[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

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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 32826]]



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, Spring 2002

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: April 1, 2002.

 Jacquelyn Y. Chandler,

Chief, Legislative and Regulatory and Automated Systems Staff.

                                  Agricultural Marketing Service--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1          Cotton Futures Act: Changing the Destination of Spot Markets (CN-01-004).............     0581-AC00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2          National Laboratory Accreditation Program............................................     0581-AB42
3          Changes in Fees for Federal Grading and Certification of Livestock for Chicago            0581-AB66
            Mercantile Exchange Futures Deliveries..............................................
4          Discontinue the Official Grading of Imported Beef, Lamb, Veal, and Calf Carcasses         0581-AB90
            Under the Authority of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946.......................
5          Revision of Regulations Governing the Inspection and Grading Service of Manufactured      0581-AB93
            or Processed Dairy Products (DA-00-08)..............................................
6          National Organic Program: Add Standards for Mushroom, Apiculture, Greenhouse and          0581-AB96
            Hydroponic Production Systems and the Handling of Honey (TM-01-09)..................
7          National Organic Program: Add Standards for the Organic Certification of Wild             0581-AB97
            Captured Aquatic Animals (TM-01-08).................................................
8          Livestock Mandatory Reporting Program--Lamb Amendment (LS-01-08).....................     0581-AB98
9          Revision of User Fees for 2002 Crop Cotton Classification Services...................     0581-AC04
10         Mango Promotion, Research, and Information Order (FV-01-707).........................     0581-AC05
11         Establishing a Lamb Promotion, Research, and Information Order (LS-01-12)............     0581-AC06
12         Establishing Fees for Voluntary Quality Systems Certification Services (LS-00-13)....     0581-AC08
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13         General Specifications for Dairy Plants Approved for USDA Inspection and Grading.....     0581-AB59
14         Hass Avocado Promotion, Research, and Information Order (FV-01-705)..................     0581-AB92
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32827]]


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15         Increase in Fees for Voluntary Federal Seed Testing and Certification Services and        0581-AB95
            Establishment of a Fee for Preliminary Test Reports (LS-01-07)......................
16         Increase in Fees and Charges For Eggs, Poultry, and Rabbit (PY-01-005)...............     0581-AB99
17         Regulations Governing the California Prune/Plum (Tree Removal) Diversion Program,         0581-AC03
            2001-2002 Crop Year (FV-01-81-01)...................................................
18         Fresh Russet Potato Diversion Program, 2000 Crop (FV-01-80-01).......................     0581-AC07
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                  Agricultural Marketing Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0581-AB56       Voluntary Shell Egg Regulations; Repackaging of Shell Eggs Under USDA's Grading Program         03/11/2002   Withdrawn
0581-AB70       Program To Assess Organic Certifying Agencies                                                   03/14/2002   Withdrawn
0581-AB74       Regulations Governing the Inspection of Eggs                                                    03/11/2002   Withdrawn
0581-AB86       Tobacco Fees and Charges for Permissive Inspection: Fee Increase (TB-00-04 FR)                  03/11/2002   Withdrawn
0581-AB87       Tobacco Fees and Charges for Mandatory Inspection: Fee Increase                                 03/11/2002   Withdrawn
0581-AC02       Voluntary Grading of Shell Eggs; Facilities and Equipment (PY-01-003)                           03/11/2002   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Farm Service Agency--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19         Regulatory Streamlining of the Farm Service Agency's Direct Farm Loan Programs.......     0560-AF60
20         Interest Assistance Program..........................................................     0560-AG46
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                      Farm Service Agency--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21         Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program Regulations for the 2001 and Succeeding       0560-AG20
            Crop Years..........................................................................
22         Limitations on Amount of Guaranteed Farm Ownership and Operating Loans...............     0560-AG64
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Farm Service Agency--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23         Mediation; Agricultural Loan Mediation Program.......................................     0560-AE26
24         Amendments to the Standards for Approval of Warehouse for Commodity Credit                0560-AE50
            Corporation Storage Contracts.......................................................
25         Deletion of FSA Regulations Regarding Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program..     0560-AE54
26         Amendments to the Debt Settlement Policies and Procedures To Conform to the Debt          0560-AF22
            Collection Improvement Act of 1996..................................................
27         Amendment to the Farm Reconstitution Regulations.....................................     0560-AF36
28         Low Documentation Loan...............................................................     0560-AF71
29         Amendments to the Conservation Reserve Program Regulations Regarding Land Eligibility     0560-AF77
30         Designation of Non-Auction Tobacco...................................................     0560-AG07
31         Agricultural Disaster and Market Assistance..........................................     0560-AG14
32         Emergency Conservation Program.......................................................     0560-AG26
33         Conservation of Farmable Wetlands....................................................     0560-AG38
34         Tobacco Loss Assistance Program and Amendments to the Tobacco Marketing Quota             0560-AG40
            Regulations.........................................................................

[[Page 32828]]


35         Collection of Appraisal Fees for Farm Loan Programs, Insured Loans...................     0560-AG42
36         Collecting Guaranteed Loss Payments From FSA Farm Loan Program Borrowers.............     0560-AG44
37         Implementation of the U.S. Warehouse Act of 2000.....................................     0560-AG45
38         Non-Recourse Cotton Loan and Loan Deficiency Payment Programs; Upland Cotton First        0560-AG47
            Handler Marketing Certificate Program; and Seed Cotton Recourse Loan Program........
39         Ocean Freight Claims Administrative Appeal Process...................................     0560-AG49
40         Elimination of 30-Day Past-Due Period for Farm Loan Program Borrowers................     0560-AG50
41         Tobacco Marketing Quotas, Cards, Penalty Provisions, Recordkeeping and Reporting.....     0560-AG52
42         Rescheduling Guaranteed Loans With Balloon Payments, Clarification of Annual Analysis     0560-AG53
            Requirements for Guaranteed Lenders, and Subordination Requirements.................
43         General Regulations Governing Commodity Loans for 1998 and Subsequent Crops..........     0560-AG54
44         Amendment to the Regulations for Determining Acreage for Skip-Row Cotton.............     0560-AG55
45         Prompt Disaster Set-Aside Consideration and Primary Loan Servicing...................     0560-AG56
46         2002-Crop Peanuts National Poundage Quota for Quota Peanuts..........................     0560-AG57
47         2002-Crop Marketing Quotas and Price Support Levels for Five Kinds of Tobacco........     0560-AG58
48         2002-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Burley Tobacco.................     0560-AG59
49         2002-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Flue-Cured Tobacco.............     0560-AG60
50         Horse Breeder Loans..................................................................     0560-AG62
51         Apple Market Loss Payment Program....................................................     0560-AG63
52         Clarification of Guaranteed Farm Ownership and Operating Loan Requirements...........     0560-AG65
53         Servicing Minor Farm Loan Program Loans..............................................     0560-AG67
54         Sale and Purchase of Flue-Cured Tobacco Across County Lines (Florida and Georgia)....     0560-AG68
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Farm Service Agency--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
55         Dairy Recourse Loan Program..........................................................     0560-AF41
56         1999-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Burley Tobacco.................     0560-AF50
57         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............................................................................
58         Streamlining of the Emergency Farm Loan Program Regulations..........................     0560-AF72
59         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.....
60         2000-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Flue-Cured Tobacco.............     0560-AF84
61         Disaster Set-Aside Program...........................................................     0560-AF91
62         Lamb Meat Adjustment Assistance Program..............................................     0560-AG17
63         2001-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Flue-Cured Tobacco.............     0560-AG28
64         2001-Crop Marketing Quota and Price Support Level for Burley Tobacco.................     0560-AG29
65         2001-Crop Marketing and Price Support Levels for Five Kinds of Tobacco...............     0560-AG30
66         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.............................................................................
67         Livestock Indemnity Program and Livestock Indemnity Program for Contract Growers.....     0560-AG33
68         Conservation Reserve Program--Failure To Establish Cover and Good Faith Reliance.....     0560-AG37
69         Reduction of Amortized Shared Appreciation Recapture Interest Rate...................     0560-AG43
70         Tobacco Marketing Quotas, Acreage Allotments and Production Adjustment...............     0560-AG51
71         Tobacco Loss Assistance Program 2001.................................................     0560-AG61
72         Dairy Indemnity Payment Program......................................................     0560-AG66
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                            Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
73         Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and Interactive Programs.......     0579-AB24

[[Page 32829]]


74         Potential Pathways for the Spread of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy in U.S.             0579-AB43
            Livestock...........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
75         Importation of Solid Wood Packing Material...........................................     0579-AA99
76         Blood and Tissue Collection at Livestock Slaughtering Establishments.................     0579-AB13
77         Bees, Beekeeping Byproducts, and Beekeeping Equipment (Section 610 Review)...........     0579-AB20
78         Veterinary Diagnostic User Fees--5-Year Plan for Fees (Section 610 Review)...........     0579-AB22
79         Salmonella Enteritidis Phage-Type 4; Remove Import Restrictions......................     0579-AB31
80         Foot-and-Mouth Disease; Payment of Indemnity.........................................     0579-AB34
81         Chronic Wasting Disease in Elk; Interstate Movement Restrictions and Payment of           0579-AB35
            Indemnity...........................................................................
82         Importation of Milk and Milk Products from FMD Countries.............................     0579-AB38
83         Importation of Clementines from Spain................................................     0579-AB40
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
84         Animal Welfare; Inspection, Licensing, and Procurement of Animals (Section 610            0579-AA94
            Review).............................................................................
85         Phytosanitary Treatment by Irradiation of Imported Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.......     0579-AA97
86         Importation of Unmanufactured Wood Articles From Mexico..............................     0579-AB02
87         Establishment of Regions in the European Union for Classical Swine Fever, Foot-and-       0579-AB03
            Mouth Disease, and Swine Vesicular Disease..........................................
88         Pseudorabies in Swine; Payment of Indemnity..........................................     0579-AB10
89         Plum Pox Compensation................................................................     0579-AB19
90         Animal Welfare; Policy on Environment Enhancement for Nonhuman Primates..............     0579-AB25
91         Importation Prohibitions Because of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy.................     0579-AB26
92         Animals Destroyed Because of Tuberculosis; Payment of Indemnity......................     0579-AB29
93         Tuberculosis; Indemnity for Dairy Cattle.............................................     0579-AB36
94         Infectious Salmon Anemia; Payment of Indemnity.......................................     0579-AB37
95         Animal Welfare; Policy on Training and Handling of Potentially Dangerous Animals.....     0579-AB39
96         Additional Restrictions on the Importation of Certain Ruminant Meat, Meat Products,       0579-AB41
            and Edible Products Other Than Meat From BSE Regions................................
97         Brucellosis in Sheep, Goats, and Horses; Payment of Indemnity (Section 610 Review)...     0579-AB42
98         Karnal Bunt Compensation.............................................................     0579-AB45
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
99         Importation of Certain Embryos and Animal Semen (Section 610 Review).................     0579-AA63
100        Plant Pest Regulations; Update of Current Provisions (Section 610 Review)............     0579-AA80
101        Importation of Fuji Apples From the Republic of Korea................................     0579-AA93
102        Horse Protection; Horse Industry Organizations.......................................     0579-AB04
103        Phytosanitary Certificates for Imported Fruits and Vegetables........................     0579-AB18
104        Exportation of Livestock (Section 610 Review)........................................     0579-AB21
105        Nursery Stock Regulations (Section 610 Review).......................................     0579-AB23
106        Draft Action Plan for the Noxious Weeds Program......................................     0579-AB30
107        Amend Regulations To Harmonize Our Import Requirements With Proposed National             0579-AB44
            Tuberculosis Eradication Program....................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32830]]


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
108        Commercial Transportation of Equines to Slaughter....................................     0579-AB06
109        Importation of Unshu Oranges.........................................................     0579-AB17
110        Mexican Hass Avocado Import Program..................................................     0579-AB27
111        Interstate Movement of Swine Within a Production System..............................     0579-AB28
112        Black Stem Rust; Identification Requirements and Addition of Rust-Resistant Varieties     0579-AB33
            (Completion of a Section 610 Review)................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                            Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0579-AB09       Aquaculture; Farm-Raised Fin Fish                                                               03/12/2002   Withdrawn
0579-AB16       Importation of Beef From Brazil                                                                 02/22/2002   Withdrawn
0579-AB32       Standards for Permanent, Privately Owned Horse Quarantine Facilities                            03/12/2002   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0524-AA09       Higher Education Multicultural Scholars Program; Administrative Provisions                      03/22/2002   Withdrawn
0524-AA17       Hispanic-Serving Institutions Education Grants Program Administrative Provisions                03/22/2002   Withdrawn
0524-AA19       Community Food Projects Administrative Provisions                                               03/22/2002   Withdrawn
0524-AA20       Small Business Innovation Research Program Administrative Provisions                            03/22/2002   Withdrawn
0524-AA21       Biotechnology Risk Assessment Research Grants Program Administrative Provisions                 03/22/2002   Withdrawn
0524-AA22       National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program Administrative Provisions               03/22/2002   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Rural Housing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
113        Civil Rights Compliance Requirements--1901-E to 1940-D...............................     0575-AA83
114        National Flood Insurance Regulations.................................................     0575-AC07
115        Servicing Community Programs Loans and Grants........................................     0575-AC12
116        Multi-Family Housing.................................................................     0575-AC13
117        Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants................................................     0575-AC20
118        Community Facilities Direct Loan Program--Consolidate, Simplify, and Update               0575-AC27
            Regulations.........................................................................
119        Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program--Secondary Mortgage Market Participation.....     0575-AC28
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Rural Housing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
120        Environmental Program................................................................     0575-AB98
121        Direct Section 502 and 504 Single-Family Housing Program.............................     0575-AB99
122        Guaranteed Single-Family Housing.....................................................     0575-AC18
123        Operating Assistance for Migrant Farmworker Projects.................................     0575-AC24
124        Technical Assistance To Encourage the Development of Domestic and Migrant Farm Labor      0575-AC25
            Housing.............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32831]]


                                    Rural Housing Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
125        Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing, Section 538 Statutory Changes.......................     0575-AC26
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
126        General Administrative Regulations; Subpart D; Application for Crop Insurance........     0563-AB00
127        General Administrative Regulations; Movement of Business Among Insurance Providers...     0563-AB71
128        General Administrative Regulations; Sanctions........................................     0563-AB73
129        Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Blueberry Crop Insurance Provisions...............     0563-AB76
130        Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Nursery Crop Insurance Provisions.................     0563-AB80
131        General Administrative Regulations; Actual Production History........................     0563-AB83
132        Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Basic Provisions and General Administrative            0563-AB85
            Regulations, Subpart T, Regulations for Implementation..............................
133        General Administrative Regulations; Subpart L--Reinsurance Agreement--Standards for       0563-AB86
            Approval; Regulations for the 1997 and Subsequent Reinsurance Years.................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
134        Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Small Grains Crop Insurance Provisions and Wheat       0563-AB63
            Winter Coverage Endorsement.........................................................
135        General Administrative Regulations; Nonstandard Underwriting Classification System...     0563-AB66
136        General Administrative Regulations; Premium Reductions; Payments of Rebates,              0563-AB70
            Dividends, and Patronage Refunds; and Payments to Insured-Owned and Record-
            Controlling Entities................................................................
137        Catastrophic Risk Protection Endorsement; Group Risk Plan of Insurance Regulations;       0563-AB81
            Basic Provisions....................................................................
138        General Administrative Regulations; Submission of Policies and Provisions of Policies     0563-AB84
            and Rates of Premiums...............................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
139        Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Millet Crop Insurance Provisions..................     0563-AB79
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
140        Review Inspection Requirements.......................................................     0580-AA58
141        Livestock Purchase or Sale: Prohibit Non-Reporting of Price..........................     0580-AA65
142        Exceptions to Geographic Areas for Official Agencies Under the USGSA.................     0580-AA76
143        Prohibition on Disguising Grain Quality..............................................     0580-AA77
144        Laboratory Proficiency Program.......................................................     0580-AA78
145        Fees for Official Inspection and Official Weighing Services..........................     0580-AA80
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32832]]


                    Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
146        Tolerances for Dividers..............................................................     0580-AA57
147        Swine Packer Marketing Contracts.....................................................     0580-AA71
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                   Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
148        Fees for Official Inspection and Weighting Service...................................     0580-AA79
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                      Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0580-AA51       Poultry Grower Contracts                                                                        03/08/2002   Withdrawn
0580-AA72       Packer Recordkeeping Requirements                                                               03/08/2002   Withdrawn
0580-AA73       How Can USDA Best Facilitate the Marketing of Grains, Oilseeds, Fruits, Vegetables, and         04/24/2002   Withdrawn
                 Nuts in Today's Marketplace
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
149        Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):                 0584-AB10
            Miscellaneous Provisions............................................................
150        Intentional Program Violation Reporting and Computer Matching Requirements That           0584-AB51
            Affect the Food Stamp Program.......................................................
151        FSP: Civil Rights Data Collections...................................................     0584-AC75
152        Commodity Supplemental Food Program: Plain Language, Program Accountability, and          0584-AC84
            Program Flexibility.................................................................
153        Food Stamp Program: Administrative Cost Reimbursement................................     0584-AC86
154        Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):            0584-AC90
            Revisions in the WIC Food Packages..................................................
155        Improving Access to the Food Stamp Program for Persons With Limited English               0584-AD06
            Proficiency.........................................................................
156        Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations: Resource Limits and Exclusions,         0584-AD12
            Extended Certification Periods, and Transitional Benefits...........................
157        Food Stamp Program: Vehicle and Maximum Excess Shelter Expense Deduction Provisions       0584-AD13
            of Public Law 106-387...............................................................
158        Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP): At-Risk Afterschool Suppers...............     0584-AD15
159        Food Stamp Program: Administrative Sanctions Imposed Against Violating Electronic         0584-AD18
            Benefits Transfer (EBT) Stores......................................................
160        Expanded Verification of Eligibility Summary Requirements............................     0584-AD20
161        Food Stamp Program: Simplification and State Flexibility.............................     0584-AD22
162        Food Stamp Program: Administrative Review Requirements--Food Retailers/Wholesalers...     0584-AD23
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
163        WIC: Requirements for and Evaluation of WIC Program Requests for Bids for Infant          0584-AB52
            Formula Rebate Contracts............................................................
164        Food Stamp Program: Anticipating Income and Reporting Changes........................     0584-AB57
165        Child and Adult Care Food Program: Improving Management and Program Integrity........     0584-AC24
166        Food Stamp Program Regulatory Review: FSP Standards for Approval and Operation of         0584-AC37
            Food Stamp Electronic Benefit Transfer Systems......................................

