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


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Part IV





Department of Commerce





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 30078]]



DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (DOC)






_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

Office of the Secretary

13 CFR Ch. III

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

19 CFR Ch. III

37 CFR Chs. I, IV, and V

48 CFR Ch. 13

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

Fall 2002 Semiannual Agenda of Regulations

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, Commerce.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY: In compliance with Executive Order 12866 entitled ``Regulatory 
Planning and Review'' and the Regulatory Flexibility Act, as amended, 
the Department of Commerce, in the spring and fall of each year, 
publishes in the Federal Register an agenda of regulations under 
development or review over the next 12 months. Rulemaking actions are 
grouped according to prerulemaking, proposed rules, final rules, long-
term actions, and rulemaking actions completed since the fall 2002 
agenda. The purpose of the agenda is to provide information to the 
public on regulations currently under review, being proposed, or issued 
by the Department. The agenda is intended to facilitate comments and 
views by interested members of the public.

     The Department's spring 2003 regulatory agenda includes 
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the 
period April 1, 2003, through March 31, 2004.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 

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

    General: Comments or inquiries of a general nature about the 
agenda should be directed to Daniel Cohen, Chief Counsel for 
Regulation, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Legislation 
and Regulation, U.S. Department of Commerce, Washington, DC 20230; 
telephone: 202-482-3151.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Executive Order 12866 requires agencies to 
publish an agenda of those regulations that are under consideration 
pursuant to this Order. By memorandum, the Office of Management and 
Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the preparation and 
publication of the Spring 2003 Unified Agenda of Federal Regulatory and 
Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Flexibility Act, 5 U.S.C. 601 et 
seq., requires agencies to publish, in April and October of each year, 
a regulatory flexibility agenda which contains a brief description of 
the subject area of any rule which is likely to have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The agenda 
also identifies those entries that have been selected for periodic 
review under section 610 of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

Explanation of Information Contained in the Agenda

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

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

Explanation of Information Contained in NMFS Regulatory Entries

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

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

     The DOC spring 2003 regulatory agenda follows.

 Theodore W. Kassinger,

General Counsel.

                                    Office of the Secretary--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
299         Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Race, Color, National Origin, Handicap, and Age in     0690-AA30
            Programs and Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance......................
300         Employee Responsibilities and Conduct; Removal of Obsolete Regulations..............     0690-AA32
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 30079]]


                                   Office of the Secretary--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
301         Civil Monetary Penalties; Adjustments...............................................     0690-AA33
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Bureau of Economic Analysis--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
302         Annual Survey of Foreign Direct Investment in the United States.....................     0691-AA48
303         Quarterly Surveys of International Trade in Services Between U.S. and Foreign            0691-AA49
            Persons.............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Economic Analysis--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
304         Economic Development Administration Regulations.....................................     0691-AA47
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Economic Analysis--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
305         Annual Survey of Selected Services Transactions With Unaffiliated Foreign Persons...     0691-AA43
306         Benchmark Survey of Foreign Direct Investment in the United States--2002............     0691-AA44
307         Transactions of U.S. Affiliate, Except U.S. Banking Affiliate, With Foreign Parent       0691-AA45
            (BE-605) and Transactions of U.S. Banking Affiliate With Foreign Parent (BE-605
            Bank)...............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                       Bureau of the Census--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
308         Full Mandatory Automated Export System (AES) Filing for Export Shipments............     0607-AA38
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Bureau of the Census--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
309         Special Services and Studies by the Bureau of the Census; Amendments to Age Search       0607-AA24
            Procedures..........................................................................
310         Automated Export System (AES) Mandatory Filing for All Items on the Commerce Control     0607-AA34
            List (CCL) and the United States Munitions List (USML) That Currently Require a
            Shipper's Export Declaration (SED)..................................................
311         Cutoff Dates for Recognition of Boundary Changes for Census 2000 and for the             0607-AA35
            Intercensal Period..................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Bureau of the Census--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
312         Mandatory Automated Export System (AES) for Exports (Re-Exports) of Rough Diamonds..     0607-AA39
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 30080]]


                                     Bureau of the Census--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
313         Bureau of the Census Certification Process..........................................     0607-AA36
314         Bureau of the Census Geographically Updated Population Certification Program........     0607-AA37
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                       Bureau of the Census--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                                  Date                 Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0607-AA29        Reporting Value on Shipper's Export Declaration for Inland Freight and Insurance Charges       02/24/2003   Withdrawn
0607-AA30        Reporting the Value of Repairs and Replacement Parts on the Shipper's Export Declaration       02/24/2003   Withdrawn
0607-AA31        Notation of the Shipper's Export Declaration Filing Exemption Statement on Manifest            02/24/2003   Withdrawn
                 Documents
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    General Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
315         Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement)............................     0605-AA16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    General Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
316         Public Information, Freedom of Information and Privacy..............................     0605-AA14
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             International Trade Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
317         Commercial Availability of Fabric and Yarn..........................................     0625-AA59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              International Trade Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
318         Procedures for Conducting Five-Year (Sunset) Reviews of Antidumping and                  0625-AA51
            Countervailing Duty Orders..........................................................
319         Import of Certain Worsted Wool Fabric: Implementation of Tariff Rate Quota               0625-AA58
            Established Under Title V of the Trade and Development Act of 2000..................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              International Trade Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
320         Proposed Changes in the Insular Possessions Watch, Watch Movement, and Jewelry           0625-AA57
            Program.............................................................................
321         Establishment of Steel Import Licensing and Surge-Monitoring Program................     0625-AA60
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[[Page 30081]]


                                                International Trade Administration--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                                  Date                 Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0625-AA52        Export Trade Certificates of Review (15 CFR 325)                                               03/11/2003   Withdrawn
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Industry and Security--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
322         License Exception APR for Reexports To, From, and Among Countries in Country Group       0694-AC69
            A:1.................................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Bureau of Industry and Security--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
323         Chemical Weapons Convention Regulations.............................................     0694-AB06
324         Mandatory Electronic Filing of License Applications, Classification Requests, and        0694-AC20
            License Exceptions Notifications via BIS's Simplified Network Application Process
            (SNAP)..............................................................................
325         Protective Equipment Export License Jurisdiction....................................     0694-AC64
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Bureau of Industry and Security--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
326         Entity List Revision: Khan Research Laboratories....................................     0694-AB60
327         Exports and Reexports of Explosive Detection Systems; Expansion of Foreign Policy        0694-AB87
            Controls............................................................................
328         Exports and Reexports to Sudan......................................................     0694-AC05
329         Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations Related to the Missile Technology     0694-AC22
            Control Regime (MTCR)...............................................................
330         Revisions and Clarifications to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).........     0694-AC24
331         License Exception AVS: Cuba, Libya, Serbia..........................................     0694-AC33
332         Chemical Weapons Convention: Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations.....     0694-AC35
333         Exports to Afghanistan (the Taliban) and Liberia: Imposition of Foreign Policy           0694-AC45
            Controls............................................................................
334         Elimination of ``National Security'' as a Reason for Control for Certain Items on        0694-AC54
            the Commerce Control List...........................................................
335         Imposition and Expansion of Controls on Designated Persons..........................     0694-AC60
336         License Application Denial Policy, ``Red Flag'' Indicators of Possible Inappropriate     0694-AC68
            End-Use, End-User, or Destination...................................................
337         Revisions and Clarifications to the Export Administration Regulations -- Chemical        0694-AC70
            and Biological Weapons Controls: Australia Group (June 2002 Plenary Meeting)........
338         Revisions of Aircraft Export Licensing Jurisdiction Based on Review of the United        0694-AC74
            States Munitions List...............................................................
339         Revisions of Energetic Material Export Licensing Jurisdiction Based on Review of the     0694-AC75
            United States Munitions List........................................................
340         Export Administration Regulations: Encryption Clarifications and Revisions..........     0694-AC78
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Bureau of Industry and Security--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
341         Transfer of Dual-Use Items From U.S. Munitions List to the Commerce Control List....     0694-AA52
342         Administration of State Log Exports Ban.............................................     0694-AB25
343         Change the Commerce Control List To Revise Controls on Communication Intercepting        0694-AB41
            Devices (Export Commerce Control Number ECCN 5A980).................................
344         Clarification of License Exception GFT (Humanitarian Donations).....................     0694-AB49
345         Exports of Technology and Software; Release of Technology or Source Code to Foreign      0694-AB59
            Nationals in the United States......................................................
346         India and Pakistan Sanctions........................................................     0694-AB73

