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
157         Tolerances for Dividers.............................................................     0580-AA57
158         Swine Packer Marketing Contracts....................................................     0580-AA71
159         Fees for Commodity and Rice Inspection Services.....................................     0580-AA74
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                   Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
160         Poultry Grower Contracts............................................................     0580-AA51
161         Regulations To Ensure More Equitable Competition in the Livestock and Meat Packing       0580-AA72
            Industries (Livestock and Poultry Marketing)........................................
162         How Can USDA Best Facilitate the Marketing of Grains, Oilseeds, Fruits, Vegetables,      0580-AA73
            and Nuts in Today's Marketplace.....................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
163         Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):                0584-AB10
            Miscellaneous Provisions............................................................
164         Food Stamp Program Matching Programs and Privacy Protections........................     0584-AB51

[[Page 25174]]

 
165         Food Stamp Program Regulatory Review: FSP Standards for Approval and Operation of        0584-AC37
            Food Stamp Electronic Benefit Transfer Systems......................................
166         FSP: Civil Rights Data Collections..................................................     0584-AC75
167         Commodity Supplemental Food Program: Plain Language, Program Accountability, and         0584-AC84
            Program Flexibility.................................................................
168         Food Stamp Program: Administrative Cost Reimbursement...............................     0584-AC86
169         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):           0584-AC90
            Revisions in the WIC Food Packages..................................................
170         Improving Access to the Food Stamp Program for Persons With Limited English              0584-AD06
            Proficiency.........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
171         WIC: Requirements for and Evaluation of WIC Program Requests for Bids for Infant         0584-AB52
            Formula Rebate Contracts............................................................
172         Food Stamp Program: Anticipating Income and Reporting Changes.......................     0584-AB57
173         Disclosure of Free and Reduced-Price Eligibility Information Under the School            0584-AC21
            Nutrition, Summer Food Service, and Child and Adult Care Food Programs..............
174         Child and Adult Care Food Program: Improving Management and Program Integrity.......     0584-AC24
175         Determining Eligibility for Free and Reduced-Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools:       0584-AC25
            Provision 2 and Provision 3.........................................................
176         Food Stamp Program: Work Provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work              0584-AC45
            Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 and the Food Stamp Provisions of the Balanced
            Budget Act of 1997..................................................................
177         WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP): Expansion Funds Allocation Formula.....     0584-AC68
178         Child Nutrition Programs: Reimbursement for Snacks in Afterschool Care Programs.....     0584-AC72
179         Food Distribution Program: Deletion of Requirement To Evaluate State-Run Commodity       0584-AC79
            Distribution and Warehousing Systems Every 3 Years..................................
180         FSP: Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Systems Interoperability and Portability.....     0584-AC91
181         National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs: Identification of Blended Beef,     0584-AC92
            Pork, Poultry, or Seafood Products..................................................
182         Child and Adult Care Food Program: Implementing Legislative Reforms To Strengthen        0584-AC94
            Program Integrity...................................................................
183         Special Nutrition Programs: Disclosure of Children's Eligibility Information to          0584-AC95
            State Medicaid and the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP)............
184         State Administrative Expense Funds: Plain Language Rewrite..........................     0584-AC96
185         Special Milk Program for Children: Plain Language Revision and Reorganization.......     0584-AC97
186         Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 250, Donation of        0584-AC98
            Foods for Use in the United States, Its Territories and Possessions, and Areas Under
            Its Jurisdiction....................................................................
187         Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 251, The Emergency      0584-AC99
            Food Assistance Program (TEFAP).....................................................
188         Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 252, The National       0584-AD00
            Commodity Processing Program (NCP)..................................................
189         Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 253, the Food           0584-AD01
            Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).................................
190         Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 254, the Food           0584-AD02
            Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) in Oklahoma.....................
191         Nutrition Education and Training Program: 7 CFR Part 227, Plain Language Rewrite....     0584-AD03
192         State Agency Liabilities and Federal Sanctions, 7 CFR 276...........................     0584-AD04
193         Payments of Certain Administrative Costs of State Agencies, 7 CFR 277...............     0584-AD05
194         Implementation of Poultry Substitution Pilot as Permanent and Modification of            0584-AD08
            Commodity Recordkeeping Requirements................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
195         Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): Food           0584-AA80
            Delivery Systems....................................................................
196         Food Stamp Program: Revisions to the Retail Food Store Definition and Program            0584-AB90
            Authorization Guidance..............................................................

[[Page 25175]]

 
197         FSP: Personal Responsibility Provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work          0584-AC39
            Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996..............................................
198         FSP: Noncitizen Eligibility and Certification Provisions of Public Law 104-193           0584-AC40
            (Previously Entitled State Flexibility and Certification Provisions)................
199         FSP: Nondiscretionary Provisions of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity     0584-AC41
            Reconciliation Act of 1996..........................................................
200         Regulatory Reform: Provisions Relating to Firms Participating in the Food Stamp          0584-AC48
            Program.............................................................................
201         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for WIC: Implementation of WIC-Related            0584-AC51
            Provisions of Public Law 104-193, Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity
            Reconciliation Act of 1996..........................................................
202         WIC: Certification Integrity........................................................     0584-AC76
203         FDPIR: Income Deduction and Miscellaneous Provision Rule............................     0584-AC81
204         WIC: Non-Discretionary Funding Modifications of Public Law 106-224..................     0584-AC93
205         Notice--Food Stamp Program Grants To Improve Applicant and Recipient Information....     0584-AD07
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
206         Grant and Inauguration of Inspection................................................     0583-AC07
207         Performance Standards for Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products....................     0583-AC46
208         Performance Standards for Bacon.....................................................     0583-AC49
209         Shell Egg and Egg Products Inspection Regulations...................................     0583-AC58
210         Labeling--Generic Approval and Regulation Consolidation.............................     0583-AC59
211         Nutrition Labeling of Ground or Chopped Meat and Poultry Products and Single-            0583-AC60
            Ingredient Products.................................................................
212         Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Systems;         0583-AC63
            Additions to Generic E. Coli Criteria...............................................
213         Other Consumer Protection Activities................................................     0583-AC64
214         Food Standards; Guiding Principles and Standards Modernization......................     0583-AC72
215         Poultry Inspection: Revision of Finished Product Standards With Respect to Ingesta..     0583-AC77
216         Petitions for Rulemaking............................................................     0583-AC81
217         Classes of Poultry..................................................................     0583-AC83
218         Mandatory Inspection of Ratites and Squabs..........................................     0583-AC84
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
219         Beef or Pork With Barbecue Sauce; Revision of Standards.............................     0583-AC09
220         Meat Produced by Advanced Meat/Bone Separation Machinery and Recovery Systems.......     0583-AC51
221         Incorporation of Food and Color Additives Into 21 CFR...............................     0583-AC69
222         Sharing Recall Information With State and Other Federal Government Agencies.........     0583-AC75
223         Agency Organization.................................................................     0583-AC78
224         Labeling of Natural or Regenerated Collagen Sausage Casings.........................     0583-AC80
225         Food Standards: Requirements for Substantive Standardized Meat and Poultry Products      0583-AC82
            Named by Use of an Expressed Nutrient Content Claim and a Standardized Term.........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
226         Transportation, Storage, and Other Handling of Potentially Hazardous Foods..........     0583-AC05
227         Performance Standard for the Chilling or Other Processing of Livestock Carcasses and     0583-AC21
            Ready-To-Cook Poultry...............................................................
228         Ante-Mortem and Post-Mortem Inspection of Livestock and Poultry.....................     0583-AC43
229         Requirements for Disposition and Disposal of Inspected Raw Meat and Poultry Products     0583-AC44

[[Page 25176]]

 
230         Reworking of Meat and Poultry Carcasses Accidentally Contaminated During                 0583-AC53
            Evisceration........................................................................
231         Reform of Regulations on Imported Meat and Poultry Products.........................     0583-AC56
232         Food Labeling; Nutrient Content Claims, Definition of the Term Healthy..............     0583-AC65
233         Elimination of Requirements for Total Quality Control Systems.......................     0583-AC68
234         Performance Standards for On-line Antimicrobial Reprocessing of Pre-Chill Poultry        0583-AC73
            Carcasses...........................................................................
235         Terminology.........................................................................     0583-AC79
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
236         Retained Water in Raw Meat and Poultry Products; Poultry-Chilling Performance            0583-AC26
            Standards...........................................................................
237         Agency Terminology..................................................................     0583-AC57
238         Transfer and Development of Shell Egg Requirements..................................     0583-AC70
239         Increases in Fees for Meat, Poultry, and Egg Products Inspection Services--Fiscal        0583-AC74
            Year (FY) 2001......................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Foreign Agricultural Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
240         Export Sales Reporting Requirement..................................................     0551-AA51
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Foreign Agricultural Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
241         CCC Supplier Credit Guarantee Program...............................................     0551-AA30
242         Facility Guarantee Program..........................................................     0551-AA35
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                       Forest Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
243         Hydropower Applications.............................................................     0596-AA47
244         Small Tracts Act Regulations........................................................     0596-AA79
245         Species Surplus to Domestic Manufacturing Needs.....................................     0596-AB27
246         Appeal of Decisions Relating to Occupancy and Use of National Forest System Lands...     0596-AB45
247         Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Extension of Timber Sale             0596-AB48
            Contracts To Permit Urgent Removal of Other Timber..................................
248         Law Enforcement Support Activities..................................................     0596-AB61
249         Noncompetitive Sale of Timber.......................................................     0596-AB70
250         Categorical Exclusion for Certain Special Uses Permit Actions (FSH 1909.15, Chapter      0596-AB73
            30).................................................................................
251         Clarification of Exemptions From Special-Use Authorizations.........................     0596-AB74
252         Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Timber Export and Substitution       0596-AB75
            Restrictions........................................................................
253         Use of Fixed Anchors in Wilderness..................................................     0596-AB80
254         Special Forest Products and Forest Botanical Products...............................     0596-AB81
255         Determining Fair Market Value for Recreation Residence Use Authorizations...........     0596-AB83
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 25177]]


                                        Forest Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
256         Indian Allotments on National Forest System Lands...................................     0596-AA52
257         Disposal of National Forest Timber; Cancellation of Timber Sale Contracts...........     0596-AB21
258         Collection of Reimbursable Costs for Processing Special-Use Applications and             0596-AB36
            Administration of Special-Use Authorizations........................................
259         Preference for Visitor Service; Alaska National Forest Conservation System Units....     0596-AB57
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                        Forest Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
260         National Forest System Land and Resource Management Planning........................     0596-AB20
261         Administration of the Forest Development Transportation System......................     0596-AB67
262         Appeal of Regional Guides and National Forest Land and Resource Management Plans;        0596-AB76
            Multi-Agency Decisions..............................................................
263         Special Areas: Roadless Area Conservation...........................................     0596-AB77
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Office of the Secretary--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
264         General Nonprocurement Regulations..................................................     0503-AA21
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Office of the Secretary--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
265         Nondiscrimination in USDA-Conducted Programs and Activities.........................     0503-AA15
266         Designation of Rural Empowerment Zones and Enterprise Communities...................     0503-AA20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
267         Intermediary Relending Program Participation Agreements.............................     0570-AA33
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
268         Business and Industry Direct Loan Program...........................................     0570-AA22
269         Business and Industrial Guaranteed Loan Program--Miscellaneous Changes..............     0570-AA23
270         Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plan.............................................     0570-AA24
271         Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Financing Cooperative Stock..........     0570-AA26
272         Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program.............................................     0570-AA28
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 25178]]


                              Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
273         Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program...................................     0570-AA19
274         Allocation Formulas.................................................................     0570-AA30
275         The Rural Business Enterprise Grants and Television Demonstration Grants............     0570-AA32
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
276         Rural and Rural Area Under the Rural Community Advancement Program..................     0570-AA27
277         Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Domestic Lamb Industry Adjustment         0570-AA31
            Assistance Program Set-Aside........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Rural Utilities Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
278         Telecommunications Standards and Specifications for Materials, Equipment, and            0572-AB40
            Construction........................................................................
279         Servicing of Water Programs Loans and Grants........................................     0572-AB59
280         Mergers and Consolidations of Electric Borrowers....................................     0572-AB63
281         Pre-Loan Policies and Procedures Common to Insured and Guaranteed Telecommunications     0572-AB64
            Loans...............................................................................
282         Demand Side Management and Renewable Energy Systems.................................     0572-AB65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Rural Utilities Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
283         Post-Loan Policies and Procedures Common to Guaranteed and Insured Loans............     0572-AB48
284         Water and Waste Disposal Programs Guaranteed Loans..................................     0572-AB57
285         Elimination of Current Ratio Requirements...........................................     0572-AB58
286         Extensions of Payments of Principal or Principal and Interest.......................     0572-AB60
287         Settlement of Debt..................................................................     0572-AB61
288         Policy on Audits of RUS Borrowers; Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards      0572-AB62
            (GAGAS).............................................................................
289         Policy on Audits of RUS Borrowers: Management Letter................................     0572-AB66
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Rural Utilities Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
290         Electric Standards and Specifications for Materials and Construction................     0572-AA67
291         RUS Approval of Additions and Extensions to Electric Plants.........................     0572-AB38
292         Telecommunications System Construction Contract and Specifications..................     0572-AB41
293         The ``Buy American'' Requirement....................................................     0572-AB55
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Rural Utilities Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
294         Solid Waste Management Grants.......................................................     0572-AB14
295         Technical Assistance and Training Grants............................................     0572-AB15

[[Page 25179]]

 
296         Seismic Safety......................................................................     0572-AB47
297         General and Pre-Loan Policies and Procedures Common to Insured and Guaranteed            0572-AB52
            Electric Loans......................................................................
298         Electric Engineering, Architectural Services, and Design Policies and Procedures....     0572-AB54
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                           Natural Resources Conservation Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
299         Conservation of Private Grazing Land................................................     0578-AA29
300         Emergency Watershed Protection Program..............................................     0578-AA30
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                            Natural Resources Conservation Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
301         Forestry Incentives Program.........................................................     0578-AA26
302         Wetland Categorical Minimal Effects Exemptions......................................     0578-AA27
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                            Natural Resources Conservation Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
303         Highly Erodible Land and Wetland Conservation.......................................     0578-AA17
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         Office of Procurement and Property Management--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
304         Agriculture Acquisition Regulation: Amendment to Part 442, Contract Administration..     0599-AA08
305         Agriculture Acquisition Regulation; Part 419 Amendment; North American Industrial        0599-AA09
            Classification System...............................................................
306         Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM); Uniform Procedures for the         0599-AA10
            Acquisition and Transfer of Excess Federal Property.................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        Office of Procurement and Property Management--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
307         New Restrictions on Lobbying........................................................     0599-AA03
308         Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR); Contractor Employment of Migrant and          0599-AA05
            Seasonal Agricultural Workers.......................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        Office of Procurement and Property Management--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
309         Department of Agriculture Priorities and Administrative Guideline for Donation of        0599-AA06
            Excess Research Equipment...........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 25180]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




1. PROCESSED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES: QUALIFIED THROUGH VERIFICATION (QTV)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 to 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 52

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is proposing to revise 
the regulations governing inspection and certification of processed 
fruits and vegetables and certain other products by making changes to 
the definitions for the terms ``inspection service, general''; 
``inspection service, types of''; ``official identification''; and 
``official marks'' to specifically provide for a new voluntary audit-
based inspection service for food safety and wholesomeness under the 
authority of the Agricultural Marketing Act (AMA) of 1946, amended. The 
``Qualified Through Verification'' (QTV) Program was developed as a 
pilot program in 1995 at the request of the fresh-cut produce industry. 
The industry asked for a voluntary audit and verification service using 
science-based techniques that would help maintain public confidence in 
the wholesomeness of minimally processed fruits and vegetables. AMS 
finds that the economic impact of this action on businesses should be 
similar in effect to other existing voluntary programs within the 
Agency and that firms availing themselves of the QTV program will not 
necessarily have a significant marketing advantage or risk over those 
that do not use the service. It is reasonable to assume that a company 
would not choose to participate in the program unless it expected 
benefits to exceed costs. AMS went out in a variety of ways, public 
meetings and public notice to inform the public of the new service 
which was requested initially by the fresh-cut produce industry. The 
AMA of 1946 provides AMS authority for offering voluntary quality 
assurance and related services.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James R. Rodeheaver, Chief, Processed Products Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, MS 0709, 
Fruit & Vegetable Programs, P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-4693
Fax: 202 690-1087
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB58
_______________________________________________________________________




2. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR DAIRY PLANTS APPROVED FOR USDA INSPECTION 
AND GRADING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 to 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 58

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule would: (1) Lower the maximum allowable 
bacterial estimate for manufacturing-grade producer milk from 1,000,000 
per milliliter to 500,000 per milliliter; (2) lower the maximum 
allowable somatic cell count from 1,000,000 to 750,000 cells per 
milliliter; (3) lower the maximum permitted bacterial estimate in 
commingled milk from 3,000,000 per milliliter to 1,000,000 per 
milliliter; (4) modify the follow-up procedures when producer herd milk 
exceeds the maximum allowable bacterial estimate; (5) delete the 
laboratory screening test for somatic cells in producer-held milk 
samples (no change for goat milk); and (6) make editorial changes where 
necessary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Duane R. Spomer, Chief, Standardization Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Rm. 2746-
South, Dairy Programs, P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-7473
Fax: 202 720-2643
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




3. TOBACCO FEES AND CHARGES FOR PERMISSIVE INSPECTION: FEE INCREASE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 511 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 29

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (the Department) is 
proposing to increase the fees and charges currently in force for 
permissive grading of quota and nonquota tobacco to reflect the 
increased costs of operating the program. The Tobacco Inspection Act 
requires the Secretary to fix and collect fees and charges for the 
voluntary inspection and certification of tobacco, and fees must cover, 
as nearly as practicable, the Department's costs for performing these 
services. The Agricultural Marketing Service is proposing that the base 
hourly rate be revised to $47.40, the overtime rate shall be revised to 
$54.22, and Sunday and holiday rate will be revised to $69.38. These 
fees would cover expenses and maintain a reserve that would meet any 
reasonable contingency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John P. Duncan III, Deputy Administrator, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Ag Code 0280, Tobacco 
Programs, Room 502 Annex Bldg., P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-
6456
Phone: 202 205-0567
Fax: 202 205-0235
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB86
_______________________________________________________________________




4.  HASS AVOCADO PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ORDER

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7801 to 7813

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1219

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 25181]]

Abstract: Under the Hass Avocado Promotion, Research, and Information 
Order, Hass avocado producers and importers will pay an assessment of 
2.5 cents per pound on Hass avocados produced and imported into the 
U.S. The funds will be used by the Hass Avocado Board to increase 
demand for Hass avocados in the U.S.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/01
Referendum                      09/00/01
Final Action                    11/00/01
Final Action Effective          12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Margaret B. Irby, Assistant Branch Chief, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Stop 0244, Fruit & 
Vegetable Programs, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-0244
Phone: 202 720-9915
Fax: 202 205-2800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________




5.  REVISION OF USER FEES FOR 2001 CROP COTTON CLASSIFICATION 
SERVICES TO GROWERS (CN-00-010)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 473a

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 28

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 1, 2001.

Abstract: This action would increase the user fees for cotton producers 
for the 2001 crop cotton classification services under the Cotton 
Statistics and Estimates Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Darryl Earnest, Assistant to the Associate Director, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 2633 - 
Stop 0224, Washington, DC
Phone: 202 720-2145
Fax: 202 690-1718

RIN: 0581-AB94
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




6. VOLUNTARY SHELL EGG REGULATIONS; REPACKAGING OF SHELL EGGS UNDER 
USDA'S GRADING PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 to 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Currently about one-third of the Nation's table eggs are 
marketed under the voluntary shell egg-grading program. Shell egg 
processors that choose to use this service pay a fee to have graders in 
their plants monitor processing operations and verify the grade and 
size of eggs packaged into packages bearing the USDA grade shield. The 
proposal would provide that, in order to be officially identified with 
a USDA consumer grade shield, shell eggs must not be more than 15 days 
old (or some other period between 15 and 30 days if justified by public 
comment) and must not have been previously shipped for retail sale.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/27/99                    64 FR 40522
NPRM Comment Period End         09/27/99
Final Action                    11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Bowden, Jr., Chief, Standardization Br., Poultry 
Programs, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 
Room 3944-S, MS 0259, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-0259
Phone: 202 720-3506
Fax: 202 690-0941
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB56
_______________________________________________________________________




7. HONEY RESEARCH, PROMOTION, AND CONSUMER INFORMATION ORDER

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: PL 105-185

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1240

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action amends the Honey Research, Promotion, and 
Consumer Information Order (Order) and its rules and regulations. The 
Order is authorized under the Honey Research, Promotion, and Consumer 
Information Act (Act) (October 30, 1984), as amended. The Act was most 
recently amended in the Agricultural Research Extension and Education 
Reform Act of 1997, which was signed into law on June 23, 1998. This 
action would amend the Order to implement the numerous amendments 
contained in the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/28/00                    65 FR 10600
NPRM Comment Period End         04/28/00
Second NPRM                     08/07/00                    65 FR 48324
Final Action                    04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kathie Birdsell, Research and Promotion Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 2535-
South, Stop 0244, Fruit and Vegetable Program, 14th and Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0244
Phone: 202 720-4835
Fax: 202 205-2800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB84

[[Page 25182]]

_______________________________________________________________________




8. TOBACCO FEES AND CHARGES FOR MANDATORY INSPECTION: FEE INCREASE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 511 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 29

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (the Department) is 
increasing the fees and charges for mandatory inspection and 
certification of producer tobacco sold at designated auction markets. 
The current fee of $.0083 per pound has been in effect since 1995. The 
new rate will be $.0100 per pound. Due to reduced quotas, the volume of 
tobacco delivered for inspection has declined. An increase of $.0017 
per pound is necessary to adequately fund the level of service the 
industry desires.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/26/00                    65 FR 34039
Interim Final Rule Effective    05/30/00
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/26/00
Final Action                    05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John P. Duncan III, Deputy Administrator, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Ag Code 0280, Tobacco 
Programs, Room 502 Annex Bldg., P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-
6456
Phone: 202 205-0567
Fax: 202 205-0235
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB87
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




9. NATIONAL LABORATORY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: James V. Falk
Phone: 202 690-4089
Fax: 202 720-4631
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB42
_______________________________________________________________________




10. OLIVE OIL PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ORDER

Priority: Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1217

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/26/99                    64 FR 46754
NPRM Comment Period End         12/03/99


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Margaret B. Irby
Phone: 202 720-9915
Fax: 202 205-2800
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB62
_______________________________________________________________________




11. CHANGES IN FEES FOR FEDERAL GRADING AND CERTIFICATION OF LIVESTOCK 
FOR CHICAGO MERCANTILE EXCHANGE FUTURES DELIVERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 53

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John E. VanDyke
Phone: 202 720-6231
Fax: 202 690-3732
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB66
_______________________________________________________________________




12. PROGRAM TO ASSESS ORGANIC CERTIFYING AGENCIES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 37

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/09/99                    64 FR 30861
Interim Final Rule Effective    06/10/99
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/09/99


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Larry R. Meadows
Phone: 202 720-1246
Fax: 202 690-4119
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________




13. REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE INSPECTION OF EGGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 57

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Rex A. Barnes
Phone: 202 720-3271
Fax: 202 690-3165
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB74
_______________________________________________________________________




14. VOLUNTARY GRADING OF SHELL EGGS (PY-01-002)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Rex A. Barnes
Phone: 202 720-3271
Fax: 202 690-3165

[[Page 25183]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB88
_______________________________________________________________________




15. DISCONTINUE THE OFFICIAL GRADING OF IMPORTED BEEF, LAMB, VEAL, AND 
CALF CARCASSES UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE AGRICULTURAL MARKETING ACT OF 
1946

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/01/00                     65 FR 4780
NPRM Comment Period End         04/03/00


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig A. Morris
Phone: 202 720-5705
Fax: 202 720-3499
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________




16.  SUBPART A--REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE INSPECTION AND GRADING 
SERVICE OF MANUFACTURED OR PROCESSED DAIRY PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 to 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 58

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These regulations have not been updated since December 1, 
1976. The proposal will establish a revision of the existing 
regulations to strengthen program integrity, to update the regulations 
to accurately reflect inspection and grading services available, and to 
clarify the meaning of the regulation provisions. The proposed changes 
are not expected to have any major impact on program participants as 
most participants are operating in a manner that is consistent with the 
proposed changes.