[[Page 32833]]


167        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..................................................................
168        National School Lunch Program: Reimbursement for Snacks in Afterschool Care Programs.     0584-AC72
169        FSP: Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Systems Interoperability and Portability......     0584-AC91
170        Child and Adult Care Food Program: Implementing Legislative Reforms To Strengthen         0584-AC94
            Program Integrity...................................................................
171        Special Nutrition Programs: Disclosure of Children's Eligibility Information Under        0584-AC95
            the Child Nutrition Programs........................................................
172        Implementation of Poultry Substitution Pilot as Permanent and Modification of             0584-AD08
            Commodity Recordkeeping Requirements................................................
173        Special Nutrition Programs: Uniform Federal Assistance Regulations; Nondiscretionary      0584-AD16
            Technical Amendments................................................................
174        National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and Child and Adult Care         0584-AD26
            Food Program--Amendments to the Infant Meal Pattern.................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
175        State Administrative Expense Funds: Plain Language Rewrite...........................     0584-AC96
176        Special Milk Program for Children: Plain Language Revision and Reorganization........     0584-AC97
177        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....................................................................
178        Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 251, The Emergency       0584-AC99
            Food Assistance Program (TEFAP).....................................................
179        Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 252, The National        0584-AD00
            Commodity Processing Program (NCP)..................................................
180        Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 253, the Food            0584-AD01
            Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).................................
181        Food Distribution Programs: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 254, the Food            0584-AD02
            Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) in Oklahoma.....................
182        Nutrition Education and Training Program: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 227...     0584-AD03
183        State Agency Liabilities and Federal Sanctions.......................................     0584-AD04
184        Payments of Certain Administrative Costs of State Agencies...........................     0584-AD05
185        School Breakfast Program: Plain Language Revision and Reorganization.................     0584-AD10
186        WIC: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 248, Farmers` Market Nutrition Program.....     0584-AD11
187        CNP: Plain Language Rewrite of 7 CFR Part 225, Summer Food Service Program...........     0584-AD17
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
188        Determining Eligibility for Free and Reduced-Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools:        0584-AC25
            Provision 2 and Provision 3.........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                    Food and Nutrition Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0584-AC68       WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP): Expansion Funds Allocation Formula                 03/05/2002   Withdrawn--Future of FMNP
                                                                                                                              funding is uncertain.
0584-AC79       Food Distribution Program: Deletion of Requirement To Evaluate State-Run Commodity              03/07/2002   Withdrawn--Regulatory
                 Distribution and Warehousing Systems Every 3 Years                                                           change not required.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32834]]


                                Food Safety and Inspection Service--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
189        Poultry Inspection: Revision of Finished Product Standards With Respect to Ingesta...     0583-AC77
190        Standards and Labeling Requirements for Mechanically Separated (Species) and Products     0583-AC90
            in Which It Is Used (Section 610 Review)............................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
191        Grant and Inauguration of Inspection.................................................     0583-AC07
192        Ante-Mortem and Post-Mortem Inspection of Livestock and Poultry......................     0583-AC43
193        Requirements for Disposition and Disposal of Inspected Raw Meat and Poultry Products.     0583-AC44
194        Performance Standards for Bacon......................................................     0583-AC49
195        Egg and Egg Products Inspection Regulations..........................................     0583-AC58
196        Labeling--Generic Approval and Regulation Consolidation..............................     0583-AC59
197        Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) Systems;          0583-AC63
            Additions to Generic E. Coli Criteria...............................................
198        Food Standards; Guiding Principles and Food Standards Modernization..................     0583-AC72
199        Petitions for Rulemaking.............................................................     0583-AC81
200        Classes of Poultry Updating Poultry Class Standards..................................     0583-AC83
201        Elimination of Chilling Time and Temperature Requirements for Ready-To-Cook Poultry       0583-AC87
            (Section 610 Review)................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
202        Beef or Pork With Barbecue Sauce; Revision of Standards..............................     0583-AC09
203        Performance Standards for Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products.....................     0583-AC46
204        Meat Produced by Advanced Meat/Bone Separation Machinery and Recovery Systems........     0583-AC51
205        Incorporation of Food and Color Additives Into 21 CFR................................     0583-AC69
206        Performance Standards for On-line Antimicrobial Reprocessing of Pre-Chill Poultry         0583-AC73
            Carcasses...........................................................................
207        Sharing Recall Distribution Lists With State and Other Federal Government Agencies...     0583-AC75
208        Agency Organization..................................................................     0583-AC78
209        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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
210        Transportation, Storage, and Other Handling of Potentially Hazardous Foods...........     0583-AC05
211        Reworking of Meat and Poultry Carcasses Accidentally Contaminated During Evisceration     0583-AC53
212        Reform of Regulations on Imported Meat and Poultry Products..........................     0583-AC56
213        Nutrition Labeling of Ground or Chopped Meat and Poultry Products and Single-             0583-AC60
            Ingredient Products.................................................................
214        Food Labeling; Nutrient Content Claims, Definition of the Term Healthy...............     0583-AC65
215        Elimination of Requirements for Total Quality Control Systems........................     0583-AC68
216        Emergency Regulations To Prevent Meat Food and Meat Products That May Contain the BSE     0583-AC88
            Agent From Entering Commerce........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32835]]


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
217        Labeling of Natural or Regenerated Collagen Sausage Casings..........................     0583-AC80
218        Mandatory Inspection of Ratites and Squabs...........................................     0583-AC84
219        Increases in Fees for Meat, Poultry, and Egg Products Inspection Services--Fiscal         0583-AC89
            Year (FY) 2002......................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Foreign Agricultural Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
220        Program To Provide Technical Assistance To Promote U.S. Agricultural Exports to           0551-AA62
            Emerging Markets (Emerging Markets Program).........................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Foreign Agricultural Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
221        Program To Assist U.S. Producers in Developing Domestic Markets for Value-Added Wheat     0551-AA60
            Gluten and Wheat Starch Products....................................................
222        Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Regulations for the Foreign Agricultural Service...     0551-AA61
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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


                                       Forest Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
225        Hydropower Applications..............................................................     0596-AA47
226        Small Tracts Act Regulations.........................................................     0596-AA79
227        Species Surplus to Domestic Manufacturing Needs......................................     0596-AB27
228        Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Extension of Timber Sale              0596-AB48
            Contracts To Permit Urgent Removal of Other Timber..................................
229        Law Enforcement Support Activities...................................................     0596-AB61
230        Noncompetitive Sale of Timber........................................................     0596-AB70
231        Land Uses; Special Uses Requiring Authorizations.....................................     0596-AB74
232        Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Timber Export and Substitution        0596-AB75
            Restrictions........................................................................
233        Use of Fixed Anchors in Wilderness...................................................     0596-AB80
234        Special Forest Products and Forest Botanical Products................................     0596-AB81
235        Determining Fair Market Value for Recreation Residence Use Authorizations............     0596-AB83
236        National Forest System Land and Resource Management Planning.........................     0596-AB86
237        National Environmental Policy Act Documentation for Certain Small Administrative          0596-AB88
            Timber Sales on National Forest System Lands and Research Projects (Forest Service
            Handbook 1909.15, Chapter 30).......................................................
238        Notice, Comment, and Appeal Procedures for National Forest System Projects and            0596-AB89
            Activities..........................................................................
239        Special Uses and General Prohibitions: Paleontological Resources.....................     0596-AB91
240        Forest Service Trails Accessibility Guidelines.......................................     0596-AB92
241        Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines...........................     0596-AB93
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32836]]


                                        Forest Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
242        Indian Allotments on National Forest System Lands....................................     0596-AA52
243        Disposal of National Forest Timber; Cancellation of Timber Sale Contracts............     0596-AB21
244        Collection of Reimbursable Costs for Processing Special-Use Applications and              0596-AB36
            Administration of Special-Use Authorizations........................................
245        Preference for Visitor Service; Alaska National Forest Conservation System Units.....     0596-AB57
246        Categorical Exclusion for Certain Special Uses Permit Actions (FSH 1909.15, Chapter       0596-AB73
            30).................................................................................
247        National Forest System Land and Resource Management Planning; Extension of Compliance     0596-AB87
            Deadline............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                        Forest Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
248        Appeal of Decisions Relating to Occupancy and Use of National Forest System Lands....     0596-AB45
249        Revisions to Road Management Policy (Forest Service Manual Chapter 7710).............     0596-AB90
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                          Forest Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0596-AB85       Inventoried Roadless Areas                                                                      03/08/2002   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Office of Chief Financial Officer--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
250        Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) and Governmentwide               0505-AA11
            Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace (Grants).......................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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


                                    Office of the Secretary--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
252        Outreach and Assistance for Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers.......................     0503-AA22
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Office of the Secretary--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
253        Designation of Rural Empowerment Zones and Enterprise Communities....................     0503-AA20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32837]]


                             Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
254        Business and Industrial Guaranteed Loan Program--Miscellaneous Changes...............     0570-AA23
255        Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plan..............................................     0570-AA24
256        Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Financing Cooperative Stock...........     0570-AA26
257        Rural Business Enterprise Grant Program..............................................     0570-AA28
258        Annual Renewal Fee...................................................................     0570-AA34
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
259        Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program....................................     0570-AA19
260        Allocation Formulas..................................................................     0570-AA30
261        Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Domestic Lamb Industry Adjustment          0570-AA31
            Assistance Program Set-Aside........................................................
262        The Rural Business Enterprise Grants and Television Demonstration Grants--Small/          0570-AA32
            Emerging Private Business Enterprise................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0570-AA33       Intermediary Relending Program Participation Agreements                                         03/13/2002   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Rural Utilities Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
263        Telecommunications Standards and Specifications for Materials, Equipment, and             0572-AB40
            Construction........................................................................
264        Servicing of Water Programs Loans and Grants.........................................     0572-AB59
265        Electric Program Standard Contract Forms.............................................     0572-AB67
266        Exemptions of RUS Operational Controls Under Section 306E of the RE Act..............     0572-AB68
267        Environmental Policies and Procedures................................................     0572-AB73
268        Technical Assistance Grants..........................................................     0572-AB75
269        Special Equipment Contract (Not Including Installation), RUS Form 398................     0572-AB76
270        Accounting Requirements for RUS Telecommunications Borrowers.........................     0572-AB77
271        Extensions of Payments of Principal and Interest.....................................     0572-AB79
272        Useful Life of Facility Determination................................................     0572-AB80
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Rural Utilities Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
273        Settlement of Debt...................................................................     0572-AB61
274        Mergers and Consolidations of Electric Borrowers.....................................     0572-AB63
275        Demand Side Management and Renewable Energy Systems..................................     0572-AB65
276        Telecommunications Program Specification.............................................     0572-AB69
277        General and Pre-Loan Policies and Procedures Common to Insured and Guaranteed Loans..     0572-AB72
278        Seismic Safety.......................................................................     0572-AB74
279        Record Retention Requirements for RUS Electric and Telecommunications Borrowers......     0572-AB78
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32838]]


                                   Rural Utilities Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
280        Extensions of Payments of Principal and Interest.....................................     0572-AB60
281        Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loan and Grant Program............................     0572-AB70
282        Treasury Rate Loan Program...........................................................     0572-AB71
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                      Rural Utilities Service--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0572-AB38       RUS Approval of Additions and Extensions to Electric Plants                                     02/27/2002   Withdrawn
0572-AB55       The ``Buy American'' Requirement                                                                03/07/2002   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                           Natural Resources Conservation Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
283        Wetland Categorical Minimal Effects Exemptions.......................................     0578-AA27
284        Emergency Watershed Protection Program...............................................     0578-AA30
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                            Natural Resources Conservation Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
285        Conservation of Private Grazing Land.................................................     0578-AA29
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                            Natural Resources Conservation Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
286        Highly Erodible Land and Wetland Conservation........................................     0578-AA17
287        Forestry Incentives Program..........................................................     0578-AA26
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         Office of Procurement and Property Management--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
288        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--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                             Date Withdrawn            Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0599-AA03       New Restrictions on Lobbying                                                                    03/22/2002   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 32839]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




1. COTTON FUTURES ACT: CHANGING THE DESTINATION OF SPOT MARKETS (CN-01-
004)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 156; PL 94-455, 90 Stat. 1841-1846; PL 102-287, 
Stat. 1844

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 27

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Cotton Futures Act authorizes the Secretary of 
Agriculture to determine the five most appropriate spot cotton markets 
to designate for settlement of cotton futures contracts. Regional 
changes in current commercial sales of cotton makes it necessary to 
change the designation of spot market to more accurately reflect the 
commercial market prices and qualities of cotton for use in determining 
settlement differences for cotton traded on the cotton exchange.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Norma Randall McDill, Deputy Administrator, Department 
of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14th & Independence 
Avenue SW, Room 2641-South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2145
Fax: 202 690-1718
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




2. NATIONAL LABORATORY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 7 USC 138 to 138i

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food, Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 
(the FACT Act) authorized the establishment of the National Laboratory 
Accreditation Program (NLAP). The NLAP is a voluntary, fee-for-service 
program for accrediting laboratories that analyze for the presence of 
pesticide residues in agricultural products. The regulations will 
ensure that laboratories which request accreditation and conduct 
residue testing of fresh fruits and vegetables for at least one of four 
classes of pesticides, or make claims to the public or buyers 
concerning the residue levels, meet certain standards.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/20/92                    57 FR 54727
ANPRM Comment Period End        01/19/93
NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: James V. Falk, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, Room 3523-South, Technical Services Branch, P.O. Box 
96456, Room 3523-south, Washington, DC 20090-6456
Phone: 202 690-4089
Fax: 202 720-4631
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB42
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 to 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 53

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this action is to amend the rate and 
procedures used to charge applicants for Federal grading and 
certification of livestock inspected for deliveries on commodity 
futures contracts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John E. VanDyke, Branch Chief, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Room 2619-South, L&S, 14th 
& Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6231
Fax: 202 690-3732
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB66
_______________________________________________________________________




4. 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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) proposes to 
discontinue the official grading of imported beef, lamb, veal, and calf 
carcasses. Current regulations, promulgated under the Agricultural 
Marketing Act of 1946, permit the official grading of imported beef, 
lamb, veal, and calf carcasses provided the carcasses are in compliance 
with all requirements of the standards and regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 32840]]

Agency Contact: Martin E. O'Connor, Assistant Chief, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, P.O. Box 96456, 
Washington, DC 20250-6456
Phone: 202 720-7046
Fax: 202 690-4119

RIN: 0581-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________




5. REVISION OF REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE INSPECTION AND GRADING SERVICE 
OF MANUFACTURED OR PROCESSED DAIRY PRODUCTS (DA-00-08)

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:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Duane R. Spomer, Associate Deputy Administrator for 
Standards and Grading, 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-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________




6. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: ADD STANDARDS FOR MUSHROOM, APICULTURE, 
GREENHOUSE AND HYDROPONIC PRODUCTION SYSTEMS AND THE HANDLING OF HONEY 
(TM-01-09)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 through 6522

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: AMS is proposing to revise the regulatory provisions for 
labeling agricultural products as organically produced and handled (7 
CFR part 205). AMS will propose production standards for mushroom, 
apiculture, and greenhouse production systems and handling standards 
for apiculture products. The proposed standards will incorporate the 
recommendations of the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) 
finalized at its October 2001 meeting. In June 2001, the NOSB released 
and accepted public comment on a draft version of mushroom and 
greenhouse standards. Concurrently, the NOSB implemented a task force 
to develop production and handling standards for apiculture.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Tribal, State, Local

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

Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Acting Program Manager, Department 
of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Rm. 2510-South, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-7806
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB96
_______________________________________________________________________




7. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: ADD STANDARDS FOR THE ORGANIC CERTIFICATION 
OF WILD CAPTURED AQUATIC ANIMALS (TM-01-08)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 through 6522

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: AMS is proposing to revise the regulatory provisions for 
labeling of agricultural products as organically produced and handled 
(7 CFR part 205). AMS proposes to incorporate the term ``aquatic 
animal'' in the definition of livestock and to establish production and 
handling standards for operations that capture aquatic animals from the 
wild. AMS has defined ``aquatic animal'' as any finfish or shellfish 
used for human consumption, whether taken from regulated but free 
roaming marine and fresh water populations (wild captured) or 
propagated and raised in a controlled or selected environment 
(aquaculture). Production standards for operations producing aquatic 
animals will incorporate requirements for livestock origin, feed 
ration, health care, living conditions, and recordkeeping. Handling 
standards for such operations will address prevention of commingling of 
organically produced commodities and prevention of contact between 
organically produced and prohibited substances.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Richard H. Mathews, Acting Program Manager, Department 
of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Rm. 2510-South, 14th & 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-7806
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB97

[[Page 32841]]

_______________________________________________________________________




8. LIVESTOCK MANDATORY REPORTING PROGRAM--LAMB AMENDMENT (LS-01-08)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 59

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is amending the Livestock 
Reporting Act of 1999 regulations. The amendments would: (1) Amend 
regulations requiring lamb packers to report negotiated purchases of 
live lamb and sales of carcass lamb; (2) adjust requirements for 
reporting of imported and domestic boxed lamb sales; and (3) make 
adjustments to input data collection forms. The Act was implemented 
April 2, 2001, and requires packers to report purchase and sales 
transactions for cattle, swine, sheep, boxed beef, and lamb meat.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

Agency Contact: John Edward Van Dyke, Chief, Livestock and Grain Market 
News Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 
Stop 0252, Room 2619-South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6231
Fax: 202 690-3732
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




9. REVISION OF USER FEES FOR 2002 CROP COTTON CLASSIFICATION SERVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 473a

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 28

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 2001.