[[Page 30082]]

 
347         Expansion of License Exception CIV Eligibility for Microprocessors Controlled by         0694-AB90
            ECCN 3A001..........................................................................
348         Export of Technology and Software Through Electronic Transmissions, Downloads, and       0694-AB97
            Programming Onto Hardware...........................................................
349         Export Administration Regulations: Support Documentation............................     0694-AC04
350         Antiterrorism Controls on Iraq......................................................     0694-AC06
351         Expansion of License Exception GOV; Exports and Reexports to International               0694-AC15
            Organizations.......................................................................
352         De Minimis Expansion of Eligibility: U.S. Origin Software Incorporated Into Foreign-     0694-AC17
            Made Retail Commodities.............................................................
353         Revision to the Export Administration Regulations: Replacement Licenses.............     0694-AC23
354         Short Supply Controls: Crude Oil Exports............................................     0694-AC25
355         Offsets in Military Exports.........................................................     0694-AC27
356         Entity List: Additions and Revisions................................................     0694-AC28
357         Crime Control Items: Revisions to the Commerce Control List.........................     0694-AC31
358         Revisions to Encryption Items.......................................................     0694-AC32
359         Clarifications to Part 753: Special Comprehensive License Requirements..............     0694-AC34
360         Addition and Revision of Missile Projects in the Export Administration Regulations..     0694-AC46
361         Revision, Suspension, or Prohibition of Use of ``No License Required'' Provisions...     0694-AC47
362         Removal of Licensing Exemption for Exports and Reexports of Missile Technology-          0694-AC48
            Controlled Items Destined to Canada.................................................
363         Exports to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia: Lifting of Sanctions.................     0694-AC57
364         Computer Technology and Software Eligible for Export or Reexport Under License           0694-AC63
            Exception TSR.......................................................................
365         Revisions to License Exception TSR: Expansion to Scope of Eligible Countries........     0694-AC71
366         Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations Based on the 2002 Missile             0694-AC76
            Technology Control Regime Plenary Agreements........................................
367         Addition of East Timor, Netherlands Antilles, and Aruba to the Export Administration     0694-AC77
            Regulations.........................................................................
368         General Order on Exports to Iraq....................................................     0694-AC79
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Bureau of Industry and Security--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
369         Implementation of the 2002 Wassenaar Arrangement List of Dual-Use Items: Revisions       0694-AC65
            to Categories 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9 of the Commerce Control List, General Software
            Note, and Reporting Requirements....................................................
370         Revision of Export Controls for General Purpose Microprocessors.....................     0694-AC66
371         Correction to Rule Entitled: Missile Technology Production Equipment and Facilities.     0694-AC72
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        National Institute of Standards & Technology--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
372         Procedures for Implementation of the National Construction Safety Team Act..........     0693-AB53
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         National Institute of Standards & Technology--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
373         Procedures for Implementation of the National Construction Safety Team Act..........     0693-AB52
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 30083]]


                         National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
374         Fleet Capacity Control for U.S. Troll Albacore Tuna Fishing in Canadian Waters......     0648-AQ22
375         Amendment 1 to the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan............................     0648-AQ86
376         Control Date for the Small Mesh Multispecies (Silver Hake, Offshore Hake, and Red        0648-AQ89
            Hake) Fishery.......................................................................
377         Endangered and Threatened Species; Finding for a Petition To Revise Critical Habitat     0648-AQ53
            for Northern Right Whales...........................................................
378         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Missile      0648-AQ61
            Launch Activities by the U.S. Navy at San Nicolas Island, California................
379         Endangered Species and Pesticide Regulation.........................................     0648-AQ69
380         Taking and Importing Marine Mammals: Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Conducting      0648-AQ71
            Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in the Gulf of Mexico............................
381         Designate Critical Habitat; Withdraw Previous Designations..........................     0648-AQ77
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
382         Amendment 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Fishery of Puerto Rico      0648-AG87
            and the U.S. Virgin Islands.........................................................
383         Establish Central Registry for Limited Access System Permits........................     0648-AJ77
384         Regulatory Amendment To Require Mandatory Observer Coverage in the At-Sea Processing     0648-AK26
            Sector of the Whiting Fishery.......................................................
385         Adjustment of Management Program: Bottomfish Fisheries in the Hawaiian Islands......     0648-AK82
386         Revise Exempted Fishing Regulations To Specify Compensatory Fishing Under Exempted       0648-AK84
            Fishing.............................................................................
387         Amendment 11 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Crustacean Fisheries of the          0648-AL67
            Western Pacific Region..............................................................
388         Fishery Management Plan for Calico Scallop Fishery in the South Atlantic Region          0648-AL78
            (FMP)...............................................................................
389         Amendment 10 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of        0648-AM23
            Mexico (FMP)........................................................................
390         Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Bottomfish Fisheries of the           0648-AM98
            Western Pacific Region..............................................................
391         Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Spiny Lobster Fishery of the Gulf     0648-AN08
            of Mexico and South Atlantic FMP....................................................
392         Amendment 18 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf      0648-AN09
            of Mexico...........................................................................
393         Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan....................     0648-AN16
394         Amendment 13 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan..................     0648-AN17
395         Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan Amendment for the Pelagic Fisheries of        0648-AN76
            the Western Pacific Region..........................................................
396         Regulatory Amendment Modifying the Gulf of Mexico BRD Protocol Under the Fishery         0648-AN84
            Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico (FMP)..................
397         Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Sargassum Habitat of the South Atlantic...........     0648-AN87
398         Management Measures for the Northeast Skate Complex.................................     0648-AO10
399         Fishery Management Plan for the Dolphin and Wahoo Fishery of the Atlantic,               0648-AO63
            Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico (FMP) of the Atlantic.................................
400         Regulatory Amendment Under the Fishery Management Plan for Gulf of Mexico Reef Fish      0648-AP02
            (FMP) To Establish a Red Snapper Stock Rebuilding Plan and To Set Red Snapper
            Overfishing Targets and Thresholds..................................................
401         Amendment 13 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the       0648-AP03
            South Atlantic Region...............................................................
402         Revision of American Lobster Regulations for the EEZ................................     0648-AP18
403         Regulatory Amendment to Implement Permit Stacking in the Limited-Entry Fixed-Gear        0648-AP38
            Sablefish Fishery in 2002 and Beyond................................................
404         Implementation of Fishery Management Plan for Highly Migratory Species Fisheries Off     0648-AP42
            the West Coast......................................................................
405         Regulatory Amendment Under the Coastal Migratory Pelagics Fishery Management Plan...     0648-AP50
406         Comprehensive Amendment Addressing Sustainable Fisheries Act Requirements Regarding      0648-AP51
            Overfishing, Bycatch, Fishing Communities and Provisions for Fishery Management
            Plans for the Caribbean.............................................................
407         Atlantic Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries; Amendment 13.........................     0648-AP57
408         Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries; Amendment 9.....................     0648-AP60
409         Implement a Vessel Monitoring System Under the South Pacific Tuna Act...............     0648-AP61
410         Revise Community Development Quota Program Administration and Allocation Regulations     0648-AP67
411         Full Retention of Demersal Shelf Rockfish in Gulf of Alaska Area 650................     0648-AP73
412         Amendment to Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of Gulf of Mexico to        0648-AP95
            Set 10-Year Rebuilding Plan for Red Grouper.........................................
413         Regulatory Amendment to Section 679 Permits or Permit-Related Issues................     0648-AQ07

[[Page 30084]]