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Tracy Schonrock, Chief, Dairy Grading Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Dairy 
Programs, Rm. 2746 S., P.O. Box 96457, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 720-3171
Fax: 202 720-2643
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




17. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/21/00                    65 FR 80548
Final Action Effective          02/20/01
Delay of Effective Date until 
04/21/2001                      03/20/01                    66 FR 15619

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Keith Jones
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 690-3924
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AA40
_______________________________________________________________________




18. LIVESTOCK MANDATORY REPORTING ACT OF 1999

Priority: Economically Significant

CFR Citation: None

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/01/00                    65 FR 75463
Final Action Effective Date 
Postponed to 04/02/2001         01/30/01                     66 FR 8151

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  This action may have federalism implications as defined in 
EO 13132.

Agency Contact: John E. VanDyke
Phone: 202 720-6231
Fax: 202 690-3732
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB64
_______________________________________________________________________




19. REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE CERTIFICATION OF SANITARY DESIGN AND 
FABRICATION OF EQUIPMENT USED IN THE PROCESSING OF LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY 
PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/05/01                     66 FR 1190
Final Action Effective          01/08/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Craig A. Morris
Phone: 202 720-5705
Fax: 202 720-3499
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB69
_______________________________________________________________________




20. CHANGES IN FEE FOR VOLUNTARY FEDERAL FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, 
PROCESSED

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 52

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/06/00                    65 FR 66485
Final Action Effective          11/19/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James R. Rodeheaver
Phone: 202 720-4693
Fax: 202 690-1087
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB85

[[Page 25184]]

_______________________________________________________________________




21. CHANGES IN FEES FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY SERVICE (S&T-
99-008 PR)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 90 to 94; 7 CFR 98

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/26/00                    65 FR 64302
Final Action Effective          10/27/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James V. Falk
Phone: 202 690-4089
Fax: 202 720-4631
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB91
BILLING CODE 3410-02-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




22. REGULATORY STREAMLINING OF THE FARM SERVICE AGENCY'S DIRECT FARM 
LOAN PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 7; 7 CFR 18

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Farm Service Agency (FSA) direct farm loan programs are 
still using the regulations and handbooks from the former Farmers Home 
Administration and still share many of its regulations, forms, and 
handbooks with the Rural Housing Service, Rural Utilities Service, and 
the Rural Business-Cooperative Services of the Rural Development 
Agency. This is very cumbersome and confusing to both Agency employees 
and the general public. This action will move all the direct farm loan 
program regulations from 7 CFR chapter 18 to 7 CFR chapter 7 and will 
allow FSA the opportunity to rewrite and re-engineer its direct farm 
loan program regulations. This action also consolidates a number of 
actions that were previously included in the regulatory agenda under 
separate RINs: 0560-AE04, 0560-AE07, 0560-AE09, 0560-AE11, 0560-AE13, 
0560-AE14, 0560-AE15, 0560-AE37, 0560-AE87, 0560-AE88, 0560-AE90, 0560-
AE98, and 0560-AE99.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF60
_______________________________________________________________________




23.  LIVESTOCK INDEMNITY PROGRAM AND LIVESTOCK INDEMNITY PROGRAM 
FOR CONTRACT GROWERS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1439

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule implements provisions of the Agriculture, Rural 
Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies 
Appropriations Act, 2001 related to the 2000 Livestock Indemnity 
Program (LIP 2000) and Livestock Indemnity Program for Contract Growers 
(LIP-CG). It will make benefits available under LIP 2000 for livestock 
losses incurred during calendar year (CY) 2000 and extend the 
availability of benefits under LIP-CG to include benefits for livestock 
losses incurred during the period January 1, 2000, through February 7, 
2000. Other provisions of those programs will remain unchanged. $10 
million was appropriated for LIP; no new funding was provided for LIP-
CG, but about $9 million remains from LIP-CG funding for 1999.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule: LIP-CG              12/29/00                    65 FR 82892
NPRM: LIP 2000                  03/07/01                    66 FR 13679
NPRM Comment Period End: LIP 
2000                            04/06/01
Final Rule: LIP 2000             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG33
_______________________________________________________________________




24.  CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM--FAILURE TO ESTABLISH COVER 
AND GOOD FAITH RELIANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 817 of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and 
Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for FY 
2001, amends section 1232 of the Food Security Act of 1985 to provide 
that the Secretary shall not terminate Conservation Reserve Program 
contracts for failure to establish an approved vegetative or water 
cover on the land if the failure to establish the cover was due to 
excessive rainfall or flooding, the land capable of being established 
to a cover is established to that cover, and the land on which the 
owner or operator was prevented from planting a cover is planted when 
the wet conditions subside. Section 755 of the Act authorized the 
Secretary to provide equitable relief to an owner or operator that has 
entered into a contract and is subsequently determined to be in 
violation of the contract, if the owner or operator in attempting to 
comply with the terms of the contract and enrollment requirements took 
actions in good faith reliance on the action or advice of an authorized 
representative

[[Page 25185]]

of the Secretary. These actions are not expected to change program 
costs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/15/01                    66 FR 15048
NPRM Comment Period End         05/14/01
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG37
_______________________________________________________________________




25.  IMPLEMENTATION OF THE U.S. WAREHOUSE ACT OF 2000

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-432

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 735 to 742

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, February 7, 2001.
Final, Statutory, May 8, 2001.

Abstract: The U.S. Warehouse Act of 2000 replaced the existing statutes 
governing federally licensed warehouses. This action implements that 
Act and will re-write all the CFR parts governing warehouses. The new 
statute requires the Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate new 
regulations that will revitalize and streamline the Federal program 
governing agricultural commodity warehouses on or before August 1, 
2001. This will make U.S. agriculture more competitive in both domestic 
and foreign markets through efficiencies and cost savings provided by 
today's computer technology and information management systems.
The Warehouse Act of 2000 makes this program more relevant to today's 
agricultural marketing system. The statute and its regulations 
authorize and standardize electronic documents and allow their transfer 
from buyer to seller across State and international boundaries. This 
new paperless flow of agricultural commodities from farm gate to end-
user will provide significant savings and efficiencies for farmers 
across the Nation.
The Congress originally enacted the USWA in 1916, and it was 
subsequently amended in 1919, 1923, and 1931. However, since that time, 
the authorizing legislation for this program has seen little change. At 
the same time, U.S. agriculture and our society have seen drastic 
changes. Computer technology has revolutionized our world and laptops 
and handheld computers have become commonplace. The new USWA provides 
USDA the tools to bring its agricultural warehouse program fully into 
the information age.
The new USWA allows federally licensed warehouse operators to issue 
electronic warehouse receipts for any approved agricultural product, an 
authority previously granted to cotton, as well as electronically 
transmit other business documents, such as grade and weight 
certificates, certificates, bills of lading, export evidence 
certificates, and business-related documents required by letters of 
credit.
In 1992, the Congress directed the Secretary of Agriculture to 
establish electronic warehouse receipts for the cotton industry. Since 
then, participation in the electronic-based program has grown to more 
than 90 percent of the U.S. cotton crop. Recently, the cotton industry 
estimated that this electronic system saves them $5 to $15 per bale, a 
savings of more than $275 million per year. The proposed legislation 
would extend this electronic warehouse receipt program to all 
agricultural commodities covered by the U.S. Warehouse Act. This 
reduced paperwork, increased efficiency, and substantial time savings 
will make U.S. agriculture more competitive in world markets.
The USWA is paid for through user fees. Therefore, implementation of 
the USWA is basically budget neutral statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01
Final Rule                      08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG45
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




26. PART 1946 MEDIATION; SUBPART A--AGRICULTURAL LOAN MEDIATION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989; 7 USC 301; PL 103-354, sec 282; PL 106-
472, sec 306

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1946 subpart A

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 13, 1994.

Abstract: Legislation expanded the State Mediation Programs to include 
wetland determinations, conservation compliance, and other issues the 
Secretary deems appropriate. This action will establish procedures for 
certification and for administering the matching grant program, and set 
out the Department's duties to participate in such programs. The USDA 
Reorganization Act of 1994 requires mediation to be a part of the 
informal hearing process when an officer, employee, or committee of an 
agency makes an adverse decision. The legislation also requires 
certification of a State's Mediation Program in order to participate in 
mediation pursuant to a State's Certified Mediation Program and to 
enable a State to receive a Federal matching grant(s) to be used for 
the operation and administration of the program. The Agriculture 
Improvement Act of 1992 increased the percentage

[[Page 25186]]

of grants to 70 percent from 50 percent of the cost of a State's 
program, limited to $500,000, whichever is the lesser. The 
Reorganization Act of 1994 extended the mediation program authority 
through fiscal year 2000. The Grain Standards and Warehouse Improvement 
Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 106-472) re-authorizes the mediation program by 
extending it until 2005, clarifies that funds appropriated by Congress 
to the mediation program be used for farm credit cases, including USDA 
direct and guaranteed loans and loans from commercial entities, and 
stresses that mediation services can facilitate counseling services to 
prepare farmers prior to mediation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/09/99                    64 FR 61034
NPRM Comment Period End         01/10/00
Final Rule                      06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State

Additional Information: This entry was reported as RIN 0575-AB91 prior 
to the reorganization of USDA.

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AE26
_______________________________________________________________________




27. LAMB MEAT ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 612c

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 784

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This program will provide monetary assistance to eligible 
sheep and lamb producers who have recently experienced record low 
prices and poor market conditions due the recent surge of low-priced, 
imported lamb meat. Lamb meat is being imported into the United States 
in such increased quantities as to be a substantial cause of threat of 
serious injury to the domestic lamb meat industry. During the first 
year of the program, benefits will be provided to eligible sheep and 
lamb producers throughout the United States based on the number of rams 
purchased, the number of sheep enrolled in the National Sheep 
Improvement Program, and the cost of lambing facility improvements 
during the period August 1, 1999, through July 31, 2000. During the 
second and third year, benefits will be provided to eligible sheep and 
lamb producers throughout the United States based on the number of 
slaughter lamb and feeder lamb marketed, grade, weight, and muscling 
during the period August 1, 2000, through July 31, 2002. The expected 
cost is $30 million.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Effective    06/19/00
Interim Final Rule              06/21/00                    65 FR 38412
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/21/00
Final Rule                      07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG17
_______________________________________________________________________




28.  REDUCTION OF AMORTIZED SHARED APPRECIATION RECAPTURE 
INTEREST RATE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 87-128; PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 761; 7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1927; 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 
1943; 7 CFR 1945

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug 
Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (Pub. L. 106-
387) did not adequately fund the Agency's administrative expenses 
associated with loan making and loan servicing functions. Specifically, 
the administrative expenses associated with loan making and loan 
servicing for fiscal year 2001 are estimated to exceed the $4.3 million 
appropriated. When the funds appropriated are expended, which is 
estimated to occur around June or July 2001, the Agency will have no 
alternative but to discontinue all loan making and servicing activities 
requiring the expenditure of administrative program funds. Applicants 
and borrowers would experience delays in receiving loan making and 
servicing assistance. In certain situations, the Government's security 
interest may be adversely affected. Public Law 87-128, the Consolidated 
Farm and Rural Development Act, CONACT sec 307(b) and sec 339(a), 
provides the legal authority to charge applicants and borrowers fees 
associated with administering the loan program. Therefore, the Agency 
intends to begin charging applicants and borrowers (those currently 
indebted to USDA, FSA) a portion of the fee associated with real estate 
appraisals. This action, when approved, will conform to lending 
practices currently in use by commercial agricultural lenders. The 
expected cost to the public will be about $2.3 million.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG43
_______________________________________________________________________




29.  COLLECTING GUARANTEED LOSS PAYMENTS FROM FSA FARM LOAN 
PROGRAM BORROWERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 31 USC 3716

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 25187]]

Abstract: This action will revise FSA regulations to provide that any 
amounts paid by FSA on account of a guaranteed loan borrower will 
constitute a Federal debt owed to FSA by the guaranteed loan borrower. 
The rule will not affect any guaranteed borrowers who have had loss 
claims paid on their guaranteed loans at the present time. Under the 
new rule, when farmers apply for a guaranteed loan, they will sign a 
loan application, which includes a section entitled ``Federal Debt,'' 
in which they agree that any amounts paid by FSA on account of the 
liabilities of the guaranteed loan borrower will constitute a Federal 
debt owed to FSA by the guaranteed loan borrower. In such cases, FSA 
may use all remedies available to it, including offset under the Debt 
Collection Improvement Act, to collect the debt from the borrower. It 
will affect only those guaranteed borrowers who have a loss claim paid 
by FSA to the lender from whom they received a guaranteed loan. 
Currently, there are approximately 40,000 guaranteed farm loan 
borrowers with 67,000 loans. Approximately 1,200 loss claims are paid 
on guaranteed loans per year, and approximately 100 of those loans are 
discharged in bankruptcy, leaving approximately 1,100 loans that could 
be considered for offset.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG44
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 7

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AE33
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM-Part 1421                   To Be                       Determined
NPRM-Part 1423                   To Be                       Determined
NPRM-Part 1427                   To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AE50
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AE54
_______________________________________________________________________




33. AMENDMENTS TO THE DEBT SETTLEMENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES TO CONFORM 
TO THE DEBT COLLECTION IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 1996

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 792; 7 CFR 1403; 7 CFR 1404

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF22
_______________________________________________________________________




34. AMENDMENT TO THE FARM RECONSTITUTION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 718

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/04/00                     65 FR 5444
NPRM Comment Period End         03/06/00
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF36

[[Page 25188]]

_______________________________________________________________________




35. DAIRY RECOURSE LOAN PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1430

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/22/99                    64 FR 39442
NPRM Comment Period End         09/07/99
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF41
_______________________________________________________________________




36. 1999-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR BURLEY TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF50
_______________________________________________________________________




37. REMOVE INTERNAL AGENCY PROVISIONS FROM FSA FARM CREDIT PROGRAM 
REGULATIONS FOR LIQUIDATION OF LOANS SECURED BY REAL ESTATE AND 
ACQUISITION OF REAL AND CHATTEL PROPERTY

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1955

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF53
_______________________________________________________________________




38. SMALL HOG OPERATION PAYMENT PLAN

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 761

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Effective    02/05/99
Interim Final Rule              02/10/99                     64 FR 6495
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/12/99
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End (Information 
Collections)                    04/12/99
Interim Final Rule Effective 
(SHOP II)                       08/26/99
Interim Final Rule              08/30/99                    64 FR 47097
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/29/99
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End (Information 
Collections)                    10/29/99
Correction                      11/17/99                    64 FR 62565
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF70
_______________________________________________________________________




39. LOW DOCUMENTATION LOAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1941

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/09/01                     66 FR 1570
Interim Final Rule Effective    01/09/01
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/12/01
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF71
_______________________________________________________________________




40. STREAMLINING OF THE EMERGENCY FARM LOAN PROGRAM REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1945

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/12/00                    65 FR 54973
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/00
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF72
_______________________________________________________________________




41. AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM REGULATIONS REGARDING 
LAND ELIGIBILITY

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF77
_______________________________________________________________________




42. 2000-CROP PEANUTS NATIONAL POUNDAGE QUOTA, NATIONAL AVERAGE LOAN 
RATES FOR QUOTA AND ADDITIONAL PEANUTS AND MINIMUM EXPORT-EDIBLE SALES 
PRICE FOR ADDITIONAL PEANUTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 729; 7 CFR 1446

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/30/99                    64 FR 66790

[[Page 25189]]

NPRM Comment Period End         12/10/99
Quota Announcement              12/13/99
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF83
_______________________________________________________________________




43. 2000-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR FLUE-CURED 
TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Quota Announcement              12/15/99


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF84
_______________________________________________________________________




44. DISASTER SET-ASIDE PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/17/00                    65 FR 31248
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/17/00
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF91
_______________________________________________________________________




45. DESIGNATION OF NON-AUCTION TOBACCO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1464

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG07
_______________________________________________________________________




46. AGRICULTURAL DISASTER AND MARKET ASSISTANCE

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1411; 7 CFR 1427; 7 CFR 1439; 7 CFR 1464; 7 CFR 
1478

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/08/00                    65 FR 36550
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/10/00
Correction                      08/01/00                    65 FR 47840
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG14
_______________________________________________________________________




47. NONINSURED CROP DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM REGULATIONS FOR THE 2001 
AND SUCCEEDING CROP YEARS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG20
_______________________________________________________________________




48. NORTHEAST INTERSTATE DAIRY COMPACT

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1430

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG25
_______________________________________________________________________




49. EMERGENCY CONSERVATION PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 701

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG26
_______________________________________________________________________




50. 2001-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR FLUE-CURED 
TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG28

[[Page 25190]]

_______________________________________________________________________




51. 2001-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR BURLEY TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule                To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG29
_______________________________________________________________________




52. 2001-CROP MARKETING AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVELS FOR FIVE KINDS OF 
TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG30
_______________________________________________________________________




53. 2001-CROP PEANUTS NATIONAL POUNDAGE QUOTA, NATIONAL AVERAGE LOAN 
RATES FOR 2001-CROP QUOTA AND ADDITIONAL PEANUTS AND MINIMUM EXPORT 
EDIBLE SALES PRICE FOR ADDITIONAL PEANUTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 729; 7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1446

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Announcement                    12/15/00
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG31
_______________________________________________________________________




54.  CONSERVATION OF FARMABLE WETLANDS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 3831 et seq, as amended by PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Title XI of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug 
Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for FY 2001 
amended the statute governing the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) to 
provide that the Secretary shall carry out during 2001 and 2002 a pilot 
program for the enrollment of wetland and buffer acreage in the CRP in 
the States of Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, and 
South Dakota. Wetlands must have been cropped in at least 3 of the 
immediately preceding 10 crop years, and buffer acreage must be 
contiguous to, and used to protect, the wetland. The maximum wetland 
size shall be 5 contiguous acres and the maximum buffer size shall be 
the greater of 3 times the size of the associated wetland or 150 feet 
on either side of the wetland. The maximum total tract size shall be 40 
acres. Up to 500,000 acres may be enrolled in all of the States 
combined, with no more than 150,000 in any one State. Section 1105 of 
the Act exempts the promulgation of the regulations and administration 
of the program from the public notice requirements of 5 U.S.C. 553 and 
the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act. The program is not 
expected to change Government outlays.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG38
_______________________________________________________________________




55.  TOBACCO LOSS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM AND AMENDMENTS TO THE 
TOBACCO MARKETING QUOTA REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1464

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 841 of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and 
Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2001 
requires the Secretary to make payments to each person who owns or 
operates, or produces eligible tobacco on, a farm for which the quota 
was reduced from the 1999 to the 2000 crop year, without regard to the 
program's requirement under its original statute that the farm be used 
for production during the 2000 crop year. This will make payments 
available to producers who had been denied benefits because they did 
not use their quota during 2000. Payments to an eligible person shall 
be in the same amount as were made to an eligible person in the earlier 
program. This action will also implement the provisions of Public Law 
106-224 regarding the lease, transfer, and sale of burley tobacco 
marketing quotas and allotments. These provisions are exempt from the 
public notice requirements of 5 U.S.C. 553 and will be issued as final. 
The expected cost is less than $5 million.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233

[[Page 25191]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG40
_______________________________________________________________________




56.  COLLECTION OF APPRAISAL FEES FOR FARM LOAN PROGRAMS, 
INSURED LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: section 307(b), PL 87-128; PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 761; 7 CFR 1910; 7 CFR 1927; 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 
1945; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug 
Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act (Pub. L. 106-
387) did not adequately fund the Agency's administrative expenses 
associated with loan making and loan servicing functions. Specifically, 
the administrative expenses associated with loan making and loan 
servicing for fiscal year 2001 are estimated to exceed the $4.3 million 
appropriated. When the funds appropriated are expended, which is 
estimated to occur around June or July 2001, the Agency would have no 
alternative but to discontinue all loan making and servicing activities 
requiring the expenditure of administrative program funds. Applicants 
and borrowers would experience delays in receiving loan making and 
servicing assistance. In certain situations, the Government's security 
interest may be adversely affected. Public Law 87-128, the Consolidated 
Farm and Rural Development Act, CONACT sec 307(b) and sec 339(a), 
provides authority to charge applicants and borrowers fees associated 
with administering the loan program. Therefore, the Agency intends to 
begin charging applicants and borrowers (those currently indebted to 
USDA, FSA) a portion of the fee associated with real estate appraisals. 
This action, when approved, will conform to lending practices currently 
in use by commercial agricultural lenders. The expected cost to the 
public is expected to be about $2.3 million.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG42
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




57. SMALL FARMER OUTREACH TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1943 subpart C

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

No further action to be taken by 
FSA                             02/15/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AE17
_______________________________________________________________________




58. AMENDMENTS TO THE FARMER ACCOUNT SERVICING POLICIES

Priority: Economically Significant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

No further action to be taken   02/14/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AE42
_______________________________________________________________________




59. AMENDMENT TO THE COTTON WAREHOUSE REGULATIONS REGARDING THE 
DEFINITION OF ``UNNECESSARY DELAY''

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 735

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/25/00                    65 FR 63765

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF13
_______________________________________________________________________




60. AMENDMENTS TO THE FORAGE PROVISIONS OF THE NONINSURED CROP DISASTER 
ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

No further action to be taken   01/03/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF23

[[Page 25192]]

_______________________________________________________________________




61. SUGAR PROGRAM INFORMATION REPORTING AND RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1435

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn-Rulemaking not needed 11/29/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF31
_______________________________________________________________________




62. DEBT SETTLEMENT FOR INDIAN TRIBAL LAND ACQUISITION LOANS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1823; 7 CFR 1951

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/09/01                     66 FR 1563
Final Rule Effective            04/09/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF43
_______________________________________________________________________




63. NONINSURED CROP DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM REGULATIONS FOR THE 1998 
AND SUCCEEDING CROP YEARS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

No further action to be taken   01/03/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF46
_______________________________________________________________________




64. CLEANING AND REINSPECTION OF FARMERS' STOCK PEANUTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1446

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/10/01                     66 FR 1807
Correction                      02/15/01                    66 FR 10353

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF56
_______________________________________________________________________




65. AMENDMENTS TO THE REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE PEANUT POUNDAGE QUOTA 
AND PRICE SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 714; 7 CFR 729; 7 CFR 1446

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/30/00                    65 FR 64594

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF61
_______________________________________________________________________




66. PRODUCTION FLEXIBILITY CONTRACTS FOR WHEAT, FEED GRAINS, RICE, AND 
UPLAND COTTON

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1412.401

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/06/00                    65 FR 59759
Withdrawn                       04/20/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF79
_______________________________________________________________________




67. SUSPENSION OF COLLECTION OF RECAPTURE AMOUNT FOR BORROWERS WITH 
CERTAIN SHARED APPRECIATION AGREEMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      08/18/00                    65 FR 50401

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF80
_______________________________________________________________________




68. 2000-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR BURLEY TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      12/15/00                    65 FR 78405

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF85
_______________________________________________________________________




69. 2000-CROP MARKETING QUOTAS AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVELS FOR FIVE KINDS 
OF TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      10/30/00                    65 FR 64589

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF86

[[Page 25193]]

_______________________________________________________________________




70. NONINSURED CROP DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM REGULATIONS FOR THE 1999 
AND SUCCEEDING YEARS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With RIN 0560-AG20       12/14/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF90
_______________________________________________________________________




71. FARM STORAGE FACILITY LOAN PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1436

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/18/01                     66 FR 4607

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG00
_______________________________________________________________________




72. CLARIFICATION OF CASH FLOW MARGIN REQUIREMENTS FOR FARM SERVICE 
AGENCY GUARANTEED LOANS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/24/01                     66 FR 7565
Final Rule Effective            02/23/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG15
_______________________________________________________________________




73. BIOENERGY PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1424

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      11/13/00                    65 FR 67608

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG16
_______________________________________________________________________




74. 2000-CROP AGRICULTURAL DISASTER AND MARKET ASSISTANCE

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1411; 7 CFR 1421; 7 CFR 1427; 7 CFR 1434; 7 CFR 
1439

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      11/02/00                    65 FR 65709

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG18
_______________________________________________________________________




75. MARKET ASSISTANCE FOR TOBACCO, WOOL AND MOHAIR, AND COTTONSEED

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1427; 7 CFR 1464; 7 CFR 1469

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      11/02/00                    65 FR 64718

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG19
_______________________________________________________________________




76. AMENDMENTS TO THE TOBACCO PROGRAM REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With RIN 0560-AG40       01/02/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG21
_______________________________________________________________________




77. GRAZING PAYMENTS FOR 2001 WHEAT, BARLEY, OR OATS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/06/01                    66 FR 13402

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG22
_______________________________________________________________________




78. SPECIAL APPLE PROGRAM AND EMERGENCY LOAN FOR SEED PRODUCERS PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 773; 7 CFR 774