Abstract: This action would increase the user fees for cotton producers 
for the 2002 crop cotton classification services under the Cotton 
Statistics and Estimates Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Norma Randall McDill, Deputy Administrator, Department 
of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14th & Independence 
Avenue SW, Room 2641-South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2145
Fax: 202 690-1718
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________




10. MANGO PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ORDER (FV-01-707)

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7411 through 7425

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1206

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish a Mango Promotion, Research, and 
Information Order. The purpose of the new program would be to increase 
consumption of mangos in the United States. The program would be 
administered by the National Mango Promotion Board under the 
supervision of the Agricultural Marketing Service.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

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-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




11. ESTABLISHING A LAMB PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ORDER (LS-
01-12)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7401 through 7425

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1280

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is planning to issue 
a final rule establishing an industry-funded promotion, research, and 
information program for lamb and lamb products including pelts but 
excluding wool and wool products. On September 21, 2001, AMS published 
the proposed Order for comment (66 FR 48764). The comment period ended 
November 20, 2001. AMS received 242 comments in a timely manner, the 
bulk of which were submitted by individual lamb producers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marlene M. Betts, Acting Chief, Marketing Programs 
Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 0251 
-- Room 2627-South, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-
0251
Phone: 202 720-1111

RIN: 0581-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________




12. ESTABLISHING FEES FOR VOLUNTARY QUALITY SYSTEMS CERTIFICATION 
SERVICES (LS-00-13)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed action is necessary to ensure that voluntary 
Quality Systems Certification Program (QSCP) services provided by the 
Agricultural Marketing Service's Meat Grading and Certification Branch 
remain financially self-sufficient and viable. The QSCP is a voluntary, 
audit-based program developed at the request of the industry and others 
to provide a means of verifying value-adding

[[Page 32842]]

processes in the production and processing of agricultural products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/02
Final Action                    04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry R. Meadows, Chief, Meat Grading and Certification 
Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Stop 
0248, Rm. 2628-South, Livestock & Seed Program, 14th & Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0248
Phone: 202 720-1113
Fax: 202 690-4119
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC08
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




13. 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 final 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                            08/13/01                    66 FR 42458
NPRM Comment Period End         10/12/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Duane R. Spomer, Associate Deputy Administrator for 
Standards and Grading, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




14. HASS AVOCADO PROMOTION, RESEARCH, AND INFORMATION ORDER (FV-01-705)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7801 to 7813

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1219

Legal Deadline: None

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                            07/13/01                    66 FR 36869
NPRM Comment Period End         08/27/01
Final Action                    05/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




15. INCREASE IN FEES FOR VOLUNTARY FEDERAL SEED TESTING AND 
CERTIFICATION SERVICES AND ESTABLISHMENT OF A FEE FOR PRELIMINARY TEST 
REPORTS (LS-01-07)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 75

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/23/01                    66 FR 53550
Final Action                    03/14/02                    67 FR 11383
Final Action Effective          04/15/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Richard C. Payne
Phone: 301 504-9430
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB95
_______________________________________________________________________




16. INCREASE IN FEES AND CHARGES FOR EGGS, POULTRY, AND RABBIT (PY-01-
005)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56; 7 CFR 70

[[Page 32843]]

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/27/01                    66 FR 66712
Final Action Effective          01/01/02

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-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________




17. REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE CALIFORNIA PRUNE/PLUM (TREE REMOVAL) 
DIVERSION PROGRAM, 2001-2002 CROP YEAR (FV-01-81-01)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 81

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/17/01                    66 FR 64918
Final Action                    03/14/02                    67 FR 11384
Final Action Effective          01/01/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard C. Payne
Phone: 301 504-9430
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC03
_______________________________________________________________________




18. FRESH RUSSET POTATO DIVERSION PROGRAM, 2000 CROP (FV-01-80-01)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 80

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/21/01                    66 FR 58349
Final Action Effective          11/22/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Susan Proden
Phone: 202 720-4517
Fax: 202 720-2782
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC07
BILLING CODE 3410-02-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




19. 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's (FSA's) 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 Service. 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                            08/00/02

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, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6734-S, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AF60
_______________________________________________________________________




20. INTEREST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act (CONACT)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act authorizes 
the Farm Service Agency to establish and carry out an interest rate 
reduction program, which provides an interest subsidy for guaranteed 
loans. The existing Interest Assistance Program is cumbersome and 
administratively expensive for lenders, discouraging many of them from 
participation. The lenders that do participate use it extensively for 
many of their clients, resulting in an unbalanced and regional use of 
the program, and not always for those producers most in need of the 
assistance.
Our proposal is to reduce administrative burden for the lender, with 
the elimination of the annual needs test, to encourage non-
participating lenders to utilize the program. We also propose to reduce 
the number of years that a producer can receive an interest subsidy and 
revise the way this is determined. This reduced term will target the 
program to addressing short-term cash flow problems, and discourage use 
of the program for major expansion, capital improvements or other 
longer term purposes.
There will be no change in program funding. However, some allocated 
funds will be redirected to reach producers more in need of assistance.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/02
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 32844]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6734-S, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG46
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 106-224

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule implements provisions of the Agricultural Risk 
Protection Act of 2000 amending the NAP regulations to eliminate the 
area loss requirement, implement an administrative service fee, and 
require producers to apply for assistance not later than 30 days before 
the beginning of the coverage period. The expected cost is about $100 
million per year over the next 4 years.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/19/02                    67 FR 12446
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/19/02
Final Action                    08/00/02

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, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6734-S, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG20
_______________________________________________________________________




22. y LIMITATIONS ON AMOUNT OF GUARANTEED FARM OWNERSHIP AND OPERATING 
LOANS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; PL 105-277; 7 USC 1989

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762; 7 CFR 761

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will remove the specific dollar amount of 
guaranteed loan limits from FSA regulations. Regulations will be 
revised to state that the loan limits are modified each fiscal year 
based on the percentage change in the Prices Paid by Farmers Index (as 
determined annually by USDA, NASS) and that the maximum loan amount, 
percentage change in the index and the effective date of the limits 
will be available at all USDA Service Centers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected: 11 Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting

Agency Contact: Mr. Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department 
of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, MS 0572, 1400 Indepenedence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-4012
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG64
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




23. MEDIATION; AGRICULTURAL LOAN MEDIATION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1946 subpart A

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0560-AE26
_______________________________________________________________________




24. 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                             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
_______________________________________________________________________




25. 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

[[Page 32845]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




26. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




27. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




28. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/06/01                    66 FR 63339
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-AF77
_______________________________________________________________________




30. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




31. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




32. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




33. CONSERVATION OF FARMABLE WETLANDS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410

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-AG38

[[Page 32846]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 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-AG40
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

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-AG42
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

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-AG44
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 735 to 742

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/04/01                    66 FR 46310
NPRM Comment Period End         10/04/01
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-AG45
_______________________________________________________________________




38. NON-RECOURSE COTTON LOAN AND LOAN DEFICIENCY PAYMENT PROGRAMS; 
UPLAND COTTON FIRST HANDLER MARKETING CERTIFICATE PROGRAM; AND SEED 
COTTON RECOURSE LOAN PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1427

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
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-AG47
_______________________________________________________________________




39. OCEAN FREIGHT CLAIMS ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL PROCESS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1405; 7 CFR 1499; 22 CFR 211

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
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-AG49
_______________________________________________________________________




40. ELIMINATION OF 30-DAY PAST-DUE PERIOD FOR FARM LOAN PROGRAM 
BORROWERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951

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-AG50
_______________________________________________________________________




41. TOBACCO MARKETING QUOTAS, CARDS, PENALTY PROVISIONS, RECORDKEEPING 
AND REPORTING

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723

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-AG52
_______________________________________________________________________




42. RESCHEDULING GUARANTEED LOANS WITH BALLOON PAYMENTS, CLARIFICATION 
OF ANNUAL ANALYSIS REQUIREMENTS FOR GUARANTEED LENDERS, AND 
SUBORDINATION REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 32847]]

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AG53
_______________________________________________________________________




43. GENERAL REGULATIONS GOVERNING COMMODITY LOANS FOR 1998 AND 
SUBSEQUENT CROPS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
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-AG54
_______________________________________________________________________




44. AMENDMENT TO THE REGULATIONS FOR DETERMINING ACREAGE FOR SKIP-ROW 
COTTON

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 718.107

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-AG55
_______________________________________________________________________




45. PROMPT DISASTER SET-ASIDE CONSIDERATION AND PRIMARY LOAN SERVICING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
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-AG56
_______________________________________________________________________




46. 2002-CROP PEANUTS NATIONAL POUNDAGE QUOTA FOR QUOTA PEANUTS

Priority: Other Significant

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
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-AG57
_______________________________________________________________________




47. 2002-CROP MARKETING QUOTAS 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

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
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-AG58
_______________________________________________________________________




48. 2002-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 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-AG59
_______________________________________________________________________




49. 2002-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-AG60
_______________________________________________________________________




50. y HORSE BREEDER LOANS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 107-76; 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1981

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 764 and 775

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, September 30, 2002, Deadline for loan 
applications.
Final, Statutory, September 30, 2003, Expiration of Authority to Make 
Loans.

Abstract: Section 759(c) of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food 
and Drug Administration and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002, 
[Pub. L. 107-76], (2002 Appropriations Act) requires the Secretary to 
provide loans to eligible horse breeders for losses caused by mare 
reproductive loss syndrome (MRLS). To be eligible (1) the farmer must 
derive over 70 percent of his income from breeding, boarding, training, 
or selling horses, (2) the losses must have occurred during a specific 
period of time when at least 30% of the mares owned, or boarded on a 
farm owned, operated, or leased by the breeder failed to produce a live 
healthy foal, (3) the breeder must be unable to meet the financial 
obligations of the operation without the loan, and (4) the breeder must 
not be able to obtain the necessary credit elsewhere. Loan amounts will 
be based on the loss

[[Page 32848]]

suffered, the financial needs of the horse breeder, and cannot exceed 
$500,000. The maximum loan term is 20 years and the interest rate is 
equal to that of other Agency Emergency loans (EM). The objective is to 
offset income loss and reduction in credit availability faced by horse 
breeders caused by MRLS.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined
Final Action Effective           To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected: 112 Animal Production

Agency Contact: Cathy Quayle, Loan Officer, Department of Agriculture, 
Farm Service Agency, Mail Stop 0522, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-4018
Fax: 202 721-1117
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG62
_______________________________________________________________________




51. y APPLE MARKET LOSS PAYMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 714b and 714c; PL 107-76

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1470

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 741 of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and 
Drug Administration, and related agencies Appropriation Act, for Fiscal 
Year 2002, authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to provide 
assistance to apple growers for loss of markets for apples. The Apple 
Market Loss Assistance Payment Program will utilize $75 million of 
Commodity Credit Corporation funds to make payments to apple producers. 
The direct cash payments to apple growers will be based on the quantity 
of the 2000 crop of apples that was produced on each farm unit. A 
particular farm will be eligible for a payment based on reported 
production, with a maximum eligible 2000 apple crop production of 
20,000,000 pounds per farm. This Program is being implemented to 
provide monetary assistance to eligible apple producers who have 
recently experienced a variety of adverse marketing conditions, 
including record low prices, unfairly priced imports of apple juice 
concentrate, high regulatory costs, food retail consolidation and 
subsidized foreign competition.

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, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6734-S, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG63
_______________________________________________________________________




52. y CLARIFICATION OF GUARANTEED FARM OWNERSHIP AND OPERATING LOAN 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) proposes a rule to correct 
minor errors and clarify confusing sections in 7 CFR 762. FSA 
promulgated part 762 on February 12, 1999, to implement a Preferred 
Lender Program and improve its guaranteed loan regulations. First, this 
rule proposes to correct 762.120(d). This section requires all 
members of an entity to be citizens while the authorizing statute 
requires only a majority of entity members to be citizens. Second, 
``experience'' will be added to 762.120 as an eligibility 
requirement. Adequate experience is currently a requirement for loan 
applicants; however, the regulation is not sufficiently clear. This 
rule proposes to correct that omission. Finally, the rule proposes to 
clarify entity eligibility, security requirements, and miscellaneous 
items, such as how lenders use guarantees as security.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected: 11 Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting

Agency Contact: Mr. Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department 
of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, MS 0572, 1400 Indepenedence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-4012
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG65
_______________________________________________________________________




53. y SERVICING MINOR FARM LOAN PROGRAM LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1932 Note; 7 USC 1989; 16 USC 1005; 
31 USC 3711

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 772; 7 CFR 1901-E; 7 CFR 1942-A; 7 CFR 1951-E and 
F; 7 CFR 1956-C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule proposes to consolidate regulations currently shared 
by FSA and the agencies of the USDA Rural Development mission area and 
publish a single Farm Service Agency regulation. The existence of 
provisions governing these loans in scattered regulations make proper 
administration difficult. Information not specific to the Minor 
Programs will be eliminated, language will be improved for readability, 
and only regulations pertaining to the FSA Minor Programs will be 
included. FSA's minor loan program borrowers, a total of 52 Irrigation 
and Drainage Loan borrowers and 88 Grazing and Land Shift Loan 
borrowers, with a total outstanding balance of around $20 million, are 
the only program participants who will be affected by this proposed 
rule. When finalized, the rule will not change the requirements or the 
effect of the regulations pertaining to FSA Minor Program Loans. The 
consolidation of the regulations will enable more efficient use by FSA 
staff who administer the programs and better service to the customers 
with these

[[Page 32849]]

loans. There will be no additional outlays of Federal funds, no 
additional staffing and no additional paperwork burden.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined
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, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6734-S, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG67
_______________________________________________________________________




54. y SALE AND PURCHASE OF FLUE-CURED TOBACCO ACROSS COUNTY LINES 
(FLORIDA AND GEORGIA)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-78

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Current regulations require the Farm Service Agency (the 
Agency) to approve only requests for sale of flue-cured tobacco quota 
between farms located within the same county. The Agriculture, Rural 
Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies 
Appropriations Act, 2000, however, provided for this to change if a 
sufficient number of voting producers who own or grow the tobacco 
wanted it. The Act directed the Secretary to conduct a referendum 
within any State in which at least 25 per cent of the active flue-cured 
producers in that State petitioned the Secretary to do so. Thus the 
producers themselves would determine if the regulations would permit 
the sale of flue-cured tobacco quota within a state across county 
lines. More than the required 25 per cent of active flue-cured 
producers in both Florida and Georgia requested a referendum. The 
Agency conducted the referenda in October, 2001. In Florida 76.8 
percent of those voting approved permitting the sale of flue-cured 
quota across county lines and in Georgia, 81.2 per cent of the voters 
approved the changes. Therefore, this action will amend the regulation 
that limits such sales to within a county. It will not result in any 
additional budget outlays or financial risk to either the small number 
of producers who will avail themselves of the opportunity it permits or 
to the Government.

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, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6734-S, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG68
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




55. DAIRY RECOURSE LOAN PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1430

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/15/02                     67 FR 7056

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
_______________________________________________________________________




56. 1999-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

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0560-AG58           03/26/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




57. 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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0560-AF60           01/01/02

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

[[Page 32850]]

_______________________________________________________________________




58. STREAMLINING OF THE EMERGENCY FARM LOAN PROGRAM REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1945

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/08/02                      67 FR 791
Correction                      02/21/02                     67 FR 7941

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
_______________________________________________________________________




59. 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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0560-AG57           03/26/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




60. 2000-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR FLUE-CURED 
TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0560-AF84           12/31/99

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
_______________________________________________________________________




61. DISASTER SET-ASIDE PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

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-AF91
_______________________________________________________________________




62. LAMB MEAT ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 784

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action Effective          03/21/02
Final Action                    03/26/02                    67 FR 13707

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-AG17
_______________________________________________________________________




63. 2001-CROP MARKETING QUOTA AND PRICE SUPPORT LEVEL FOR FLUE-CURED 
TOBACCO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 723; 7 CFR 1464

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0560-AG60           03/26/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




64. 2001-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

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0560-AG59           03/26/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




65. 2001-CROP MARKETING 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

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0560-AG58           03/26/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




66. 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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0560-AG57           03/26/02

[[Page 32851]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1439

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule: LIP 2000            02/19/02                     67 FR 7265

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-AG33
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/16/02                     67 FR 2131

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-AG37
_______________________________________________________________________




69. REDUCTION OF AMORTIZED SHARED APPRECIATION RECAPTURE INTEREST RATE

Priority: Other Significant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/21/02                     67 FR 7942

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-AG43
_______________________________________________________________________




70. TOBACCO MARKETING QUOTAS, ACREAGE ALLOTMENTS AND PRODUCTION 
ADJUSTMENT

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1464

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/04/02                      67 FR 526
Direct Final Rule               01/04/02                      67 FR 481
Direct Final Rule Effective     02/04/02
Affirmation of Direct Final Rule03/29/02

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-AG51
_______________________________________________________________________




71. y TOBACCO LOSS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM 2001

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 107-76; 7 USC 1421, 1423, 1441, 1445, 1445-1, and 
1445-2; 15 USC 714b, 715c

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1464

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, March 31, 2002, Expiration of 
Authority to issue payments.