 
414         Regulatory Amendment To Adjust Permit Renewal Requirements and Transferability           0648-AQ20
            Restrictions in NWHI's Hoomalu Zone and Mau Limited Access Programs.................
415         Fleet Capacity Control for U.S. Tuna Purse Seine Fisheries in the Eastern Pacific        0648-AQ21
            Ocean...............................................................................
416         Secretarial Amendment 2 to Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan To Set Greater              0648-AQ24
            Amberjack Sustainable Fisheries Act Targets and Thresholds and To Set Rebuilding
            Plan................................................................................
417         Amendment 2 to Monkfish Fishery Management Plan.....................................     0648-AQ25
418         Amendment 1 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and Amendment 2 to     0648-AQ27
            the Atlantic Salmon FMP.............................................................
419         Recreational Specifications for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass            0648-AQ32
            Fishery for Fishing Year 2003.......................................................
420         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Bigeye Tuna and Swordfish Trade Statistical     0648-AQ37
            Document Programs...................................................................
421         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2003 Bluefin Tuna Quota Specifications and      0648-AQ38
            Effort Controls.....................................................................
422         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large     0648-AQ42
            Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations...............................................
423         EFH Amendments to the Bottomfish, Crustaceans, and Precious Corals FMPs.............     0648-AQ43
424         Rulemaking to Correct the Salmon Fishery Coordinates as Implemented in the Amendment     0648-AQ48
            3 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Salmon Fisheries in the EEZ off the Coast
            of Alaska...........................................................................
425         Framework 3 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.     0648-AQ57
426         Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Pacific Coast Groundfish Vessel Monitoring System.     0648-AQ58
427         Fisheries of the United States; National Standard 1.................................     0648-AQ63
428         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species: Billfish and Swordfish Recreational Fishing......     0648-AQ65
429         Amendment 17 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan................     0648-AQ68
430         Continuation of Measures To Reduce Fishing Mortality in the Northeast Multispecies       0648-AQ72
            Fishery and Implement a DAS Leasing Program.........................................
431         Changes to Eligibility Criteria for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Crab License         0648-AQ73
            Limitation Program..................................................................
432         Revise Eligibility Criteria for BSAI Pacific Cod Endorsements to Groundfish Licenses     0648-AQ75
            Issued Under the License Limitation Program (LLP)...................................
433         Framework Adjustment 38 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP).     0648-AQ76
434         Implement BSAI FMP Amendment 75--Delaying Implementation of Improved Retention/          0648-AQ78
            Improved Utilization of Flatfish....................................................
435         Annual Specifications for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries        0648-AQ80
            for 2004............................................................................
436         Specifications for the 2004-2005 Fishing Year for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery.........     0648-AQ81
437         Recreational Measures for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery for      0648-AQ82
            Fishing Year 2004...................................................................
438         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries for     0648-AQ83
            2004................................................................................
439         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Herring Fishery for 2004.....................     0648-AQ84
440         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery for 2004....................     0648-AQ85
441         ''Other Species'' CDQ Reserve Management............................................     0648-AQ88
442         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Swordfish Quotas........................     0648-AQ90
443         Adjustment of Management Program; Pelagic Fisheries in the Western Pacific Region...     0648-AQ91
444         Amendment 11 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Pelagic Fisheries of the Western     0648-AQ92
            Pacific Region (American Samoa Limited Access Program)..............................
445         Eastern Pacific Tuna Controls.......................................................     0648-AQ93
446         West Coast Coastal Pelagic Fisheries Sardine Allocation System Change...............     0648-AQ94
447         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Atlantic Shark Management Measures.........     0648-AQ95
448         Announcement of the Optimum Yield and Harvest Limit for Pacific Mackerel............     0648-AQ96
449         Announcement of the Optimum Yield and Harvest Limit for Pacific Sardine.............     0648-AQ97
450         Amend Regulations Governing the Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals..............     0648-AH83
451         North Atlantic Whale Protection.....................................................     0648-AM85
452         Preventing Harassment From Human Activities Directed at Marine Mammals in the Wild..     0648-AN43
453         Endangered and Threatened Species: Permit Exemptions................................     0648-AO37
454         Captive Steller Sea Lions...........................................................     0648-AO61
455         Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Rocket Launches From the Kodiak Launch Complex,      0648-AP62
            Kodiak Island, Alaska...............................................................
456         Annual Specifications for the Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries for 2004.........     0648-AQ79
457         Revision of Overflight Regulations..................................................     0648-AI91
458         Interagency Consultation for the National Marine Sanctuary Program..................     0648-AL06
459         Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary...............................................     0648-AQ41
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 30085]]


                        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
460         Regulatory Amendment To Allocate Pacific Halibut to the Charter Boat Fleet..........     0648-AK17
461         Proposed Highly Migratory Species Process...........................................     0648-AK40
462         Regulatory Amendment to Reinstate 6000-Pound Trip Limit of Halibut in Area Northeast     0648-AL97
            of the Bering Sea...................................................................
463         Enhanced Measures To Mitigate Seabird Bycatch in the Alaska Longline Fisheries (Hook-    0648-AM30
            and-Line)...........................................................................
464         Implementation of Western Pacific Coral Reef Ecosystem Fishery Management Plan (FMP)     0648-AM97
465         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fisheries; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Incidental Catch.     0648-AO75
466         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Exempted Fishing Permits Procedures..............     0648-AO79
467         American Lobster Fishery; Revisions to Lobster Trap Limits, Conservation Equivalency     0648-AP15
            in New Hampshire Waters, and Clarification of Lobster Management Boundaries per
            Addendum 1..........................................................................
468         Fishing Capacity Reduction Program for the Crab Species Covered by the Fishery           0648-AP25
            Management Plan for the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crabs...........
469         Bottomfish and Pelagics Fisheries FMP Amendments Regarding Bycatch Provisions.......     0648-AP54
470         Bottomfish, Crustaceans, Pelagics, and Precious Corals Fisheries FMP Amendments          0648-AP55
            Regarding Fishing Communities.......................................................
471         Amendment to Regulations for Observer At-Sea Electronic Communication Equipment          0648-AP66
            Requirements for Vessels and Shoreside Processors in the North Pacific Groundfish
            Fisheries...........................................................................
472         Antarctic Marine Living Resources Vessel Monitoring System and Catch Documentation       0648-AP74
            Scheme..............................................................................
473         IFQ Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements for Catcher Vessels; BSAI Amendment 72      0648-AP92
            and GOA Amendment 64................................................................
474         Extension of an Emergency Interim Rule to Implement 2002 Steller Sea Lion Protection     0648-AQ02
            Measures and Harvest Specifications for the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands Area and the
            Gulf of Alaska......................................................................
475         Subsistence Fishery for Pacific Halibut in Waters Off Alaska........................     0648-AQ09
476         Capital Construction Fund Procedures................................................     0648-AQ16
477         2003-2004 Management Measures for Commercial, Recreational, and Treaty Indian Salmon     0648-AQ17
            Fisheries Off the Coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California......................
478         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery for Fishing Year 2003.......     0648-AQ26
479         Framework 2 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan.................................     0648-AQ29
480         Specifications for the 2003-2004 Fishing Year for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery.........     0648-AQ34
481         Framework 37 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan..................     0648-AQ35
482         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Large and Small Coastal Shark Commercial        0648-AQ39
            Management Measures.................................................................
483         Increase in Allowable Percentage of Pollock Roe.....................................     0648-AQ44
484         Opening Waters to Pacific Cod Pot Fishing Off Cape Barnabas and Caton Island in the      0648-AQ45
            Gulf of Alaska......................................................................
485         Policies and Procedures Regarding Use of the NOAA Space-Based Data Collection            0648-AQ55
            Systems.............................................................................
486         Corrected Amendment for a Charter Vessel/Headboat Permit Moratorium Amending the         0648-AQ70
            Gulf Reef Fish and Coastal Pelagics FMPs............................................
487         Notice of Technical Revision to Right Whale Nomenclature and Taxonomy Under the U.S.     0648-AQ74
            Endangered Species Act..............................................................
488         Atlantic Large Whale 2002 Seasonal Area Management (SAM) Program....................     0648-AP68
489         Provide Regulations for Permits for Capture, Transport, Import, and Export of            0648-AH26
            Protected Species for Public Display, and for Maintaining a Captive Marine Mammal
            Inventory...........................................................................
490         Draft Policy for Evaluation of Conservation Efforts in Making Listing Decisions.....     0648-AL91
491         Taking of the Cook Inlet, Alaska, Stock of Beluga Whales by Alaska Natives..........     0648-AO16
492         Restrictions on Pound Net Leaders To Enhance Turtle Protection in Virginia;              0648-AP81
            Threatened and Endangered Sea Turtle Conservation...................................
493         Listing Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Designating Critical Habitat; 12-         0648-AP94
            Month Finding.......................................................................
494         Designating the Eastern North Pacific Southern Resident Stock of Killer Whales as        0648-AQ00
            Depleted............................................................................
495         Designation of Critical Habitat for Gulf Sturgeon...................................     0648-AQ03
496         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large     0648-AQ04
            Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations...............................................
497         Taking of Threatened or Endangered Species Incidental to Commercial Fishing              0648-AQ13
            Operations..........................................................................
498         Access to Tissue Specimen Samples From the National Marine Mammal Tissue Bank.......     0648-AQ51
499         List of Fisheries for 2003..........................................................     0648-AQ60
500         Natural Resource Damage Assessments Under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990.............     0648-AM80
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 30086]]