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      12/06/00                    65 FR 76115

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG23

[[Page 25194]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      08/21/00                    65 FR 50598

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG24
_______________________________________________________________________




80. SUGAR PAYMENT-IN-KIND PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant

CFR Citation: None

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          08/23/00                    65 FR 51280

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG27
_______________________________________________________________________




81.  LIVESTOCK ASSISTANCE, AMERICAN INDIAN LIVESTOCK FEED, 
PASTURE RECOVERY, AND DAIRY PRICE SUPPORT PROGRAMS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1430; 7 CFR 1439

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule implements provisions of the Agriculture, Rural 
Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies 
Appropriations Act, 2001 related to the Livestock Assistance (LAP), 
American Indian Livestock Feed (AILFP), Pasture Recovery (PRP), and 
Dairy Price Support Programs. LAP, AILFP, and PRP are being extended to 
cover disaster-related losses that occurred in calendar year 2000, and 
Dairy Price Support is extended through calendar year 2001. Also, LAP, 
AILFP, and PRP are exempt from the public notice requirements of 5 
U.S.C. 553 and will be issued as final. Dairy is not exempt and will be 
issued as interim. The expected cost is LAP: $438 million; AILFP: $12 
million; PRP: $40 million; Dairy Price Support: Not yet determined.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/19/01                    66 FR 13679

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Tribal

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG32
_______________________________________________________________________




82.  DAIRY, HONEY, AND CRANBERRY MARKET LOSS ASSISTANCE AND 
SUGAR PROGRAMS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1400; 7 CFR 1430; 7 CFR 1434; 7 CFR 1435

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement the provisions of the 2001 
Appropriations Act regarding the Dairy Market Loss Assistance Program 
(DMLAP), honey marketing assistance loans, cranberry purchases and 
payments, payment limitations, and sugar non-recourse loans. Under 
DMLAP, benefits will be 35 percent of the reduction in market value 
from the previous 5-year average. Under the honey program, non-recourse 
marketing assistance loans will be made at the rate of 65 cents per 
pound. For cranberries, market loss payments will be made on the basis 
of 1999 production, up to a total of 1.6 million pounds. The Sugar 
Program will be changed to provide nonrecourse instead of recourse 
loans for sugar. Finally, this rule will revise the payment limitations 
for marketing loan gains and loan deficiency payments, for 2000 only, 
from $75,000 to $150,000. The statute exempted these provisions from 
the public notice requirements of 5 U.S.C., and they are thus issued as 
final. Expected Cost: DMLAP: $667 million; Honey: $26 million; 
Cranberry: $20 million; Sugar: None; Payment Limitations: Not yet 
determined, but likely to be relatively insignificant.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/15/01                    66 FR 15172

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG34
_______________________________________________________________________




83.  WOOL, MOHAIR, AND APPLES

Priority: Economically Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1469; 7 CFR 1478

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 811 of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and 
Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for FY 
2001 provides that the Secretary shall make payments to apple producers 
to provide relief for loss of markets. Payments are to be made on a per 
pound basis equal to either of a producer's 1998 and 1999 production, 
or an average of the 2 years, up to a maximum of 1.6 million pounds for 
a particular farm. Section 814 of the Act provides that the Secretary 
shall make direct payments to wool and mohair producers, for the 2000 
marketing year, at the rate of 40 cents per pound. The statute exempted 
these provisions from the public notice requirements of 5 U.S.C. 553, 
and they are thus issued as final. Expected Cost: Apples: $100

[[Page 25195]]

million is available until expended; Wool and Mohair: $20 million.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/03/01                    66 FR 13839

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG35
_______________________________________________________________________




84.  2000 CROP DISASTER PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1480

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 815 of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and 
Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for FY 
2001 provides that the Secretary shall make payments to producers for 
2000 crop losses in the same manner as was done for the 1999 Crop and 
Market Loss Program. Payments may be made for quantity, quality, or 
severe economic losses. Section 811 of the Act provides, separately, 
for $38 million in payments to apple and potato producers for quality 
losses for the 1999 and 2000 crop that were due to fireblight or 
weather-related disaster, without payment limits. Finally, section 807 
of the Act extends coverage of the 1999 Program to include nursery 
stock losses due to Hurricane Irene on October 16 and 17, 1999. The 
statute exempted these provisions from the public notice requirements 
of 5 U.S.C. 553, and they are thus issued as final. Expected Cost: Crop 
Loss: $2 billion; Apples and Potatoes: $38 million; Nursery Stock: 
About $60 million may be available.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/21/01                    66 FR 15976

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG36
_______________________________________________________________________




85.  2001 DAIRY INDEMNITY PAYMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 760

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Dairy Indemnity Payment Program indemnifies dairy farmers 
for milk dumped because of contamination that was not the fault of the 
producer and indemnifies dairy manufacturers for dairy products removed 
from the market through no fault of their own. This action is needed to 
reauthorize the program through 9/30/01 in accordance with the FY 2001 
Appropriations Act. Reauthorization of the program is mandatory. The 
Act appropriated $450,000.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/12/01                     66 FR 2800

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG39
_______________________________________________________________________




86.  LIMITED CALIFORNIA COOPERATIVE INSOLVENCY PAYMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1481

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule sets forth the regulations for the Limited 
California Cooperative Insolvency Payment Program authorized by the 
Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and 
Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2001. Fruit and vegetable 
producers who are members of a large California cooperative recently 
suffered losses due to the insolvency of that cooperative. Congress has 
designated $20 million for their benefit. This rule implements that 
program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/13/01                    66 FR 14479
Correction                      04/12/01                    66 FR 18869

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, Room 6734-S, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG41
BILLING CODE 3410-05-S

[[Page 25196]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




87. PLANT PEST REGULATIONS; UPDATE OF CURRENT PROVISIONS (SECTION 610 
REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 2260; 7 USC 7701-7772; 19 USC 1306; 
21 USC 111, 114a, 136 and 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 4331 and 4332

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 330

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS is undertaking rulemaking to amend its plant pest 
regulations by: (1) Setting out the criteria that will be used by APHIS 
when considering whether an organism is a plant pest; (2) adding a 
permit category for organisms that would be released into the 
environment for purposes such as the biological control of weeds; (3) 
establishing a notification system that could be used in place of 
permits for the importation and interstate movement of regulated 
organisms; and (4) revising or amending existing portions of the 
regulations to clarify or update requirements, eliminate redundancy, 
and make the regulations easier for the public to use. This action will 
serve as a follow-up to the advance notice of proposed rulemaking that 
APHIS published in the Federal Register on September 27, 1996, to 
solicit input on the need for regulatory changes and alternative 
methods of addressing plant pest risk.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/27/96                    61 FR 50767
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/26/96
NPRM                            05/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Robert Flanders, Permits and Risk Assessment, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Unit 141, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1228
Phone: 301 734-5930

RIN: 0579-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________




88. IMPORTATION OF SOLID WOOD PACKING MATERIAL

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166 and 450; 7 USC 7701-7772

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS is undertaking rulemaking to strengthen restrictions on 
the importation of solid wood packing material (e.g., crates, dunnage, 
wooden spools, pallets, packing blocks) into the United States. 
Imported solid wood packing material (SWPM) has been linked to 
introductions of exotic plant pests, such as the pine shoot beetle and 
the Asian longhorned beetle. These and other plant pests that could be 
carried by imported SWPM pose a serious threat to U.S. agriculture and 
to natural, cultivated, and urban forests. SWPM accompanies nearly all 
types of imported commodities, from fruits and vegetables to machinery 
and electrical equipment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/20/99                     64 FR 3049
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/22/99
Notice                          07/07/99                    64 FR 36608
Comment Period End              09/07/99
Notice                          10/17/00                    65 FR 61301
NPRM                            12/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Robert Flanders, Permits and Risk Assessment, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Unit 141, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1228
Phone: 301 734-5930

RIN: 0579-AA99
_______________________________________________________________________




89. BLOOD AND TISSUE COLLECTION AT LIVESTOCK SLAUGHTERING ESTABLISHMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111 to 113; 21 USC 114a; 21 USC 114a-1; 21 USC 
115 to 117; 21 USC 120 to 126; 21 USC 134b; 21 USC 134f

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 71

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are considering establishing requirements for the 
collection of blood and tissue samples from livestock (horses, cattle, 
bison, sheep, and swine) and poultry at slaughter establishments when 
it is necessary for disease surveillance. Under this proposal, any 
person who moves an animal interstate for slaughter could only move the 
animal to a slaughter establishment that has been approved by the 
Administrator. The Administrator would approve a slaughter 
establishment after determining that it is not necessary to conduct 
testing at the establishment or determining that it is necessary to 
conduct testing at the establishment and the establishment provides 
space and facilities to collect blood and tissue samples for disease 
testing. This collection of blood and tissue samples would enable us to 
identify animals at slaughter that are affected by various communicable 
diseases. This change would affect persons moving animals interstate 
for slaughter, slaughter plants that receive animals in interstate 
commerce, and in cases where an animal that tests positive can be 
successfully traced back to its herd or flock of origin, the owners of 
such herds or flocks. The long-term effects of this change would be to 
improve surveillance programs for animal diseases and to contribute to 
the eventual control or eradication of such diseases.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Diane Sutton, Senior Staff Veterinarian, VS, 
National Animal Health Programs, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 43, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4363

RIN: 0579-AB13

[[Page 25197]]

_______________________________________________________________________




90. IMPORTATION OF UNSHU ORANGES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 136 and 136a; 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701-
7772

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.28

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to amend the regulations governing the 
importation of citrus fruit to allow, under certain conditions, Unshu 
oranges grown on Kyushu Island, Japan, to be imported into the United 
States. We are also proposing to amend the regulations for importing 
Unshu oranges from Honshu Island, Japan, by requiring fumigation using 
methyl bromide prior to exportation and by allowing the fruit to be 
imported into commercial citrus-producing areas of the United States. 
In addition, we are proposing to remove the requirement for 
individually wrapping Unshu oranges imported from Japan or the Republic 
of Korea. These actions would relieve restrictions on the importation 
into and distribution within the United States of Unshu oranges without 
presenting a significant risk of introducing citrus canker or other 
diseases or pests of plants.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Inder Paul Gadh, Senior Staff Officer, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AB17
_______________________________________________________________________




91. PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATES FOR IMPORTED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 21 USC 136 
and 136a

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56 through 319.56-8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Currently APHIS does not require a phytosanitary certificate 
to accompany fruits and vegetables imported into the United States 
except for certain fruits and vegetables grown in designated foreign 
regions. This proposed rule would amend our regulations to require that 
a phytosanitary certificate accompany all fruits and vegetables 
imported into the United States, with certain exceptions. This proposal 
would include commercial produce imported into the United States, as 
well as fruits and vegetables brought in by travelers. We would exempt 
from this requirement fruits and vegetables that are dried, cured, 
frozen, or processed, as well as fruits and vegetables that travelers 
and shoppers bring into the United States for personal use through land 
ports-of-entry located along the Canadian and Mexican borders. If 
implemented, this proposal would require changes in the practices of 
importers and travelers who bring produce into the United States from 
other countries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Wayne Burnett, Senior Import Specialist, PIM, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AB18
_______________________________________________________________________




92. BEES, BEEKEEPING BYPRODUCTS, AND BEEKEEPING EQUIPMENT (SECTION 610 
REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 281; 7 USC 7701 to 7772

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319; 7 CFR 322

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We propose to revise the regulations for the importation of 
honeybees and honeybee semen. Among other things, we propose to allow, 
under certain conditions, the importation into the United States of 
honeybees from Australia and honeybees and honeybee germ plasm from New 
Zealand. We also propose changes to make these regulations more 
consistent with standards established by the Office International des 
Epizooties, to update them to reflect current research and terminology, 
and to simplify them and make them more useful.
In addition, we propose to combine the regulations for the importation 
of honeybees and honeybee semen with the regulations established to 
prevent the introduction of exotic bee diseases and parasites through 
the importation of bees other than honeybees, certain beekeeping 
byproducts, and used beekeeping equipment. This change would make the 
regulations more useful by consolidating all of the requirements 
related to the importation of bees, beekeeping byproducts, and used 
beekeeping equipment into one part.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Wayne Wheling, Permits and Risk Assessment, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Unit 141, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1228
Phone: 301 734-8757

RIN: 0579-AB20
_______________________________________________________________________




93. EXPORTATION OF LIVESTOCK (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 105; 21 USC 112; 21 USC 113; 21 USC 114a; 21 
USC 120; 21 USC 121; 21 USC 134b; 21 USC 134f; 21 USC 136; 21 USC 136a; 
21 USC 612; 21 USC 613; 21 USC 614; 21 USC 618; 46 USC 466a and 466b; 
49 USC 1509(d)

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 91

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Cyclical review of 9 CFR part 91 ``Importation and Handling 
of Livestock for Exportation.'' We will

[[Page 25198]]

propose specific changes after we thoroughly review the existing 
requirements. At this time, we do not know the potential cost and 
benefits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Najam Faizi, Senior Staff Veterinarian, National 
Center for Import and Export, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 38, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4356

RIN: 0579-AB21
_______________________________________________________________________




94. VETERINARY DIAGNOSTIC USER FEES--5-YEAR PLAN FOR FEES (SECTION 610 
REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 5542; 7 USC 1622; 19 USC 1306; 21 USC 102 to 
105; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114 and 114a; 21 USC 134a; 21 USC 134b; 21 USC 
134c; 21 USC 134d; 21 USC 134f; 21 USC 135; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 31 USC 
3701; 31 USC 3716; 31 USC 3717; 31 USC 3719; 31 USC 3720A

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 130

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing user fees for multiple fiscal years for 
APHIS' Veterinary Services' veterinary diagnostic user fee goods and 
services. We are proposing this action in order to ensure that we 
recover the full costs of providing these goods and services.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donna Ford, User Fee Section Head, FSSB, BASE, MRPBS, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8351

RIN: 0579-AB22
_______________________________________________________________________




95. NURSERY STOCK REGULATIONS (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166 and 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 300; 7 CFR 319

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to amend the regulations for importing 
nursery stock to provide additional treatment certifications for the 
importation of niger seed and lilac, to reflect recent changes in plant 
taxonomy and pest distributions, and to make various changes to the 
requirements for postentry quarantine of imported plants. We are also 
proposing several other amendments to update and clarify the 
regulations and improve their effectiveness.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Wayne Burnett, Senior Import Specialist, PIM, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AB23
_______________________________________________________________________




96. ANIMAL WELFARE--STANDARDS FOR MARINE MAMMALS (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Agriculture regulates the treatment of 
certain marine mammals under the Animal Welfare Act. The present 
standards for treatment of these animals have been in effect for over 
10 years. During this time, advances have been made and new information 
has been developed with regard to the housing and care of marine 
mammals. In addition to identifying regulatory provisions for revision 
based on negotiated rulemaking (described separately), the Department 
is conducting separate rulemaking to establish standards governing 
``swim with the dolphins'' (SWTD) programs and to propose changes to 
the marine mammal standards on which consensus was not reached during 
negotiated rulemaking.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM Marine Mammals (SWTD and 
other)                          10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0579-AB24
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




97. KARNAL BUNT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 7701-7772

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Karnal bunt is a fungal disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum), 
durum wheat (Triticum durum), and triticale (Triticum aestivum x Secale 
cereale), a hybrid of wheat and rye. In the absence of measures taken 
by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the establishment of Karnal bunt 
in the United States would have significant consequences with regard to 
the export of wheat to international markets. Prior to March 8, 1996, 
Karnal bunt was not known to exist in the United States. Since March 8, 
1996, Karnal bunt has

[[Page 25199]]

been detected within several States. In response, we have established 
regulations that define regulated areas in certain States because of 
Karnal bunt, restrict the movement of certain articles from the 
regulated areas to prevent the spread of Karnal bunt, and provide 
compensation for certain growers, handlers, and other individuals in 
the regulated areas to mitigate losses and expenses incurred because of 
actions taken by the Secretary to prevent the spread of Karnal bunt. As 
part of a continuing Karnal bunt program, we anticipate that the 
regulations concerning regulated areas, movement restrictions, and 
compensation will be revised as more is known about the Karnal bunt 
situation in the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/05/96                    61 FR 35102
NPRM                            08/02/96                    61 FR 40354
NPRM Comment Period End         09/03/96
Final Rule Classifying Regulated 
Areas, Movement of Regulated 
Articles                        10/04/96                    61 FR 52190
Interim Final Rule Change 
Classification of Regulated 
Areas                           05/01/97                    62 FR 23620
Final Rule Compensation for 
1995-96 Crop Season             05/06/97                    62 FR 24746
NPRM Compensation for 1996-97 
Crop Season                     07/11/97                    62 FR 37159
NPRM Compensation for Wheat Seed 
and Straw, 1995-96 Crop Season  07/30/97                    62 FR 40756
Interim Final Rule Additions to 
Regulated Areas                 11/24/97                    62 FR 62504
Interim Final Rule Approved 
Treatments                      12/05/97                    62 FR 64263
Final Rule Compensation for 
Wheat Seed and Straw, 1995-96 
Crop Season                     01/09/98                     63 FR 1321
NPRM Movement From Regulated 
Areas                           01/28/98                     63 FR 4198
Final Rule Compensation for 
1996-97 Crop Season             06/10/98                    63 FR 31593
AIR as Final Rule Approved 
Treatments                      09/04/98                    63 FR 47127
Final Rule Movement From 
Regulated Areas                 09/23/98                    63 FR 50747
NPRM Compensation for the 1997-
98 Crop Season                  12/17/98                    63 FR 69563
NPRM Reclassification of 
Regulated Areas                 03/09/99                    64 FR 11392
NPRM Reclassification of 
Regulated Areas Comment Period 
End                             04/08/99                    64 FR 11392
Final Rule Reclassification of 
Regulated Areas                 05/04/99                    64 FR 23749
Final Rule Change Classification 
of Regulated Areas              06/02/99                    64 FR 29541
Final Rule Compensation for the 
1997-98 Crop Season             06/25/99                    64 FR 34109
Proposed Rule Compensation for 
the 1999-2000 Crop Season       01/16/01                     66 FR 3505
NPRM Comment Period End         03/19/01
Final Rule                      07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Dr. Vedpal Malik, National Karnal Bunt Coordinator, 
PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service, Unit 134, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6774

RIN: 0579-AA83
_______________________________________________________________________




98. INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF SHEEP AND GOATS FROM STATES THAT DO NOT 
QUARANTINE SCRAPIE-INFECTED AND SOURCE FLOCKS (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111 to 114; 21 USC 114a; 21 USC 115; 21 USC 
117; 21 USC 120 to 121; 21 USC 123 to 126; 21 USC 134a to 134h

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 54; 9 CFR 79

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: After soliciting public comment to help us develop options 
for potential changes to our regulations for the interstate movement of 
sheep and goats, we believe changes are necessary to improve control 
and limit the spread of scrapie, a serious disease of sheep and goats. 
We are undertaking rulemaking to correlate Federal interstate movement 
restrictions with the effectiveness of individual State scrapie 
programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/26/98                     63 FR 3671
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/27/98
NPRM                            11/30/99                    64 FR 66791
NPRM Comment Period End         01/14/00
NPRM (reproposal)               08/15/00                    65 FR 49770
NPRM Comment Period End         09/14/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Diane Sutton, Senior Staff Veterinarian, VS, 
National Animal Health Programs, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 43, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4363

RIN: 0579-AA90
_______________________________________________________________________




99. ANIMAL WELFARE; INSPECTION, LICENSING, AND PROCUREMENT OF ANIMALS 
(SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 1 and 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would make several amendments to the Animal 
Welfare Act regulations to clarify them and improve their 
enforceability. In addition, it would amend a number of administrative 
procedures to make them more efficient. We believe these actions are 
necessary to help ensure compliance with the regulations and the Animal 
Welfare Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/04/00                    65 FR 47908
NPRM Comment Period End         10/03/00
Final Action                    07/00/01

[[Page 25200]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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

RIN: 0579-AA94
_______________________________________________________________________




100. IRRADIATION PHYTOSANITARY TREATMENT OF IMPORTED FRESH FRUITS AND 
VEGETABLES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701-7772

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 305; 7 CFR 319.56

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would establish irradiation as a new 
treatment alternative for the importation of certain fresh fruits and 
vegetables. Irradiation would be allowed as an alternative to 
mitigation measures that are required to control certain species of 
fruit flies in a variety of imported fruits and vegetables. If this 
proposal is adopted, importers of certain fruits and vegetables will 
have an additional alternative to the currently approved treatments, 
such as fumigation and cold treatment, for treating their articles. No 
net societal gains and losses other than small price-related changes 
are expected from this proposed rule change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Policy Statement for Irradiation 
Treatment of Fresh Fruits and 
Vegetables                      05/15/98                    63 FR 24433
NPRM                            05/26/00                    65 FR 34113
NPRM Comment Period End         07/25/00
Final Action                    08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dennis J. Hannapel, Phytosanitary Issues Management, 
PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service, Unit 140, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AA97
_______________________________________________________________________




101. ESTABLISHMENT OF REGIONS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION FOR HOG CHOLERA, 
FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE, AND SWINE VESICULAR DISEASE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 134a to 134d; 21 USC 134f; 21 USC 135 to 136a; 
31 USC 9701; 42 USC 4331 to 4332; 7 USC 1622; 19 USC 1306; 21 USC 102 
to 105; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114a

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 92; 9 CFR 94; 9 CFR 98

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would recognize certain regions in the European 
Union as regions where hog cholera is not known to exist and from which 
live swine, swine semen, and pork and pork products may be imported 
into the United States under certain conditions. Additionally, it would 
recognize Greece as free of swine vesicular disease and recognize 17 
regions in Italy as free of swine vesicular disease.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/25/99                    64 FR 34155
NPRM Comment Period End         08/24/99
Final Action                    09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Gary Colgrove, Assistant Director, Sanitary Trade 
Issues Team, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, Unit 38, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8364

RIN: 0579-AB03
_______________________________________________________________________




102. COMMERCIAL TRANSPORTATION OF EQUINES TO SLAUGHTER

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1901

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 88 (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish regulations pertaining to the 
commercial transportation of equines to slaughter. The purpose of these 
regulations is to establish minimum standards to ensure the humane 
movement of equines to slaughter via commercial transportation. We are 
proposing these regulations to fulfill our responsibility under the 
1996 Farm Bill to regulate the commercial transportation of equines to 
slaughter by persons regularly engaged in that activity within the 
United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/19/99                    64 FR 27210
NPRM Comment Period End         07/19/99
Final Rule                      04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Timothy R. Cordes, Senior Staff Veterinarian, 
National Animal Health Programs, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal 
and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 43, 4700 River Road, 
Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-3279

RIN: 0579-AB06
_______________________________________________________________________




103. CITRUS CANKER; PAYMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL CITRUS TREE REPLACEMENT AND 
LOST PRODUCTION INCOME

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; PL 106-113; PL 106-224; 
PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301.75

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS has published an interim rule amending its citrus 
canker regulations to establish provisions under which eligible owners 
of commercial citrus groves may receive payments to replace commercial 
citrus trees removed because of citrus canker. APHIS has also published 
a proposed rule that would provide those eligible owners with payments 
to recover production income lost as a result of the removal of 
commercial citrus trees to control citrus canker. APHIS anticipates 
finalizing both regulatory actions after addressing the comments 
received.
Provisions for the payment of these funds were contained in the 
Consolidated Appropriations Act for FY

[[Page 25201]]

2000 (Pub. L. 106-113), the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 
(Pub. L. 206-224), and the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and 
Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2001 
(Pub. L. 206-387). The payment of these funds is intended to reduce the 
economic effect of the citrus canker quarantine on affected commercial 
citrus growers in Florida.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

IRM (Tree Replacement)          10/16/00                    65 FR 61077
PRM (Lost Production)           12/07/00                    65 FR 76582
IRM Comment Period End          12/15/00
PRM Comment Period End          01/08/01
FRM (Tree Replacement)          05/00/01
FRM (Lost Production)           05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stephen R. Poe, Operations Officer, Program Support 
Staff, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, Unit 134, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8247

RIN: 0579-AB15
_______________________________________________________________________




104. PLUM POX COMPENSATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 7701 to 7772

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301.74-5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS has published an interim rule amending its plum pox 
regulations to provide for the payment of compensation to the owners of 
commercial stone fruit orchards and fruit tree nurseries who had stone 
fruit trees or nursery stock destroyed in order to control plum pox. 
The payment of these funds is necessary in order to reduce the economic 
impact of the plum pox quarantine on affected commercial stone fruit 
growers and fruit tree nursery owners. APHIS anticipates finalizing 
this interim rule after addressing the comments received.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/14/00                    65 FR 55431
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/13/00
Final Action                    05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stephen R. Poe, Operations Officer, Program Support 
Staff, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, Unit 134, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-8247