Abstract: Section 774 of the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and 
Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2002 
directs the Farm Service Agency to issue payments to producers and 
quota holders for 2001 Fire Cured, Dark Air Cured, and Virginia Sun 
Cured Tobacco. The payments will be $.10 per pound. The amount 
appropriated is $5,000,000.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action Effective          03/01/02
Final Action                    03/20/02                    67 FR 12829

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Sectors Affected: 11191 Tobacco Farming

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Chief, Regulatory Review and Foreign 
Investment Disclosure Branch, Department of Agriculture, Farm Service 
Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6734-S, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG61
_______________________________________________________________________




72. y DAIRY INDEMNITY PAYMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 107-76

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 760

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug 
Administration and Related Agencies Appropriation Act, 2002 provided 
$100,000 for the Dairy Indemnity Payment Program, which indemnifies 
dairy farmers for milk dumped because of contamination that was not the 
fault of the producer. The program is reauthorized annually via the 
appropriation of funds. The Appropriations Act further provided that 
the program is to be carried out in the same manner as the previous 
year. Therefore, this action will make no change to the program 
regulations and will only amend the statutory authority in the Code of 
Federal Regulations. In a typical year, less than $30,000 is spent.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/28/02                    67 FR 14843

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, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 6734-S, Washington, DC 20250

[[Page 32852]]

Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG66
BILLING CODE 3410-05-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




73. ANIMAL WELFARE: MARINE MAMMALS; NONCONSENSUS LANGUAGE AND 
INTERACTIVE PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. 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. We intend to develop amendments to the marine mammal standards 
on which consensus was not reached during negotiated rulemaking 
conducted between September 1995 and July 1996. The amendments would be 
to standards affecting variances, indoor facilities, outdoor 
facilities, space requirements, and water quality, as well as swim-
with-the-dolphins programs. These actions appear necessary to ensure 
that the minimum standards for the humane handling, care, treatment, 
and transportation of marine mammals in captivity are based on current 
general, industry, and scientific knowledge and experience.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




74. y POTENTIAL PATHWAYS FOR THE SPREAD OF BOVINE SPONGIFORM 
ENCEPHALOPATHY IN U.S. LIVESTOCK

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 711 to 7714; 7 USC 7751; 7 USC 7754; 
19 USC 1306; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114a; 21 USC 134a to 134c; 21 USC 134f; 
21 USC 136 to 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 4331 to 4332

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are soliciting public comment to help us develop 
approaches to control risks that dead stock and nonambulatory animals 
could serve as potential pathways for the spread of bovine spongiform 
encephalopathy, if that disease should ever be introduced into the 
United States. We are also seeking comments on the role of rendering in 
dead stock disposal. We are publishing this notice to collect 
information that could help us address animal disease risks associated 
with nonambulatory animals and dead stock.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/00/02
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Linda Detwiler, Emergency Programs, VS, Department 
of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 320 
Corporate Boulevard, Robbinsville, NJ 08691
Phone: 609 259-5825

RIN: 0579-AB43
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




75. IMPORTATION OF SOLID WOOD PACKING MATERIAL

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 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                            01/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

[[Page 32853]]

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: APHIS documents published in the Federal 
Register, and related information, including the names of organizations 
and individuals who have commented on APHIS dockets, are available on 
the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppd/rad/webrepor.html.

Agency Contact: Raymond Nosbaum, Regulatory Coordination, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
Unit 141, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1228
Phone: 301 734-6280

RIN: 0579-AA99
_______________________________________________________________________




76. BLOOD AND TISSUE COLLECTION AT LIVESTOCK SLAUGHTERING ESTABLISHMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111 to 113; 21 USC 114a to 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

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   07/00/02

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, Unit 43, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4363

RIN: 0579-AB13
_______________________________________________________________________




77. 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

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   06/00/02
Comment Period End              09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Wayne Wehling, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




78. 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 to 114a; 21 USC 134a; 21 USC 134c to 134d; 
21 USC 134f; 21 USC 136 to 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

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   11/00/02

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

[[Page 32854]]

_______________________________________________________________________




79. SALMONELLA ENTERITIDIS PHAGE-TYPE 4; REMOVE IMPORT RESTRICTIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7751; 7 USC 7754; 
19 USC 1306; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114a; 21 USC 134a to 134c; 21 USC 134f; 
21 USC 136 to 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 4331 to 4332

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 94

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would remove import restrictions on eggs (other 
than hatching eggs) of poultry, game birds, and other birds from 
regions where Salmonella enteritidis phage-type 4 exists. Previously, 
Salmonella enteritidis phage-type 4 had not been isolated in the United 
States; therefore, those import restrictions were necessary to help 
prevent Salmonella enteritidis phage-type 4 from being introduced into 
this country. However, Salmonella enteritidis phage-type 4 is now known 
to be present in the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   11/00/02
Proposed Rule Comment Period End01/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Michael David, Asst. Director, Sanitary 
International Standards Team, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture, 
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 33, 4700 River Road, 
Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301 734-8093

RIN: 0579-AB31
_______________________________________________________________________




80. FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114 to 114a; 21 USC 134a to 134h

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 53

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS is proposing to amend its regulations for the 
cooperative control and eradication of livestock or poultry diseases. 
These changes would provide APHIS with much needed flexibility in 
responding in an effective manner in the event of an outbreak of foot-
and-mouth disease so that eligible claimants may be compensated while 
at the same time protecting the U.S. livestock and poultry population 
from the further spread of this highly contagious disease.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: APHIS documents published in the Federal 
Register and related information, including the names of organizations 
and individuals who have commented on APHIS dockets, are available on 
the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppd/rad/webrepor.html.

Agency Contact: Dr. Mark Teachman, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Emergency 
Programs, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, Unit 41, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8073

RIN: 0579-AB34
_______________________________________________________________________




81. CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE IN ELK; INTERSTATE MOVEMENT RESTRICTIONS AND 
PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111 to 114a-1; 21 USC 120 to 121; 21 USC 125; 
21 USC 134b

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 55; 9 CFR 81

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS is proposing to establish minimum requirements for the 
interstate movement of farmed elk and to provide indemnity for the 
depopulation of farmed elk that have been infected with, or exposed to, 
chronic wasting disease (CWD).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Rule                    02/08/02                     67 FR 5925
Interim Rule Comment Period End 04/09/02
Proposed Rule                   07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: APHIS documents published in the Federal 
Register and related information, including the names of organizations 
and individuals who have commented on APHIS dockets, are available on 
the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/ppd/rad/webrepor.html.

Agency Contact: Dr. Lynn Creekmore, Staff Veterinarian/Wildlife 
Diseases Liaison, NAHPS, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4101 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, CO 
80521
Phone: 970 266-6128

RIN: 0579-AB35
_______________________________________________________________________




82. y IMPORTATION OF MILK AND MILK PRODUCTS FROM FMD COUNTRIES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7751; 7 USC 7754; 
19 USC 1306; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114a; 21 USC 134a to 134c; 21 USC 134f; 
21 USC 136 to 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 4331 to 4332

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 94

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend the regulations regarding the 
importation of animal products to establish additional processing and 
handling requirements for milk and milk products imported from regions 
in which foot-and-mouth disease exists. Additionally, it would require 
that those materials, when imported from regions in which foot-and-
mouth disease exists, be accompanied by government certification 
regarding the production, processing, and handling of the materials. We 
believe these actions are necessary to ensure that materials containing 
the foot-and-mouth disease virus are not imported into the United 
States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/02

[[Page 32855]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Karen A. James-Preston, Assistant Director, 
Technical Trade Services Team, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture, 
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8364

RIN: 0579-AB38
_______________________________________________________________________




83. y IMPORTATION OF CLEMENTINES FROM SPAIN

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would allow clementines to be imported from Spain 
if they are cold treated en route to the United States, and provided 
that certain other pre- and post-treatment requirements are met. We are 
taking this action based on our finding that this rule, if adopted, 
would reduce the risk of dissemination of fruit flies associated with 
the importations of clementines from Spain.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                    07/00/02
Proposed Rule Comment Period End 09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donna L. West, Import Specialist, Phytosanitary Issues 
Management Team, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AB40
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




84. 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 to 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

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   08/04/00                    65 FR 47908
Comment Period End              10/03/00
Comment Period Reopened and 
Extended                        10/19/00                    65 FR 62650
Comment Period End              11/20/00
Final Rule                      12/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




85. PHYTOSANITARY TREATMENT BY IRRADIATION OF IMPORTED FRESH FRUITS AND 
VEGETABLES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 305; 7 CFR 319

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 rulemaking.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Policy Statement for Irradiation 
Treatment of Fresh Fruits and 
Vegetables                      05/15/98                    63 FR 24433
Proposed Rule                   05/26/00                    65 FR 34113
Comment Period End              07/25/00
Proposed Rule (Supplemental)    05/00/02
Final Rule                      10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Donna L. West, Import Specialist, Phytosanitary Issues 
Management Team, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AA97
_______________________________________________________________________




86. IMPORTATION OF UNMANUFACTURED WOOD ARTICLES FROM MEXICO

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7718; 
7 USC 7731 to 7732; 7 USC 7751 to 7754; 21 USC 136 to 136a

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 32856]]

Abstract: This action would add restrictions on the importation of pine 
and fir logs and lumber, as well as other unmanufactured wood articles, 
from Mexico. These wood articles from Mexico would have to meet certain 
treatment and handling requirements to be eligible for importation into 
the United States. We believe this action is necessary to prevent the 
introduction into the United States of dangerous plant pests, including 
forest pests, with unmanufactured wood articles from Mexico.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   06/11/99                    64 FR 31512
Comment Period End              08/10/99
Final Rule                      11/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Wayne D. 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-AB02
_______________________________________________________________________




87. ESTABLISHMENT OF REGIONS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION FOR CLASSICAL SWINE 
FEVER, FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE, AND SWINE VESICULAR DISEASE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 1622; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7751; 
7 USC 7754; 19 USC 1306; 21 USC 102 to 105; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114a; 21 
USC 134a to 134d; 21 USC 134f; 21 USC 135 to 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 
4331 to 4332

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 classical swine fever 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 eight regions in Italy as free of swine vesicular disease.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   06/25/99                    64 FR 34155
Comment Period End              08/24/99
Final Rule                      03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. S. Anne Goodman, Senior Staff Microbiologist, 
Regionalization Evaluation Services, NCIE, VS, Department of 
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 38, 4700 
River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4929

RIN: 0579-AB03
_______________________________________________________________________




88. PSEUDORABIES IN SWINE; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111 to 114a-1; 21 USC 120 to 121; 21 USC 125; 
21 USC 134b

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 52

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending the animal health regulations to provide for 
the payment of indemnity by the United States Department of Agriculture 
for the voluntary depopulation of herds of swine known to be infected 
with pseudorabies.

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
Affirmation of Interim Rules    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Arnold C. Taft, Senior Staff Veterinarian, National 
Animal Health Programs Staff, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 43, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4916

RIN: 0579-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________




89. PLUM POX COMPENSATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 7711 to 7712; 7 USC 7714; 7 USC 7731; 
7 USC 7735; 7 USC 7751 to 7754; sec 301.75-15 also issued under sec 
204, title II, PL 106-113; 113 Stat. 1501A-293; sec 301.75-15 and 
301.75.16 also issued under sec 203; title II, PL 106-224, 114 Stat. 
400 (7 USC 1421 note)

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 Rule                      09/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 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

[[Page 32857]]

and follow a plan for environment enhancement adequate to promote the 
psychological well-being of nonhuman primates.
APHIS is preparing a final 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. This final policy 
statement addresses the comments received in response to our draft 
policy statement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Draft Policy Statement          07/15/99                    64 FR 38145
Comment Period End              10/13/99
Final Policy Statement          12/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




91. IMPORTATION PROHIBITIONS BECAUSE OF BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7711 to 7714; 7 USC 7751; 7 USC 7754; 
18 USC 1306; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 134b to 134c; 21 USC 134f; 21 USC 136 
to 136a; 31 USC 9701

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 94.18; 9 CFR 95.1; 9 CFR 95.4; 9 CFR 95.29 (New)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This interim rule prohibits, with limited exceptions, the 
importation of certain animal materials and their derivatives, and any 
products they are used in, from regions considered to present an 
unacceptable risk of introducing bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) 
into the United States. Additionally, it requires that those materials, 
when imported from regions not considered at risk for BSE, be 
accompanied by Government certification regarding the species, region 
of origin, processing, and handling of the materials and the animals 
from which they were derived. These actions are necessary to ensure 
that materials containing the BSE agent are not imported into the 
United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

IRM Retroactively Effective     12/07/00
Interim Final Rule              08/14/01                    66 FR 42595
Sec 95.29 Effective             08/14/01
Comment Period End              10/15/01
Final Rule                      12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Donna L. Malloy, Senior Staff Veterinarian, 
Technical Trade Services, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal 
and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 38, 4700 River Road, 
Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-3277

RIN: 0579-AB26
_______________________________________________________________________




92. ANIMALS DESTROYED BECAUSE OF TUBERCULOSIS; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111 to 114a-1; 21 USC 120 to 121; 21 USC 125; 
21 USC 134b

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 50

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will provide that APHIS will pay owners of 
animals destroyed because of bovine tuberculosis an indemnity equal to 
the difference between the net salvage received and the appraisal value 
of the animals destroyed up to $3,000 per animal.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/20/02                     67 FR 7583
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/22/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Joseph Van Tiem, Staff Veterinarian, VS, National 
Animal Health Program, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, Unit 43, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-7716
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AB29
_______________________________________________________________________




93. y TUBERCULOSIS; INDEMNITY FOR DAIRY CATTLE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111 to 114a-1; 21 USC 120 to 121; 21 USC 134b

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 50

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will provide that APHIS will make payments to 
owners of dairy cattle as well as other property used in connection 
with a dairy business and a dairy processing plant in the area of El 
Paso, TX, provided the owners agree to refrain from establishing new 
cattle breeding operations in the area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/00/02
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Joseph Van Tiem, Staff Veterinarian, VS, National 
Animal Health Program, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, Unit 43, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-7716
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0579-AB36
_______________________________________________________________________




94. y INFECTIOUS SALMON ANEMIA; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114 to 114a

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 53

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending the regulations regarding the control and 
eradication of certain communicable diseases of livestock or poultry to 
provide for the payment of indemnity to producers in the State of Maine 
for fish destroyed due to infectious salmon anemia. Because 
depopulation is necessary to control infectious salmon anemia, a 
successful control program

[[Page 32858]]

will provide for indemnification of depopulated fish to gain producer 
support. This action will, therefore, increase the effectiveness of our 
efforts to control infectious salmon anemia in Maine and prevent 
further outbreaks of the disease.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/11/02                    67 FR 17605
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/10/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Dr. Otis Miller,Jr., National Aquaculture Coordinator, 
NAHP, Veterinary Services, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, Unit 36, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8715

RIN: 0579-AB37
_______________________________________________________________________




95.  ANIMAL WELFARE; POLICY ON TRAINING AND HANDLING OF POTENTIALLY 
DANGEROUS ANIMALS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: APHIS's Animal Welfare Act regulations require exhibitors and 
other regulated entities that handle potentially dangerous animals to 
provide a sufficient number of adequately trained personnel to handle 
and care for the animals and to provide adequate protection from risk 
for the general public when animals are exhibited.
APHIS is preparing a final policy statement to provide guidance to 
exhibitors and other regulated entities for the training and handling 
of potentially dangerous animals, adequate experience and training of 
trainers, handlers, and attendants, and points to consider when 
developing emergency contingency plans. The final policy statement 
addresses the comments received in response to our draft policy 
statement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Draft Policy Statement          02/18/00                     65 FR 8318
Comment Period End              04/18/00
Final Policy Statement          06/00/02

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

Related RIN: Previously reported as 0579-AB12
RIN: 0579-AB39
_______________________________________________________________________




96.  ADDITIONAL RESTRICTIONS ON THE IMPORTATION OF CERTAIN RUMINANT 
MEAT, MEAT PRODUCTS, AND EDIBLE PRODUCTS OTHER THAN MEAT FROM BSE 
REGIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Title IV, PL 106-224; Title IV, PL 114 Stat. 438; 7 
USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 450; 19 USC 1306; 21 USC 111; 21 USC 114a; 21 
USC 134a to 134c; 21 USC 134f; 21 USC 136 to 136a; 31 USC 9701; 42 USC 
4331 to 4332

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 94; 9 CFR 96

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending the regulations governing the importation 
into the United States of meat and meat products from ruminants and 
other ruminant products to restrict the importation of meat and meat 
products from ruminants and certain other ruminant products that were 
processed or stored in regions where bovine spongiform encephalopathy 
exists or regions considered to present an undue risk of introducing 
bovine spongiform encephalopathy into the United States. This action is 
necessary to ensure that materials containing the bovine spongiform 
encephalopathy agent are not imported into the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/00/02
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Donna L. Malloy, Senior Staff Veterinarian, 
Technical Trade Services, NCIE, VS, Department of Agriculture, Animal 
and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 38, 4700 River Road, 
Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-3277

RIN: 0579-AB41
_______________________________________________________________________




97.  BRUCELLOSIS IN SHEEP, GOATS, AND HORSES; PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY 
(SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 111 to 113; 21 USC 114 to 114a-1; 21 USC 120 to 
121; 21 USC 125; 21 USC 134b

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 51

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are proposing to amend the brucellosis indemnity 
regulations to allow us to pay indemnity for sheep, goats, and horses 
destroyed because of brucellosis. This action would make it easier to 
eliminate affected herds/flocks and infected animals as sources of 
infection by encouraging herd and flock owners to cooperate with our 
brucellosis eradication program. This action is intended to help reduce 
the incidence of brucellosis and the likelihood of it spreading within 
the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   09/13/01                    66 FR 47593
Proposed Rule Comment Period End11/13/01
Final Rule                      09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Valerie Ragan, 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: 301 734-7708

RIN: 0579-AB42
_______________________________________________________________________




98.  KARNAL BUNT COMPENSATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 7711 to 7712; 7 USC 7714; 7 USC 7731; 
7 USC 7735; 7 USC 7751 to 7754

[[Page 32859]]

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending the Karnal bunt regulations to provide 
compensation for certain growers and handlers of grain and seed 
affected by Karnal bunt who are not currently eligible for 
compensation, and for certain wheat grown outside the regulated area 
that was commingled with wheat grown in regulated areas in Texas. This 
rule particularly addresses areas that became regulated during the 
latter part of the 2000-2001 growing season; due to the need to quickly 
regulate these areas, we were unable to modify the compensation 
regulations at that time to address certain relevant aspects of the way 
seed and grain are moved, stored, and used in the newly regulated 
areas. The payment of compensation is necessary in order to encourage 
the participation of, and obtain cooperation from, affected individuals 
in our efforts to contain and reduce the prevalence of Karnal bunt.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/00/02
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert G. Spaide, Director of Surveillance and 
Emergency Programs Planning and Coordination, PPQ, Department of 
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 98, 4700 
River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-7819

Related RIN: Related To 0579-AA83
RIN: 0579-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




99. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 330

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/27/96                    61 FR 50767
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/26/96
NPRM                            10/09/01                    66 FR 51340
NPRM Comment Period End         02/06/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Flanders
Phone: 301 734-5930

RIN: 0579-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________




101. IMPORTATION OF FUJI APPLES FROM THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56-2cc

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Wayne D. Burnett
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AA93
_______________________________________________________________________




102. HORSE PROTECTION; HORSE INDUSTRY ORGANIZATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 11

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                    To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Jodie Kulpa
Phone: 301 734-7833

RIN: 0579-AB04
_______________________________________________________________________




103. PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATES FOR IMPORTED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56 to 319.56-8

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   08/29/01                    66 FR 45637
Comment Period End              10/29/01


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Wayne D. Burnett
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AB18
_______________________________________________________________________




104. EXPORTATION OF LIVESTOCK (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 91

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                    To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

[[Page 32860]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Gary Colgrove
Phone: 301 734-4356

RIN: 0579-AB21
_______________________________________________________________________




105. NURSERY STOCK REGULATIONS (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 300; 7 CFR 319

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/28/01                    66 FR 67123
NPRM Comment Period End         02/26/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Wayne D. Burnett
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AB23
_______________________________________________________________________




106. DRAFT ACTION PLAN FOR THE NOXIOUS WEEDS PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 360

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          01/28/02                     67 FR 3874
Comment Period End              03/29/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0579-AB30
_______________________________________________________________________




107.  AMEND REGULATIONS TO HARMONIZE OUR IMPORT REQUIREMENTS WITH 
PROPOSED NATIONAL TUBERCULOSIS ERADICATION PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would harmonize APHIS` animal import requirements 
with regard to bovine tuberculosis with the provisions of the domestic 
tuberculosis eradication program. It would establish risk 
classification categories based on the risk of tuberculosis in foreign 
regions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                    To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. S. Anne Goodman, Senior Staff Microbiologist, 
Regionalization Evaluation Services, NCIE, VS, Department of 
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Unit 38, 4700 
River Road, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4929

RIN: 0579-AB44
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




108. COMMERCIAL TRANSPORTATION OF EQUINES TO SLAUGHTER

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 70; 9 CFR 88 (New)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      12/07/01                    66 FR 63588
Final Rule Effective            01/06/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy R. Cordes
Phone: 301 734-3279

RIN: 0579-AB06
_______________________________________________________________________




109. IMPORTATION OF UNSHU ORANGES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.28

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule Effective            01/28/02
Final Rule                      02/01/02                     67 FR 4873

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Inder Paul Gadh
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AB17
_______________________________________________________________________




110. MEXICAN HASS AVOCADO IMPORT PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56-2ff

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      11/01/01                    66 FR 55530
Final Rule Effective            11/01/01

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Wayne D. Burnett
Phone: 301 734-6799

RIN: 0579-AB27
_______________________________________________________________________




111. INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF SWINE WITHIN A PRODUCTION SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 71; 9 CFR 85

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      12/20/01                    66 FR 65598
Final Rule Effective            01/22/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Arnold C. Taft
Phone: 301 734-4916

RIN: 0579-AB28

[[Page 32861]]

_______________________________________________________________________




112. BLACK STEM RUST; IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS AND ADDITION OF RUST-
RESISTANT VARIETIES (COMPLETION OF A SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 166; 7 USC 7711 to 7712; 7 USC 7714; 7 USC 7731; 
7 USC 7735; 7 USC 7751 to 7754

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: We are amending the black stem quarantine regulations by 
adding 32 new varieties to the list of rust-resistant varieties of 
Berberis, Mahoberberis, or Mahonia spp. We are also updating the 
regulations to reflect changes to the variety listing process.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Rule                   04/07/98                    63 FR 16908
Comment Period End              05/22/98
Proposed Rule; Withdrawal and 
Reproposal                      06/14/01                    66 FR 32268
Comment Period End              08/13/01
Final Rule                      02/22/02                     67 FR 8177
Final Rule Effective            03/25/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Vedpal S. Malik, Agriculturalist, Invasive Species 
and Pest Management, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, Unit 134, 4700 River Road, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-6774

RIN: 0579-AB33
BILLING CODE 3410-34-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




113. 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                            02/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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
TDD Phone: 202 692-0107
Fax: 202 692-0305
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AA83
_______________________________________________________________________




114. NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989; 42 USC 1480; 42 USC 4012a; 42 USC 4104b; 
42 USC 4106; 42 USC 4128; PL 91-152; PL 93-234; PL 103-325; ...

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is rewriting its regulations to conform to the 
requirements of the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 
(NFIRA).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Baxter Hill, Technical Support Branch Chief, Department 
of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 6900/Stop 0761, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1499

RIN: 0575-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




115. 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. 
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.

[[Page 32862]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




116. MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING

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: The Rural Housing Service proposes to 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                            06/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




117. 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 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                            12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William M. Toney, Director, SFH Direct Loan Division, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, STOP 0783, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1474

RIN: 0575-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________




118.  COMMUNITY FACILITIES DIRECT LOAN PROGRAM--CONSOLIDATE, 
SIMPLIFY, AND UPDATE REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1926

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1942, subpart A; 7 CFR 1942, subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Community Programs, a division of the Rural Housing Service, 
is seeking to consolidate, simplify, and update the Agency's 
regulations used to administer the Community Facilities Direct Loan 
Program. This effort will produce a user-friendly tool to help 
constituents and rural communities seeking to develop their essential 
community facilities for public use. The proposed action will have no 
financial impact on the public or agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Joseph Ben-Israel, Senior Loan Specialist, Department 
of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Room 0183/STOP 0787, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1490
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC27
_______________________________________________________________________




119.  GUARANTEED RURAL RENTAL HOUSING PROGRAM--SECONDARY MORTGAGE 
MARKET PARTICIPATION

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3565

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 538 of title V of the Housing Act of 1949 authorizes 
USDA to make commitments to guarantee loans for the development of 
housing and related facilities. By this authority, the Rural Housing 
Service (RHS) administers the Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program. 
The RHS, through consultation with industry and government experts in 
the loan guarantee field, has identified barriers

[[Page 32863]]

to the success of the program. In the case of default, regulations will 
be revised to allow for a timely payment to the investor. In addition, 
lenders will be allowed to submit a claim for ``estimated'' losses. The 
RHS also intends to lower the annual guarantee fee from 50 to 25 basis 
points.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Douglas MacDowell, Senior Loan Specialist, Department 
of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, Stop 0781, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0781
Phone: 202 720-1627
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC28
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




120. ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 96-510; PL 94-580; PL 94-469; PL 92-500; PL 91-190

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The objective of this action is to replace the existing 
environmental regulation and to implement changes to streamline the 
environmental process for the Rural Housing Service (RHS) and the Rural 
Business Service (RBS); to include changes necessitated by amendments 
to various environmental laws, Executive orders, and regulations 
applicable to the two agencies; to clarify wording; correct 
inconsistencies; and where applicable, to delete obsolete material and 
update references in other program regulations. This revision 
represents an important contribution to the Department's efforts to 
streamline its operations and realize more efficient use of staff time. 
There are a number of Federal environmental statutes which govern the 
management of hazardous substances, materials, and wastes. At the 
present time, RHS and RBS do not have implementing regulations for 
these Federal statutes. The development of implementation procedures 
for managing hazardous substances is necessary to insure consistency in 
compliance with Federal, as well as State, environmental statutes; to 
develop appropriate ``due diligence'' policies to ensure that the 
market value of real estate being considered as security for financial 
assistance adequately reflects potential contamination from hazardous 
waste; and to minimize the Agencies` liability with regard to 
environmental cleanups of hazardous waste in loan processing/servicing 
and property management activities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/14/00                    65 FR 55784
NPRM Comment Period End         11/13/00
Final Action                    02/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Susan Wieferich, Senior Environmental Protection 
Specialist, Program Support Service, Department of Agriculture, Rural 
Housing Service, Room 6900/Stop 0761, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9647

RIN: 0575-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




121. 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: The Rural Housing Service reopened the comment period on four 
sections of this regulation seeking potential changes to the definition 
of modest housing and calculation of payment subsidies. The Agency has 
reviewed the comments and will be publishing minor corrections and 
clarifications in the existing regulation. In addition, the Agency will 
provide an updated definition of modest housing moving away from 
reliance on the section 203(b) mortgage limits set by the Department of 
Housing and Urban Development. The Agency will use more localized data 
and provide clearer guidance to ensure compliance with our mission to 
finance housing that is decent, safe, sanitary, and modest. No changes 
in the payment subsidy are anticipated.

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                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William M. Toney, Director, SFH Direct Loan Division, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, STOP 0783, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1474

RIN: 0575-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________




122. GUARANTEED SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Housing Service is rewriting the regulations 
governing the Guaranteed Single-Family Housing program to provide 
better clarity and consistency within the program. The action is taken 
to update the regulations to current mortgage industry standards and 
provide more

[[Page 32864]]

guidance on program oversight and monitoring.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/15/99                    64 FR 70124
NPRM Comment Period End         02/14/00
Final Action                    12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Roger Glendenning, Deputy 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
_______________________________________________________________________




123. 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                            11/02/00                    65 FR 65790
NPRM Comment Period End         01/02/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

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 Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0781
Phone: 202 690-0759
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1484; 42 USC 1486

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1944, subpart D

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 514 of title V of the Housing Act of 1949 authorizes 
USDA to make loans for farm labor housing. Section 516 of the Act 
authorizes USDA to make grants for the same purpose. These authorities 
are implemented through 7 CFR part 1944, subpart D. Section 516 also 
authorizes USDA to provide financial assistance to private and public 
nonprofit agencies to encourage the development of farm labor housing. 
Recipients of this financial assistance, in turn, assist other 
organizations obtain loans and grants for the construction of farm 
labor housing. This regulation change will incorporate the ``technical 
assistance'' provision of the statute into 7 CFR 1944. The amount of 
assistance is limited by statute to 10 percent of the total section 516 
allocation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/01/01                    66 FR 29739
NPRM Comment Period End         07/31/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0575-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




125. GUARANTEED RURAL RENTAL HOUSING, SECTION 538 STATUTORY CHANGES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3565

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/09/02                    67 FR 16969

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Douglas MacDowell
Phone: 202 720-1627
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC26
BILLING CODE 3410-XV-S

[[Page 32865]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




126. 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                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB00
_______________________________________________________________________




127. 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                            05/00/02

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, Room 6727 South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4232

RIN: 0563-AB71
_______________________________________________________________________




128. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SANCTIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1506(l); PL 106-224

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RMA plans to supplement the existing sanction authority found 
at 7 CFR 400.451 in order to include the revised sanctions available 
for offenses which occur after June 20, 2001, the date of passage of 
the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000. This action will 
supplement the existing regulations which remain effective for all 
offenses occurring before June 20, 2000. This rule will contain 
guidelines for the level of sanctions that may be imposed, waiver 
authority on the part of the Administrator or designee, examples of 
sanctionable offenses, and the evidentiary standards to be followed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert J. Crockett, Sanction Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 430 G. Street, Suite 
4167, Davis, CA 95616-4167
Phone: 530 792-5864

RIN: 0563-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




129. 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 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                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB76
_______________________________________________________________________




130. 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.

[[Page 32866]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________




131. 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                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________




132. 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

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 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

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB85
_______________________________________________________________________




133.  GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SUBPART L--REINSURANCE 
AGREEMENT--STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL; REGULATIONS FOR THE 1997 AND 
SUBSEQUENT REINSURANCE YEARS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1508

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) proposes to 
amend its General Administrative Regulations to publish the terms of 
the Standard Reinsurance Agreement (SRA) in the Federal Register. This 
will improve the integrity of the public/private partnership by 
avoiding ad hoc changes to important definitions and terms during 
negotiations involving compensation paid to each insurance provider. 
The current SRA has not been published in the Federal Register; 
therefore, the intent of this proposal is to codify the definitions and 
terms.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Heyward Baker, Director, Reinsurance Services Division, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Room 6727 South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4232

RIN: 0563-AB86

[[Page 32867]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




134. 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                      05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB63
_______________________________________________________________________




135. 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: Nonstandard Underwriting Classification System (NCS): NCS was 
criticized by producers and their representatives for several years and 
became a major issue with the repetitive floods in the upper Midwest 
and multi-year droughts in the Southwest. Complaints included claims 
that the NCS procedures: 1) Did not adequately exclude widespread 
causes of loss (disaster adjustment); 2) failed to recognize diverse 
conditions within a county; 3) unfairly hit new or struggling producers 
caught by repetitive disasters; and 4) set too high a premium for those 
producers listed. Additionally, administration of the NCS process was 
complicated, sometimes subjective, and labor intensive.
The Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that was published in the 
Federal Register in September 1997 sought comments from the public on 
options to improve NCS. Twenty-two comments were received in response 
to the advanced notice. RMA decided to replace NCS with a process that 
charged appropriate rates for those producers with adverse loss 
experience and less than average production histories.
RMA examined increasing premium rates based on producers` lower APH 
yields and using a surcharge based on use of the yield floor (or some 
other identifiable indicator of adverse experience) to determine if 
these measures would adequately address the need to increase premiums 
for those producers with the most adverse loss histories based on the 
frequency and severity of losses. After reviewing past NCS experience 
on the existing book of business, it was determined that appropriate 
rate increases for those producers whose APH yields were less than 
average would compensate entirely for the elimination of NCS.
RMA implemented the following actions to accomplish the goal of 
replacing NCS beginning with the 1999 crop year:
-- Removed and reserved the current NCS regulation (7 CFR part 400, 
subpart O) by publishing a proposed rule in the Federal Register. The 
final rule is pending clearance; however, the Agency proceeded with the 
process and has waived NCS since 1999.
-- Developed and implemented appropriate rate adjustments to offset the 
removal of NCS.

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                    05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB66
_______________________________________________________________________




136. 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                      05/00/02

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, Room 6727 South, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4232

RIN: 0563-AB70

[[Page 32868]]

_______________________________________________________________________




137. 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                      05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________




138. 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 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                            07/16/01                    66 FR 36951
NPRM Comment Period End         08/15/01
Interim Final Rule              09/17/01                    66 FR 47949
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/16/01
Final Action                    05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann, Director, Product Development Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop Insurance Corporation, 6501 
Beacon Drive, Kansas City, MO 64133
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB84
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




139. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; MILLET CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/23/02                     67 FR 3036
Final Action Effective          02/22/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB79
BILLING CODE 3410-08-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




140. 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: The Agency 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

[[Page 32869]]

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. The Agency 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                            09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA58
_______________________________________________________________________




141. 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                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA65
_______________________________________________________________________




142. EXCEPTIONS TO GEOGRAPHIC AREAS FOR OFFICIAL AGENCIES UNDER THE 
USGSA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.81; 7 CFR 800.99; 7 CFR 800.116-.118; 7 CFR 
800.185; 7 CFR 800.196

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is proposing to revise regulations under the U.S. 
Grain Standards Act to reflect the amendment made by the Grain 
Standards and Warehouse Improvements Act of 2000 that provides an 
exception under which the Secretary may determine that more than one 
official agency can provide inspection services in a specified 
geographic area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA76
_______________________________________________________________________




143. PROHIBITION ON DISGUISING GRAIN QUALITY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.61

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency proposes to revise regulations under the U.S. 
Grain Standards Act to prohibit the disguising of grain quality by 
adding various substances during post-harvest marketing.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA77
_______________________________________________________________________




144. LABORATORY PROFICIENCY PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is proposing to issue regulations under the U.S. 
Grain Standards Act to establish a proficiency program to improve the 
reliability of testing for biotechnology events in grains and oilseeds.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA78

[[Page 32870]]

_______________________________________________________________________




145.  FEES FOR OFFICIAL INSPECTION AND OFFICIAL WEIGHING SERVICES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.71

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: GIPSA is proposing several changes in the way the Agency 
charges fees for official inspection and weighing services performed in 
the United States, under the United States Grain Standards Act. 
Currently, GIPSA assesses fees by using hourly and unit rates and by 
assessing an administrative tonnage fee. The proposed action will 
increase the hourly and unit rates. GIPSA is also proposing to increase 
the administrative tonnage fee and adopt a new, regional fee structure.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/01/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




146. 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              12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA57
_______________________________________________________________________




147. SWINE PACKER MARKETING CONTRACTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 181; PL 106-78

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 206

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is issuing rules under the Packers and Stockyards 
Act to implement the Swine Packer Marketing Contracts subtitle of the 
Livestock Mandatory Reporting Act of 1999. The Agency will establish a 
swine contract library and publish contract provisions on its web site.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/05/00                    65 FR 53653
NPRM Comment Period End         10/05/00
Final Action                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA71
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




148.  FEES FOR OFFICIAL INSPECTION AND WEIGHTING SERVICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800.71

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency is increasing certain fees by approximately 4.6 
percent; i.e., contract and non-contract hourly rates, certain unit 
rates, and the administrative tonnage fee. These fees apply only to 
official inspection and weighing services performed by the Agency in 
the United States under the United States Grain Standards Act. These 
increases are needed to cover increased operational costs resulting 
from the approximate 4.6 percent January 2002 Federal pay increase.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/02/02                       67 FR 25
NPRM Comment Period End         02/01/02
Final Rule                      03/21/02                    67 FR 13084
Final Rule Effective            04/22/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

[[Page 32871]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 1647 South Building, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 720-4628
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA79
BILLING CODE 3410-EN-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




149. 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                            05/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/02
Final Action                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________




150. INTENTIONAL PROGRAM VIOLATION REPORTING AND COMPUTER MATCHING 
REQUIREMENTS THAT AFFECT THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant. 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 codifies prisoner 
verification and death master file matching mandated by legislation and 
previously implemented through agency directive. (89-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/03
Final Action                    06/00/03
Final Action Effective          08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________




151. 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                            08/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/02
Final Action                    09/00/03
Final Action Effective          11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC75
_______________________________________________________________________




152. 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)

[[Page 32872]]

extending the period that State agencies may disqualify participants 
for program violations to 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 previous 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                            10/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/02
Final Action                    03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC84
_______________________________________________________________________