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
501         Crustaceans, Bottomfish, and Pelagics FMP Amendments Regarding Overfishing               0648-AN79
            Definitions.........................................................................
502         Amendment 2 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan.........................     0648-AQ87
503         Interagency Policy on the Prescription of Fishways Under Section 18 of the Federal       0648-AO70
            Power Act...........................................................................
504         Policy for Review of Mandatory Conditions Developed by the Departments of the            0648-AO84
            Interior and Commerce in the Context of Hydropower Licensing........................
505         Endangered and Threatened Species: Take of Threatened Southern Oregon/Northern           0648-AJ91
            California Coast Evolutionarily Significant Unit (ESU) Coho Salmon..................
506         Designated Critical Habitat: Proposed Critical Habitat for Northern California           0648-AO04
            Steelhead...........................................................................
507         Installing and Maintaining Commercial Submarine Cables in National Marine                0648-AO36
            Sanctuaries.........................................................................
508         Procedural Changes to the Federal Consistency Process...............................     0648-AP98
509         Regional Marine Research Program....................................................     0648-AF20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
510         Comprehensive Amendment Addressing Sustainable Fisheries Act Requirements Regarding      0648-AL86
            Overfishing, Bycatch, Fishing Communities and Provisions for Fishery Management
            Plans for the Caribbean.............................................................
511         Regulatory Amendment To Change the Regulations Implementing the North Pacific            0648-AM44
            Observer Program....................................................................
512         Framework Regulatory Amendment for the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS);          0648-AM91
            Fishing Vessel Permits; Charter Boat Operations.....................................
513         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fisheries; Monitoring of the Atlantic Billfish and     0648-AN06
            Swordfish Recreational Fisheries....................................................
514         Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Stone Crab Fishery of the Gulf of     0648-AN10
            Mexico..............................................................................
515         Amendment 13 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management         0648-AN12
            Plan................................................................................
516         Amendments 61/61 for BSAI and GOA Groundfish; Amendment 13 for Commercial King and       0648-AN55
            Tanner Crab; and Amendment 8 for Alaska Scallop Fishery.............................
517         Deep-Sea Red Crab Fishery Management Plan...........................................     0648-AN68
518         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Swordfish Quotas and Fishing Areas...............     0648-AO93
519         Regulatory Amendment To Allow Experimental Setnet Sablefish Landings To Qualify          0648-AP39
            Limited-Entry Sablefish Endorsement Holders for Tier Assignment in the West Coast
            Primary Sablefish Fishery...........................................................
520         Amendment 5 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the South           0648-AP41
            Atlantic Region.....................................................................
521         Announcement of the Optimum Yield and Harvest Limit for Pacific Mackerel............     0648-AP43
522         Amendment 69 to the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) Fishery Management Plan       0648-AP71
            (FMP)--American Fisheries Act (AFA) Coop Leasing....................................
523         Protect Northeast Multispecies Groundfish Stocks....................................     0648-AP78
524         Amendment 60 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Gulf       0648-AP79
            of Alaska...........................................................................
525         Pacific Tuna Fisheries..............................................................     0648-AP86
526         Amendment 10 to the Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery Management Plan.................     0648-AP87
527         Announcement of the Optimum Yield and Harvest Limit for Pacific Sardine.............     0648-AP88
528         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Regulatory Adjustments; NOAA Information        0648-AP89
            Collection Requirements.............................................................
529         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2002 Bluefin Tuna Quota Specifications and      0648-AP90
            Effort Controls.....................................................................
530         2003 Observer Program Requirements..................................................     0648-AQ05
531         Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone Off Alaska--Steller Sea Lion Protection         0648-AQ08
            Measures............................................................................
532         Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and               0648-AQ11
            Butterfish Fisheries; Control Date for Atlantic Mackerel............................
533         Implementation of New Depth-Based Management Measures in the Pacific Coast               0648-AQ14
            Groundfish Fishery..................................................................
534         2003 Initial Specifications for Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish............     0648-AQ15
535         Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Announcement of the 2003 Groundfish Fishery            0648-AQ18
            Specifications and Management Measures..............................................
536         Groundfish Fishery Management Measures for January Through February 2003............     0648-AQ19
537         Fisheries of the Northeastern United States; Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery; Framework     0648-AQ28
            Adjustment 15.......................................................................
538         Annual Specifications for Fishing Year 2003 for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black     0648-AQ30
            Sea Bass Fishery....................................................................
539         Annual Specifications for the Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries for Fishing Year      0648-AQ31
            2003................................................................................
540         Specifications for the Atlantic Herring Fishery for Fishery Year 2003...............     0648-AQ33
541         Seasonal Adjustment of Closure Areas to Pollock and Pacific Cod Trawl Fishing in         0648-AQ46
            Waters Off Cape Sarichef in the Bering Sea Subarea..................................
542         Expedite Reallocation of Sardine in the West Coast Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery..     0648-AQ47

[[Page 30087]]

 
543         Modification of the Regulations Implementing Framework Adjustment 35 (Framework 35)      0648-AQ50
            to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP).........................
544         Rescind a Final Rule Implementing a Charter Vessel/Headboat Permit Moratorium            0648-AQ59
            Amending the Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan (Amendment 20) and Coastal Migratory
            Pelagics Fishery Management Plan....................................................
545         Sea Scallop Research Proposals under Framework 15 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop            0648-AQ62
            Fishery Management Plan.............................................................
546         Research Proposals for Fishing Year 2004 for a Research Set-Aside Program for            0648-AQ66
            Selected Mid-Atlantic Fisheries.....................................................
547         Revisions to the Pacific Halibut Catch Sharing Plan for 2003 and Beyond.............     0648-AQ67
548         Pacific Offshore Cetacean Take Reduction Plan.......................................     0648-AL70
549         Sea Turtle Conservation Regulations; Shrimp Fishery.................................     0648-AN62
550         Sea Turtle Conservation Regulations; Fishery Activities.............................     0648-AP91
551         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large     0648-AQ23
            Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations...............................................
552         Sea Turtle Conservation; Shrimp Trawling Requirements...............................     0648-AQ52
553         Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals: Takings Incidental to Power Plant Operations     0648-AQ54
554         Sea Turtle Conservation; Shrimp Trawling Requirements...............................     0648-AQ56
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                          National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                                  Date                 Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0648-AO47        Amendment 5 to the Fishery Management Plan for Precious Coral Fisheries in the Western         03/03/2003   Withdrawn
                 Pacific Region
0648-AP16        Sea Turtle Conservation Regulations; Fishery Activities (TEDs)                                 12/21/2002   Merged With 0648-AN62
0648-AP53        Adjustment of Management Program: Bottomfish Fisheries in the Western Pacific                  03/03/2003   Withdrawn
0648-AQ40        Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Large Coastal Shark Commercial and Recreational       10/01/2002   Merged With 0648-AQ39
                 Management Measures
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
555         Rules of Practice Before the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences..............     0651-AB32
556         Madrid Protocol Implementation Act Rules Change.....................................     0651-AB45
557         Changes to Promote Quality Enhancement and Pendency.................................     0651-AB50
558         Changes in Trademark Rules of Practice in Inter Partes Proceedings Before the            0651-AB56
            Trademark Trial and Appeal Board....................................................
559         Changes To Implement the 2002 Inter Partes Reexamination and Other Technical             0651-AB57
            Amendments to the Patent Statute....................................................
560         Changes To Implement Electronic Maintenance of Official Patent Application Records..     0651-AB59
561         Revision of Patent and Trademark Fees for Fiscal Year 2004..........................     0651-AB60
562         Revision of Search and Preliminary Examination Fees for International Applications..     0651-AB61
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
563         Elimination of Continued Prosecution Application Practice as to Utility and Plant...     0651-AB37
564         Changes To Implement Patent-Related Provisions of the United States Patent and           0651-AB54
            Trademark Fee Modernization Act of 2003.............................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 30088]]