RIN: 0579-AB19
_______________________________________________________________________




105.  ANIMAL WELFARE; POLICY ON ENVIRONMENT ENHANCEMENT FOR 
NONHUMAN PRIMATES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131-2159

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3.81

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS' Animal Welfare Act regulations require that dealers, 
exhibitors, and research facilities that maintain nonhuman primates 
develop and follow a plan for environment enhancement adequate to 
promote the psychological well-being of nonhuman primates.
APHIS is preparing a policy statement to provide guidance on what we 
believe must be considered and included in the plan in order for 
dealers, exhibitors, and research facilities to adequately promote the 
psychological well-being of nonhuman primates.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Draft Policy Statement          07/15/99                    64 FR 38145
Comment Period End              10/13/99
Final Policy Statement          05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0579-AB25
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




106. IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN EMBRYOS AND ANIMAL SEMEN (SECTION 610 
REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 98

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/08/93                    58 FR 36625
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/07/93
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Roger Perkins
Phone: 301 734-8364

RIN: 0579-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________




107. IMPORTATION OF FUJI APPLES FROM THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56-2cc

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/26/00                    65 FR 24423
NPRM Comment Period End         06/26/00
NPRM Comment Period Extended    08/22/00                    65 FR 50937
NPRM Comment Period End         10/23/00
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 25202]]

Agency Contact: Dennis J. Hannapel
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AA93
_______________________________________________________________________




108. RESTRICTIONS ON THE IMPORTATION OF RUMINANTS, MEAT AND MEAT 
PRODUCTS FROM RUMINANTS, AND CERTAIN OTHER RUMINANT PRODUCTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93.404(c); 9 CFR 94.18; 9 CFR 95.4(a); 9 CFR 
96.2(b)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donna Malloy
Phone: 301 734-8715

RIN: 0579-AA98
_______________________________________________________________________




109. REQUIRING TREATMENT OF SOLID WOOD PACKING MATERIAL FROM CHINA

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.40

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/18/98                    63 FR 50100
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/17/98
Interim Final Rule              12/17/98                    63 FR 69539
Interim Final Rule Effective    12/17/98
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/16/99


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Flanders
Phone: 301 734-5930

RIN: 0579-AB01
_______________________________________________________________________




110. IMPORTATION OF UNMANUFACTURED WOOD ARTICLES FROM MEXICO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.40

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/11/99                    64 FR 31512
NPRM Comment Period End         08/10/99


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jane E. Levy
Phone: 301 734-8295

RIN: 0579-AB02
_______________________________________________________________________




111. HORSE PROTECTION; HORSE INDUSTRY ORGANIZATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 11

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Willems
Phone: 919 716-5544

RIN: 0579-AB04
_______________________________________________________________________




112. NOXIOUS WEEDS; WEED CATEGORIES AND PRIORITIES (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 360; 7 CFR 361

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/20/00                    65 FR 14927
ANPRM Comment Period End        05/19/00


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Polly Lehtonen
Phone: 301 734-8896

RIN: 0579-AB07
_______________________________________________________________________




113. NOXIOUS WEEDS; RESTRICTIONS ON INTERSTATE MOVEMENT

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 360.300

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/29/99                    64 FR 41007
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/27/99


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alan V. Tasker
Phone: 301 734-5225

RIN: 0579-AB08
_______________________________________________________________________




114. AQUACULTURE; FARM-RAISED FIN FISH

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/04/99                    64 FR 23795
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/06/99


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Otis Miller
Phone: 301 734-6188

RIN: 0579-AB09
_______________________________________________________________________




115. PSEUDORABIES IN SWINE; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 52

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/12/99                     64 FR 2545
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/16/99
Interim Final Rule              04/18/00                    65 FR 20706
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/19/00
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Arnold C. Taft
Phone: 301 734-7708

RIN: 0579-AB10

[[Page 25203]]

_______________________________________________________________________




116. IMPORTATION OF BEEF FROM BRAZIL

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 94

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Glen Garris
Phone: 301 734-4356

RIN: 0579-AB16
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




117. ANIMAL WELFARE--STANDARDS FOR MARINE MAMMALS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule Animal Welfare; 
Marine Mammals (Reg Neg)        01/03/01                      66 FR 239
Final Action Effective          02/02/01
Delay of Effective Date until 
04/03/2001                      02/02/01                     66 FR 8744

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Barbara Kohn
Phone: 301 734-7833

RIN: 0579-AA59
BILLING CODE 3410-34-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


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



_______________________________________________________________________




118. HIGHER EDUCATION MULTICULTURAL SCHOLARS PROGRAM; ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 3152(b)(5); PL 103-111; PL 103-330; PL 104-37; 
PL 104-180

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3409

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip A. Carter, Policy Advisor, Policy and Program 
Liaison Staff, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, MS 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 720-9181
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA09
_______________________________________________________________________




119. HISPANIC-SERVING INSTITUTIONS EDUCATION GRANTS PROGRAM 
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 3241

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3412

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip A. Carter, Policy Advisor, Policy and Program 
Liaison Staff, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, MS 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 720-9181
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA17
_______________________________________________________________________




120. COMMUNITY FOOD PROJECTS ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2034

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3416

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation proposes to establish administrative 
provisions for the Community Food Projects to institute procedures to 
be followed in preparing proposals, to outline requirements which grant 
recipients must meet, to provide instructions on how to apply for a 
grant, and to provide general information about post-award 
administration of grants under the program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 25204]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip A. Carter, Policy Advisor, Policy and Program 
Liaison Staff, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, MS 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 720-9181
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________




121. SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH PROGRAM ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 638

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3403

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Cooperative State Research Education and Extension 
Service (CSREES) proposes to modify the Small Business Innovation 
Research Program Administrative Provisions by changing the language of 
when a Phase I awardee is eligible to apply for a Phase II award. 
Currently, a Phase I awardee may apply for a Phase II award in the next 
fiscal year funding cycle or the second fiscal year funding cycle. 
CSREES intends to revise this language to allow Phase I awardees to 
apply in either of the two fiscal years following the end of the 
initial project period; this does not include any no-cost extensions of 
time. This revision will allow an 18-month Phase I awardee the same 
privileges as that of a 6-month Phase I awardee. Privileges as used 
herein refers to the opportunity for a no-cost extension of time, if 
necessary, and two options of when a Phase I awardee may apply for a 
Phase II award.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip A. Carter, Policy Advisor, Policy and Program 
Liaison Staff, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, MS 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 720-9181
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA20
_______________________________________________________________________




122. BIOTECHNOLOGY RISK ASSESSMENT RESEARCH GRANTS PROGRAM 
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 5921; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3415

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension 
Service (CSREES) proposes to revise and modify the Biotechnology Risk 
Assessment Research Grants Program Administrative Provisions. The 
revision and modification updates 7 CFR part 3415 to delete references 
to the Office of Agricultural Biotechnology and the Agricultural 
Biotechnology Research Advisory Committee clarifying the requirements 
for the pre-proposals, clarifying what is to be included in the 15-page 
limit on proposals, and revising the language regarding conflicts of 
interests (3415.12).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip A. Carter, Policy Advisor, Policy and Program 
Liaison Staff, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, MS 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 720-9181
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA21
_______________________________________________________________________




123. NATIONAL RESEARCH INITIATIVE COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM 
ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450i(b)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3411

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension 
Service (CSREES) proposes to revise and modify the National Research 
Initiative Competitive Grants Program administrative provisions. The 
revision and modification will update 7 CFR 3411 to reflect changes in 
the Agricultural Research, Extension, and Education Reform Act of 1998 
(Pub. L. 105-185) and to comply with a recent OIG audit. Specifically, 
the equipment grant eligibility requirements need to be revised, along 
with other administrative changes. In addition, CSREES plans to comply 
with the proposed plain language requirements set out in the 
Presidential memo dated June 1, 1998.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip A. Carter, Policy Advisor, Policy and Program 
Liaison Staff, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, 
Education, and Extension Service, MS 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 720-9181
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA22
BILLING CODE 3410-22-S

[[Page 25205]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 100-259; 29 USC 794; PL 94-135; 42 USC 6101 et seq; 
PL 94-239; 15 USC 1601 et seq; EO 11246; PL 88-352; 42 USC 2000d et 
seq; PL 90-284; 42 USC 3601 to 3619; PL 100-430; PL 92-318; 20 USC 1681 
et seq; PL 93-112; EO 12898

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This ruling will effectuate a comprehensive civil rights 
regulation implementing the following laws: The Equal Credit 
Opportunity Act (ECOA); title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; title 
VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, as amended by the Fair Housing 
Amendments Act of 1988 (The Fair Housing Act); section 504 Federally 
Conducted and Federally Assisted Programs; title IX of the Education 
Amendments of 1972; Age Discrimination Act of 1975; and Executive 
Orders 11246 and 12898 (Environmental Justice). The revised regulations 
will provide detailed guidelines for field offices for improved 
enforcement and compliance with these laws, which heavily impact the 
Agency's programs. Mechanisms for monitoring compliance by field 
offices and recipients of Federal financial assistance at all levels 
will decrease the Agency's vulnerability that exist due to 
noncompliance with recently enacted Civil Rights legislation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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

Agency Contact: Carlton L. Lewis, Chief, Program Compliance Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, STOP 0703, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 692-0097
Fax: 202 358-5657
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AA83
_______________________________________________________________________




125. SERVICING COMMUNITY PROGRAMS LOANS AND GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3570 subpart E; 7 CFR 1951 subpart E; 7 CFR 1951 
subpart O; 7 CFR 1955 subpart A; 7 CFR 1955 subpart B; 7 CFR 1955 
subpart C; 7 CFR 1956 subpart C; 7 CFR 1951 subpart F

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is combining seven regulations affecting the 
servicing of Community Programs loans and grants into one regulation. 
Justification: This is part of the Reinventing Government Initiative. 
There are no policy or procedural changes. The published regulation 
will be simplified by removing the administrative portion and will only 
contain the information affecting the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Beth Jones, Loan Specialist, Community Programs 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 0183/
Stop 0787, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1498
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC12
_______________________________________________________________________




126. MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING REINVENTION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 42 USC 1490a; 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1475; 42 
USC 1479; 42 USC 1480; 42 USC 1481; 42 USC 1484; 42 USC 1485; 42 USC 
1486

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1806 subpart A; 7 CFR 1955 subpart B; 7 CFR 1955 
subpart C; 7 CFR 1956 subpart B; 7 CFR 1965 subpart B; 7 CFR 1965 
subpart E; 7 CFR 1930 subpart C; 7 CFR 1944 subpart D; 7 CFR 1944 
subpart E; 7 CFR 1951 subpart C; 7 CFR 1951 subpart D; 7 CFR 1951 
subpart K; 7 CFR 1951 subpart N; 7 CFR 1955 subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Reinvention of the Rural Housing Service's Multi-Family 
Housing Programs will consolidate regulations pertaining to section 515 
Rural Rental Housing, section 514 Farm Labor Housing Loans, section 516 
Farm Labor Housing Grants, and section 521 Rental Assistance Payments. 
Fourteen published regulations will be reduced to one regulation and 
handbooks for program administration. This will simplify loan 
origination and portfolio management for applicants, borrowers, and 
housing operators as well as Rural Development field staff. This will 
also provide flexibility for program modifications to reflect current 
and foreseeable changes. It will also reduce regulations that address 
solely internal Agency program administration. Finally, the regulation 
will be more customer friendly and responsive to the needs of the 
public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patrick Sheridan, Assistant Deputy Administrator, MFH, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 1263/Stop 0782, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1609
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC13
_______________________________________________________________________




127. SELF-HELP TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1944; 7 CFR 3551

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulations for 7 CFR 1944-I ``Self-Help Technical 
Assistance Grants'' is being rewritten and

[[Page 25206]]

renumbered to 7 CFR 3551. Changes are proposed for clarification of 
policy and procedures relative to the: 1) Application procedure, which 
is changing to an annual competitive grant process; 2) labor 
contribution of participating families; 3) monitoring of grantee 
progress through Self-Help Automated Reporting and Evaluation System 
(SHARES); and 4) define the roles of Technical and Management 
Assistance Contractors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Agency Contact: Daryl Cooper, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 2209/Stop 0783, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0783
Phone: 202 720-1366
Fax: 202 720-2232

RIN: 0575-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________




128. OPERATING ASSISTANCE FOR MIGRANT FARMWORKER PROJECTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1484; 42 USC 1486; 42 USC 1490a; PL 
105-276, sec 599c

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Regulation implements the provisions of Public Law 105-276, 
enacted October 21, 1998, which amended section 521 of the Housing Act 
of 1949. This amendment provides that, for migrant farmworker housing 
projects financed under section 514 or 516 of the Housing Act, the 
Secretary may, at the request of the owner, permit amounts provided for 
rental assistance under section 521 to be used to provide assistance 
for the costs of operating the project.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David LayField, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 1239/STOP 0781, 1400 
Independence Ave, Washington, DC 20250-0781
Phone: 202 690-0759
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1806; 7 CFR 1900; 7 CFR 1944; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 
1955; 7 CFR 1956; 7 CFR 1965; 7 CFR 3550

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/08/96                    61 FR 15395
NPRM Comment Period End         06/07/96
Interim Final Rule              11/22/96                    61 FR 59762
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/26/96
Interim Final Rule Effective    12/26/96
Final Action                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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: Carolyn Bell, Senior Loan Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Stop 0783, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1532

RIN: 0575-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________




130. GUARANTEED RURAL HOUSING LOAN SINGLE FAMILY

Priority: Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments and the private sector.

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3555; 7 CFR 1980 subpart D

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Housing Service is revising the regulation for the 
Guaranteed Rural Housing (GRH) program in order to increase the number 
of rural households that are able to make homeownership a reality, 
strengthen internal controls of the program, streamline and 
``reinvent'' the regulation by making it clearer and more concise, and 
improve performance by lenders and servicers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/15/99                    64 FR 70124

[[Page 25207]]

NPRM Comment Period End         02/14/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Roger Glendenning, Director, Guaranteed Loan Division, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 2248/Stop 0784, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0780
Phone: 202 720-1480
Fax: 202 205-2476
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




131. DENYING CREDIT TO APPLICANTS DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/04/94                    59 FR 23018
NPRM Comment Period End         07/05/94
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Chris Burgess
Phone: 314 539-2360
Fax: 314 539-2780
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AA66
_______________________________________________________________________




132. ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 40 CFR 300; 40 CFR 260; 40 CFR 700; 40 CFR 400; 7 CFR 
1940

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/14/00                    65 FR 55784
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/00
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Susan Wieferich
Phone: 202 720-9647

RIN: 0575-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




133. NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Baxter Hill
Phone: 202 720-1499

RIN: 0575-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




134. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO ENCOURAGE THE DEVELOPMENT OF DOMESTIC AND 
MIGRANT FARM LABOR HOUSING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1944 subpart D

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David LayField
Phone: 202 690-0759
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




135. RURAL DEVELOPMENT LOAN PAYMENT AND COLLECTION PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1902 subpart C; 7 CFR 1951 subpart A; 7 CFR 1951 
subpart B; 7 CFR 1980 subpart E

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/31/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Huntley
Phone: 314 539-6063
Fax: 314 539-2764
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC22
_______________________________________________________________________




136. COMMUNITY PROGRAMS GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3575 subpart A

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       01/31/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Steve Wetherbee
Phone: 202 720-1503
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC23
BILLING CODE 3410-07-S

[[Page 25208]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation amends the General 
Administrative Regulations by revising the ``Collection of Information 
and Data (Privacy Act)'' statement found on the general crop insurance 
application. The proposed amendments to the statement include defining 
``substantial beneficial interest'' as those persons whose interest in 
the policyholder is in excess of 10 percent. Other minor changes have 
been made to more fully comply with provisions of the Privacy Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB00
_______________________________________________________________________




138. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; COARSE GRAINS CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457.113

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation proposes to make 
changes to the Coarse Grains Crop Insurance Provisions for corn, grain, 
sorghum, and soybeans for the 2000 crop year specific to the way corn 
grain versus corn silage is insured and to clarify the insurability of 
specialty corn and soybeans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Diana Moslak, Regulatory Review Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 720-2832

Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop 
Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB64
_______________________________________________________________________




139. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; MOVEMENT OF BUSINESS AMONG 
INSURANCE PROVIDERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To ensure that the interests of policyholders are protected 
and that the policies and policyholder data are transferred in an 
orderly manner, the Risk Management Agency is providing comprehensive 
regulations that will apply to agents, managing general agents, policy-
issuing companies, and reinsured companies. The objective of this 
regulation is to prescribe uniform administrative requirements for the 
movement or assumption of crop insurance policies.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Diana Moslak, Regulatory Review Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 720-2832

Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop 
Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB71
_______________________________________________________________________




140. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SANCTIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(m); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To add a new section to the Sanction regulation that will 
specify the conditions under which a person and affiliate may qualify 
for a waiver or reduction of a civil penalty imposed by the Agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Diana Moslak, Regulatory Review Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 720-2832

Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop 
Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




141. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; BLUEBERRY CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to solicit public comments on 
FCIC's proposed action to convert the blueberry pilot insurance program 
to a permanent insurance program. The pilot was initiated for the 1995 
crop

[[Page 25209]]

year for selected counties in Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, and 
North Carolina and covered highbush and rabbiteye blueberry varieties.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB76
_______________________________________________________________________




142. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; CIVIL RIGHTS DATA COLLECTION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 28 CFR 42.403; 28 CFR 42.406

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to ensure compliance with title 
VI civil rights requirements. This data collection includes race/
national origin, sex, disability, and age. This will allow the Agency 
to better assess if discrimination has occurred and to identify areas 
in need of outreach.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB78
_______________________________________________________________________




143. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; NURSERY CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this proposed rule is to solicit public 
comments on FCIC's proposed action to revise the Nursery Crop 
Provisions (99-073) for the 2002 crop year to: Specify that container 
grown and field grown plants are separate crops, provide optional units 
by location for field grown nursery plant, incorporate the ``lower of'' 
rule into section 6 of the provisions, permit insureds to purchase 
insurance coverage on a year-round basis, incorporate provisions to 
provide a rehabilitation payment for plants damaged by an insured cause 
of loss.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________




144. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; ACTUAL PRODUCTION HISTORY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506 (l); 7 USC 1506 (p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To revise actual production history regulations to reflect 
changes in calculation of approved APH yields as mandated by the 
Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000. Revisions will include: 
Assigned yields for crops produced on land not farmed before (added 
land), rotations to crops not previously produced (new crops), and for 
prevented planting acreage if planted to a substitute crop; adjustments 
for successful pest control efforts and for organic crops destroyed to 
maintain organic certification; and substitution of 60 percent of the 
transitional yield for low actual yields if producers elect that 
option.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________




145. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBMISSION OF POLICIES AND 
PROVISIONS OF POLICIES AND RATES OF PREMIUMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Minor revisions will be made to the regulation for 
clarification and other revisions will be made as specified: Remove the 
need to publish policies from 508(h) submissions as a Notice of 
Availability in the Federal Register; information will be made 
available electronically to producers and approved insurance providers; 
confidential information may be withheld from the public under the 
standard for privileged or confidential information pertaining to trade 
secrets and commercial or financial information even after approval by 
the Board; there will be an expert review of submissions; the applicant 
will be notified in writing at least 30 days prior to the Board 
disapproving a submission, if the Board intends to disapprove the 
submission; a submission will be deemed approved by the Board if the 
Board fails to make

[[Page 25210]]

a determination within a prescribed time period; applicants will be 
reimbursed for research and developmental costs and maintenance costs; 
and companies selling the product will pay fees to the developer of the 
product after the fourth year of the applicant being paid maintenance 
costs unless maintenance for the product is transferred to FCIC.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB84
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) hereby proposes 
regulations to allow insurance coverage by written agreement for crops 
in counties which have no actuarial table. Currently, FCIC provides 
insurance by written agreement for only program crops. By providing 
insurance by written agreement, FCIC will provide a risk management 
tool to a broader base of producers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/20/97                    62 FR 33575
NPRM Comment Period End         08/19/97
Final Rule                      08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB07
_______________________________________________________________________




147. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; SMALL GRAINS CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS AND WHEAT WINTER COVERAGE ENDORSEMENT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457.101; 7 CFR 457.102

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation proposes to revise and 
clarify existing policy provisions, establish winter wheat coverage in 
certain South Dakota and Wisconsin counties, reduce coverage under 
Option B of the Wheat Winter Coverage Endorsement, and to require 
insurance on spring wheat planted to replace damaged winter wheat 
covered under the Wheat Winter Coverage Endorsement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/20/00                    65 FR 21144
NPRM Comment Period End         06/19/00
Final Rule                      08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

Diana Moslak, Regulatory Review Officer, Department of Agriculture, 
Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 720-2832

RIN: 0563-AB63
_______________________________________________________________________




148. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; NONSTANDARD UNDERWRITING 
CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation proposes to remove and 
reserve subpart O of the General Administrative Regulations, effective 
for the 1999 (2000 for Texas and Arizona and California Citrus) and 
succeeding crop years. This action is intended to eliminate the 
unintended adverse effects of the Nonstandard Classification System 
(NCS), simplify and update program underwriting rules consistent with 
the program's current and future anticipated experience, and ensure 
that crop insurance premiums are applied to all producers in a fair and 
consistent manner.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/17/97                    62 FR 48798
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/17/97
NPRM                            09/02/98                    63 FR 46703
NPRM Comment Period End         10/19/98
Final Action                    08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Diana Moslak, Regulatory Review Officer, Department

[[Page 25211]]

of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 720-2832

Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop 
Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB66
_______________________________________________________________________




149. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; PREMIUM REDUCTIONS; PAYMENTS OF 
REBATES, DIVIDENDS, AND PATRONAGE REFUNDS; AND PAYMENTS TO INSURED-OWNED 
AND RECORD-CONTROLLING ENTITIES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p); 7 USC 1508(e)(3)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To allow approved insurance providers to apply to the Federal 
Crop Insurance Corporation for authority to reduce the premium charged 
producers in accordance with section 508(e)(3) of the Federal Crop 
Insurance Act, as amended, and to provide the limitations and 
requirements applicable to the payment of rebates, dividends, and 
patronage refunds to insureds and payments to insured-owned and record-
controlling entities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/12/99                    64 FR 25464
NPRM Comment Period End         07/12/99
Final Rule                      08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Heyward Baker, Director, Reinsurance Services Division, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0804
Phone: 202 720-4286

RIN: 0563-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________




150. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; MILLET CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to solicit public comments on 
FCIC's proposed action to convert the millet pilot crop insurance 
program to a permanent insurance program and clarify existing crop 
provisions and methodology for calculated losses for the 2001 and 
succeeding crop years. FCIC believes this proposed rule will provide 
additional coverage benefits and improve the risk management tool for 
millet producers in all regions of the country.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/19/00                    65 FR 37919
NPRM Comment Period End         08/18/00
Final Rule                      08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB79
_______________________________________________________________________




151. CATASTROPHIC RISK PROTECTION ENDORSEMENT; GROUP RISK PLAN OF 
INSURANCE REGULATIONS; BASIC PROVISIONS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l), 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 402; 7 CFR 407; 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 30, 2000.

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) amends the 
Catastrophic Risk Protection Endorsement (7 CFR part 402), the Group 
Risk Plan of Insurance Regulations (7 CFR part 407), and the Common 
Crop Insurance Regulations, Basic Provisions (7 CFR part 457) to revise 
those provisions affected by the changes in the administrative fees and 
subsidies and the substitution of yields in the producer's actual 
production history mandated by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 
2000.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Effective    06/28/00                    65 FR 40483
Interim Final Rule              06/30/00                    65 FR 40483
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/29/00
Final Rule                      08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________




152. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; BASIC PROVISIONS AND GENERAL 
ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS, SUBPART T, REGULATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); 7 USC 1506(p)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400; 7 CFR 457.8

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 18, 2000.