153. 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                            03/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/03
Final Action                    11/00/03
Final Action Effective          03/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC86
_______________________________________________________________________




154. 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                            09/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/03
Final Action                    06/00/03
Final Action Effective          10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

[[Page 32873]]

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

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

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC90
_______________________________________________________________________




155. 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 (LEP) 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                            09/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/02
Final Action                    06/00/03
Final Action Effective          09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD06
_______________________________________________________________________




156. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAM ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS: RESOURCE LIMITS 
AND EXCLUSIONS, EXTENDED CERTIFICATION PERIODS, AND TRANSITIONAL 
BENEFITS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2032

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 253; 7 CFR 254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend FDPIR regulations to: 1) 
Increase the standard FDPIR resource limit from $1750 to $2000 per 
household (households that include a member or members age 60 or over 
shall continue to have a resource limit of $3000); 2) allow a resource 
exclusion for the first $1500 of the value of one pre-paid funeral 
arrangement per household member (in instances where the total value of 
the agreement is not already excluded because it is funded under a life 
insurance policy or an inaccessible trust fund); 3) allow households in 
which all members are elderly or disabled to be certified for up to 24 
months, provided that the State agency contacts the household at least 
once every 12 months; and 4) allow States the option to provide 
transitional FDPIR benefits (for 3 months), at a minimum, to households 
with earnings that leave the Temporary Assistance Program for Needy 
Families (TANF). All of the above provisions conform to Food Stamp 
Program policy and will ensure consistent treatment between the two 
programs. (01-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Ms. Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, 
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD12
_______________________________________________________________________




157. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: VEHICLE AND MAXIMUM EXCESS SHELTER EXPENSE 
DEDUCTION PROVISIONS OF PUBLIC LAW 106-387

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: PL 106-387

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 273.8; 7 CFR 273.9

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule will (1) implement a revision of the Food 
Stamp Program's resource eligibility standards regarding vehicle 
ownership and (2) set the maximum excess shelter expense deduction for 
fiscal year 2001 and, for future years, index it to the Consumer Price 
Index. (01-006)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/02
Final Action                    11/00/02
Final Action Effective          01/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD13
_______________________________________________________________________




158. CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM (CACFP): AT-RISK AFTERSCHOOL 
SUPPERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 243(i)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would revise the Child and Adult Care Food 
Program (CACFP) regulations to allow reimbursement of suppers provided 
by at-risk afterschool care programs in seven States.
Six States were initially authorized by the Agricultural Risk 
Protection Act (Pub. L. 106-224); the seventh State was authorized by 
Fiscal Year 2002

[[Page 32874]]

appropriation legislation. At-risk suppers in these States (Delaware, 
Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Missouri, New York, and Oregon) are 
reimbursed under the same conditions set forth in the National School 
Lunch Act (NSLA) for at-risk snacks in the CACFP. Children who are 18 
or younger and enrolled in qualifying afterschool programs located in 
the seven States may receive free suppers. To qualify, afterschool care 
programs must be located in low-income areas, provide care to children, 
and have an educational or enrichment purpose. (01-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Ms. Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, 
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD15
_______________________________________________________________________




159.  FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS IMPOSED AGAINST 
VIOLATING ELECTRONIC BENEFITS TRANSFER (EBT) STORES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 12 USC 2021; 13 USC 2022

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278.6

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Department of Agriculture, Food and 
Nutrition Service (FNS), is proposing to revise section 278.6 of the 
Food Stamp Program Regulations entitled ``Disqualification of Retail 
Food Stores and Wholesale Food Concerns and Imposition of Civil Money 
Penalties In Lieu of Disqualifications.'' This section of the 
regulation is being revised as a result of the implementation of the 
Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system. This section of the 
regulations addresses the administrative sanctions (i.e., imposing a 
period of disqualification or assessing a monetary penalty) that may be 
imposed by FNS against retail food stores and wholesale food concerns 
that are found violating the Food Stamp Program. (01-012)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD18
_______________________________________________________________________




160.  EXPANDED VERIFICATION OF ELIGIBILITY SUMMARY REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1758, Sec 9(d)(2)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Recent comparisons of National data indicate that there are 
more students certified for free and reduced price meals than there are 
students eligible for such meal benefits. As a result, the Food and 
Nutrition Service (FNS) plans to propose regulations to address this 
discrepancy. FNS plans to publish proposed regulations to require local 
school food authorities to report verification activity and results to 
their respective State agency to support State agency oversight 
activities and to allow States to report the school level data to USDA. 
Results will provide USDA with information that will assist in 
improving the certification of eligibility for free and reduced price 
meal benefits. (01-015)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD20
_______________________________________________________________________




161.  FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: SIMPLIFICATION AND STATE FLEXIBILITY

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will 1) propose to streamline the regulations by 
removing unnecessary or redundant provisions and reorganizing several 
sections; 2) propose to increase State flexibility by moving overly 
prescriptive regulations; 3) re-propose several provisions that were 
proposed in a previous rule, the Noncitizen Eligibility Certification 
Provisions (NECP) of Pub. L. 104-193, as amended by Public Laws 104-
208, 105-33, and 105-185, published on February 29, 2000, but were not 
accepted in the final NECP rule published on November 21, 2001; 4) 
propose to remove or revise several provisions that were finalized in 
the NECP final rule; and 5) propose to incorporate current policy from 
the Food Stamp Program's Policy Interpretation Response System (PIRS). 
(01-018).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220

[[Page 32875]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD22
_______________________________________________________________________




162.  FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW REQUIREMENTS--FOOD 
RETAILERS/WHOLESALERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278; 7 CFR 279

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule proposes to streamline and make technical 
corrections to the administrative review process by amending portions 
of current regulations provided in parts 278 and 279. It would 
eliminate repetitious, outdated and unnecessary provisions without 
taking away a business's right to an administrative review or a 
judicial review. It would also eliminate formal procedures for face-to-
face meetings with review officers. There are very few requests for 
such reviews, and because administrative review decisions are based on 
documented facts and not on face-to-face meetings, these meetings are 
unnecessary and ineffective. (02-001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD23
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




163. 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                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________




164. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: ANTICIPATING INCOME AND REPORTING CHANGES

Priority: Other Significant

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

[[Page 32876]]

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                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




165. 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; and State- and institution-
level monitoring requirements. 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), and the William F. 
Goodling Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act of 1998 (Pub. L. 105-336).
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
Interim Final Rule              12/00/02
Interim Final Rule Effective    01/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

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

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

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                            07/12/01                    66 FR 36495
NPRM Comment Period End         09/10/01
Final Action                    07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC37
_______________________________________________________________________




167. 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; 7 CFR 273.24

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
NPRM Comment Period End         02/22/00
Final Action                    05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220

[[Page 32877]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC45
_______________________________________________________________________




168. NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM: REIMBURSEMENT FOR SNACKS IN 
AFTERSCHOOL CARE PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 105-336

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 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. (98-
007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/11/00                    65 FR 60502
NPRM Comment Period End         01/09/01
Final Action                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC72
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-171

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                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC91
_______________________________________________________________________




170. 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              07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

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

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC94

[[Page 32878]]

_______________________________________________________________________




171. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: DISCLOSURE OF CHILDREN'S ELIGIBILITY 
INFORMATION UNDER THE CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 242; PL 103-448, sec 108

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

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

Abstract: This rule establishes requirements for the disclosure of 
children's free and reduced price meal and free milk eligibility 
information by agencies that make the free and reduced price meal or 
free milk determination under the National School Lunch Program, the 
School Breakfast Program, the Special Milk Program, the Child and Adult 
Care Food Program, and the Summer Food Service Program. The rule 
responds to amendments to the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch 
Act, which allow limited disclosure of children's free and reduced 
price meal or free milk eligibility information, Public Law 103-448, 
the Healthy Meals for Healthy Americans Act of 1994; and Public Law 
106-224, the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000; comments 
received on the July 25, 2000, proposed rule on ``Disclosure of 
Children's Eligibility Information'' (65 FR 45725 issued under RIN 
0584-AC21) and comments received on the January 11, 2001, interim rule 
on ``Disclosure of Children's Eligibility Information to State Medicaid 
and the State Children's Health Insurance Program'' (66 FR 2195 issued 
under RIN 0584-AC95). This rule incorporates the proposed rule and 
interim rule into one final rule. Therefore, RIN 0584-AC21 is 
withdrawn, and the final provisions will be issued under RIN 0584-AC95. 
The final rule will adopt or modify as necessary many of the provisions 
mandated by the statute and required by the interim rule. Many of these 
same provisions were presented as recommendations in the proposed rule. 
The objective is to provide consistency in procedures when determining 
agencies opt to disclose children's eligibility information and to 
provide some protection against unauthorized disclosures and misuse of 
personal information, regardless of whether the disclosure is to 
Medicaid or SCHIP or to an education or other program. (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                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC95
_______________________________________________________________________




172. 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

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/21/02                     67 FR 7977
NPRM Comment Period End         04/22/02
Final Action                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD08
_______________________________________________________________________




173. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: UNIFORM FEDERAL ASSISTANCE REGULATIONS; 
NONDISCRETIONARY TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 31 USC 503, 111 and 7501; PL 98-502; PL 104-156

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210, 215, 220, 225, and 235

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule makes a number of technical changes to the 
regulations governing the National School Lunch Program, the Special 
Milk Program for Children, the School Breakfast Program, the Child and 
Adult Care Food Program, the Summer Food Service Program, and State 
Administrative Expense Funds. The United States Department of 
Agriculture (USDA) is revising its grants management regulations in 
order to bring the entitlement programs it administers under the same 
regulations that already apply to nonentitlement programs and to 
identify exceptions to these general rules that apply only to 
entitlement programs. (01-008)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

[[Page 32879]]

Agency Contact: Ms. Sheri Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, 
Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD16
_______________________________________________________________________




174.  NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM, SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM, AND 
CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM--AMENDMENTS TO THE INFANT MEAL PATTERN

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220; 7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule amends the regulations for the National 
School Lunch Program (7 CFR 210.10), the School Breakfast Program (7 
CFR 220.8), and the Child and Adult Care Food Program (7 CFR 226.20) to 
(1) eliminate the option of serving whole cow's milk to infants between 
the ages of 8 months and one year in lieu of infant formula or breast 
milk and (2) permit reimbursement for meals containing only breast 
milk. The first provision responds to scientific evidence indicating 
that whole cow's milk is nutritionally deficient compared to breast 
milk and formula and can produce harmful effects when consumed by 
children less than 1 year old. The second provision is intended to give 
infants that are less than 4 months old an amount of breast milk less 
than the minimum requirement when the infants consistently do not want 
the full minimum amount. This provision is intended to prevent wasting 
any of this very limited food item. Finally, this regulation 
incorporates some technical amendments designed to clarify requirements 
and provide consistency among the three programs. (95-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/15/99                    64 FR 61770
Interim Final Rule Effective    12/15/99
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      05/15/00
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD26
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




175. STATE ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE FUNDS: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 235

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule                To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC96
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 215

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule                To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC97
_______________________________________________________________________




177. 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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC98
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 251

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC99

[[Page 32880]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 252

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD00
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 253

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD01
_______________________________________________________________________




181. 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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 254

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD02
_______________________________________________________________________




182. NUTRITION EDUCATION AND TRAINING PROGRAM: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 
7 CFR PART 227

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 227

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule                To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD03
_______________________________________________________________________




183. STATE AGENCY LIABILITIES AND FEDERAL SANCTIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 276

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule                To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD04
_______________________________________________________________________




184. PAYMENTS OF CERTAIN ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS OF STATE AGENCIES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 277

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule                To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD05
_______________________________________________________________________




185. SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM: PLAIN LANGUAGE REVISION AND 
REORGANIZATION

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 220

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule                To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD10
_______________________________________________________________________




186. WIC: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART 248, FARMERS` MARKET 
NUTRITION PROGRAM

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 248

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD11
_______________________________________________________________________




187.  CNP: PLAIN LANGUAGE REWRITE OF 7 CFR PART 225, SUMMER FOOD 
SERVICE PROGRAM

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1758, 1761 and 1762a

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 225

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes no changes in the meaning of the Summer Food

[[Page 32881]]

Service Program 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 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. (01-011)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Federal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, 3101 Park Center Drive, 
Room 308, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD17
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 245

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/20/01                    66 FR 48323

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC25
BILLING CODE 3410-30-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                          Prerule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




189. 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 a zero tolerance for ingesta far outweighed benefits. This 
action was precipitated by a civil suit filed against USDA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC77
_______________________________________________________________________




190.  STANDARDS AND LABELING REQUIREMENTS FOR MECHANICALLY SEPARATED 
(SPECIES) AND PRODUCTS IN WHICH IT IS USED (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 610 (c)

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317.2(j)(13); 9 CFR 319.5(a)

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, April 2003, Review must be completed 
within the 12 months succeeding this publication.
Provisions of the RFA mandate that all reviews be conducted and 
completed within the 12 months succeeding this publication.

Abstract: Brief Description:
On June 29, 1982, the Department of Agriculture amended the Federal 
meat inspection regulations with promulgation of the final rule (47 FR

[[Page 32882]]

28214) to (1) modify the definition, standard, and permitted use for 
the finely comminuted product resulting from the mechanical separation 
and removal of most of the bone from attached skeletal muscle of 
livestock carcasses and parts of carcasses, and the labeling 
requirements for meat food products in which it is used as an 
ingredient; and (2) to establish labeling requirements for such 
products.
Promulgation Purpose and Legal Basis:
Sections 1(m), (n), 7 and 10 of the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) 
established the Secretary of Agriculture's statutory responsibility for 
ensuring that meat and meat food products, prepared and intended to be 
distributed in commerce, are not adulterated, misbranded or improperly 
marked, labeled, and packaged. (21 U.S.C. 601 (m)(n), 607, 610) The 
final rule governing the production and use of mechanically separated 
species was issued in 1978 (43 FR 26416). However, despite the 
availability of technology and raw materials, a potential food source 
was not being made available to the general public. In the interim, the 
Pacific Coast Meat Association (PCMA) and the American Meat Institute 
(AMI) contended that its failure to market products containing 
Mechanically Processed (Species) Product (MP(S)P) was due to regulatory 
requirements that extended beyond the perimeters necessary to protect 
the public, and argued that they were effectively precluded from 
producing or marketing mechanically deboned beef, pork, veal, or lamb 
by the misleading labeling and the unreasonable compositional standards 
imposed by the regulations. PCMA and the AMI petitioned the agency to 
reconsider the requirements in light of information compiled since the 
promulgation of the 1978 regulations. PCMA and AMI submitted a report 
on a series of consumer focus groups` sessions exploring attitudes 
towards various types of meat food product labeling, and as a result of 
an analysis of the economic impacts of the 1978 rule and the Agency's 
internal review and re-evaluation of its regulations in accordance with 
Executive Order 12291 (now Executive Order 12866), the Department 
decided to amend the requirements and issue a new final rule entitled 
``Standards and Labeling Requirements for Mechanically Separated 
(Species) and Products in Which It Is Used.''
This regulation will be reviewed under the Regulatory Flexibility Act's 
Section 610 provisions within the succeeding twelve months. As such, 
the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) invites all interested 
parties to submit comments on: (1) the continued need for the rule; (2) 
the complexity of the rule; (3) the extent to which the rule overlaps, 
duplicated or conflicts with other Federal, State and local rules; (4) 
the nature of complaints or comments received concerning the rule from 
the public; and (5) the technology and economic conditions, or other 
factors, which have changed the specific area affected by the rule. 
Copies of comments may be submitted to the Docket Clerk within 30 days 
after this publication at: United States Department of Agriculture, 
Food Safety & Inspection Service, Office of Policy, Program Development 
and Evaluation, Regulations and Directives Development Staff, 300 12th 
Street SW, Room 112, Washington, DC 20250-3700.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Begin Review                    05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Businesses, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Additional Information: Referencing docket number 81-016F, 47 FR 28214

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC90
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




191. 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                            09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




192. ANTE-MORTEM AND POST-MORTEM INSPECTION OF LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 to 695 et seq; 7 USC 138 et seq; 21 USC 450 
et seq; 7 USC 2.18 to 2.53 et seq; 21 USC 451 to 470 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 309; 9 CFR 310; 9 CFR 381

[[Page 32883]]

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to reform the regulations governing ante-
mortem and post-mortem inspection of livestock and poultry. A number of 
the current regulations are no longer appropriate for the conditions 
under which meat and poultry products are produced and distributed 
today (e.g., splitting of sterna, prohibition of inflating carcasses). 
Others are duplicative regulations (e.g., those dealing with bruises 
and contamination) applying separately to meat and to poultry that 
could be combined into single regulations applying to both meat and 
poultry. Most emphasize the procedures for achieving regulatory 
objectives rather than the objectives themselves. This proposal would 
remove these prescriptive, detailed, or obsolete regulations or convert 
them to performance standards that are consistent with FSIS 
requirements for establishment-operated hazard analysis and critical 
control points (HACCP) systems and with the Agency's food safety 
regulatory strategy.
Under the proposal, the current ante-mortem requirements, listing 
objectionable diseases or conditions and corresponding actions to be 
taken, would be replaced by performance standards intended to ensure 
that only ``normal,'' healthy animals that do not pose an evident 
hazard to public health are permitted to enter a slaughtering 
establishment. ``Normal'' animals would include those, for example, 
that are not running a temperature or that do not exhibit lesions of 
disease or behaviors characteristic of central nervous system 
disorders. Similarly, the post-mortem regulations, with their lists of 
conditions and detailed, command-and-control procedures, would be 
streamlined. The prescriptive provisions would be replaced by 
performance standards relating to food safety (prevention of economic 
adulteration).
This proposal would also recodify the ante-mortem and post-mortem 
inspection regulations for livestock and poultry. To the extent 
possible, consistent the with Federal Meat Inspection Act and the 
Poultry Products Inspection Act, regulations concerning livestock and 
meat carcasses and parts, and those concerning poultry carcasses and 
parts, would be designated to the same parts and sections of the Code 
of Federal Regulations. These changes would be part of the ongoing 
Agency effort to make the regulations more streamlined and user-
friendly.
This proposal would focus on the performance standards that 
establishments should meet through operation of their HACCP systems for 
slaughtering and dressing operations. It would remove impediments to 
the development and operation of HACCP plans by making the current 
regulations compatible with the HACCP approach to food safety.
Besides the proposed action, FSIS considered the alternative of no 
rulemaking and the alternative of eliminating all regulations on 
livestock, poultry, and the carcasses and parts of livestock and 
poultry, affected by specific diseases and conditions. The first 
alternative would leave in place numerous detailed prescriptions and 
procedural requirements inconsistent with, or duplicative of, HACCP 
systems. The second would risk exposing the public to products that may 
be unwholesome or otherwise adulterated.
The Agency believes the alternative represented by this proposal--
converting to performance standards the ante-mortem and post-mortem 
inspection regulations--would offer the best prospect for the efficient 
and effective implementation of HACCP. It would also maximize the 
flexibility establishments have to adopt technological innovations that 
would increase the assurance of food safety.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC43
_______________________________________________________________________