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
565         Processing Fee for Use of Paper Forms for Submission of Applications for                 0651-AB52
            Registration and Other Documents....................................................
566         Changes to Representation of Others Before the United States Patent and Trademark        0651-AB55
            Office..............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
567         Complaints Regarding Invention Promoters............................................     0651-AB12
568         Revision of Patent and Trademark Fees for Fiscal Year 2003..........................     0651-AB51
569         Technical Corrections Act of 2002 Rules Change......................................     0651-AB58
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                    Patent and Trademark Office--Discontinued Entries
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Regulation
Identification                                             Title                                                  Date                 Comments
    Number
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0651-AB17        Correspondence Filed in the Patent and Trademark Office                                        02/24/2003   Withdrawn
0651-AB27        Rules of Practice Before the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences in Appeals Under 35     02/19/2003   Withdrawn
                 U.S.C. 134
0651-AB53        Revision of the Fees for Request for Continued Examination and the URAA Transitional           02/24/2003   Withdrawn
                 Examination Practices
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Technology Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
570         Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under      0692-AA14
            Government Grants, Contracts, and Cooperative Agreements............................
571         Acquisition and Protection of Foreign Rights in Inventions..........................     0692-AA15
572         Amendment to Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business     0692-AA18
            Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts, and Cooperative Agreements................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (OS)



_______________________________________________________________________




299. NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, 
HANDICAP, AND AGE IN PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES RECEIVING FEDERAL FINANCIAL 
ASSISTANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 794; 42 USC 2000d to 2000d-7; 42 USC 6101 to 
6107; EO 12250

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 8; 15 CFR 8b; 15 CFR 8c; 15 CFR 20

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce proposes to make amendments to its 
regulations implementing title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 
(Title VI), section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act of 1972 (section 
504), and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975 (Age Discrimination Act). 
Together, these statutes prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, 
color, national origin, disability, and age in programs or activities 
that receive Federal financial assistance. In 1988, the Civil Rights 
Restoration Act (CRRA) added definitions of ``program or activity'' and 
``program'' to Title VI and added a definition of ``program or 
activity'' to section 504 and the Age Discrimination Act. The added 
definitions were designed to clarify the broad scope of coverage of 
recipients' programs or activities under these statutes. The 
promulgation of this proposed regulation explicitly incorporates the 
CRRA's definition of ``program or activity'' and ``program'' into the 
Department's Title VI, section 504, and Age Discrimination Act 
regulations. The Department's proposed regulation will be published as 
part of a joint notice of proposed rulemaking involving up to 24 
Federal agencies.

[[Page 30089]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/06/00                    65 FR 76460
NPRM Comment Period End         01/05/01
Final Action                    09/00/03
Final Action Effective          10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Lawrence N. Self, Acting Director, Office of Civil 
Rights, Department of Commerce, Office of the Secretary, HCHB Room 
6010, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-0625
Fax: 202 482-5375

RIN: 0690-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________




300. EMPLOYEE RESPONSIBILITIES AND CONDUCT; REMOVAL OF OBSOLETE 
REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 5 USC 7301; 5 USC 7353; 26 USC 7214(b); EO 
12731; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce issues this final rule to remove 
obsolete sectors of the Commerce and Foreign Trade Regulation 
concerning the policies and procedures relating to employee 
responsibilities and conduct.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Douglas Ligor, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Office of the Secretary, HCHB Room 5898C, 14th & Constitution 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-0127
Fax: 202 482-2998

RIN: 0690-AA32
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Office of the Secretary (OS)



_______________________________________________________________________




301. [bull] CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES; ADJUSTMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 101-410; PL 104-134; 5 USC 553

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 6

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule issued to adjust civil monetary penalties 
provided by law within the jurisdiction of the Department of Commerce 
(the Department). As required by the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation 
Adjustment Act of 1990, as amended by the Debt Collection Improvement 
Act of 1996, the Secretary of Commerce adjusted the Department's civil 
monetary penalties for inflation on October 24, 1996, and subsequently 
on November 1, 2000. The purpose of this rule is to bring the 
Department into compliance with GAO's interpretation of the statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/29/03                     68 FR 4380

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Peter Robbins, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Office of the Secretary, HCHB Room 5876, Office of the 
General Counsel, 15th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-3151
Fax: 202 482-0512
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0690-AA33
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




302. ANNUAL SURVEY OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN THE UNITED STATES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 806

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend existing rule CFR 806.15 to raise the 
threshold for reporting on the BE-15, Annual Survey of Foreign Direct 
Investment in the United States, and to bring the survey into 
conformity with the BE-12, Benchmark Survey of Foreign Direct 
Investment in the United States--2002.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/03
Final Action                    09/00/03
Final Action Effective          10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Assistant Chief, International 
Investment Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic 
Analysis, BE-50, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA48
_______________________________________________________________________




303. [bull] QUARTERLY SURVEYS OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN SERVICES BETWEEN 
U.S. AND FOREIGN PERSONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101-3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend existing rule 15 CFR 801.9 to require

[[Page 30090]]

quarterly reporting of trade in services between U.S. and foreign 
persons for a number of services that up to now have been reported 
annually. The collection of quarterly information on international 
services activity is needed to support a Government initiative to 
provide more timely data on trade in the largest and most volatile 
services.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/03
Final Action                    11/00/03
Final Action Effective          01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Assistant Chief, International 
Investment Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic 
Analysis, BE-50, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA49
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




304. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 13 CFR ch III

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: Claudia Nadig
Phone: 202 482-4687
Fax: 202 482-5671
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA47
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/29/02                    67 FR 71103
Final Action Effective          12/30/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA43
_______________________________________________________________________




306. BENCHMARK SURVEY OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT IN THE UNITED 
STATES--2002

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 806

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/13/03                     68 FR 1531
Final Action Effective          02/12/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA44
_______________________________________________________________________




307. TRANSACTIONS OF U.S. AFFILIATE, EXCEPT U.S. BANKING AFFILIATE, WITH 
FOREIGN PARENT (BE-605) AND TRANSACTIONS OF U.S. BANKING AFFILIATE WITH 
FOREIGN PARENT (BE-605 BANK)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 806

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/16/02                    67 FR 63860
Final Action                    01/27/03                     68 FR 3811
Final Action Effective          02/26/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard
Phone: 202 606-9890
Fax: 202 606-5318
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA45

[[Page 30091]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




308. [bull] FULL MANDATORY AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM (AES) FILING FOR 
EXPORT SHIPMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 107-228, sec 404

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 30

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of the Census is amending the Foreign Trade 
Statistics Regulations to require mandatory filing through the 
Automated Export System (AES) of all export information, including 
information for shipments where filing of a Shipper's Export 
Declaration was formerly required. The AES is an electronic method by 
which export information is transmitted. This amendment will specify 
the provisions and filing responsibilities of parties exporting 
commodities from the U.S.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Ruth Mangaroo, Regulations, Outreach, & Education 
Branch, Foreign Trade Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the 
Census, Room 3125, FB-3, 4700 Silver Hill Road, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 763-2238
Fax: 301 457-3765
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Merged With 0607-AA29, Merged With 0648-AA30, Merged With 
0607-AA31
RIN: 0607-AA38
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




309. SPECIAL SERVICES AND STUDIES BY THE BUREAU OF THE CENSUS; 
AMENDMENTS TO AGE SEARCH PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1256; 13 USC 8

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 50.1(d); 15 CFR 80.1(c); 15 CFR 80.1(g); 15 CFR 
50.5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Chapter 1, part 50.1(d) should be amended to read as follows: 
If a search is unsuccessful and additional information for a further 
search is requested by the Bureau, such information must be received 
within 90 days of the request or the case will be considered closed. 
Additional information received after 90 days must be accompanied by a 
new fee and will be considered a new request. Chapter 1, part 80.1(c): 
Change the address from Pittsburg, Kansas 66762 to Jeffersonville, 
Indiana 47131. Chapter 1, part 80.1(g): The language may be clarified 
by changing it to read: Census information will not be furnished to 
another person unless the person to whom the information relates 
authorizes such release in the space provided on the Form BC-600. 
Chapter 1, part 50.5: The note following the chart of the fee structure 
can be eliminated since we have not had a fee increase since February 
1993.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/17/01                    66 FR 48013
NPRM Comment Period End         10/17/01
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Stanley M. Domzalski, Assistant Chief (Services), 
National Processing Center, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the 
Census, 1201 East 10th Street, Jeffersonville, IN 47132
Phone: 812 218-3579
Fax: 812 218-3293