Abstract: The purpose of these rules is to propose changes to the 
Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Basic Provisions and the General 
Administrative Regulations, Subpart T--Insurance Implementation, 
mandated by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000. The changes 
will be proposed to be effective beginning with the 2002 crop year for 
all crops with a contract change date on or after June 30, 2001. The 
major changes to the Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Basic 
Provisions are: 1) Limit indemnities and premiums when

[[Page 25212]]

more than one crop is planted on acreage within the same crop year; 2) 
if an initial crop is prevented from being planted and a substitute 
crop is planted on the acreage within the same crop year, allow reduced 
prevented planting coverage for the initial crop, and the initial 
crop's Actual Production History (APH) will be reduced to 60 percent of 
the producer's APH; and 3) add scientifically sound sustainable and 
organic farming practices as good farming practices.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth D. Ackerman, Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, MS 0801, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0801
Phone: 202 690-2803
Fax: 202 690-2818

RIN: 0563-AB85
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




153. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; INTERPRETATIONS OF STATUTORY 
AND REGULATORY PROVISIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/28/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AB82
BILLING CODE 3410-08-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




154. REVIEW INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.125; 7 CFR 800.135; 7 CFR 800.87

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: GIPSA is proposing to revise regulations under the U.S. Grain 
Standards Act to allow interested persons to stipulate the quality 
factors that would be redetermined during a reinspection or appeal 
inspection for grade. Currently reinspections and appeal inspections 
for grade must include a review for all factors that (1) may determine 
the grade; (2) are reported on the original certificate; or (3) are 
required to be shown. GIPSA has determined that mandating all quality 
factors be reexamined during a review inspection is inefficient, time 
consuming, and costly. Further, such a complete review of the preceding 
inspection service is usually not needed to confirm the true quality of 
the grain. This proposed action will allow interested parties to 
specify which official factors should be redetermined during the 
reinspection or appeal inspection service. However, to safeguard 
against inadvertent misgrading, official personnel may determine other 
factors, when deemed necessary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades, Regulatory Liaison, Department 
of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 
Administration, Room 1647-S, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA58
_______________________________________________________________________




155. LIVESTOCK PURCHASE OR SALE: PROHIBIT NON-REPORTING OF PRICE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 204; 7 USC 228

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 201.54

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Following a review of comments received in response to the 
ANPRM, the Agency is proposing a regulation that would make purchasing 
or selling livestock with the condition that the price not be reported 
a violation of the Packers and Stockyards Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/10/98                    63 FR 48450
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/09/98
NPRM                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades, Regulatory Liaison, Department 
of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 
Administration, Room 1647-S, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA65
_______________________________________________________________________




156.  FEES FOR OFFICIAL INSPECTION AND OFFICIAL WEIGHING 
SERVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.71

[[Page 25213]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is proposing an approximate 6.1 percent increase 
in contract and noncontract hourly rates, certain unit rates, and the 
administrative tonnage fee for official inspection and weighing 
services performed in the United States under the U.S. Grain Standards 
Act. The proposed increase is based on the cost-of-living increases 
utilizing an average of the locality pay adjustments and actual cost of 
performing official inspection services of 2.4 percent and 3.7 percent 
in FY 2000 and FY 2001, respectively.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades, Regulatory Liaison, Department 
of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 
Administration, Room 1647-S, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA75
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




157. TOLERANCES FOR DIVIDERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 801.10

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: GIPSA proposes to remove section 801.10, Tolerance for 
Dividers, from the CFR. Since GIPSA no longer tests dividers, the rule 
is no longer needed. By using the direct final rule process, GIPSA will 
give the public general notice of its intent to remove the rule and 
provide interested persons an opportunity to participate in the 
rulemaking through submission of comments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades, Regulatory Liaison, Department 
of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 
Administration, Room 1647-S, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA57
_______________________________________________________________________




158. SWINE PACKER MARKETING CONTRACTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 181; PL 106-78

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 206

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, May 1, 2000.

Abstract: The Agency is proposing rules under the Packers and 
Stockyards Act to implement the Swine Packer Marketing Contracts 
subtitle of the Livestock Mandatory Reporting Act of 1999. The proposal 
is intended to establish a swine marketing contract library and provide 
information on the contracting practices of swine packers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/05/00                    65 FR 53653
NPRM Comment Period End         10/05/00
Final Action                    08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades, Regulatory Liaison, Department 
of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 
Administration, Room 1647-S, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA71
_______________________________________________________________________




159.  FEES FOR COMMODITY AND RICE INSPECTION SERVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 868.90; 7 CFR 868.91

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The agency proposes an approximate 3.7 percent fee increase 
for all hourly rates and certain unit rates for inspection services 
performed under the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 in the commodity 
and rice inspection programs. These increases are needed to cover 
increased operational costs resulting from the mandated January 2001 
Federal pay increase.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/03/00                    65 FR 66189
NPRM Comment Period End         01/02/01
Final Action                    04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades, Regulatory Liaison, Department 
of Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards 
Administration, Room 1647-S, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA74

[[Page 25214]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




160. POULTRY GROWER CONTRACTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 201.100

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/10/97                     62 FR 5935
ANPRM Comment Period End        05/12/97
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA51
_______________________________________________________________________




161. REGULATIONS TO ENSURE MORE EQUITABLE COMPETITION IN THE LIVESTOCK 
AND MEAT PACKING INDUSTRIES (LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY MARKETING)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 201

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA72
_______________________________________________________________________




162. HOW CAN USDA BEST FACILITATE THE MARKETING OF GRAINS, OILSEEDS, 
FRUITS, VEGETABLES, AND NUTS IN TODAY'S MARKETPLACE

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/30/00                    65 FR 71272
ANPRM Comment Period End        02/28/01
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon L. Vassiliades
Phone: 202 720-1738
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA73
BILLING CODE 3410-EN-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




163. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN 
(WIC): MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule responds to a variety of program concerns, 
most of which have been expressed by WIC State agencies. The proposal 
increases State agency flexibility regarding the sharing of participant 
information with other programs and streamlines Federal requirements 
for financial and participation reporting by State agencies. Several 
minor clarifications and technical corrections are also made. (89-515)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/01
Final Action                    09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________




164. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM MATCHING PROGRAMS AND PRIVACY PROTECTIONS

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

Legal Authority: 5 USC 552(a) Computer Matching and Privacy Protection 
Act; 7 USC 2015(b) Food Stamp Act

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule describes requirements for State agencies 
to report information on individuals disqualified from the program for 
intentional program violations to FNS and the related FNS computer 
matching program known as the Disqualified Recipient Subsystem (DRS).
This proposed rule also describes protections to persons whose benefits 
could be adversely affected by computer matches used in the Food Stamp 
Program. Such protections must include independent verification of 
computer information, notification to the affected individual, and 
provision of an opportunity to respond to the information before an 
adverse action becomes effective. (89-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/02
Final Action                    01/00/03
Final Action Effective          04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB51

[[Page 25215]]

_______________________________________________________________________




165. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM REGULATORY REVIEW: FSP STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL 
AND OPERATION OF FOOD STAMP ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER SYSTEMS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 TO 2034

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 274.12

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes revisions to food stamp regulations 
affecting the standards and administration of EBT systems for food 
stamp issuance. Current regulations at 7 CFR 274.12 delineate the 
standards that EBT systems must meet in order to be approved for 
operation. This rule will revise those regulations to provide the State 
agency more flexibility in implementing and operating those systems. 
Clarifications and FNS settlement improvements will also be 
incorporated into the rule. (96-016)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC37
_______________________________________________________________________




166. FSP: CIVIL RIGHTS DATA COLLECTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 88-352, sec 601

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 requires the 
collection of racial/ethnic data for all programs utilizing Federal 
funds. State agencies are required to collect the data by racial/ethnic 
categories set by the Federal Government. In 1997, those categories 
changed. This proposed rule would change the racial categories for 
State Food Stamp Program reporting to comply with the new Federal 
racial categories. (98-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/01
Final Action                    12/00/01
Final Action Effective          02/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC75
_______________________________________________________________________




167. COMMODITY SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM: PLAIN LANGUAGE, PROGRAM 
ACCOUNTABILITY, AND PROGRAM FLEXIBILITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 101-624; PL 104-127

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 247

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will rewrite regulations pertaining to the 
Commodity Supplemental Food Program (7 CFR part 247) in ``plain 
language.'' It will also amend regulatory provisions in this part to 
increase program accountability and flexibility for program operators. 
The rule will affect program accountability by : (1) Requiring State 
agencies to initiate a claim against participants for repayment of the 
value of program benefits obtained as a result of intentional 
misrepresentation; (2) extending the period that State agencies may 
disqualify participants for program violations for up to 1 year; (3) 
requiring State agencies to disqualify participants for engaging in 
dual participation or for other selected program violations; (4) 
including under program violations the physical abuse, or the threat of 
physical abuse, of program staff.
Amendments to increase program flexibility include: (1) Allowing the 
State to extend the certification of elderly persons on a fixed income 
for an indefinite period without a formal review of eligibility; (2) 
increasing the period of time the State agency has to review a local 
agency's application for participation; (3) allowing State agencies to 
request to retain more than the maximum amount of administrative funds 
allocated whether or not they perform warehouse services; (4) reducing 
the frequency of State management evaluations of local agencies; and 
(5) making State plans and Federal-State agreements permanent, with 
amendments submitted as needed.
Other miscellaneous proposed changes include: (1) Requiring local 
agencies to notify applicants of a decision on their application within 
10 days of the date of application; (2) including the specific factors 
that FNS uses to determine the amount of caseload that States will 
receive in addition to base caseload; (3) making the caseload cycle the 
period from January 1 to December 31; and (4) including a pregnant 
woman's embryo or fetus in utero as a household member in determining 
the family's income eligibility.
The rule will also incorporate legislative provisions that have been 
implemented through program policy, including: (1) Increasing the 
percentage of the program appropriation, and of funds carried over from 
the pervious year, to be allotted for administrative support of State 
and local agencies from 15 to 20 percent; and (2) requiring that State 
and local agencies provide information on certain other public 
assistance programs to participants. (99-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/01
Final Action                    10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246

[[Page 25216]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC84
_______________________________________________________________________




168. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ADMINISTRATIVE COST REIMBURSEMENT

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: PL 105-185, sec 502

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 277

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 1, 1998, Payment reduction 
required by law.

Abstract: This rule will allow State agencies to charge the FSP for its 
share of common costs for determining eligibility of Temporary 
Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) households for FSP in accordance 
with new HHS policy and approved cost allocation plans. (99-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/02
Final Action                    08/00/02
Final Action Effective          12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC86
_______________________________________________________________________




169. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND 
CHILDREN (WIC): REVISIONS IN THE WIC FOOD PACKAGES

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule will amend regulations governing the WIC 
food packages to disallow low-iron WIC formulas in food packages for 
infants; revise the maximum monthly allowances and minimum requirements 
for certain WIC foods; revise the substitution rates for certain WIC 
foods and allow additional foods as alternatives; make technical 
adjustments in all of the food packages to accommodate newer packaging 
and physical forms of the WIC foods; add vegetables as a food category 
in Food Packages III-VII for women and children; require that State 
agencies make available the full maximum foods allowed in each package; 
revise the criteria for developing State agency proposals for 
alternative food packages to accommodate participant food preferences 
more effectively; revise the purpose, content, and requirements for 
Food Package III; and address general provisions that apply to all the 
food packages. These revisions will improve the likelihood that WIC 
recipients achieve the food servings recommendations of the Dietary 
Guidelines for Americans and nutritional recommendations, providing WIC 
participants with a wider variety of foods, accommodating newer 
packaging and physical forms of WIC foods, and providing WIC State 
agencies with greater flexibility in prescribing food packages, 
especially to accommodate participants with hardships or cultural/food 
preferences. (99-006)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/02
Final Action                    07/00/02
Final Action Effective          09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Federalism:  This action may have federalism implications as defined in 
EO 13132.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC90
_______________________________________________________________________




170.  IMPROVING ACCESS TO THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM FOR PERSONS 
WITH LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 2000d

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272.4(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On August 11, 2000, the President signed an Executive order 
requiring Federal agencies to examine the services they provide and to 
develop and implement a system that ensures persons with limited 
English proficiency (LED) have meaningful access to Federal health and 
human services programs and activities. The Executive order clarifies 
long-standing title VI principles that prohibit discrimination based on 
national origin. (00-016)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/01
Final Action                    07/00/02
Final Action Effective          10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD06

[[Page 25217]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




171. WIC: REQUIREMENTS FOR AND EVALUATION OF WIC PROGRAM REQUESTS FOR 
BIDS FOR INFANT FORMULA REBATE CONTRACTS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: At the time the current cost containment regulations were 
published in 1989, there were only minor differences in infant formula 
wholesale prices and few differences in types of infant formulas 
offered by manufacturers; i.e., milk- and soy-based infant formula. 
However, current wholesale prices vary considerably among manufacturers 
for similar formulas and several new infant formulas have emerged on 
the market over the last decade. Therefore, to reflect market changes 
in the infant formula industry and to optimize competition in the WIC 
Program's infant formula rebate contracts, this interim rule would 
require WIC State agencies to award infant formula rebate contracts 
based on the lowest net price, allowing highest gross rebate as a basis 
of award only when retail prices of the different brands of infant 
formula vary, on average, by 5 percent or less. Additionally, this rule 
would define the types and forms of infant formula that must be 
included in cost containment systems. It would also expand on 
conditions that must be met for the issuance of infant formulas not 
covered by rebate contracts. (92-013)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/16/98                    63 FR 38343
NPRM Comment Period End         09/14/98
Interim Final Rule              08/23/00                    65 FR 51213
Interim Final Rule Effective    10/23/00
Interim Final Rule 
Implementation Date             11/21/00
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/23/01
Final Action                    12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

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

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________




172. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ANTICIPATING INCOME AND REPORTING CHANGES

Priority: Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: This action may affect State, local or tribal 
governments.

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2032

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule revises Food Stamp Program procedures for reporting 
and acting on changes in earned income. The changes are designed to 
increase State agency flexibility and improve procedures for 
determining the eligibility and benefits of households whose income 
fluctuates unpredictably. Under this rule, State agencies would choose 
from four different reporting requirements for households with earned 
income. The reporting requirement a State agency selects would replace 
the current requirement that households report a change of more than 
$25 in earned income. In addition to reporting a change in source of 
income, households would be required to report one of the following: A 
change in wage rate or salary and a change in part-time or full-time 
status, provided the household is certified for no more than 3 months; 
a change in wage rate or salary and a change of more than 5 hours a 
week that is expected to continue for more than a month; or a change in 
the amount earned of more than $100 a month. The reporting requirement 
for changes in unearned income would be increased to changes of more 
than $50 a month from the current threshold of changes of more than $25 
a month. In addition to the above reporting options, State agencies 
would also be able to select the option of requiring households to 
report changes through a quarterly reporting system rather than at the 
time the changes become known to the household. (93-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/17/96                    61 FR 66233
NPRM Comment Period End         02/18/97
Final Action                    08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




173. DISCLOSURE OF FREE AND REDUCED-PRICE ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION UNDER 
THE SCHOOL NUTRITION, SUMMER FOOD SERVICE, AND CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD 
PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 103-448, sec 108

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 215; 7 CFR 225; 7 CFR 226; 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would allow limited disclosure of children's free 
and reduced price meal eligibility status or information, as authorized 
under Public Law 103-448, to persons directly connected with the 
administration or enforcement of (1) programs under the Richard B. 
Russell National School Lunch Act or Child Nutrition Act of 1966; (2) 
Federal education programs; (3) State health and education programs; 
(4) means-tested nutrition programs with eligibility standards 
comparable to the lunch program; and (5) the Comptroller General and 
certain law enforcement officials. The rule also proposes safeguards to 
protect the free and reduced-price application and personal information 
from misuse and includes penalties for unauthorized disclosures. (95-
022)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/25/00                    65 FR 45725
NPRM Comment Period End         11/22/00
Final Action                    12/00/01

[[Page 25218]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC21
_______________________________________________________________________




174. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: IMPROVING MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAM 
INTEGRITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1766; PL 103-448; PL 104-193; PL 105-336

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Child and Adult Care Food Program 
(CACFP) regulations. The changes in this rule result from the findings 
of State and Federal Program reviews and from audits and investigations 
conducted by the Office of Inspector General. This rule will revise: 
State agency criteria for approving and renewing institution 
applications; program training and other operating requirements for 
child care institutions and facilities; State- and institution-level 
monitoring requirements; and criteria for terminating agreements with 
institutions and day care homes. This rule also includes changes that 
are required by the Healthy Meals for Healthy Americans Act of 1994 
(Pub. L. 103-448), the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunities 
Reconciliation Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-193), the William F. Goodling 
Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act of 1998 (Pub. L. 105-336), the 
Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 106-224), and the 
Grain Standards and Warehouse Improvement Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 106-
472).
The changes are designed to improve program operations and monitoring 
at the State and institution levels and, where possible, to streamline 
and simplify program requirements for State agencies and institutions. 
(95-024)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/12/00                    65 FR 55103
NPRM Comment Period End         12/11/00
Final Action                    10/00/01
Final Action Effective          11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________




175. DETERMINING ELIGIBILITY FOR FREE AND REDUCED-PRICE MEALS AND FREE 
MILK IN SCHOOLS: PROVISION 2 AND PROVISION 3

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 103-448

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under an alternative known as Provision 2, schools that serve 
all meals at no charge for 3 consecutive years may distribute 
applications and make free and reduced price meal eligibility 
determinations once every 3 years. During year 1 of the 3-year cycle, 
they count and claim meals by category (free, reduced price, and paid) 
and use these counts to develop claiming percentages to use during 
years 2 and 3. Public Law 103-448 amended the NSLA to allow schools to 
extend these procedures an additional 2 years and allow subsequent 5-
year cycles, without making new free and reduced price eligibility 
determinations, provided the income level of the school's population 
remained stable. Public Law 103-448 also added a new Provision 3 for 
schools that serve all meals at no charge for 4 consecutive years. 
These schools receive the same level of cash and commodity assistance 
they received in the last year free and reduced price eligibility 
determinations and actual meal counts were taken. Additional 4-year 
cycles were permitted, without making new free and reduced price 
eligibility determinations, provided the income level of the school's 
population remained stable. For both provisions, schools must make up 
the difference between Federal reimbursement and meal costs. Public Law 
105-336 subsequently amended the timeframe for Provision 2 so that both 
Provisions 2 and 3 are 4-year cycles, which may be extended, without 
making new eligibility determinations, if the income level of the 
school's population remains stable. The rule will codify these 
provisions and specify technical aspects, such as the measurement of 
the income level of the school's population and the types of data that 
may be used. (96-003)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/07/00                     65 FR 5791
NPRM Comment Period End         04/07/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________




176. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: WORK PROVISIONS OF THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY 
AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996 AND THE FOOD STAMP 
PROVISIONS OF THE BALANCED BUDGET ACT OF 1997

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 104-193

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 273.7; 7 CFR 273.22

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule will implement revisions to the Food Stamp 
Program's work and employment and training requirements, as well as new 
provisions for a work supplementation or support program and an 
employment initiative program. (96-025)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/23/99                    64 FR 72196

[[Page 25219]]

NPRM Comment Period End         02/22/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC45
_______________________________________________________________________




177. WIC FARMERS MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (FMNP): EXPANSION FUNDS 
ALLOCATION FORMULA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786(m)(6)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 248

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Child Nutrition Act of 1966 as amended (42 USC 
1786(m)(6)) sets forth funding requirements of State agencies currently 
operating the program and for State agencies wishing to start a new 
program. The law leaves it to the discretion of the Secretary to 
determine the method of allocating funds to currently operating State 
agencies. This interim rule would implement a funding formula for the 
allocation of such expansion funds to existing FMNP State agencies. 
(98-003)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/00/01
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/00/01
Interim Final Rule Effective    09/00/01
Final Action                    03/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC68
_______________________________________________________________________




178. CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS: REIMBURSEMENT FOR SNACKS IN AFTERSCHOOL 
CARE PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 105-336

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 226; 7 CFR 235; 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The William F. Goodling Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act 
of 1998 amended the National School Lunch Act to authorize 
reimbursement for snacks served under the NSLP in afterschool care 
programs operated by schools. The afterschool program must be organized 
primarily to provide care for children and have an educational or 
enrichment purpose. Additionally, the statute mandates free snacks for 
all children enrolled in afterschool care programs operated by schools 
in areas served by a school in which at least 50 percent of the 
enrolled children are certified for free or reduced price meals.
In the CACFP, the statute authorizes free snacks to children through 
age 18 enrolled in afterschool programs located in low-income areas. 
Low-income areas are defined in the law as areas in which at least 50 
percent of the children are eligible for free or reduced price school 
meals. Therefore, individual eligibility determinations are not 
required for these programs. This rule also implements the provision of 
the law which permits outside school hours care programs to participate 
in CACFP if they meet health and safety standards where no State or 
local licensing or approval is required. (98-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/11/00                     65 FR 6050
NPRM Comment Period End         01/09/01
Final Action                    08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC72
_______________________________________________________________________




179. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM: DELETION OF REQUIREMENT TO EVALUATE 
STATE-RUN COMMODITY DISTRIBUTION AND WAREHOUSING SYSTEMS EVERY 3 YEARS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 100-237

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250.14; 7 CFR 250.15

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 250.14(a) currently requires State distributing 
agencies that operate their own warehousing and distribution system to 
make a cost comparison of that system with a commercial system every 3 
years. Most State distributing agencies have now either switched to a 
commercial system or evaluated their own system at least twice and 
determined it to be the most cost effective. Therefore, we propose to 
remove that requirement from our regulations. We will maintain the 
authority to require a cost comparison when circumstances warrant. We 
are suggesting a direct final rule rather than a proposed rule because 
we do not expect any objections to this discretionary change. (99-001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC79
_______________________________________________________________________




180. FSP: ELECTRONIC BENEFIT TRANSFER (EBT) SYSTEMS INTEROPERABILITY AND 
PORTABILITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-171

[[Page 25220]]

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272.1; 7 CFR 274.12

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, September 7, 2000, PL 106-171 sec 3.
Other, Statutory, February 11, 2001, PL 106-171 sec 4.
Other, Statutory, October 1, 2002, PL 106-171 sec 3.

Abstract: This rule revises Food Stamp regulations to ensure that 
recipients can use their electronic food stamp benefits across State 
borders by requiring interoperable State electronic issuance systems. 
The regulations establish uniform national standards to achieve this 
requirement. Also, 100 percent funding is available under the 
regulation to pay for the operational cost of this functionality up to 
a national limit of $500,000. Costs beyond this level will be covered 
at the standard 50 percent program reimbursement rate for State 
administrative costs. (00-001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/15/00                    65 FR 49719
Interim Final Rule Effective    09/19/00
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/13/00
Final Action                    09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC91
_______________________________________________________________________




181. NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAMS: IDENTIFICATION 
OF BLENDED BEEF, PORK, POULTRY, OR SEAFOOD PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1751 to 1760; 42 USC 1779

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This interim rule addresses the use of beef, pork, poultry, 
or seafood products containing 30 percent or more alternate protein 
products (APP) in the National School Lunch Program and the School 
Breakfast Program. If participating school food authorities identify 
foods offered in reimbursable meals on menus provided to children and 
their parents, on serving lines or by other methods, schools must 
identify beef, pork, poultry, or seafood products containing 30 percent 
or more fully hydrated APP (of the hydrated APP and meat, seafood, or 
poultry total) in a manner that does not characterize these products 
solely as a beef, pork, poultry, or seafood product. This rule is 
intended to ensure that program participants are advised of the use of 
blended products. (00-002)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/08/00                    65 FR 36315
Interim Final Rule Effective    07/10/00
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/07/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC92
_______________________________________________________________________




182. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM: IMPLEMENTING LEGISLATIVE REFORMS 
TO STRENGTHEN PROGRAM INTEGRITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 243

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 20, 2000.

Abstract: This interim rule incorporates changes to the Child and Adult 
Care Food Program as required by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act 
(Pub. L. 106-224) to strengthen the management and integrity of the 
program. Provisions include 1) changes to eligibility requirements for 
participating institutions; 2) conditions for approval, such as 
ensuring financial viability, stipulating that new sponsoring 
organizations are allowed to participate only where there is need for 
the program, and the elimination of ``moving toward tax exempt status'' 
of institutions; 3) new program monitoring requirements; 4) new 
parental notification requirements by CACFP centers or homes that 
describe the program and benefits and provide parents with access to 
the sponsoring organization and State agency; 5) rules on allowing 
corrective action and appeals in situations involving the termination 
or suspension of participating institutions, facilities, and 
individuals; 6) funds recovery in situations involving fraud, abuse, or 
improper submissions for reimbursement; and 7) limitation on the 
percentage of funds that sponsoring organizations of centers can retain 
from day care meal reimbursements for their administrative expenses. 
These changes support the Department's ongoing efforts in management 
and integrity improvement. (00-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC94
_______________________________________________________________________




183. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: DISCLOSURE OF CHILDREN'S ELIGIBILITY 
INFORMATION TO STATE MEDICAID AND THE STATE CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE 
PROGRAM (SCHIP)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 242

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 215; 7 CFR 225; 7 CFR 226; 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 20, 2000.