193. REQUIREMENTS FOR DISPOSITION AND DISPOSAL OF INSPECTED RAW MEAT AND 
POULTRY PRODUCTS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 21 USC 451 to 470 et seq; 21 USC 601 to 695 
et seq; 7 USC 1901 to 1906

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 311; 9 CFR 314; 9 CFR 320; 9 CFR 325; 9 CFR 381; 9 
CFR 428; 9 CFR 455

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to reform the regulations governing the 
disposition of inspected raw meat and poultry products and the disposal 
of such products that are condemned or otherwise inedible. A number of 
the current regulations are no longer appropriate for the conditions 
under which meat and poultry products are produced and distributed 
today. Others are duplicative regulations applying separately to meat 
and to poultry that should be combined into single regulations applying 
to both meat and poultry. Most emphasize the procedures for achieving 
regulatory objectives rather than the objectives themselves. The 
proposal would remove these prescriptive, detailed, or obsolete 
regulations or convert them to performance standards that are 
consistent with FSIS requirements for establishment-operated hazard 
analysis and critical control points (HACCP) systems and with the 
Agency's food safety regulatory strategy.
Besides the proposed action, FSIS considered the alternative of no 
rulemaking and the alternative of eliminating all regulations on the 
disposition and disposal of inspected raw products. Among these 
regulations are those concerning the handling of raw product moving 
between official establishments and the disposal of condemned or 
inedible carcasses and parts. The first alternative would leave in 
place numerous detailed prescriptions and procedural requirements 
inconsistent with, or duplicative of, HACCP systems. The second would 
risk exposing the public to products that may be unwholesome or 
otherwise adulterated.
This proposal would convert to performance standards the regulations 
governing the disposition, handling,

[[Page 32884]]

and disposal of raw carcasses and parts. The Agency believes this 
alternative would offer the best prospect of permitting the efficient 
and effective implementation of HACCP and of maximizing the flexibility 
official establishments and other entities have to adopt technological 
and other innovations that could increase the assurance of food safety.
This proposal would also recodify the regulations on the disposition, 
handling, and disposal of raw meat and poultry products. To the extent 
possible, consistent with the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the 
Poultry Products Inspection Act, regulations affecting both meat and 
poultry would be designated to the same parts and sections of the Code 
of Federal Regulations. These changes would be part of the ongoing 
Agency effort to make the regulations more streamlined and user-
friendly.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC44
_______________________________________________________________________




194. 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 pumped bacon (9 CFR 
424.22(b)). FSIS is proposing to remove provisions that require the 
Agency to test pumped bacon for nitrosamines and to remove provisions 
that prescribe the substances and amounts of such substances that must 
be used to produce pumped bacon. FSIS is proposing to replace these 
provisions with an upper limit for nitrite and a performance standard 
that establishments producing pumped bacon must meet. To meet the 
proposed performance standard, the process used 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 standard into 
their HACCP plans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC49
_______________________________________________________________________




195. 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                            12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC58
_______________________________________________________________________




196. LABELING--GENERIC APPROVAL AND REGULATION CONSOLIDATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

[[Page 32885]]

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                            09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC59
_______________________________________________________________________




197. 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                            07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC63
_______________________________________________________________________




198. FOOD STANDARDS; GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND FOOD 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 a set of guiding principles that 
define how modern food standards should be structured to protect the 
interest of consumers, provide for technological advances in food 
production, be consistent with international food standards, and be 
clear, simple, and easy to use for both manufacturers and the agencies 
that enforce compliance with the standards. If this proposed rule is 
adopted, the agencies will not consider a petition to establish, 
revise, or eliminate a standard unless the proposed action is 
consistent with these guiding principles. If this proposed rule is 
adopted, the agencies may publish proposed rules to establish, revise, 
or eliminate standards based on petitions fulfilling the requirements 
of this proposal that they receive.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




199. 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                            06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC81

[[Page 32886]]

_______________________________________________________________________




200. CLASSES OF POULTRY UPDATING POULTRY CLASS STANDARDS

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                            08/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




201. ELIMINATION OF CHILLING TIME AND TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENTS FOR 
READY-TO-COOK POULTRY (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.66

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to eliminate the time and temperature 
requirements for chilling ready-to-cook poultry carcasses and giblets. 
The Agency is taking this action because the requirements are 
inconsistent with the Agency's Pathogen Reduction/Hazard Analysis and 
Critical Control Point (HACCP) System regulations, with its final rule 
further restricting retained water in raw meat and poultry, and with 
the Agency's regulatory reform program. Moreover, because of these 
regulations, the meat and poultry industries receive disparate 
regulatory treatment: No regulations that apply to the chilling of 
poultry apply to the chilling of meat. This proposal responds to 
longstanding petitions by industry trade associations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC87
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




202. 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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/03/97                    62 FR 46450
NPRM Comment Period End         11/03/97
Final Action                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC09

[[Page 32887]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Economically Significant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

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 has proposed to establish pathogen reduction performance 
standards for all ready-to-eat and partially heat-treated 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
NPRM Extended Comment Period    07/03/01                    66 FR 35112
NPRM Comment Period End         09/10/01
Final Action                    12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________




204. 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 inadequate to prevent misbranding and economic 
adulteration. Therefore, FSIS is developing a rule to clarify the 
regulations and supplement the rules for assuring compliance.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/13/98                    63 FR 17959
NPRM Comment Period End         06/12/98
Final Action                    10/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC51
_______________________________________________________________________




205. 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                    09/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




206. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ON-LINE ANTIMICROBIAL REPROCESSING OF 
PRE-CHILL POULTRY CARCASSES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 to 470

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 424

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule is proposing to allow, on a voluntary basis, the 
on-line reprocessing of pre-chill poultry carcasses that are 
accidentally contaminated with digestive tract contents during 
slaughter. The treated carcasses must meet pre-chill performance 
standards that are substantially lower than the current performance 
standard and criteria.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/01/00                    65 FR 75187
NPRM Comment Period End         01/30/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 32888]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC73
_______________________________________________________________________




207. SHARING RECALL DISTRIBUTION LISTS 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 will add regulations concerning sharing distribution 
lists with State and other Federal Government agencies during a food 
recall.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/19/00                    65 FR 56503
NPRM Comment Period End         11/20/00
Final Action                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC75
_______________________________________________________________________




208. 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 adopted under 
the FMIA, PPIA, and EPIA by updating and consolidating organizational 
provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Director, Regulations and 
Directives Development Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety 
and Inspection Service, Room 104 Cotton Annex Building, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC78
_______________________________________________________________________




209. 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                    08/00/02

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

[[Page 32889]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




210. 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
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




211. 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                            11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC53
_______________________________________________________________________




212. 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                            07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC56
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/18/01                     66 FR 4970
NPRM Comment Period End         04/18/01
NPRM Comment Period End         07/17/01
Extension of Comment Period     07/20/01                    66 FR 20213
Final Action                    04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post
Phone: 202 205-0279

RIN: 0583-AC60
_______________________________________________________________________




214. FOOD LABELING; NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIMS, DEFINITION OF THE TERM 
HEALTHY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 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
_______________________________________________________________________




215. 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                            06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC68
_______________________________________________________________________




216. EMERGENCY REGULATIONS TO PREVENT MEAT FOOD AND MEAT PRODUCTS THAT 
MAY CONTAIN THE BSE AGENT FROM ENTERING COMMERCE

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

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC88

[[Page 32890]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




217. LABELING OF NATURAL OR REGENERATED COLLAGEN SAUSAGE CASINGS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/06/01                    66 FR 40843

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC80
_______________________________________________________________________




218. MANDATORY INSPECTION OF RATITES AND SQUABS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 361; 9 CFR 381

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/22/02                    67 FR 13253

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Arshad Hussain
Phone: 202 720-3219

RIN: 0583-AC84
_______________________________________________________________________




219. INCREASES IN FEES FOR MEAT, POULTRY, AND EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION 
SERVICES--FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2002

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 391.2

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/16/01                    66 FR 52548
Final Action                    01/24/02                     67 FR 3428

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC89
BILLING CODE 3410-DM-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




220. PROGRAM TO PROVIDE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO PROMOTE U.S. 
AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS TO EMERGING MARKETS (EMERGING MARKETS PROGRAM)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes to establish regulations applicable to the 
Emerging Markets Program, currently authorized by the Food, 
Agriculture, Conservation, and Trade Act of 1990 and amended by the 
Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform Act of 1996. The Emerging 
Markets Program currently operates under agency guidelines. The 
proposed rule would amend and codify the existing guidelines. 
Codification of the guidelines should not change program administration 
noticeably. Because the program is already in operation under agency 
guidelines, this proposal would have no significant impact on the U.S. 
economy.
The proposed rule will provide specific regulations concerning program 
administration. Significant provisions include definition of emerging 
market and country eligibility, program objectives and priorities, 
eligible organizations, qualification requirements, application and 
review processes, decisions and appeals, reimbursement rules and 
procedures, reporting requirements, evaluations, and program controls.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

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-AA62
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




221. PROGRAM TO ASSIST U.S. PRODUCERS IN DEVELOPING DOMESTIC MARKETS FOR 
VALUE-ADDED WHEAT GLUTEN AND WHEAT STARCH PRODUCTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 714c

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1482

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule provides for a 2-year program to assist U.S. wheat 
gluten producers in fully adjusting to import competition by 
transitioning the industry from production of basic bulk commodities to 
production of value-added commodities where the market potential is 
more viable. U.S. producers of wheat gluten, who meet the eligibility 
requirements of the rule and submit the required market development 
plans, will receive an

[[Page 32891]]

annual lump sum payment by CCC to conduct specific program activities 
aimed at facilitating the transition to value-added wheat gluten 
products for sale in the domestic market.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/08/01                    66 FR 30801
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/09/01
Final Action                    06/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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-AA60
_______________________________________________________________________




222. FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA) REGULATIONS FOR THE FOREIGN 
AGRICULTURAL SERVICE

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 5 USC 552

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule is issued in accordance with the regulations 
of the Secretary of Agriculture, 7 CFR part 1--Administrative 
Regulations, subpart A--Official Records, 1.3, Agency Implementing 
Regulations, for the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

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-AA61
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




223. 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
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: [email protected]

Tamoria Thompson
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0551-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________




224. 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

[[Page 32892]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




225. 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                     01/00/03
Second NPRM Comment Period End  03/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AA47
_______________________________________________________________________




226. 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                            07/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AA79
_______________________________________________________________________




227. 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 U.S.C. 620 
et seq.). Section 620a(a) of the Act provides that no person who 
acquires unprocessed timber originating from Federal lands west of the 
100th meridian in the contiguous 48 States may export such timber from 
the United States, or sell, trade, exchange, or otherwise convey such 
timber from the United States, unless such timber has been determined 
under subsection (b) to be surplus to the needs of timber manufacturing 
facilities in the United States. Section 620a(b) of the Act provides 
that the prohibition contained in section (a) shall not apply to 
specific quantities of grades and species of unprocessed timber 
originating in Federal lands which the Secretary determines, through 
rulemaking, to be surplus to domestic manufacturing needs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB27
_______________________________________________________________________




228. 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 timber 
damaged by catastrophic events. The change will define the 
responsibilities of the parties for requesting and approving such 
extensions and specify when such

[[Page 32893]]

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                            12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB48
_______________________________________________________________________




229. 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 
only 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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/16/94                     59 FR 7880
NPRM Comment Period End         05/18/94
Second NPRM                     10/00/02
Second NPRM Comment Period End  12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________




230. 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                            02/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________




231. LAND USES; SPECIAL USES REQUIRING 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

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 is 
proposing 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 addressed by other Forest Service regulations; for 
example, those governing the disposal of timber (part 223); minerals 
(part 228); and the grazing of livestock (part 222). The study also 
concluded that section 251.50(e) should be added 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

[[Page 32894]]

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(d) would clarify 
requirements regarding authorizations for special uses involving 
National Forest System roads and trails. The current regulation 
requires the issuance of closure orders for regulation of special uses 
on NFS roads and trails. The revised regulation will eliminate the 
necessity of individual closure orders for common public service permit 
programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB74
_______________________________________________________________________




232. 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                            12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/03

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________




233. 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                            09/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________




234. 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

[[Page 32895]]

and Fees for Harvest of Forest Botanical Products, Appropriations Act 
H.R. 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                            10/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________




235. 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                            10/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________




236. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC et seq; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 219, subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to revise the November 9, 
2000, land and resource management planning rule. This action responds 
to serious concerns raised by employees and others about the Agency's 
ability to implement some provisions of the November 2000 rule. The 
Agency's ability to promptly implement the November 9, 2000, planning 
regulations has also been called into question through pending 
litigation. The Forest Service has been asked to resolve deficiencies 
in the November 2000 rule. In so doing, the Forest Service plans to 
ensure that issues or deficiencies that have evolved from over 2 
decades of forest planning are also addressed. The goal is to develop a 
new rule that improves the planning process, decisionmaking, and legal 
defensibility of land and resource management plans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/02
Final Action                    12/00/02
Final Action Effective          01/00/03

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB86
_______________________________________________________________________




237. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT DOCUMENTATION FOR CERTAIN SMALL 
ADMINISTRATIVE TIMBER SALES ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS AND RESEARCH 
PROJECTS (FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1909.15, CHAPTER 30)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1421 to 4337

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 1999, as a result of a court action, the Forest Service 
lost the ability to use a categorical exclusion from National 
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation for small

[[Page 32896]]

timber sales. This category was used extensively for small timber sales 
to remove hazard trees, treat insect and disease outbreaks, and provide 
related timber products for local communities. As a consequence, the 
responsible official must now prepare an environmental assessment (EA) 
on these small volume timber sales (under 250,000 board feet of green 
timber or 1 million board feet of salvage timber). This has resulted in 
a Service-wide increase in environmental analysis costs and delays in 
beginning and completing these small timber sale projects on the 
National Forests and Research Experimental Forests. This proposal would 
categorically exclude from documentation in an EA or environmental 
impact statement (EIS) certain types of small timber sales in the 
National Forests and Research Experimental Forests and would enable the 
Agency to accomplish in a more timely and efficient manner the 
treatment of small fire hazard areas, insect and disease outbreaks, and 
hazard tree removal. This new categorical exclusion would be added to 
the existing categories for categorical exclusions in chapter 30 of 
Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 1909.15, and by Council on Environmental 
Quality (CEQ) regulation, this proposal requires public notice and 
opportunity to comment. For convenience and cost savings, the final 
directive may be issued temporarily as an interim directive to chapter 
30 of FSH 1909.15 but would be incorporated as an amendment as soon as 
there are sufficient other changes to the chapter to warrant revision 
of the entire chapter. Decisions using this new category may be subject 
to a 30-day public comment period and administrative appeal under 36 
CFR part 215

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB88
_______________________________________________________________________




238. NOTICE, COMMENT, AND APPEAL PROCEDURES FOR NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM 
PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; PL 102-381, sec 322 (Appeal 
Reform Act); 106 Stat 1419 (16 USC 1612 note)

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 215 (Revision)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 1992, the Appeal Reform Act mandated the Forest Service to 
develop appeal regulations for site-specific projects on National 
Forest System lands. The regulations were promulgated in 1994. Eight 
years of experience have shown there are certain provisions in the 
regulations that consistently give rise to questions by employees and 
the public and reduce efficient processing of administrative appeals. 
This proposed rule would revise the appeal regulations to bring better 
focus to public participation and to improve consistency in the 
application of this regulation, both of which would result in improved 
efficiency of the appeals process for the public and the Government.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB89
_______________________________________________________________________




239.  SPECIAL USES AND GENERAL PROHIBITIONS: PALEONTOLOGICAL 
RESOURCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 551; 18 USC 641

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251.50; 36 CFR 261.2; 36 CFR 261.9(i)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule consists of several technical changes to 
the agency's special uses and prohibited acts regulations regarding 
fossil collecting. First, the proposed rule would revise 36 CFR 251.50 
to make clear that non-vertebrate fossil collecting is not a special 
use and, therefore, does not require a special use authorization. 
Second, this proposed rule also would make minor changes to 36 CFR 
261.2 to make the definition for ``paleontological resource'' 
scientifically correct and to remove the text that addresses 
exceptions. Third, the prohibitions related to property at 36 CFR 261.9 
would be revised to clarify that the prohibition does not apply to 
mineral materials, such as limestone or building stone recovered under 
a mineral contract or to organic remains primarily used as fuel, such 
as coal and oil. These exceptions are currently addressed 
inappropriately in the definition and, as a consequence, have led to 
misinterpretation of the prohibitions. This proposed rule is consistent 
with the Forest Service's stated commitment to develop a unified policy 
for management of fossil resources on Federal and Indian lands in 
accordance with the seven principles established in the May 2000 
Secretary of the Interior's Report to the Senate.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111

[[Page 32897]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB91
_______________________________________________________________________