RIN: 0607-AA24
_______________________________________________________________________




310. AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM (AES) MANDATORY FILING FOR ALL ITEMS ON THE 
COMMERCE CONTROL LIST (CCL) AND THE UNITED STATES MUNITIONS LIST (USML) 
THAT CURRENTLY REQUIRE A SHIPPER'S EXPORT DECLARATION (SED)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-113, title XII

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 30

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of the Census is amending the Foreign Trade 
Statistics Regulations to specify the Requirement for the Mandatory 
Automated Export System (AES) filing for all items on the Department of 
Commerce's Commerce Control List (CCL) and the United States Munitions 
List (USML) of the Department of State. The AES is an electronic method 
by which export information can be transmitted. This amendment will 
specify the provisions and the responsibilities of parties exporting 
commodities identified on the CCL and USML via AES.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/09/02                    67 FR 62911
NPRM Comment Period End         12/09/02
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ruth Mangaroo, Regulations, Outreach, & Education 
Branch, Foreign Trade Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the 
Census, Room 3125, FB-3, 4700 Silver Hill Road, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 763-2238
Fax: 301 457-3765
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0607-AA34
_______________________________________________________________________




311. CUTOFF DATES FOR RECOGNITION OF BOUNDARY CHANGES FOR CENSUS 2000 
AND FOR THE INTERCENSAL PERIOD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 553(b)(3)(A); 5 USC 604(a); 44 USC 35

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 70

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 30092]]

Abstract: The Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau) is establishing 
cutoff dates for recognition of boundary changes to geographic entities 
for which the Census Bureau reports data in various surveys, estimates, 
censuses, programs, compilations, and publications throughout the 
period between decennial censuses (years 2001 through 2009).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/25/02                     67 FR 3631
NPRM Comment Period End         02/25/02
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Robert W. Marx, Chief, Geography Division, Department 
of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Stop 7400, 4700 Silver Hill Road, 
Washington, DC 20233-7400
Phone: 301 457-2131
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0607-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




312. [bull] MANDATORY AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM (AES) FOR EXPORTS (RE-
EXPORTS) OF ROUGH DIAMONDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 30

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of the Census is amending the Foreign Trade 
Statistics Regulations to incorporate requirements for the mandatory 
electronic filing via the Automated Export System (AES) of exports (re-
exports) of specific classifications of rough diamonds in accordance 
with the Kimberley Process. The Kimberley Process is a certification 
scheme designed to control worldwide trade in illicit rough diamonds. 
Filing information on exports (re-exports) of rough diamonds through 
the AES is designed to control movement of and stem trading in illicit 
trade of rough or ``conflict'' diamonds, often linked to the finance of 
armed conflicts in certain world areas.

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Ruth Mangaroo, Regulations, Outreach, & Education 
Branch, Foreign Trade Division, Department of Commerce, Bureau of the 
Census, Room 3125, FB-3, 4700 Silver Hill Road, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 763-2238
Fax: 301 457-3765
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0607-AA39
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




313. BUREAU OF THE CENSUS CERTIFICATION PROCESS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 50.50(a); 15 CFR 50.50(b); 15 CFR 50.50(c)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/27/02                    67 FR 54950

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Les Solomon
Phone: 301 763-5377
Fax: 301 457-4714

RIN: 0607-AA36
_______________________________________________________________________




314. BUREAU OF THE CENSUS GEOGRAPHICALLY UPDATED POPULATION 
CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 50

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/08/02                    67 FR 62657
Final Rule                      12/04/02                    67 FR 72095

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Rodger V. Johnson
Phone: 301 763-2419
Fax: 301 457-2481

RIN: 0607-AA37

[[Page 30093]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


General Administration (ADMIN)



_______________________________________________________________________




315. GOVERNMENTWIDE DEBARMENT AND SUSPENSION (NONPROCUREMENT)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; PL 103-355, sec 2455; 31 USC 6101; EO 
12549; EO 12689

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 26

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Periodically, OMB amends the Governmentwide common rule for 
suspension and debarment of contractors and assistance participants who 
threaten the integrity of Federal programs because of criminal 
misconduct or poor performance. Agencies must issue changes to their 
individual codified versions to conform to the common rule. Recently, 
the Interagency Suspension and Debarment Coordinating Committee 
prepared recommendations for comprehensive changes to the common rule 
to conform to changes made in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 
as a result of the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act. In addition, 
several other proposals to improve or change the rule are included.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/23/02                     67 FR 3266
NPRM Comment Period End         03/23/02
Final Action                    03/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Robert Kugelman, Director, Office of Executive 
Budgeting and Assistance Management, Department of Commerce, HCHB Room 
6022, 14th & Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4115
Fax: 202 482-3270

RIN: 0605-AA16
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


General Administration (ADMIN)



_______________________________________________________________________




316. PUBLIC INFORMATION, FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AND PRIVACY

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 4; 15 CFR 4a; 15 CFR 4b

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/31/00                    65 FR 34606


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Andy McCready
Phone: 202 482-8044

RIN: 0605-AA14
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




317. COMMERCIAL AVAILABILITY OF FABRIC AND YARN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-200, sec 112(b)(5)(B); PL 106-200, sec 211; EO 
13191

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 345

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule implements certain provisions of the Trade 
and Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Title I of the Act (the African 
Growth and Opportunity Act or AGOA) and title II of the Act (the United 
States--Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act or CBTPA) provide for 
quota and duty-free treatment for qualifying apparel products from 
designated beneficiary countries. AGOA and CBTPA authorize quota and 
duty-free treatment for apparel articles that are both cut (or knit-to-
shape) and sewn or otherwise assembled in one or more designated 
beneficiary countries from yarn or fabric that is not formed in the 
United States or a beneficiary country, provided it has been determined 
that such yarn or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in 
commercial quantities in a timely manner. The President has delegated 
to the Committee for the Implementation of Textile Agreements (the 
Committee), which is chaired by Commerce, the authority to determine 
whether yarn or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in 
commercial quantities in a timely manner under the AGOA and the CBTPA, 
and has authorized the Committee to extend quota and duty-free 
treatment to apparel of such yarn or fabric. The proposed rule provides 
the procedure for interested parties to submit a request alleging that 
a yarn or fabric cannot be supplied by the domestic industry in 
commercial quantities in a timely manner, the procedure for public 
comments, and relevant factors that will be considered in the 
Committee's determination. The proposed rule also outlines the factors 
to be considered by the Committee in extending quota- and duty-free 
treatment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janet Heinzen, International Trade Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, 3106, 
Office of Textiles and Apparel, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4006

RIN: 0625-AA59

[[Page 30094]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




318. PROCEDURES FOR CONDUCTING FIVE-YEAR (SUNSET) REVIEWS OF ANTIDUMPING 
AND COUNTERVAILING DUTY ORDERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 19 CFR 351

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On May 19, 1997 (62 FR 27296), the Department of Commerce 
(the Department) published final rules on, inter alia, procedures for 
conducting antidumping and countervailing duty proceedings to conform 
the Department's existing regulations to the Uruguay Round Agreements 
Act (URAA). Although these regulations contain provisions on the 
conduct of sunset reviews, the Department is planning to amend the 
regulations to provide more guidance on the procedures for conducting 
sunset reviews. Specifically, the Department proposes to amend the 
procedural regulations for participation in, and conduct of, sunset 
reviews to add two definitions to provide shorthand expressions for 
120-day and 240-day sunset reviews; provide deadlines for certain 
submissions; clarify the information to be provided by parties 
participating in a sunset review; clarify when the Department will 
conduct a 120-day or a 240-day sunset review; and provide time limits 
for actions to be taken by the Department.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/20/98                    63 FR 13516
Interim Final Rule Effective    03/20/98
Final Action                    10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Stacy Ettinger, Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
International Trade Administration, Room 3828, 14th & Pennsylvania 
Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4618

RIN: 0625-AA51
_______________________________________________________________________




319. IMPORT OF CERTAIN WORSTED WOOL FABRIC: IMPLEMENTATION OF TARIFF 
RATE QUOTA ESTABLISHED UNDER TITLE V OF THE TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 
2000

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-200, sec 501-504; Title V of the Trade and 
Development Act of 2000; Presidential Proclamation No. 7383 (December 
1, 2000)