[[Page 25221]]

Abstract: This rule permits the disclosure of children's free and 
reduced price meal and free milk eligibility information to State 
Medicaid (Medicaid) and SCHIP, provided the State Child Nutrition 
Agency and agency that made the eligibility determination (determining 
agency) agree to the disclosure; limits the use of the information by 
recipients to identifying and seeking to enroll children in Medicaid 
and SCHIP; requires a written agreement between the determining agency 
and Medicaid/SCHIP; requires notification to households that their 
information may be shared with Medicaid/SCHIP; and requires that 
households be given the opportunity to elect not to have their 
information shared. Section 263 of the Agricultural Risk Protection Act 
of 2000 mandates promulgation without regard to notice and comment. 
(00-004)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Effective    10/01/00
Interim Final Rule              01/11/01                     66 FR 2195
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/11/01
Final Action                    12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC95
_______________________________________________________________________




184.  STATE ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE FUNDS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1776, 42 USC 1779

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 235

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The President's Memorandum of June 1, 1998, recommended that 
existing Federal Government documents be rewritten in plain language as 
time and resources are available. This direct final rule contains the 
plain language rewrite of the procedures for administering State 
administrative expense funds. These procedures are found at 7 CFR part 
235. The rewrite contains shorter sections, simpler words and phrases, 
personal pronouns, and lists and tables. These plain language tools are 
intended to make the procedures clearer and easier to both read and 
understand. However, this direct final rule does not include any 
changes in policy, and will not have a significant impact on the 
economy or program participants. (00-006)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC96
_______________________________________________________________________




185.  SPECIAL MILK PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN: PLAIN LANGUAGE REVISION 
AND REORGANIZATION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1772; 42 USC 1779

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 215

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The intent of this regulation is to comply with the 
President's memorandum of June 1, 1998, entitled ``Plain Language in 
Government Writing'' (63 FR 31885, June 10, 1998). This memorandum 
encourages all existing Agency regulations to be rewritten in plain 
language. The revision and reorganization of part 215 will allow 
affected persons to easily understand the regulations of the Special 
Milk Program for Children. This revision and reorganization does not 
alter the existing policies and requirements contained within this 
part. (00-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC97
_______________________________________________________________________




186.  FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 
CFR PART 250, DONATION OF FOODS FOR USE IN THE UNITED STATES, ITS 
TERRITORIES AND POSSESSIONS, AND AREAS UNDER ITS JURISDICTION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 612c; 7 USC 612c note; 7 USC 1431; 7 
USC 1431b; 7 USC 1431e; 7 USC 1431 note; 7 USC 1446a-1; 7 USC 1859; 7 
USC 2014; 7 USC 2025; 15 USC 713c; 22 USC 1922; 42 USC 1751; 42 USC 
1755; 42 USC 1758; 42 USC 1760; 42 USC 1761; 42 USC 1762a; 42 USC 1766; 
42 USC 3030a; 42 USC 5179; 42 USC 5180

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes no changes in the meaning of the regulations; 
it is only a reorganization and rewriting of the existing text in plain 
language. Our goal in rewriting is simple and two-fold: Allow the 
reader to quickly find and easily understand desired subject matter. 
The rewrite accomplishes our first goal by presenting material in a 
more logical sequence where needed, and most importantly, by splitting 
the text into much smaller and more easily scanned units. We have 
greatly increased the number of sections within the part, also 
increased the number of paragraphs within each of the new sections, and 
made greater use of italicized headings. By increasing the number of 
sections, we have ``flattened'' the regulation's structure. This in 
turn generally allows

[[Page 25222]]

the elimination of at least one level of codification, despite the 
increased number of paragraphs and subparagraphs within each section. 
The result is much easier scanning of the sections for subject matter, 
further aided by the italicized headings. Each section is headed by a 
question on a major aspect of the regulations, which is then answered 
in the headings and paragraphs which follow. Finally, our second goal, 
greater comprehensibility, is accomplished by the use of shorter 
sentences, the active voice, and common words, except for necessary 
technical terms. (00-008)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC98
_______________________________________________________________________




187.  FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 
CFR PART 251, THE EMERGENCY FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (TEFAP)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7501 to 7516

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 251

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes no changes in the meaning of the regulations; 
it is only a reorganization and rewriting of the existing text in plain 
language. Our goal in rewriting is simple and two-fold: Allow the 
reader to quickly find and easily understand desired subject matter. 
The rewrite accomplishes our first goal by presenting material in a 
more logical sequence where needed, and most importantly, by splitting 
the text into much smaller and more easily scanned units. We have 
greatly increased the number of sections within the part, also 
increased the number of paragraphs within each of the new sections, and 
made greater use of italicized headings. By increasing the number of 
sections, we have ``flattened'' the regulation's structure. This in 
turn generally allows the elimination of at least one level of 
codification, despite the increased number of paragraphs and 
subparagraphs within each section. The result is much easier scanning 
of the sections for subject matter, further aided by the italicized 
headings. Each section is headed by a question on a major aspect of the 
regulations, which is then answered in the headings and paragraphs 
which follow. Finally, our second goal, greater comprehensibility, is 
accomplished by the use of shorter sentences, the active voice, and 
common words, except for necessary technical terms. (00-009)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC99
_______________________________________________________________________




188.  FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 
CFR PART 252, THE NATIONAL COMMODITY PROCESSING PROGRAM (NCP)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1431

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 252

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes no changes in the meaning of the regulations; 
it is only a reorganization and rewriting of the existing text in plain 
language. Our goal in rewriting is simple and two-fold: Allow the 
reader to quickly find and easily understand desired subject matter. 
The rewrite accomplishes our first goal by presenting material in a 
more logical sequence where needed, and most importantly, by splitting 
the text into much smaller and more easily scanned units. We have 
greatly increased the number of sections within the part, also 
increased the number of paragraphs within each of the new sections, and 
made greater use of italicized headings. By increasing the number of 
sections, we have ``flattened'' the regulation's structure. This in 
turn generally allows the elimination of at least one level of 
codification, despite the increased number of paragraphs and 
subparagraphs within each section. The result is much easier scanning 
of the sections for subject matter, further aided by the italicized 
headings. Each section is headed by a question on a major aspect of the 
regulations, which is then answered in the headings and paragraphs 
which follow. Finally, our second goal, greater comprehensibility, is 
accomplished by the use of shorter sentences, the active voice, and 
common words, except for necessary technical terms. (00-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD00
_______________________________________________________________________




189.  FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 
CFR PART 253, THE FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS 
(FDPIR)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 253

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes no changes in the meaning of the regulations; 
it is only a reorganization and rewriting of the existing text in plain 
language. Our goal in rewriting is simple and twofold: Allow the reader 
to quickly find and easily understand desired subject matter. The 
rewrite accomplishes our first goal by

[[Page 25223]]

presenting material in a more logical sequence where needed, and most 
importantly, by splitting the text into much smaller and more easily 
scanned units. We have greatly increased the number of sections within 
the part, also increased the number of paragraphs within each of the 
new sections, and made greater use of italicized headings. By 
increasing the number of sections, we have ``flattened'' the 
regulation's structure. This in turn generally allows the elimination 
of at least one level of codification, despite the increased number of 
paragraphs and subparagraphs within each section. The result is much 
easier scanning of the sections for subject matter, further aided by 
the italicized headings. Each section is headed by a question on a 
major aspect of the regulations, which is then answered in the headings 
and paragraphs which follow. Finally, our second goal, greater 
comprehensibility, is accomplished by the use of shorter sentences, the 
active voice, and common words, except for necessary technical terms. 
(00-011)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD01
_______________________________________________________________________




190.  FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 
CFR PART 254, THE FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS 
(FDPIR) IN OKLAHOMA

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: PL 97-98, sec. 1338; PL 95-113

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes no changes in the meaning of the regulations; 
it is only a reorganization and rewriting of the existing text in plain 
language. Our goal in rewriting is simple and twofold: Allow the reader 
to quickly find and easily understand desired subject matter. The 
rewrite accomplishes our first goal by presenting material in a more 
logical sequence where needed, and most importantly, by splitting the 
text into much smaller and more easily scanned units. We have greatly 
increased the number of sections within the part, also increased the 
number of paragraphs within each of the new sections, and made greater 
use of italicized headings. By increasing the number of sections, we 
have ``flattened'' the regulation's structure. This in turn generally 
allows the elimination of at least one level of codification, despite 
the increased number of paragraphs and subparagraphs within each 
section. The result is much easier scanning of the sections for subject 
matter, further aided by the italicized headings. Each section is 
headed by a question on a major aspect of the regulations, which is 
then answered in the headings and paragraphs which follow. Finally, our 
second goal, greater comprehensibility, is accomplished by the use of 
shorter sentences, the active voice, and common words, except for 
necessary technical terms. (00-012)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD02
_______________________________________________________________________




191.  NUTRITION EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAM: 7 CFR PART 227, 
PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1788

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 227

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The President's Memorandum of June 1, 1998, recommended that 
existing Federal Government documents be rewritten in plain language as 
time and resources are available. This direct final rule contains the 
plain language rewrite of the procedures for administering the 
Nutrition Education and Training Program. These procedures are found at 
7 CFR part 227. The rewrite contains shorter sections, simpler words 
and phrases, and lists. These plain language tools are intended to make 
the procedures clearer and easier to both read and understand. However, 
this direct final rule does not include any changes in policy, and will 
not have a significant impact on the economy or program participants. 
(00-013)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD03
_______________________________________________________________________




192.  STATE AGENCY LIABILITIES AND FEDERAL SANCTIONS, 7 CFR 276

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 276

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: 7 CFR part 276 has been rewritten in plain language format. 
The document contains only plain language and format changes. No policy 
has been changed, added, or deleted by this rewrite. (00-014)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

[[Page 25224]]

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD04
_______________________________________________________________________




193.  PAYMENTS OF CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF STATE 
AGENCIES, 7 CFR 277

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 277

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: 7 CFR part 277 has been rewritten in plain language format. 
The document contains only plain language writing and format changes. 
No policy has been changed, added, or deleted by this rewrite. (00-015)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD05
_______________________________________________________________________




194.  IMPLEMENTATION OF POULTRY SUBSTITUTION PILOT AS PERMANENT 
AND MODIFICATION OF COMMODITY RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 612c; 7 USC 612c note; 7 USC 1431; 7 
USC 1431b; 7 USC 1431e; 7 USC 1431 note; 7 USC 1446a-1; 7 USC 1859; 7 
USC 2014; 7 USC 2025; 15 USC 713c; 22 USC 1922; 42 USC 1751; 42 USC 
1755; 42 USC 1758; 42 USC 1760 to 1761; 42 USC 1762a; 42 USC 1766; 42 
USC 3030a; 42 USC 5179 to 5180

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250.14; 7 CFR 250.16; 7 CFR 250.30

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: 1) Poultry and fruit and vegetables may currently be 
substituted for commodities under pilots and waivers. Due to the 
success of these programs, the regulations will be changed to allow 
such commercial substitution on a permanent basis. 2) Due to changes in 
the commercial market and the food donation program, the Department 
will allow vendors to use their own labels in place of USDA donated 
labels for school programs. This will complicate school's recordkeeping 
and inventory procedures. The regulations will be modified to 
accommodate the change in labels. (01-001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD08
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




195. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND CHILDREN 
(WIC): FOOD DELIVERY SYSTEMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/29/00                    65 FR 83248
Final Action Effective          04/28/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Federalism:  This action may have federalism implications as defined in 
EO 13132.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________




196. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: REVISIONS TO THE RETAIL FOOD STORE DEFINITION 
AND PROGRAM AUTHORIZATION GUIDANCE

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 278

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/12/01                     66 FR 2795
Final Action Effective          08/13/01                    66 FR 18869

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________




197. FSP: PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY PROVISIONS OF THE PERSONAL 
RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/17/01                     66 FR 4438
Final Action Effective          06/01/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC39

[[Page 25225]]

_______________________________________________________________________




198. FSP: NONCITIZEN ELIGIBILITY AND CERTIFICATION PROVISIONS OF PUBLIC 
LAW 104-193 (PREVIOUSLY ENTITLED STATE FLEXIBILITY AND CERTIFICATION 
PROVISIONS)

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272.3; 7 CFR 273.11(e); 7 CFR 273.11(j); 7 CFR 
273.13; 7 CFR 273.14(b); 7 CFR 273.14(e); 7 CFR 273.1; 7 CFR 273.2; 7 
CFR 273.4; 7 CFR 273.9(c); 7 CFR 273.9(d); 7 CFR 273.10(a); 7 CFR 
273.10(c) to 273.10(f); 7 CFR 273.11(a) to 273.11(c)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/21/00                    65 FR 70134
Final Action Effective          01/20/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Federalism:  This action may have federalism implications as defined in 
EO 13132.

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC40
_______________________________________________________________________




199. FSP: NONDISCRETIONARY PROVISIONS OF THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND 
WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 271.2; 7 CFR 273.1; 7 CFR 273.2; 7 CFR 273.8; 7 CFR 
273.9; 7 CFR 273.10; 7 CFR 276.2(e)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/30/00                    65 FR 64581
Final Action Effective          12/29/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC41
_______________________________________________________________________




200. REGULATORY REFORM: PROVISIONS RELATING TO FIRMS PARTICIPATING IN 
THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278; 7 CFR 279

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn - The decision to 
promulgate this discretionary 
rule has been overtaken by 
events.                         01/30/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC48
_______________________________________________________________________




201. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WIC: IMPLEMENTATION OF 
WIC-RELATED PROVISIONS OF PUBLIC LAW 104-193, PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY 
AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT OF 1996

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/06/00
Final Action                    12/21/00                    65 FR 80280
Final Action Effective          01/22/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC51
_______________________________________________________________________




202. WIC: CERTIFICATION INTEGRITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/11/00                    65 FR 77245
Final Action Effective          01/10/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC76
_______________________________________________________________________




203. FDPIR: INCOME DEDUCTION AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISION RULE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 253

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/04/00                    65 FR 47831
Final Action Effective          10/03/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC81
_______________________________________________________________________




204. WIC: NON-DISCRETIONARY FUNDING MODIFICATIONS OF PUBLIC LAW 106-224

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      12/13/00                    65 FR 77769
Final Action Effective          01/12/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC93
_______________________________________________________________________




205.  NOTICE--FOOD STAMP PROGRAM GRANTS TO IMPROVE APPLICANT AND 
RECIPIENT INFORMATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2026(a)(1)

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department intends to award grants to organizations to

[[Page 25226]]

conduct research on improving applicant and recipient program access. 
The deadline for applying for these grants was January 5, 2001.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/27/00                    65 FR 81819

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 910, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD07
BILLING CODE 3410-30-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




206. GRANT AND INAUGURATION OF INSPECTION

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 304; 9 CFR 305

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to clarify the regulations in 9 CFR parts 
304 and 305, which provide for grant and inauguration of inspection in 
meat and poultry establishments to address issues raised by the Office 
of Inspector General and others.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




207. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR READY-TO-EAT MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 430

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to establish pathogen reduction performance 
standards for all ready-to-eat meat and poultry products. The 
performance standards spell out the objective level of pathogen 
reduction that establishments must meet during their operations in 
order to produce safe products but allow the use of customized, plant-
specific processing procedures other than those prescribed in the 
earlier regulations. Along with HACCP, food safety performance 
standards will give establishments the incentive and flexibility to 
adopt innovative, science-based food safety processing procedures and 
controls, while providing objective, measurable standards that can be 
verified by Agency inspectional oversight. This set of performance 
standards will include and be consistent with those already in place 
for certain ready-to-eat meat and poultry products. FSIS also is 
proposing testing requirements intended to reduce the incidence of 
Listeria in ready-to-eat meat and poultry products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/27/01                    66 FR 12590
NPRM Comment Period End         05/29/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________




208. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR BACON

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 424.22(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to revise the regulatory provisions 
concerning the production and testing of bacon (9 CFR 424.22(b)). FSIS 
is proposing to remove provisions that require the Agency to test bacon 
for nitrosamines and to remove provisions that prescribe the substances 
and amounts of such substances that must be used to produce bacon. FSIS 
is proposing to replace these provisions with performance standards 
that establishments producing bacon must meet. To meet these proposed 
performance standards, the process used would be required to prevent 
the multiplication of Clostridium botulinum and limit the 
multiplication of Clostridium perfringens. In addition, the process 
would be required to limit the presence of nitrosamines when the 
product is cooked. Under the hazard analysis and critical control 
points (HACCP) system, establishments would incorporate the proposed 
performance standards into their HACCP plans.
FSIS is proposing these regulations in order to allow establishments to 
develop alternative means of producing bacon. In addition, FSIS is 
proposing these regulations to remove the Agency's testing 
responsibilities and to require establishments producing bacon, 
instead, to control and monitor their own processes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of

[[Page 25227]]

Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC49
_______________________________________________________________________




209. SHELL EGG AND EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION REGULATIONS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 21 USC 1031 to 1056

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 590.570; 9 CFR 590.575; 9 CFR 590.146; 9 CFR 
590.10; 9 CFR 590.411; 9 CFR 590.502; 9 CFR 590.504; 9 CFR 590.580; 9 
CFR 591; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
require shell egg packers and egg products plants to develop and 
implement Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) systems 
and Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). FSIS also is 
proposing pathogen reduction performance standards that would be 
applicable to pasteurized shell eggs and egg products. Plants would be 
expected to develop HACCP systems that ensure products meet the 
pathogen reduction performance standards. Finally, FSIS is proposing to 
amend the Federal egg and egg products inspection regulations by 
removing current requirements for prior approval by FSIS of egg 
products plant drawings, specifications, and equipment prior to their 
use in official plants. The Agency also plans to eliminate the prior 
label approval system for egg products.
The actions being proposed are part of FSIS's regulatory reform effort 
to improve FSIS's egg and egg products food safety regulations, better 
define the roles of Government and the regulated industry, encourage 
innovations that will improve food safety, remove unnecessary 
regulatory burdens on inspected egg products plants, and make the egg 
and egg products regulations as consistent as possible with the 
Agency's meat and poultry products regulations. FSIS is also taking 
these actions in light of changing inspection priorities and recent 
findings of salmonella in pasteurized egg products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC58
_______________________________________________________________________




210. LABELING--GENERIC APPROVAL AND REGULATION CONSOLIDATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470; 21 USC 601 to 695

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 327; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 412

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will continue an effort initiated several 
years ago by amending FSIS's regulations to expand the types of 
labeling that are generically approved. FSIS plans to propose that the 
submission of labeling for approval prior to use be limited to certain 
types of labeling, as specified in the regulations. In addition, FSIS 
plans to reorganize and amend the regulations by consolidating labeling 
rules that currently are stated separately for livestock products and 
poultry products (in part 317, subpart A, and part 381, subpart N, 
respectively) and by amending their provisions to set out clearly 
various circumstances under which these products are misbranded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC59
_______________________________________________________________________




211. NUTRITION LABELING OF GROUND OR CHOPPED MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS 
AND SINGLE-INGREDIENT PRODUCTS

Priority: Economically Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to amend the Federal meat and poultry 
products inspection regulations to require nutrition labeling of the 
major cuts of single-ingredient, raw meat and poultry products. The 
Agency is proposing to require that nutrition information be provided 
for these products either on their label or at their point-of-purchase. 
FSIS is proposing to require nutrition labeling of the major cuts of 
single-ingredient, raw meat and poultry products because during the 
most recent surveys of retailers, the Agency did not find significant 
participation in the voluntary nutrition labeling program for single-
ingredient, raw meat and poultry products.
In this proposed rule, FSIS is also proposing to amend its regulations 
to extend mandatory labeling to single-ingredient ground or chopped 
products. Under this proposal, individual retail packages of ground or 
chopped meat and ground or chopped poultry products would bear 
nutrition labeling. The Agency has determined that ground or chopped 
products are different from other single-ingredient products in several 
important respects. Thus, FSIS is proposing to make nutrition labeling 
requirements for ground or chopped products consistent with those for 
multi-ingredient products.
Finally, FSIS is proposing to amend the nutrition labeling regulations 
to provide that when a ground or chopped product does not meet the 
criteria to be labeled ``low fat,'' a lean percentage claim may be 
included on the product label as long as a statement of the fat 
percentage also is displayed on the label.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/18/01                     66 FR 4970
NPRM Comment Period End         04/18/01

[[Page 25228]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC60
_______________________________________________________________________




212. PATHOGEN REDUCTION; HAZARD ANALYSIS AND CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS 
(HACCP) SYSTEMS; ADDITIONS TO GENERIC E. COLI CRITERIA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 to 695; 21 USC 451 to 470

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 310; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to add generic E. coli criteria to the 
regulations. In addition, FSIS is proposing to revise the terms used to 
identify and define certain classes of product listed in the salmonella 
tables.
FSIS is proposing to delay making the proposed criteria and standards 
applicable for 1 year for small establishments and for 2 years for very 
small establishments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC63
_______________________________________________________________________




213. OTHER CONSUMER PROTECTION ACTIVITIES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 319; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) published an 
advance notice of proposed rulemaking to request comments on the need 
and desirability of revising its approach to verifying that meat and 
poultry products are not misbranded, economically adulterated, or 
otherwise unacceptable for reasons that do not necessarily raise food 
safety concerns. FSIS will refer to these program activities as ``other 
consumer protection'' (OCP) activities. This notice defines and 
describes FSIS' OCP activities and discusses the Agency's need for 
revised regulations and verification and enforcement procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           03/17/00                    65 FR 14486
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/15/00
NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC64
_______________________________________________________________________




214. FOOD STANDARDS; GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND STANDARDS MODERNIZATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the Food 
and Drug Administration (FDA) are proposing to modernize their food 
standards. The agencies are proposing that the standards be reviewed 
and revised by outside parties and submitted to the agencies via the 
petition process. The agencies are proposing a set of guiding 
principles that interested parties outside the agencies would use to 
establish, revise, or eliminate a food standard. The agencies are 
proposing that petitions to establish standards or to revise or 
eliminate existing standards adhere to these guiding principles. If the 
guiding principles are adopted in the regulations, the agencies may 
encourage petitioners to submit revised food standards that follow the 
guiding principles and will review petitions submitted to ensure that 
they adhere to the guiding principles. If a petition does adhere to the 
guiding principles, the agencies may publish proposed rules to 
establish, revise, or eliminate standards based on the petition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection 
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279

RIN: 0583-AC72
_______________________________________________________________________




215. POULTRY INSPECTION: REVISION OF FINISHED PRODUCT STANDARDS WITH 
RESPECT TO INGESTA

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

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is seeking to clarify its Poultry Inspection Regulations 
regarding visible ingesta on poultry carcasses and parts. A preliminary 
regulatory impact analysis conducted by FSIS determined that costs to 
achieve zero tolerance far outweighed benefits. This action was 
precipitated by a civil suit filed against USDA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive

[[Page 25229]]

Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC77
_______________________________________________________________________




216.  PETITIONS FOR RULEMAKING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 553

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 392

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to amend its regulations to add a new part 
that prescribes procedures for the submission, consideration, and 
disposition of petitions for rulemaking. The proposal also describes 
the Agency's expectations for the type of documentation that must be 
submitted in support of a petition and that will facilitate regulatory 
development. FSIS is proposing this action to provide clear guidance to 
those who would like to participate in the rulemaking process by 
petitioning FSIS to issue, amend, or repeal a rule administered by the 
Agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC81
_______________________________________________________________________




217.  CLASSES OF POULTRY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.170(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to amend the official U.S. classes of 
poultry so that they more accurately and clearly describe the 
characteristics of poultry in the market today. Poultry classes are 
defined primarily in terms of age and sex of the bird. Genetic 
improvements and new poultry management techniques have reduced the 
grow-out period for some poultry classes while extensive cross breeding 
has produced poultry with higher meat yields but blurred breed 
distinctions. This action is being taken to ensure that poultry 
products are labeled in a truthful and non-misleading manner.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection 
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279

RIN: 0583-AC83
_______________________________________________________________________




218.  MANDATORY INSPECTION OF RATITES AND SQUABS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 361; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is amending the regulations to include ratites and 
squabs under mandatory poultry inspection.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Arshad Hussain, Staff Director, Inspection and 
Enforcement Standards Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, 
Food Safety and Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3219

RIN: 0583-AC84
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




219. BEEF OR PORK WITH BARBECUE SAUCE; REVISION OF STANDARDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 319

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has been 
petitioned to amend the Federal meat inspection regulations by removing 
a meat yield requirement for the standardized products ``Beef With 
Barbecue Sauce'' and ``Pork With Barbecue Sauce.'' Current regulations 
for these products require that the product contain not less than 50 
percent of the species identified on the label and that the weight of 
the cooked pork or beef not exceed 70 percent of the uncooked weight of 
the meat. The first requirement is consistent with other meat and sauce 
requirements, but the second requirement is not. The petitioner asserts 
that the product standard (promulgated in 1952) does not reflect 
current production practices or the commercial marketability of beef or 
pork with barbecue sauce. The petitioner further states that producers 
of these products are at a competitive disadvantage with other meat and 
sauce producers, because other meat and sauce producers do not have a 
70 percent yield requirement. For example, producers of the 
standardized products ``Beef with Gravy,'' ``Meat Pies,'' and 
``Spaghetti with Meat and Sauce'' and similar standardized products do 
not have any meat yield requirements.
FSIS has determined that the petitioner's request should be granted. 
This action would permit fair competition between meat and barbecue 
sauce producers, and poultry and sauce producers, and would provide 
consistent requirements in both the meat and poultry inspection 
regulations.