240.  FOREST SERVICE TRAILS ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES

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

Legal Authority: 49 USC 4151; 29 USC 794; 7 CFR 15e

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, Section 504 of the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and 7 CFR 15e require that new or 
reconstructed facilities be accessible. The Forest Service Trails 
Accessibility Guidelines in this proposed policy amending Forest 
Service Manual (FSM) 2350, Trail, River, and Similar Recreation 
Opportunities, would establish clear agency guidelines to provide the 
highest level of accessibility to pedestrian/hiker trails for the 
greatest number of people, including persons with disabilities, while 
not fundamentally altering the environment and recreational setting. 
The proposed policy also would incorporate the definition of a 
wheelchair and clarify direction that a mobility device that meets that 
definition of a wheelchair may be used anywhere foot travel is 
permitted. Comments will be considered in development of the final 
guidelines.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________




241.  FOREST SERVICE OUTDOOR RECREATION ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 4151; 29 USC 794; 7 CFR 15 e

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, section 504 of the 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and 7 CFR 15e require that new or 
reconstructed facilities be accessible. The Forest Service Outdoor 
Recreation Accessibility Guidelines in this proposed policy amending 
Forest Service Manual (FSM) chapter 2330, Publicly Managed Recreation 
Opportunities, would establish clear agency guidelines to provide the 
highest level of accessibility for the greatest number of people, 
including persons with disabilities, while not fundamentally altering 
the environment and recreational setting. Outdoor recreation facilities 
include campgrounds, picnic areas, beach access and other access 
routes, and so on. The proposed policy also would clarify direction 
regarding existing requirements for the Golden Access Passport 
eligibility and documentation utilized by all Federal agencies under 
the 1980 amendment to the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act. 
Comments will be considered in development of the final guidelines.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




242. 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                    01/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AA52

[[Page 32898]]

_______________________________________________________________________




243. 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

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                    10/00/02
Final Action Effective          11/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB21
_______________________________________________________________________




244. COLLECTION OF REIMBURSABLE COSTS FOR PROCESSING SPECIAL-USE 
APPLICATIONS AND ADMINISTRATION OF SPECIAL-USE AUTHORIZATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

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                    07/00/02
Final Action Effective          08/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB36
_______________________________________________________________________




245. 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 and 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                    12/00/02
Final Action Effective          01/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Marian P. Connolly, Regulatory Officer, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




246. 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: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In April 1997, the Forest Service completed a reengineering 
study of its special uses program. One

[[Page 32899]]

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                            09/20/01                    66 FR 48412
NPRM Comment Period End         11/19/01
Final Action                    07/00/02
Final Action Effective          07/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




247. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLANNING; 
EXTENSION OF COMPLIANCE DEADLINE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1600 et seq; 5 USC 301

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 219, subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On November 9, 2000 (65 FR 67514), a rule substantially 
revising National Forest System land and resource management planning 
was adopted. Section 219.35 of that rule provided for the transition 
from the 1982 planning rule to the 2000 rule. May 9, 2001, was the date 
by which all forest plan amendments and revisions, under specified 
conditions, would be subject to the new planning requirements. However, 
early in 2001, the Department determined that the November 2000 
planning regulation needed to be revised in order to improve its 
implementation by field personnel (see sequence No. 425, National 
Forest System Land and Resource Management Planning). On May 17, 2001, 
the Department issued an interim final rule and simultaneously issued a 
proposed rule immediately extending the compliance date of May 9, 2001, 
until May 9, 2002, anticipating that the revised planning rule would be 
final at that time (66 FR 27552). Completion of the revised planning 
rule by May 9, 2002, has proven to be unrealistic; thus, the Department 
needs to extend the compliance deadline until the adoption of a final 
planning rule. This action is needed immediately because the May 9, 
2002, compliance date is imminent and it is necessary to grant relief 
to the units of the National Forest System that may initiate plan 
revisions and amendments after this date but before a new planning 
regulation is finalized. As with the May 17, 2001, interim final rule, 
the new interim final rule would allow forests the option of proceeding 
under the 1982 rule or under the November 2000 rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/17/01                    66 FR 27555
NPRM Comment Period End         07/16/01
Interim Final Rule              05/00/02
Interim Final Rule Effective    05/00/02

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, MS 1134, ATTN: IRM, D&R, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-1134
Phone: 703 605-4533
Fax: 703 605-5111
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB87
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




248. APPEAL OF DECISIONS RELATING TO OCCUPANCY AND USE OF NATIONAL 
FOREST SYSTEM LANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251; 36 CFR 214

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

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-AB45

[[Page 32900]]

_______________________________________________________________________




249. REVISIONS TO ROAD MANAGEMENT POLICY (FOREST SERVICE MANUAL CHAPTER 
7710)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 212

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/20/01                    66 FR 65796
NPRM Comment Period End         02/19/02


Next Action Undetermined

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-AB90
BILLING CODE 3410-11-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Office of Chief Financial Officer (OCFO)



_______________________________________________________________________




250.  GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT) AND 
GOVERNMENTWIDE REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE (GRANTS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: EO 12549

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3017 and 3021

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The requirements for maintaining a drug-free workplace are 
being removed as a subpart in the current debarment and suspension 
common rule, and recodified as a separate part 3021. The appendix that 
is referenced in 3017.50 contains a model for covered transactions that 
would be accurate for all USDA agencies if USDA had not added certain 
exclusions in 3017.215 and 3017.220. Therefore it is necessary to 
clarify that the appendix contains a general model that will vary for 
certain categories of transactions in accordance with the exclusions 
from covered transactions in 3017.215 and 3017.220. USDA has limited 
covered transactions under its current debarment and suspension 
regulation (7 CFR part 3017) to primary tier transactions for all of 
its export and foreign assistance programs. In 3017.755 (a) and 
3017.870 (a) USDA has added the requirement that the record remain open 
for a full 30 days after the respondent receives the notice of 
suspension or debarment even if a submission in opposition is made 
before the 30 days expire.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/23/02                     67 FR 3266
NPRM Comment Period End         03/25/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Annie Walker-Bradley, Acting Director for Planning, 
Department of Agriculture, Office of Chief Financial Officer, Room 4632 
South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9983
Fax: 202 690-3561
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0505-AA11
BILLING CODE 3410-90-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




251. 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 led 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 cross-cutting requirements not 
included in other USDA departmentwide administrative regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Annie Walker-Bradley, Acting Director Planning and 
Accountability, Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, 
Room 4632 South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 720-9983
Fax: 202 690-3561
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA21

[[Page 32901]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




252.  OUTREACH AND ASSISTANCE FOR DISADVANTAGED FARMERS AND RANCHERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2279(a)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 26

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will remove CFR Part 1943, Subpart C, ``Small 
Farmer Outreach Training and Technical Assistance Program,'' under the 
Farm Service Agency and add new CFR Part 26, ``Outreach and Assistance 
to Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Program,'' under the 
Office of the Secretary. The Food, Agriculture, Conservation and Trade 
Act of 1990, title XXV, section 2501 and the Department of Agriculture 
Appropriation Acts provides funding for the ``Outreach and Assistance 
for Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers Program.'' These acts 
provide the Office of Outreach with the authority to make grants and 
enter into contracts, cooperative agreements, and other agreements with 
entities to provide outreach, training, and technical assistance; to 
encourage and assist socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers to own 
and operate farms and ranches; and increase their participation and 
accessibility to agricultural programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/30/01                    66 FR 21608
NPRM Comment Period End         05/30/01
Final Action                    05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Geraldine Herring, Special Outreach Program 
Coordinator, Department of Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 29259
Phone: 202 720-6350
Fax: 202 720-7489
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA22
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




253. DESIGNATION OF RURAL EMPOWERMENT ZONES AND ENTERPRISE COMMUNITIES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 25

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/25/02                    67 FR 13553

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local

Agency Contact: Jay Norman Reid
Phone: 202 260-6332

RIN: 0503-AA20
BILLING CODE 3410-90-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




254. 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 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                            11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Richard Bonnet, Sr. Loan Specialist, B&I Processing 
Branch, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




255. 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,

[[Page 32902]]

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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Concepcion Malazo, Loan Specialist, B&I Servicing 
Branch, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




256. 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                            05/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Bonnet, Sr. Loan Specialist, B&I Processing 
Branch, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




257. 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 Rural Business-Cooperative Service proposes to completely 
rewrite and renumber 7 CFR 1942, subpart G, to 7 CFR part 4284, subpart 
B. This rewrite will incorporate public law changes and clarify 
administrative regulatory procedures and guidelines in order to improve 
program administration.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




258.  ANNUAL RENEWAL FEE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1932

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service is amending its 
regulation for Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans to provide for an 
annual renewal fee. The intended effect of this rule is to reduce the 
subsidy rate and its associated budget authority dollar level, which 
will result in a greater level of assistance to the public (i.e., 
higher supportable loan level).
An alternative to this action is to increase the initial up-front 
guaranteed fee, which is a greater initial financial burden on the 
lender/borrower. The cost to the lender/borrower is 1/4 of one percent 
per annum on the unpaid balance of the loan. This reduces the risk to 
the Government by requiring the public to share in the credit risk of 
each loan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Dwight Carmon, Director, Special Project Program 
Oversight Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-
Cooperative Service, STOP 3221, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-4100
Fax: 202 690-3808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA34

[[Page 32903]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




259. 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                    09/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




260. 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                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Diane Berger, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, STOP 3225, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2383
Fax: 202 720-6561
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________




261. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--DOMESTIC LAMB 
INDUSTRY ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM SET-ASIDE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action provides for a set-aside of $15 million in 
Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans in fiscal year (FY) 2001, $15 
million in FY 2002, and $5 million in FY 2003 to help fund the Domestic 
Lamb Industry Adjustment Assistance Program. The effective date for the 
set-aside was September 30, 2000.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              10/30/00                    65 FR 64596
Interim Final Rule Effective    10/30/00
Final Action                    09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roland T. Woodfolk, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Room 6864/Stop 3224, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-3805
Fax: 202 690-3808
Email: [email protected]

Richard Bonnet, Sr. Loan Specialist, B&I Processing Branch, 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-AA31
_______________________________________________________________________




262. THE RURAL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE GRANTS AND TELEVISION DEMONSTRATION 
GRANTS--SMALL/EMERGING PRIVATE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE

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: This action will amend the existing regulation by clarifying 
the definition of small and emerging private business enterprise and 
reduce the burden to the applicant in meeting the restricted 
definition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/16/01                    66 FR 27013
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/16/01
Final Action                    09/00/02

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

[[Page 32904]]

Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-3225
Phone: 202 690-2516
Fax: 202 720-6561
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA32
BILLING CODE 3410-XY-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




263. 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 and reorganizing the field trials section.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




264. 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                            06/00/02
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




265. ELECTRIC PROGRAM STANDARD CONTRACT FORMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1724; 7 CFR 1726; 7 CFR 1755

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS proposes to amend its regulations to revise its standard 
forms of contracts that borrowers are required to use when contracting 
for construction and procurement financed through loans made or 
guaranteed by RUS, in accordance with applicable RUS regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/16/98                    63 FR 49503
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/16/98
NPRM                            05/00/02

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-AB67
_______________________________________________________________________




266. EXEMPTIONS OF RUS OPERATIONAL CONTROLS UNDER SECTION 306E OF THE RE 
ACT

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: RUS proposes to eliminate duplicative lists of requirements 
and to eliminate RUS notification to each borrower informing them of 
their exemption from operational controls status under the 110 percent 
rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

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

[[Page 32905]]

Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB68
_______________________________________________________________________




267.  ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901-950b; PL 103-354; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1794

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Based on a greater use of small-scale and distribution 
generation, RUS` experience and review of its existing procedures, RUS 
has determined that several changes are necessary for its environmental 
process to operate in a more effective and efficient manner.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

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-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




268.  TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1775

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS proposes to amend the regulation to separate the 
technical assistance and training grant and solid waste management 
grant programs for clarification purposes and to bring the regulation 
in line with revisions to OMB circulars. Additionally, it eliminates 
the requirement that applicants submit a pre-application when applying 
for grant funds and transfers grant processing and servicing from the 
National Office to Rural Development State Offices.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/02

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-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________




269.  SPECIAL EQUIPMENT CONTRACT (NOT INCLUDING INSTALLATION), 
RUS FORM 
398

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 CFR 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS is amending its regulations on Telecommunications 
Standards and Specifications for Materials, Equipment, and Construction 
to revise RUS Form 398, Special Equipment Contract (Not Including 
Installation).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/02

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-AB76
_______________________________________________________________________




270.  ACCOUNTING REQUIREMENTS FOR RUS TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1770

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS proposes to revise subpart B, Uniform System of Accounts, 
to reflect changes to 47 CFR Part 32, Uniform System of Accounts, by 
the Federal Communications Commission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/02

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-AB77
_______________________________________________________________________




271.  EXTENSIONS OF PAYMENTS OF 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: RUS proposes to amend the regulation to include distributed 
generation projects. Also, the agency proposes to impose a maximum 
interest rate not to exceed more than 3 percent in excess of the RUS 
Borrower's average interest on the notes being deferred. This 3 percent 
limit would be used to offset all or part of the administrative costs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 32906]]

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-AB79
_______________________________________________________________________




272.  USEFUL LIFE OF FACILITY DETERMINATION

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 Rural Utilities Service proposes to eliminate the 
requirement to use depreciation rates as found in RUS Bulletin 183-1 
for determining the useful life of a facility.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/09/02                    67 FR 17018
NPRM Comment Period End         05/09/02

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-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




273. 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 (RUS) proposes to amend its debt 
settlement procedures to allow its Administrator to modify the 
requirements borrowers must meet to receive debt settlements. 
Currently, all borrowers must meet the same requirements regardless of 
the amount of debt or other circumstances. The intent of the proposed 
change is to facilitate debt settlements where the RUS Administrator 
determines that the Government's interest in the debt can still be 
protected without having the borrower meet each of the current 
requirements. Such determinations would be made on a case-by-case 
basis. While the change is expected to improve the efficiency of debt 
settlements, it is not intended to alter the basic outcome of such 
settlements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               08/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




274. MERGERS AND CONSOLIDATIONS OF ELECTRIC BORROWERS

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: The Rural Utilities Service will amend subpart D to provide 
the Administrator the flexibility to limit the amount of a loan to a 
successor (surviving business entity following a merger) to no more 
than 10 percent of the municipal loan authorization for a particular 
fiscal year, with the balance of the limited first loan request (if 
any) being considered in subsequent years. The Administrator will 
consider this limitation in years where a significant loan backlog is 
determined to exist.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/01/01                    66 FR 55130
NPRM Comment Period End         12/03/01
Final Action                    05/00/02

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
_______________________________________________________________________




275. 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                            04/25/01                    66 FR 20759
NPRM Comment Period End         05/25/01
Final Action                    05/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 32907]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




276. TELECOMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM SPECIFICATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is proposing to amend its 
regulations to change the manner in which it publishes the 
specifications that products need to meet for their use in 
telecommunications systems of RUS Borrowers. The specifications are 
currently published in the text of the CFR. This proposed rule would 
eliminate this unnecessary and burdensome publication in the CFR.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/02

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-AB69
_______________________________________________________________________




277.  GENERAL AND PRE-LOAN POLICIES AND PROCEDURES COMMON TO INSURED 
AND GUARANTEED LOANS

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: RUS is amending its regulations to clarify that the purchase 
or acquisition of existing electric facilities and implementation of 
demand side management and energy conservation programs, and on-grid 
and off-grid renewable energy systems are eligible loan purposes under 
the Rural Electrification Act, as amended. The rule also makes several 
technical corrections to conform the language of the regulations to 
existing law and to correct a typographical error.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      05/00/02

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-AB72
_______________________________________________________________________




278.  SEISMIC SAFETY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 42 USC 7701 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1792-C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The revision to the existing CFR is made to update the 
requirements of the agency. The direct final rule provides RUS 
borrowers, grant recipients, Rural Telephone Bank (RTB) borrowers and 
the public with updated rules for compliance with seismic safety 
requirements for new building construction using RUS or RTB loan, grant 
or guaranteed funds or funds provided through lien accommodations or 
subordinations approved by RUS or RTB.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/02

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-AB74
_______________________________________________________________________




279.  RECORD RETENTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RUS ELECTRIC AND 
TELECOMMUNICATIONS BORROWERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 901 et seq; 7 USC 1921 et seq; 7 USC 6941 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1767; 7 CFR 1770

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS plans to issue record retention requirements for its 
Electric and Telecommunications borrowers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               06/00/02

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-AB78

[[Page 32908]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




280. EXTENSIONS OF PAYMENTS OF PRINCIPAL AND INTEREST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1721

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/04/02                      67 FR 484
Final Action Effective          02/04/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________




281. DISTANCE LEARNING AND TELEMEDICINE LOAN AND GRANT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1703

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/23/02                     67 FR 3128
Direct Final Rule               01/23/02                     67 FR 3039
Direct Final Rule Effective     03/11/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: F. Lamont Heppe
Phone: 202 720-9550
Fax: 202 720-4120

RIN: 0572-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________




282.  TREASURY RATE LOAN PROGRAM

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: RUS is amending its regulations to establish rules and 
regulations to administer the Treasury rate direct loan program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/26/01                    66 FR 66359
Direct Final Rule               12/26/01                    66 FR 66293
NPRM Comment Period End         01/25/02
Direct Final Rule Effective     02/11/02

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-AB71
BILLING CODE 3410-15-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




283. 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

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/02

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
Fax: 301 504-2161
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________




284. 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                            09/00/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Victor Cole, National EWP Leader, Department of 
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Room 6019-S, PO 
Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 690-4575
Fax: 202 720-2143
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA30

[[Page 32909]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




285. 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                            06/29/01                    66 FR 34584
NPRM Comment Period End         08/28/01
Final Rule                      05/00/02

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
Fax: 301 504-2161
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA29
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




286. 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                    61 FR 47019
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: Martha Joseph
Phone: 202 720-7157
Fax: 202 720-2143
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA17
_______________________________________________________________________




287. FORESTRY INCENTIVES PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 635; 7 CFR 701

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Molleur
Phone: 202 720-6521
Fax: 202 720-4265
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA26
BILLING CODE 3410-16-S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM)



_______________________________________________________________________




288. 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 reduces 
the administrative burden placed on recipient Institutions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               08/00/02

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
[FR Doc. 02-8351 Filed 05-10-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-98-S