[[Page 25230]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/03/97                    62 FR 46450
NPRM Comment Period End         11/03/97
Final Action                    09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC09
_______________________________________________________________________




220. MEAT PRODUCED BY ADVANCED MEAT/BONE SEPARATION MACHINERY AND 
RECOVERY SYSTEMS

Priority: Economically Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 to 695

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 301.2; 9 CFR 318.24 (Revision); 9 CFR 320.1(b)(10)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 1994, the Food Safety and Inspection Service amended its 
regulations to recognize that product resulting from advanced meat/bone 
separation machinery comes within the definition of meat when recovery 
systems are operated to assure that the characteristics and composition 
of the resulting product are consistent with those of meat. Subsequent 
compliance problems and other concerns have made it apparent that the 
regulations are confusing and inadequate to prevent misbranding and 
economic adulteration. Therefore, FSIS is developing a rule to clarify 
the regulations and supplement the rules for assuring compliance. The 
Agency is reviewing information obtained since publication of the 
proposal.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/13/98                    63 FR 17959
NPRM Comment Period End         06/12/98
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC51
_______________________________________________________________________




221. INCORPORATION OF FOOD AND COLOR ADDITIVES INTO 21 CFR

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 602 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 321 et 
seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 318.7; 9 CFR 381.147

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule will amend the meat and poultry inspection 
regulations by completing earlier efforts to incorporate current 
listings in 9 CFR into 21 CFR.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection 
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279

RIN: 0583-AC69
_______________________________________________________________________




222. SHARING RECALL INFORMATION WITH STATE AND OTHER FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 
AGENCIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 5 USC 552; 7 CFR 1.3; 7 CFR 2.7

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 390

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS proposes to add regulations concerning sharing recall 
information with State and other Federal Government agencies.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/19/00                    65 FR 56503
NPRM Comment Period End         11/20/00
Final Action                    12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC75
_______________________________________________________________________




223. AGENCY ORGANIZATION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470; 21 USC 601 to 695; 21 USC 1031 to 
1056

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 300; 9 CFR 301; 9 CFR 306; 9 CFR 320; 9 CFR 381; 9 
CFR 590; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will amend FSIS's regulations by 
consolidating and updating organizational provisions that, until now, 
have been addressed separately in regulations adopted under the Federal 
Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Products Inspection Act, and in some 
instances, the Egg Products Inspection Act. The rulemaking will 
complete a task that the Agency began in a December 31, 1998, final 
rule that added information on FSIS's current responsibilities and 
organizational structure to the Agency's regulations and reflected the 
current allocation of responsibilities within the Department by 
redesignating regulations adopted under the EPIA and transferring them 
to FSIS's regulations (from those of the Agricultural Marketing 
Service).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC78

[[Page 25231]]

_______________________________________________________________________




224.  LABELING OF NATURAL OR REGENERATED COLLAGEN SAUSAGE 
CASINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 to 695; 7 USC 138f; 7 USC 450; 21 USC 451 
to 470

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is requiring that the source of natural sausage casings 
be disclosed on the product label if they are derived from a different 
type of meat or poultry than the meat or poultry in the enclosed 
sausage. Establishments producing, manufacturing, or using natural 
sausage casings or sausages encased in natural casings are also 
required to maintain records identifying the source of the casings. 
FSIS is not requiring source labeling or recordkeeping requirements for 
regenerated collagen casings at this time.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/17/97                    62 FR 38220
NPRM Comment Period End         09/15/97
Final Action                    05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC80
_______________________________________________________________________




225.  FOOD STANDARDS: REQUIREMENTS FOR SUBSTANTIVE STANDARDIZED 
MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS NAMED BY USE OF AN EXPRESSED NUTRIENT CONTENT 
CLAIM AND A STANDARDIZED TERM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601; 21 USC 451

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.172; 9 CFR 319.10

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is amending the Federal meat and poultry inspection 
regulations to establish a general definition and standard of identity 
for standardized meat and poultry products that have been modified to 
qualify for use of an expressed nutrient content claim in their product 
names. These products will be identified by an expressed nutrient 
content claim, such as ``fat free,'' ``low fat,'' and ``light,'' in 
conjunction with an appropriate standardized term. FSIS is taking this 
action to 1) assist consumers to maintain healthy dietary practices by 
providing for modified versions of standardized meat and poultry 
products that have reductions of certain constituents that are of 
health concern to some people, 2) increase regulatory flexibility and 
support product innovation and, 3) provide consumers with an 
informative nutrition labeling system.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/29/95                    60 FR 67474
NPRM Comment Period End         02/27/96
Final Action                    12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post, Director, Labeling and Consumer Protection 
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279

RIN: 0583-AC82
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




226. TRANSPORTATION, STORAGE, AND OTHER HANDLING OF POTENTIALLY 
HAZARDOUS FOODS

Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 308; 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 325; 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/22/96                    61 FR 59372
ANPRM Comment Period End        02/20/97
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




227. PERFORMANCE STANDARD FOR THE CHILLING OR OTHER PROCESSING OF 
LIVESTOCK CARCASSES AND READY-TO-COOK POULTRY

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

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC21
_______________________________________________________________________




228. ANTE-MORTEM AND POST-MORTEM INSPECTION OF LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY

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

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 309; 9 CFR 310; 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC43

[[Page 25232]]

_______________________________________________________________________




229. REQUIREMENTS FOR DISPOSITION AND DISPOSAL OF INSPECTED RAW MEAT AND 
POULTRY PRODUCTS

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

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 311; 9 CFR 314; 9 CFR 320; 9 CFR 325; 9 CFR 381; 9 
CFR 428; 9 CFR 455

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC44
_______________________________________________________________________




230. REWORKING OF MEAT AND POULTRY CARCASSES ACCIDENTALLY CONTAMINATED 
DURING EVISCERATION

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 310; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 433

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC53
_______________________________________________________________________




231. REFORM OF REGULATIONS ON IMPORTED MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 327; 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC56
_______________________________________________________________________




232. FOOD LABELING; NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIMS, DEFINITION OF THE TERM 
HEALTHY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 371; 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/28/99                    64 FR 72490
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/27/00


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post
Phone: 202 205-0279

RIN: 0583-AC65
_______________________________________________________________________




233. ELIMINATION OF REQUIREMENTS FOR TOTAL QUALITY CONTROL SYSTEMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 318; 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC68
_______________________________________________________________________




234. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ON-LINE ANTIMICROBIAL REPROCESSING OF 
PRE-CHILL POULTRY CARCASSES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 424

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/01/00                    65 FR 75187
NPRM Comment Period End         01/30/01


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC73
_______________________________________________________________________




235.  TERMINOLOGY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470; 21 USC 601 to 695; 21 USC 1031 to 
1056

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 301; 9 CFR 311; 9 CFR 327;; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 590

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will amend FSIS's regulations by 
consolidating and updating definitions of various terms that, until 
now, have been addressed separately in regulations adopted under the 
Federal Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Products Inspection Act, and 
in some instances, the Egg Products Inspection Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directive Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC79

[[Page 25233]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




236. RETAINED WATER IN RAW MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS; POULTRY-CHILLING 
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 440

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/09/01                     66 FR 1750

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC26
_______________________________________________________________________




237. AGENCY TERMINOLOGY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 301; 9 CFR 311; 9 CFR 327; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 590; 
...

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/01/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC57
_______________________________________________________________________




238. TRANSFER AND DEVELOPMENT OF SHELL EGG REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/05/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC70
_______________________________________________________________________




239. INCREASES IN FEES FOR MEAT, POULTRY, AND EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION 
SERVICES--FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2001

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 391.2; 9 CFR 391.3; 9 CFR 391.4; 9 CFR 590.126; 9 
CFR 590.128(a)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/10/00                    65 FR 60093

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627

RIN: 0583-AC74
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




240. EXPORT SALES REPORTING REQUIREMENT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 5712

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 20

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Consideration of a proposal to add meat and meat products to 
the list of commodities for which advanced notice of export is reported 
and a streamlined electronic reporting system as the means to 
accomplish that reporting.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/14/96                    61 FR 58343
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/13/97
NPRM                            03/03/00                    65 FR 11483
NPRM Comment Period End         05/02/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 6087, South Building, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: [email protected]

Tamoria Thompson, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of Agriculture, 
Foreign Agricultural Service, Room 6087, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0551-AA51
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




241. CCC SUPPLIER CREDIT GUARANTEE PROGRAM

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1493

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/19/95                    60 FR 37025
NPRM Comment Period End         09/18/95
Interim Final Rule              07/01/96                    61 FR 33825
Interim Final Rule Effective    08/30/96
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/30/96
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley
Phone: 202 720-2568

[[Page 25234]]

Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: [email protected]

Tamoria Thompson
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0551-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________




242. FACILITY GUARANTEE PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 17; 7 CFR 1493

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/01/93                    58 FR 11786
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/01/93
Interim Final Rule              08/08/97                    62 FR 42651
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/07/97
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: [email protected]

Tamoria Thompson
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0551-AA35
BILLING CODE 3410-10-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




243. HYDROPOWER APPLICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 551; 43 USC 1761

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is revising its current policy and 
procedures, implemented in February 1987, concerning administration of 
hydropower authorizations and the processing of proposals for 
hydropower projects affecting National Forest System lands. These 
revisions are necessary to make Agency policy and procedures consistent 
with regulatory changes by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 
(FERC). The proposed policy was published in the Federal Register on 
May 22, 1995 (60 FR 27153), for a 60-day public comment period, which 
was extended for another 45 days (60 FR 36401). As a result of the 
comments received, substantial changes were made to the proposed policy 
(60 FR 36401). Therefore, the Forest Service is publishing a revised 
proposed policy for public comment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/22/95                    60 FR 27153
NPRM Comment Period Extended    07/17/95                    60 FR 36401
NPRM Comment Period End         09/05/95
Second NPRM                     08/00/01
Second NPRM Comment Period End  10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AA47
_______________________________________________________________________




244. SMALL TRACTS ACT REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 521(c) to 521(i)

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Implementation of the Agency's Small Tracts regulations 
(adopted in 1984) has revealed an inadvertent inconsistency between the 
regulations at 36 CFR 254.35(f) and 254.41(a) and the legislative 
history of the Small Tracts Act of January 12, 1983. The regulations 
imply that the disposal of mineral fractions by sale can only be made 
in response to an application from an abutting landowner, thus 
discouraging the conveyance by sale to the public. The Act clearly 
authorizes sale of mineral fractions to the public through public sale, 
as well as individual applications, provided that certain conditions 
are met. The revisions will clarify the application of the Act to 
ensure that both individual applications and public sale are 
permissible means of disposing of qualifying tracts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AA79
_______________________________________________________________________




245. SPECIES SURPLUS TO DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING NEEDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 620 et seq

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.200

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend 36 CFR 223.200 to list species 
proposed to be surplus to domestic manufacturing needs. This proposed 
rule would implement a portion of section 620a(b) of the Forest 
Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990 (16 USC 620 et 
seq.). Section 620a(a) of the Act provides that no person who acquires 
unprocessed timber originating from Federal lands west of the 100th 
meridian in the contiguous 48 States may export such timber from the 
United States, or sell, trade, exchange, or otherwise convey such 
timber from the United States, unless such timber has been determined 
under subsection (b) to be

[[Page 25235]]

surplus to the needs of timber manufacturing facilities in the United 
States. Section 620a(b) of the Act provides that the prohibition 
contained in section (a) shall not apply to specific quantities of 
grades and species of unprocessed timber originating in Federal lands 
which the Secretary determines, through rulemaking, to be surplus to 
domestic manufacturing needs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB27
_______________________________________________________________________




246. APPEAL OF DECISIONS RELATING TO OCCUPANCY AND USE OF NATIONAL 
FOREST SYSTEM LANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251; 36 CFR 214

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These proposed regulations would redesignate these appeals 
rules as a new part 214, thus placing all appeals and notices and 
comment rules in close proximity. Additionally, this proposed rule 
would revise a number of existing provisions. For example, changes to 
part 251 would clarify the application of this rule to the issuance of 
permits for occupancy and use of National Forest System lands. When 36 
CFR part 251, subpart C, regulations were promulgated in 1989, NEPA 
analysis and documentation was not consistently applied to the 
authorization of special uses. Now the authorization and the issuance 
of permits and other authorization requires application of the NEPA 
process prior to issuance. In addition, since these regulations were 
implemented, Congress has passed the Appeal Reform Act. The proposed 
changes to the permit-related appeal rules are needed to make this 
regulation consistent with regulations at 36 CFR part 215. Among 
specific proposed changes being considered are removing the second 
level of appeal opportunity, removing the discretionary review option, 
shortening timeframes for scheduling oral presentations, and changes to 
conform terminology and definitions with 36 CFR part 215.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________




247. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; EXTENSION OF 
TIMBER SALE CONTRACTS TO PERMIT URGENT REMOVAL OF OTHER TIMBER

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a; 16 USC 618; 16 USC 620

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.50; 36 CFR 223.53

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule and policy change will provide for extension of 
National Forest System (NFS) timber sale contracts when such extension 
will permit the prompt removal and utilization of non-NFS-owned timber 
damaged by catastrophic events. The change will define the 
responsibilities of the parties for requesting and approving such 
extensions and specify when such extension should be approved. This 
change will also allow for the use of scarce timber resources and the 
recovery of economic benefits from timber that might otherwise be lost 
because of contractual obligations to harvest undamaged timber.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________




248. LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPPORT ACTIVITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1011(f); 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 559(a) 
to 559(g); 40 USC 484(m)

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 262

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In February 1994, the Forest Service published proposed rule 
changes for parts 261 and 262 of title 36 of the Code of Federal 
Regulations. Due to the high level of interest in and comment on part 
261, the decision was made to publish a second proposed rule. The 
majority of the public comment on part 262 referred to the definition 
section which has been revised to respond to those comments. The Forest 
Service has decided to issue a second proposed rule for comment on part 
262, Law Enforcement Support Activities. Proposed revisions to part 261 
will proceed separately.
In addition, the proposed amendment to 36 CFR part 262, Law Enforcement 
Support Activities, would amend the rules that govern monetary rewards 
and payments for information leading to the arrest and conviction of 
people who harm natural resources or threaten employees. The proposed 
rule would remove established rewards for damaging or stealing yew 
trees, the natural source of taxol, as taxol is now produced 
synthetically. The change also would clarify the procedures in subpart 
B for administrative impoundments and removals of livestock, dogs, and 
personal property.

[[Page 25236]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/16/94                     59 FR 7880
NPRM Comment Period End         05/18/94
Second NPRM                     08/00/01
Second NPRM Comment Period End  10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________




249. NONCOMPETITIVE SALE OF TIMBER

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472(a)

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.85

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would revise 36 CFR 223.85 by removing 
references to section 2001(k) of Public Law 104-19 (109 Stat. 246) and 
define ``extraordinary conditions'' to allow forest officers, without 
advertisement, to make modifications to timber and forest product 
sales, which result in the substitution of timber or forest products 
from outside the sale area specified in the contract. Under the 
proposed rule, substitute timber or forest products would have to come 
from the same administrative national forest and meet Agency 
requirements for compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act 
and other environmental laws. This proposed rule would not compel a 
timber purchaser to accept a timber sale modification offered under 
this rule. The rule only authorizes the Forest Service to propose 
modifications and to enter into discussions with purchasers on such 
modifications.
This proposed rule will reduce timber sale cancellations and partial 
cancellations, thus reducing future damage claims on timber sales.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________




250. CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION FOR CERTAIN SPECIAL USES PERMIT ACTIONS (FSH 
1909.15, CHAPTER 30)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 4321 to 4346

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In April 1997, the Forest Service completed a reengineering 
study of its special uses program. One finding in that study was that 
the Forest Service is conducting extensive National Environmental 
Policy Act (NEPA) analysis and documentation for the renewal or 
transfer of ownership of special use authorizations having no 
significant effect on the human environment, either individually or 
cumulatively. This level of NEPA compliance is costly, time consuming, 
and not commensurate with the risk attributed to the activity. 
Therefore, the Forest Service proposes to add a new category of 
categorical exclusions from NEPA documentation at sections 31.1b and 
31.2 of FSH 1909.15, Environmental Policy and Procedures Handbook. This 
action would give clearer direction regarding the NEPA obligation, when 
issuance of a special use authorization is a purely ministerial action 
and no changes are proposed in permitted activities or facilities.
Further, the Forest Service proposes to amend section 30.3 to clarify 
the NEPA documentation that is needed for processing applications and 
authorizations under a categorical exclusion when extraordinary 
circumstances exist. There is confusion surrounding section 30.3 about 
the ``mere presence'' of an extraordinary circumstance and the 
implication of a need for an Environmental Assessment (EA) or 
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Forest Service proposes to 
amend this section to provide that an identified extraordinary 
circumstance must clearly have a significant impact on the National 
Forest resource to merit preparation of an EA or EIS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




251. CLARIFICATION OF EXEMPTIONS FROM SPECIAL-USE AUTHORIZATIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 477 to 482; 16 USC 551; 43 USC 1761 to 1771

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251.50(c)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In April 1997, the Forest Service completed a reengineering 
study of its special uses program on how to manage the program in a 
more businesslike, customer-service-oriented way. The Agency proposes 
the following revisions to 36 CFR 251.50 that would implement 
recommendations from this study. The study determined that many units 
are issuing special use authorizations unnecessarily, thereby 
increasing workloads. The study concluded that the Agency should 
clarify the special uses rules at section 251.50(a) to make explicitly 
clear that special use authorizations should not be issued for 
activities that are regulated by other Forest Service regulations; for 
example, those governing the disposal of timber (part 223); minerals 
(part 228); the use of forest development roads and trails (part 212 
and section 251.110); and the grazing of cattle (part 222). The study 
also concluded that section 251.50(d)

[[Page 25237]]

should be revised to direct that special use authorizations should not 
be issued where such authorization would serve no land or resource 
management objective and would have nominal effects on National Forest 
System lands; for example, where activities are adequately regulated by 
other governmental entities or where an authorized officer determines 
that normal operation and maintenance by the holder is within the scope 
of a right-of-way, easement, or other valid existing real property 
interest. Further, the rule at section 251.50(c) would be revised to 
clarify that, in emergency situations, a special use authorization 
should be sought at the earliest opportunity following the emergency to 
ensure that appropriate measures are carried out to protect National 
Forest System lands after the emergency situation no longer exists.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB74
_______________________________________________________________________




252. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; TIMBER EXPORT 
AND SUBSTITUTION RESTRICTIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 620

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223; 36 CFR 261

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule for timber export and substitution 
restrictions would implement the Forest Resources Conservation and 
Shortage Relief Act of 1990, as amended. The proposed rule defines the 
certain terms necessary to facilitate uniform compliance; prohibits 
transfer of unprocessed private timber for export by a person who 
possesses or acquires unprocessed Federal timber; prohibits export of 
such unprocessed private timber by a third or successive party; 
prescribes procedures for reporting the acquisition and disposition of 
NFS and private timber requiring domestic processing, including 
transfers; prescribes procedures for identifying unprocessed National 
Forest Service and private timber requiring domestic processing; and 
establishes procedures for assessing civil and criminal penalties and 
applying administrative remedies for violations of the Act, its 
implementing regulations, and contracts subject to the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________




253.  USE OF FIXED ANCHORS IN WILDERNESS

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

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 261

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to issue regulations on the 
use of climbing equipment in designated wilderness areas within the 
National Forest System (NFS). Prior to the adoption of the Wilderness 
Act, certain climbing equipment, including rock bolts, have been placed 
in rock faces by climbers. This practice has continued for several 
decades and is the focus of controversy among wilderness users. An 
increase in the popularity of bolt-intensive form of rock climbing in 
the early 1990s has fueled this controversy. Some wilderness advocates 
consider rock bolts and other anchors, left behind by climbers, as 
permanent improvements.
To address this issue on NFS lands, a negotiated rulemaking committee 
was convened in June 2000. After four 2-day meetings, the group failed 
to reach consensus on several aspects of the issue; however, consensus 
was reached on other aspects. The Agency is moving forward with a 
proposal that utilizes the advice of the committee and the aspects that 
were agreed upon by the committee. The Agency intends to propose for 
public comment several alternatives to define and regulate permanent 
fixed anchors, including bolts. Resolving these issues through 
rulemaking is preferable to other dispute resolution alternatives, such 
as litigation or legislative amendment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________




254.  SPECIAL FOREST PRODUCTS AND FOREST BOTANICAL PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service proposes to promulgate regulations for 
managing special forest products and forest botanical products. The 
regulations will guide the Forest Service in the administration of the 
broader category of special forest products. The proposed rule also 
implements Public Law 106-113, Pilot Program of Charges and Fees for 
Harvest of Forest Botanical Products, Appropriations Act H.R.

[[Page 25238]]

3423, section 339, Forest Botanical Products. Forest botanical products 
include products, such as herbs, berries, seeds, and wildflowers that 
are not wood products. The intended effect of this rule is to give 
guidance and consistency for the sustainability and sale of special 
forest products and forest botanical products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________




255.  DETERMINING FAIR MARKET VALUE FOR RECREATION RESIDENCE USE 
AUTHORIZATIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 497; PL 106-291, title VI

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The appropriations act for the Department of the Interior and 
related agencies for fiscal year 2001 (Pub.L. 106-291) contains 
provisions in title VI ``Cabin User Fee Fairness Act of 2000'' to 
ensure consistent and fair processes for appraising the fee simple 
value of recreation residence lots on National Forest System (NFS) 
lands. This act (1) establishes in law that the base annual fee for 
recreation residences is 5 percent of the market value of the lot; (2) 
changes the appraisal cycle period from 20 years to 10 years; and (3) 
requires the Secretary of Agriculture to (a) complete an inventory of 
utilities, access, and facilities serving each recreation residence 
tract or lot and document who paid for the installation of those 
improvements; (b) develop a new set of guidelines for conducting 
appraisals for recreation residences on NFS lands; (c) use a different 
annual indexing indicator; and (d) issue new Agency direction to 
implement the provisions of the Act within 2 years of its passage (10/
11/2000). The Forest Service proposes to publish notice in the Federal 
Register of policy changes to the Forest Service Manual (FSM 2723) and 
Handbooks (FSH 2709.11, sec. 33; and FSH 5409.12, ch. 6) that would 
make Agency direction consistent with the requirements in the Act for 
the base annual fee and appraisal cycle (described in the preceding 
items (1) and (2)) and to request public comment on those policy 
changes related to the inventory, guidelines for appraisals, and 
indexing indicator (described in the preceding items (3)(a) to (3)(d). 
Comments will be considered in development of the final policy.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




256. INDIAN ALLOTMENTS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1603; 43 USC 1740; 25 
USC 337

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule sets forth Forest Service procedures and role in 
the regulation of Indian allotments on National Forest System land. The 
Indian Allotment Act, as amended, authorizes the Secretary of the 
Interior to make allotments of National Forest System lands to Indians 
for homesteading and agricultural and grazing purposes. The Forest 
Service has relied upon USDI rules and procedures at 43 CFR 2533 to 
govern its involvement in Indian allotment cases. Litigation and a 
decision by the Interior Board of Land Appeals require the Forest 
Service to set forth its own regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/22/87                    52 FR 23473
NPRM Comment Period End         07/22/87
Final Action                    09/00/01
Final Action Effective          10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________




257. DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST TIMBER; CANCELLATION OF TIMBER SALE 
CONTRACTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 618

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.30; 36 CFR 223.40; 36 CFR 223.116

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 25239]]

Abstract: Current regulations governing cancellation of National Forest 
timber sale contracts do not adequately protect the Government's 
financial interests in the event the Forest Service is forced to cancel 
contracts due to events beyond its control arising from compliance with 
environmental statutes. This rulemaking would remove an unworkable 
compensation-of-damages formula and establish a termination-for-
environmental-protection clause in timber sale contracts, a standard in 
most Federal procurement contracts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/30/96                    61 FR 68690
NPRM Comment Period End         02/13/97
Final Action                    05/00/01
Final Action Effective          06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB21
_______________________________________________________________________




258. COLLECTION OF REIMBURSABLE COSTS FOR PROCESSING SPECIAL-USE 
APPLICATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION OF SPECIAL-USE AUTHORIZATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 43 USC 1764; 30 USC 181

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The objective of this proposal is to incorporate into 
regulation the authority contained in the Mineral Leasing Act and the 
Federal Land Policy and Management Act to reimburse the United States 
for reasonable administrative costs associated with the issuance and 
administration of special-use authorizations on National Forest System 
lands. It responds to a recommendation contained in GAO Audit Report 
RCED-97-16 (12/96).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/24/99                    64 FR 66341
NPRM Comment Period Extended    12/29/99                    64 FR 72971
NPRM Comment Period End         02/04/00
Comment Period Extended         02/25/00                    65 FR 10042
Comment Period End              03/09/00
Final Action                    06/00/01
Final Action Effective          07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Cost reimbursement for processing special-use 
applications and administration of special-use authorizations was 
originally included under RIN 0596-AA36. All provisions pertaining to 
the special-use application and administration process have been merged 
with RIN 0596-AB35. Thus, this rulemaking addresses only the cost-
reimbursement provisions.

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB36
_______________________________________________________________________




259. PREFERENCE FOR VISITOR SERVICE; ALASKA NATIONAL FOREST CONSERVATION 
SYSTEM UNITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 3197

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is issuing regulations to define and 
establish procedures for administering the statutory rights and 
preferences established by the Alaska National Interest Lands 
Conservation Act of 1980 for historical operators, Native Corporations, 
and local residents to conduct revenue producing visitor services on 
certain National Forest System Lands in Alaska. The regulations are 
necessary to comply with section 1307 of the Alaska National Interest 
Lands Conservation Act, which requires the Secretary of Agriculture to 
give preference to persons he determines by rule are local residents. 
The regulations, which have been developed in close consultation with 
the other Federal land managing agencies in Alaska, will apply only to 
Conservation System Units administered by the Forest Service. As 
applied to these regulations, administered Conservation System Units 
are Forest Service national monuments units of the National Wild and 
Scenic River Systems, National Trails System, and the National 
Wilderness Preservation System in Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/25/97                    62 FR 20140
NPRM Comment Period End         06/24/97
Final Action                    10/00/01
Final Action Effective          11/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB57

[[Page 25240]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




260. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 219

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/09/00                    65 FR 65714
Final Action Effective          11/09/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB20
_______________________________________________________________________




261. ADMINISTRATION OF THE FOREST DEVELOPMENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 212

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/12/01                     66 FR 3205
Final Action Effective          01/12/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB67
_______________________________________________________________________




262. APPEAL OF REGIONAL GUIDES AND NATIONAL FOREST LAND AND RESOURCE 
MANAGEMENT PLANS; MULTI-AGENCY DECISIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 217

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       03/21/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB76
_______________________________________________________________________




263. SPECIAL AREAS: ROADLESS AREA CONSERVATION

Priority: Other Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 294

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/12/01                     66 FR 3243
Extension Final Effective Date  02/05/01                     66 FR 8899
Final Action Effective          05/12/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB77
BILLING CODE 3410-11-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




264.  GENERAL NONPROCUREMENT REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 5 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3020

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: USDA published 7 CFR part 3015, Uniform Federal Assistance 
Regulations, in 1981 to establish and codify departmentwide policies 
and standards for administering grants and cooperative agreements to 
governmental and nongovernmental entities. Since that time, the Office 
of Management and Budget has lead efforts to establish Governmentwide 
common rules for governmental and nongovernmental recipients of grants 
and cooperative agreements. Consequently, over the years, USDA has 
codified its Governmentwide common rules in other parts of title 7 of 
the CFR. This has resulted in corresponding amendments to part 3015 to 
revise its scope accordingly. We are proposing to remove part 3015 and 
to add part 3020 to parts of title 7. We are proposing to include other 
administrative requirements that were never codified. The alternative 
would be to continue to work with the disjointed, outdated part 3015. 
Expected results are that the new part 3020 will be more clear and 
concise and will only contain those crosscutting requirements not 
included in other USDA departmentwide administrative regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Gerald Miske, Supervisory Management Analyst, Office of 
the Chief Financial Officer, Department of Agriculture, Office of the 
Secretary, Room 3022-S, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-1553

RIN: 0503-AA21

[[Page 25241]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




265. NONDISCRIMINATION IN USDA-CONDUCTED PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 15

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/23/96                    61 FR 17851
NPRM Comment Period End         05/23/96
Second NPRM                     11/10/98                    63 FR 62962
Second NPRM Comment Period End  12/10/98
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Winningham
Phone: 202 720-5212

RIN: 0503-AA15
_______________________________________________________________________




266. DESIGNATION OF RURAL EMPOWERMENT ZONES AND ENTERPRISE COMMUNITIES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 25

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/27/00                    65 FR 24656
NPRM Comment Period End         06/26/00


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Jay Norman Reid
Phone: 202 619-7980

RIN: 0503-AA20
BILLING CODE 3410-90-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




267.  INTERMEDIARY RELENDING PROGRAM PARTICIPATION AGREEMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1932 note

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4274 subpart D

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is considering authorizing Intermediary Relending 
Program intermediaries to sell participation agreements in their loans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/00/01
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Wayne Stansbery, Loan Specialist, Specialty Lenders 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, Room 6867/Stop 3225, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250-3225
Phone: 202 720-6819
Fax: 202 720-6561
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA33
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




268. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY DIRECT LOAN PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1980 subpart A; 7 CFR 1980 subpart E; 7 CFR 1942 
subpart A; 7 CFR 1951 subpart E; 7 CFR 4274 subpart I; 7 CFR 4287 
subpart H

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency currently utilizes RD Instructions 1980-A and E, 
1942-A, and 1951-E to make and service new and existing direct B&I 
loans. These regulations contain very limited direction in direct B&I 
loanmaking. The Agency is writing new regulations to replace the 
instructions for direct loanmaking and servicing. This program will 
complement the Agency's existing guaranteed (B&I) loan program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Richard Bonnet, Senior Loan Specialist, Processing 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, Room 6864/Stop 3224, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1804
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA22
_______________________________________________________________________




269. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--MISCELLANEOUS 
CHANGES

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4287 subpart B; 7 CFR 4279 subpart A; 7 CFR 4279 
subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Revisions are proposed in the following areas: Exclusion of 
financing agriculture production, limiting debt refinancing, definition 
of rural and rural area, criteria for reducing percent of guarantee, 
revising loan priority criteria, eligibility issues when an applicant 
is delinquent on Federal debt, title IX provisions, additional 
administrative guidance, tightening eligibility criteria for non-bank 
lenders, removing the need for a Regional Attorney review for transfers 
and

[[Page 25242]]

assumptions of existing loans, limiting debt refinancing, limiting 
packaging fees, adjusting loan priorities, additional application 
requirements for certain applicants, and various other minor editorial 
changes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Richard Bonnet, Senior Loan Specialist, Processing 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, Room 6864/Stop 3224, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1804
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA23
_______________________________________________________________________




270. AFFIRMATIVE FAIR HOUSING MARKETING PLAN

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1703 subpart B; 7 CFR 1942 subpart G; 7 CFR 4284 
subpart D; 7 CFR 4287 subpart B; 7 CFR 4279 subpart B; 7 CFR 4274 
subpart D; 7 CFR 4280 subpart A; 7 CFR 4287 subpart H

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will incorporate the requirement for housing-
related projects (such as apartment buildings, nursing homes, group 
homes, and assisted living type facilities) to develop an Affirmative 
Fair Housing Marketing Plan (plan) when receiving funding from the 
Intermediary Relending Program, Rural Business Enterprise Grant 
Program, Rural Business Opportunity Grant Program, Rural Economic 
Development Loan and Grant Programs, and the Business and Industry 
Direct and Guaranteed Loan Programs. The plan will describe strategies 
to attract applications from all groups in a housing market area and 
efforts to reach those persons in the market area who traditionally 
would not be expected to apply for housing. The Rural Housing Service 
Multifamily Housing Program regulations currently include this borrower 
requirement. We estimate this action will impact a total of 100 
housing-related projects not previously required to complete a plan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Concepcion Malazo, Loan Specialist Servicing Division, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 
6858/Stop 3224, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3224
Phone: 202 690-3810

RIN: 0570-AA24
_______________________________________________________________________




271. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--FINANCING 
COOPERATIVE STOCK

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279 subpart B; 7 CFR 4279 subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency proposes to revise the Business and Industry 
Program regulations to incorporate additional guidance and eliminate or 
reduce certain requirements when financing cooperative stock. It also 
proposes to develop a streamlined application form when financing 
working capital, which includes cooperative stock.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Bonnet, Senior Loan Specialist, Processing 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, Room 6864/Stop 3224, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1804
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________




272. RURAL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE GRANT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1932; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1942; 7 CFR 4284

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency proposes to rewrite and renumber 7 CFR 1942, 
subpart G, ``Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program'' to 7 CFR part 
4284, subpart B, to incorporate public law changes and clarify 
administrative regulatory procedures and guidelines in order to improve 
program administration.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Amy Cavanaugh, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 6867/Stop 3225, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3225
Phone: 202 690-2516
Fax: 202 720-6561
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA28

[[Page 25243]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




273. RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LOAN AND GRANT PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 940c

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1703 subpart B; 7 CFR 4280 subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action is part of a reinvention laboratory initiative of 
the Department of Agriculture and Rural Business-Cooperative Service. 
The regulations will be written in a ``plain language'' style. The 
regulation will be simpler and improve the ease of use by the public 
and program beneficiaries. The regulation will be written in a question 
and answer format from the perspective of questions from the applicant 
under this program. The regulations will simplify the application 
format, review and selection process, and recipient's recordkeeping 
requirements. It will also add a section on the appeal of adverse 
decisions. The comment period on the proposed rule ended February 14, 
2000. The Agency received 28 written comments. The Agency conducted a 
meeting, which was open to the public on August 2, 2000, to allow the 
Agency to listen to oral presentations from the general public on the 
proposed rule. The Agency will respond to the comments made at the 
meeting in the preamble to the final rule as part of the rulemaking 
processing under the Administrative Procedures Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/15/99                    64 FR 69937
NPRM Comment Period End         02/14/00
Final Action                    12/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Wing, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 6867, South 
Building, STOP 3225, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9558
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________




274. ALLOCATION FORMULAS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1940 subpart L

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend existing regulations for allocating 
program funds among Agency State offices. It will add the Rural 
Business Opportunity Grant Program and update the formulas used for 
Rural Business Enterprise Grant and Business and Industry Programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/03/00                    65 FR 47695
NPRM Comment Period End         10/02/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Wayne Stansbery, Loan Specialist, Specialty Lenders 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, Room 6867/Stop 3225, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250-3225
Phone: 202 720-6819
Fax: 202 720-6561
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________




275.  THE RURAL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE GRANTS AND TELEVISION 
DEMONSTRATION GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1932; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1942 subpart G

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency proposes to revise its regulation by clarifying 
the definition of small and emerging private business enterprise. This 
action will streamline the regulation and reduce the burden to the 
applicant in meeting the restricted definition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/00/01
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Amy Cavanaugh, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 6867/Stop 3225, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3225
Phone: 202 690-2516
Fax: 202 720-6561
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA32
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




276. RURAL AND RURAL AREA UNDER THE RURAL COMMUNITY ADVANCEMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279; 7 CFR 1980; 7 CFR 1942; 7 CFR 4284

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local

Agency Contact: Bill Hagy
Phone: 202 720-7287

RIN: 0570-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________




277. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--DOMESTIC LAMB 
INDUSTRY ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM SET-ASIDE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279 subpart B

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/30/00                    65 FR 64596

[[Page 25244]]

Interim Final Rule Effective    10/30/00
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roland T. Woodfolk
Phone: 202 690-3805
Fax: 202 690-3808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA31
BILLING CODE 3410-07-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




278. TELECOMMUNICATIONS STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR MATERIALS, 
EQUIPMENT, AND CONSTRUCTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) proposes to amend 7 CFR 
1755 to include requirements presently contained in RUS Bulletin 345-3. 
This rule would establish and codify provisions for the inclusion and 
removal for products from I.P. 344-2. This rule also proposes to 
integrate the existing section on field trials in the procedures for 
product acceptance and inclusion in this codification, as well as 
clarifying the reorganizing the field trials section.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB40
_______________________________________________________________________




279. SERVICING OF WATER PROGRAMS LOANS AND GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1782; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1956

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed action combines nine existing loan-servicing 
regulations of Water Programs into one. The new regulations will codify 
and clarify Water Programs policy relating to loan-servicing by 
incorporating simplified language without significantly changing any of 
the Agency's servicing policies or procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




280. MERGERS AND CONSOLIDATIONS OF ELECTRIC BORROWERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 to 950b; 7 USC 1981; PL 99-591; PL 103-354

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service is proposing to amend subpart D 
to eliminate the additional 24-month extension to the reimbursement 
period offered as transitional assistance in connection with new loans 
to systems that have merged after December 19, 1996, as stated in 
section 1717.154(c).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB63
_______________________________________________________________________




281. PRE-LOAN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES COMMON TO INSURED AND GUARANTEED 
TELECOMMUNICATIONS LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; PL 103-354

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1737

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service proposes to revise subparts A, C, 
D, E, F, H, and J to update the requirements related to the preparation 
and review of loan applications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg

[[Page 25245]]

Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB64
_______________________________________________________________________




282.  DEMAND SIDE MANAGEMENT AND RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1710

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is removing subpart H in its entirety.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB65
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




283. POST-LOAN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES COMMON TO GUARANTEED AND INSURED 
LOANS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 941 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1610; 7 CFR 1744

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: As part of the Rural Utilities Service's (RUS) continuing 
effort to streamline and simplify regulations and to reduce burdens on 
borrowers, RUS and RTB intend to revise and reform their loan contract 
and mortgage documents.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/18/98                    63 FR 44175
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/17/98
NPRM                            12/15/99                    64 FR 69946
NPRM Comment Period End         02/14/00
Final Action                    06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________




284. WATER AND WASTE DISPOSAL PROGRAMS GUARANTEED LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1779; 7 CFR 1980

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is issuing a final rule to consolidate its 
regulations governing the Water and Waste Disposal Guaranteed Loan 
Program from two regulations into one regulation. Current terms and 
processes will be used.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




285. ELIMINATION OF CURRENT RATIO REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: As part of its ongoing program to streamline regulations, RUS 
is amending it regulations to eliminate the requirement that a borrower 
maintain a current ratio, equal to or greater than one, immediately 
following a cash distribution. RUS believes the requirement that a 
borrower maintain a current ratio, greater than or equal to one, 
following a cash distribution severely restricts the borrower's ability 
to independently manage cash flow. The elimination of this requirement 
will provide borrowers additional flexibility as they manage cash flow 
and determine when to declare or pay dividends, pay or determine to pay 
any patronage refunds, retire any patronage capital, or make any other 
cash distributions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB58

[[Page 25246]]

_______________________________________________________________________




286. EXTENSIONS OF PAYMENTS OF PRINCIPAL OR PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1721

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will add subpart b which will set forth the 
procedures under which borrowers may request an extension for the 
payment of principal and interest.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/09/01                     66 FR 1604
NPRM Comment Period End         03/12/01
Final Rule                      06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________




287. SETTLEMENT OF DEBT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 to 950b; 7 USC 1981; PL 99-591; PL 103-354

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service will amend subpart Y to provide 
the Administrator with needed flexibility when addressing requests by 
borrowers to excercise authority thereunder in circumstances not 
otherwise explicitly contemplated in the regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               09/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________




288. POLICY ON AUDITS OF RUS BORROWERS; GENERALLY ACCEPTED GOVERNMENT 
AUDITING STANDARDS (GAGAS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1773

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service is amending its regulations to 
include in its audit requirements for electric and telecommunications 
borrowers recent amendments to the Generally Accepted Government 
Auditing Standards (GAGAS) issued by the Government Accounting Office 
(GAO) and to make other minor changes and corrections.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB62
_______________________________________________________________________




289.  POLICY ON AUDITS OF RUS BORROWERS: MANAGEMENT LETTER

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1773

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS is amending its regulations by revising certain 
requirements regarding the management letter to be provided by RUS by 
certified public accountants as part of audits of RUS borrowers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe Jr., Director, Program Development & 
Reg Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities Service, Room 
4034, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250-1522
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB66
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




290. ELECTRIC STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR MATERIALS AND 
CONSTRUCTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1728

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AA67

[[Page 25247]]

_______________________________________________________________________




291. RUS APPROVAL OF ADDITIONS AND EXTENSIONS TO ELECTRIC PLANTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717.603

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB38
_______________________________________________________________________




292. TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AND SPECIFICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/16/98                    63 FR 49504
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/15/98
NPRM                            08/25/00                    65 FR 51773
NPRM Comment Period End         12/26/00
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB41
_______________________________________________________________________




293. THE ``BUY AMERICAN'' REQUIREMENT

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1787

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




294. SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1775 subpart B

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/16/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Local

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB14
_______________________________________________________________________




295. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND TRAINING GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1775 subpart A

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       02/16/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Local

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB15
_______________________________________________________________________




296. SEISMIC SAFETY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1792 C

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/28/00                    65 FR 76915

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB47
_______________________________________________________________________




297. GENERAL AND PRE-LOAN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES COMMON TO INSURED AND 
GUARANTEED ELECTRIC LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1710

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Confirmation of Direct 
Final Rule                      11/20/00                    65 FR 69657

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________




298. ELECTRIC ENGINEERING, ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES, AND DESIGN POLICIES 
AND PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1724

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/23/00                    65 FR 63195

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB54
BILLING CODE 3410-15-S

[[Page 25248]]

_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




299. CONSERVATION OF PRIVATE GRAZING LAND

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 2005b

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 610

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Private grazing land constitutes nearly one-half of the non-
Federal land of the United States and is basic to environmental, 
social, and economic stability of rural areas. In fact, grazing land 
constitutes the single largest watershed cover type in the United 
States and contributes significantly to the quality and quantity of 
water for all of the many uses in the watershed. Congress recognized 
the importance of grazing lands in subtitle H, section 386, of the 
Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996 by authorizing 
the Secretary to provide a coordinated technical, educational, and 
related assistance program to conserve and enhance private grazing 
lands.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/01
Final Rule                      03/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Helen Huntington, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Mail Stop 5460, 
5601 Sunnyside Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705
Phone: 301 504-2165
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA29
_______________________________________________________________________




300. EMERGENCY WATERSHED PROTECTION PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 81-516; 33 USC 701; PL 95-334; 16 USC 2203

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 624

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: A revision is necessary to incorporate changes in the 
program, which have resulted from the passage of the 1996 Farm Bill; to 
fulfill a desire to make the program more responsive and efficient; and 
to respond to concerns of the public and the Agency. The rule is being 
reorganized and several items added.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/01
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Thomas A Weber, Deputy Chief for Programs, Department 
of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Room 5004-S, PO 
Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 020 720-4527
Fax: 202 720-6559
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




301. FORESTRY INCENTIVES PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 2101 and 2103

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 635; 7 CFR 701

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forestry Incentives Program (FIP) supports good forest 
management practices on privately owned, non-industrial forest lands 
nationwide. FIP is designed to benefit the environment while meeting 
future demands for wood products. The Cooperative Forestry Assistance 
Act of 1978, as amended by Public Law 95-313, is the source of 
authority for FIP. FIP was reauthorized for fiscal year 2002 by Public 
Law 104-127. The interim rule sets forth FIP policies and procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/00/01
Final Action                    08/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Helen Huntington, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Mail Stop 5460, 
5601 Sunnyside Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705
Phone: 301 504-2165
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________




302. WETLAND CATEGORICAL MINIMAL EFFECTS EXEMPTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 3801 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 12

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The 1985 Farm Bill, as amended, gives producers a major 
incentive to conserve wetlands by tying eligibility for most USDA 
program benefits to conservation of wetlands. However, producers can 
convert wetlands based on available exemptions, including a minimal 
effect exemption. A minimal effect applies if the action, individually 
and cumulatively, will have minimal effect on the functional 
hydrological and biological value of the wetlands in the area. A 
categorical minimal effect is one that, when carried out, will always 
have a minimal effect on the hydrologic and biological functions of 
wetlands in the area. These activities will be identified on a regional 
basis.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Helen Huntington, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Mail Stop 5460, 
5601 Sunnyside Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705
Phone: 301 504-2165

[[Page 25249]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




303. HIGHLY ERODIBLE LAND AND WETLAND CONSERVATION

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 12

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/06/96
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/05/96
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Helen Huntington
Phone: 301 504-2165
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA17
BILLING CODE 3410-16-S
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM)



_______________________________________________________________________




304. AGRICULTURE ACQUISITION REGULATION: AMENDMENT TO PART 442, CONTRACT 
ADMINISTRATION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 40 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 442

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: USDA proposes to amend part 442 of the Agriculture 
Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) to require USDA agencies to use a single 
automated performance evaluation system for recording and accessing 
contractor past performance information. This system will be the 
National Institutes of Health Contractor Performance System.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/12/00                    65 FR 54986
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/00
Final Action                    05/00/01
Final Action Effective          07/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

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: Joseph J. Daragan, Procurement Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Office of Procurement and Property Management, Mail Stop 
9303, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5729
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0599-AA08
_______________________________________________________________________




305.  AGRICULTURE ACQUISITION REGULATION; PART 419 AMENDMENT; 
NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 40 USC 486(c)

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 419.508; 48 CFR 452.219-70

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: USDA is amending the Agriculture Acquisition Regulation 
(AGAR) (48 CFR chapter 4) to remove references to Standard Industrial 
Classification Codes and to replace them with references to North 
American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) codes. This amendment 
updates the AGAR to reflect the Federal Acquisition Regulation's 
adoption of NAICS codes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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: Joseph J. Daragan, Procurement Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Office of Procurement and Property Management, Mail Stop 
9303, 14th and Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5729
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0599-AA09
_______________________________________________________________________




306.  OFFICE OF PROCUREMENT AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT (OPPM); 
UNIFORM PROCEDURES FOR THE ACQUISITION AND TRANSFER OF EXCESS FEDERAL 
PROPERTY

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2206a; 7 USC 301 note; 7 USC 321 et seq; 20 USC 
1059c(b)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3200

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM) is 
amending its procedures for the acquisition and transfer of excess 
personal property to 1994 Institutions (as defined in section 532 of 
the Equity in Education Land Grant Status Act of 1994); Hispanic-
serving Institutions (as defined in section 316(b) of the Higher 
Education Act of 1965); and any college or university eligible to 
receive funds under the Act of August 30, 1890. This amendment 
clarifies administrative rules regarding equipment transfer and

[[Page 25250]]

reduces the administrative burden placed on recipient Institutions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               05/00/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kathleen N. Fay, Property Utilization Specialist, 
Department of Agriculture, Office of Procurement and Property 
Management, Mail Stop 9304, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-9779
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0599-AA10
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM)



_______________________________________________________________________




307. NEW RESTRICTIONS ON LOBBYING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3018

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/26/90                     55 FR 6736
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Joseph J. Daragan
Phone: 202 720-5729
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0599-AA03
_______________________________________________________________________




308. AGRICULTURE ACQUISITION REGULATION (AGAR); CONTRACTOR EMPLOYMENT OF 
MIGRANT AND SEASONAL AGRICULTURAL WORKERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 48 CFR 422; 48 CFR 452

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Joseph J. Daragan
Phone: 202 720-5729
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0599-AA05
_______________________________________________________________________


DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM)



_______________________________________________________________________




309. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE PRIORITIES AND ADMINISTRATIVE GUIDELINE 
FOR DONATION OF EXCESS RESEARCH EQUIPMENT

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2812

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/21/00                    65 FR 69856
Final Action Effective          12/21/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Kathleen N. Fay
Phone: 202 720-9779
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0599-AA06
[FR Doc. 01-6919 Filed 05-11-01; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-13-S