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 335; 15 CFR 340

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On January 22, 2001, the Department of Commerce issued 
interim regulations implementing section 501(e) and section 504(b) of 
the Trade and Development Act of 2000 (the Act). Section 501(e) 
requires the President to fairly allocate tariff rate quotas on the 
import of certain worsted wool fabrics, tariff rate quotas which were 
established by sections 501(a) and 501(b) of the Act. Section 504(b) 
authorizes the President to modify the limitations on worsted wool 
fabric imports under the tariff rate quotas. The President has 
delegated to the Secretary of Commerce the authority to allocate the 
quantity of imports under the tariff rate quotas and to determine 
whether the limitations on the quantity of imports under the tariff 
rate quotas should be modified. Final regulations will be issued after 
the period for notice and comment has expired.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/22/01                     66 FR 6459
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/23/01
Final Rule                      11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Sergio Botero, Industry Economist, Department of 
Commerce, International Trade Administration, HCHB Room 3119, Office of 
Textiles and Apparel, 14th and Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-4058
Fax: 202 482-0667

RIN: 0625-AA58
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




320. PROPOSED CHANGES IN THE INSULAR POSSESSIONS WATCH, WATCH MOVEMENT, 
AND JEWELRY PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 303

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      12/18/02                    67 FR 77407

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Faye Robinson
Phone: 202 482-3526

RIN: 0625-AA57
_______________________________________________________________________




321. ESTABLISHMENT OF STEEL IMPORT LICENSING AND SURGE-MONITORING 
PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 19 CFR ch III

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      12/31/02                    67 FR 97845

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Roland MacDonald
Phone: 202 482-1275

RIN: 0625-AA60

[[Page 30095]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




322. [bull] LICENSE EXCEPTION APR FOR REEXPORTS TO, FROM, AND AMONG 
COUNTRIES IN COUNTRY GROUP A:1

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; PL 106-387; EO 13026; EO 
13222; 67 FR 53721

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This notice will seek public comments on the potential impact 
of proposals to amend the Export Administration Regulations to clarify 
the scope of items for which License Exception APR is available and, 
possibly, to narrow the scope of this license exception. The 
transactions that such an amendment could affect are all described in 
15 CFR 740.16(a) and (b). These paragraphs deal with transactions to 
from and among countries in Country Group A:1 and cooperating countries 
as defined in 15 CFR part 740, supp. No. 1.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC69
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




323. CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 710 et seq

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The final rule will make effective the proposed rule 
published July 21, 1999. The purpose of the regulation is to implement 
the provisions of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, 
Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their 
Destruction (Chemical Weapons Convention) and the Chemical Weapons 
Convention Implementation Act of 1998, requiring private facilities to 
submit information on certain activities involving toxic chemicals, and 
to make certain private facilities subject to periodic inspection by 
the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), the 
international organization created to administer the Convention and to 
monitor compliance by States Parties.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/21/99                    64 FR 39193
Interim Final Rule              12/30/99                    64 FR 73744
Second NPRM                     12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440

RIN: 0694-AB06
_______________________________________________________________________




324. MANDATORY ELECTRONIC FILING OF LICENSE APPLICATIONS, CLASSIFICATION 
REQUESTS, AND LICENSE EXCEPTIONS NOTIFICATIONS VIA BIS'S SIMPLIFIED 
NETWORK APPLICATION PROCESS (SNAP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; 18 USC 2510; 22 USC 
3201; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 12938; EO 13026; EO 13222; 66 FR 56965; 67 
FR 53721; EO 12924, 59 FR 43437, 3 CFR, 1994 Comp., p. 917; EO 13026, 
61 FR 58767, 3 CFR, 1996 Comp., p. 228; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 743; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 
754; 15 CFR 772

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would change the Export Administration Regulations 
as needed to implement a revised version of the Bureau of Industry and 
Security's Simplified Network Application Processing (SNAP) system. 
This rule also would make use of that system mandatory for all filings 
of Export License applications (except Special Comprehensive Licenses 
and deemed export licenses), Reexport Authorization requests, 
Classification requests, Encryption Review requests, and License 
Exception AGR notifications unless the Bureau of Industry and Security 
authorizes paper filing for a particular user or transaction. This rule 
also would authorize SNAP filing for special reports of certain items 
controlled under the Wassenaar Arrangement. This rule also would 
eliminate all provisions of the regulations associated with earlier 
versions of SNAP and other electronic filing systems that the Bureau of 
Industry and Security has used in the past, as use of those systems 
would be terminated upon introduction of the new version of SNAP (SNAP 
2002). Those eliminated provisions include the requirements regarding 
personal identification numbers (PINs) and the requirement for users to 
keep logs of items filed electronically. This rule also would require 
that requests for advisory opinions include the Export Control 
Classification Number of the item(s) at issue, revise emergency license 
application procedures, set the value of all aircraft licensed for 
temporary sojourn abroad to zero and correct some omissions, 
misstatements and typographical errors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 30096]]

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________




325. PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT EXPORT LICENSE JURISDICTION

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 1A004 in the 
Commerce Control List (CCL) provides that protection and detection 
equipment and components not specially designed for military use are 
subject to the licensing authority of the Department of State, Office 
of Defense Trade Controls (DTC). The Bureau of Industry and Security 
(BIS) has received information suggesting that the existing rule 
commits to DTC authority a number of items that have primarily civil 
end uses. This proposed rule draws a distinction between items subject 
to DTC control and items subject to the Export Administration 
Regulations (EAR) by modifying ECCN 1A004 and creating a new ECCN 
1A995.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC64
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




326. ENTITY LIST REVISION: KHAN RESEARCH LABORATORIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) provide that the 
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) may inform the public, 
individually or through amendment to the EAR, that a license is 
required for exports or reexports to certain entities. The EAR contain 
a list of such entities called the Entity List. This rule revises the 
entry for Abdul Qader Khan Research Laboratories, located in Kahuta, 
Pakistan. Abdul Qader Khan Research Laboratories is also known as Khan 
Research Laboratories. Because Khan Research Laboratories has changed 
its name to Institute of Industrial Control Systems (IICS), this rule 
adds Institute of Industrial Control Systems (IICS) as an a.k.a. under 
the entity Abdul Qader Khan Research Laboratories. In addition, this 
rule makes a revision to clarify that when BIS publishes in the Federal 
Register information regarding entities in the Entity List that it is 
informing not only exporters but the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Addition to Entity List         05/16/97                    62 FR 26922
Addition to Entity List         06/30/97                    62 FR 35334
Addition to Entity List         06/30/97                    62 FR 35335
Revision to Entity List         10/01/97                    62 FR 51369
Addition to Entity List - 
Russian Entities                07/29/98                    63 FR 40363
Revisions and Additions to 
Entity List                     05/14/01                    66 FR 24264
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 2096/MS 2705, 14th & Pennsylvania 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________




327. EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS OF EXPLOSIVE DETECTION SYSTEMS; EXPANSION OF 
FOREIGN POLICY CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; 
EO 12002; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Export Administration is amending the Export 
Administration Regulations by expanding the current scope of control of 
explosive detection systems controlled by Export Control Classification 
Number (ECCN) 2A993 to include all types of systems that detect the 
presence of explosives or explosive residue. This rule also expands the 
control of these explosive detection systems to Iraq. In addition, this 
rule establishes a new licensing requirement on the export and reexport 
of software designed or modified for the development, production, or 
use of explosive detection systems to Iran, Iraq, Sudan, and Syria for 
antiterrorism reasons.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB87

[[Page 30097]]

_______________________________________________________________________




328. EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS TO SUDAN

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) to reflect the imposition of 
economic sanctions on Sudan, as a result of the issuance of Executive 
Order 13067 on November 3, 1997. The Executive Order delegates 
implementation responsibility to the Department of the Treasury's 
Office of Foreign Assets Control, including authority for exports and 
certain reexports. In addition, this rule makes editorial revisions to 
the EAR relating to embargoes and antiterrorism controls.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




329. REVISIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS RELATED TO THE 
MISSILE TECHNOLOGY CONTROL REGIME (MTCR)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 774; 15 CFR 742

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR) to amend the Commerce Control List to 
reflect the reformatted Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) Annex 
of October 14, 1999 (Noordwijk/TEM). This final rule also amends 
Country Group A:2, MTCR, to add the Czech Republic, Korea (Republic 
of), Poland, Turkey, and Ukraine.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 2096/MS 2705, 14th & Pennsylvania 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC22
_______________________________________________________________________




330. REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS (EAR)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730; 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 734; 15 CFR 736; 15 CFR 
740; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 758; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 
774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations by 
making certain revisions and clarifications and, in some cases, inserts 
material inadvertently omitted from previous rules.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 2096/MS 2705, 14th & Pennsylvania 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________




331. LICENSE EXCEPTION AVS: CUBA, LIBYA, SERBIA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by allowing equipment, spares, 
and plane stores under the provisions of License Exception AVS on 
foreign registered aircraft subject to the EAR that are temporarily 
reexported to Libya and Serbia, and on U.S.- or foreign-registered 
aircraft subject to the EAR that are temporarily exported or reexported 
to Cuba.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440

RIN: 0694-AC33
_______________________________________________________________________




332. CHEMICAL WEAPONS CONVENTION: REVISIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 30098]]

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) administers export 
controls on certain toxic chemicals and precursors that are listed in 
the ``Schedules of Chemicals'' contained within the ``Annex on 
Chemicals'' to the ``Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, 
Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their 
Destruction,'' also known as the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). 
This rule amends the CWC provisions in the Export Administration 
Regulations (EAR) to clarify BIS licensing requirements and policies 
for chemicals and precursors controlled for chemical weapons reasons.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440

RIN: 0694-AC35
_______________________________________________________________________




333. EXPORTS TO AFGHANISTAN (THE TALIBAN) AND LIBERIA: IMPOSITION OF 
FOREIGN POLICY CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 22 USC 
3201 et seq; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12002; EO 12058; EO 12214; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
to implement United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions 1333 of 
December 19, 2000, and 1343 of March 7, 2001, which mandated embargoes 
on the sale or supply of arms-related items, including technical 
assistance and training, to the Taliban and to Liberia, respectively. 
These steps taken by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) 
supplement controls implemented by the Department of State on exports 
of defense articles and services to the Taliban and to Liberia under 
the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. BIS already requires a 
license for the export and reexport to Afghanistan and Liberia of most 
of the items subject to the EAR that fall within the scope of the UNSC-
mandated ban on arms-related items (e.g., items controlled for regional 
stability and crime control reasons).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC45
_______________________________________________________________________




334. ELIMINATION OF ``NATIONAL SECURITY'' AS A REASON FOR CONTROL FOR 
CERTAIN ITEMS ON THE COMMERCE CONTROL LIST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; 18 USC 2510; EO 13222; EO 
12058; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Commerce Control List (CCL) to eliminate 
``National Security'' as a reason for control with respect to certain 
items. This rule is needed to make the CCL conform to Section 
5(c)(6)(A) of the Export Administration Act (the Act), which provides 
that unilateral national security controls expire six months after 
enactment of the Act or of the control (whichever is later) unless a 
determination has been made under section 5 of the Act that there is no 
foreign availability of the items or unless the President is pursuing 
negotiations to end such availability. All but four of the items 
affected by this rule are moved to other Export Control Classification 
Numbers (ECCNs) on the CCL. Two of the items that are removed from the 
CCL (bayonets and technology for the design, production or use of 
bayonets) are transferred to the United States Munitions List. The 
other two items (muzzle-loading firearms and technology for the design, 
production or use of muzzle-loading firearms) are now EAR99.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC54
_______________________________________________________________________




335. IMPOSITION AND EXPANSION OF CONTROLS ON DESIGNATED PERSONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 1701; 50 USC 2401; 22 USC 3201; EO 13099; EO 
13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 772

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule amends the Export Administration Regulations 
(EAR) by imposing a license requirement on the export and reexport of 
any item subject to the EAR by a U.S. person or non-U.S. person to 
persons blocked and designated pursuant to Executive Order 13224 of 
September 23, 2001. In response to grave acts of terrorism and threats 
of terrorism, Executive Order 13224 blocks the property and interests 
in property of persons who commit, threaten to commit or support 
terrorism, and prohibits U.S. persons or applicable non-U.S. persons 
from engaging in any transactions with such blocked persons. The 
Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) 
maintains the list of blocked persons newly designated Specially 
Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) in appendix A to 31 CFR chapter V 
pursuant to Executive Order 13224 and identified by the bracketed 
initials [SDGT]. This rule also amends the EAR by expanding reexport 
controls on Specially Designated Terrorists (SDTs) and foreign controls 
on

[[Page 30099]]

Specially Designated Terrorists (SDTs) and Foreign Terrorist 
Organizations (FTOs). OFAC also maintains the lists of SDTs and FTOs 
found in appendix A to 31 C.F.R. chapter V and identified by the 
bracketed initials [SDT] and [FTO], respectively.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC60
_______________________________________________________________________




336. LICENSE APPLICATION DENIAL POLICY, ``RED FLAG'' INDICATORS OF 
POSSIBLE INAPPROPRIATE END-USE, END-USER, OR DESTINATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222; 22 
USC 3201; 42 USC 2139a; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 12938; EO 12947; EO 
13026; EO 13099; EO 13222; EO 13224

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 744.11

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes explicit BIS's policy of denying export 
license applications when a sanction imposed on a party pursuant to a 
statute requires such denial. Such sanctions are imposed for activities 
contrary to United States foreign policy interests or that contribute 
to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This rule also 
makes the imposition of such sanctions or publication of a party's name 
on the BIS ``Unverified List'' a ``red flag'' triggering a need for 
heightened scrutiny when dealing with such parties in transactions that 
are subject to the Export Administration Regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC68
_______________________________________________________________________




337. [bull] REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS -- CHEMICAL AND BIOLOGICAL WEAPONS CONTROLS: AUSTRALIA GROUP 
(JUNE 2002 PLENARY MEETING)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; 8 USC 2510; 22 USC 3201; 
42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 12938; EO 
13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 745; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule implements understandings reached at the June 2002 
AG plenary meeting, makes corrections in two Commerce Control List 
entries that contain AG-controlled items, and updates the list of 
countries that are States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention 
(CWC).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher, Export Administration Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440

RIN: 0694-AC70
_______________________________________________________________________




338. [bull] REVISIONS OF AIRCRAFT EXPORT LICENSING JURISDICTION BASED ON 
REVIEW OF THE UNITED STATES MUNITIONS LIST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
to implement decisions to move export licensing jurisdiction of certain 
types of cargo aircraft and parts therefor from the Department of 
State, Office of Defense Trade Controls (DTC) to the Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) and to move export 
licensing jurisdiction for certain jet trainer aircraft and specially 
designed component parts from BIS to DTC. A complementary rule amending 
the International Traffic in Arms Regulations will be published by the 
Department of State. This rule implements decisions reached in the on-
going review of the United States Munitions List that is part of the 
Defense Trade Security Initiative. That initiative, announced on May 
24, 2000 at a NATO ministerial meeting by the Secretary of State, 
includes annual review of portions of the United States Munitions List 
with the objective of reviewing the entire list every four years.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC74
_______________________________________________________________________




339. [bull] REVISIONS OF ENERGETIC MATERIAL EXPORT LICENSING 
JURISDICTION BASED ON REVIEW OF THE UNITED STATES MUNITIONS LIST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; 18 USC 2510; 22 USC 
3201; 42 USC 2139a; PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 12058; EO 12851; EO 
12938; EO 13026; EO 13222; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 770; 15 CFR 748

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule amends the Export Administration Regulations 
(EAR) to implement decisions to move export licensing jurisdiction of 
certain

[[Page 30100]]

types of energetic materials and other chemicals from the Department of 
State, Office of Defense Trade Controls (DTC) to the Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) and to move such 
jurisdiction for other chemicals from BIS to DTC. This rule along with 
a complementary rule published by the Department of State (67 F.R. 
70839, November 27, 2002) implements decisions reached in an ongoing 
review of the USML that is part of the Defense Trade Security 
Initiative. That initiative, announced on May 24, 2000 at a NATO 
ministerial meeting by the Secretary of State, includes annual review 
of portions of the USML with the objective of reviewing the entire list 
every four years.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC75
_______________________________________________________________________




340. [bull] EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: ENCRYPTION CLARIFICATIONS 
AND REVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 50 USC 1701; 50 USC 2401; EO 12938; EO 13020; EO 
13026; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 734; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 748; 15 CFR 
774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
to clarify when encryption commodities and software may be given de 
minimis treatment, when short-range wireless devices incorporating 
encryption may be given mass market or retail treatment, and to provide 
guidance on when exporters are required to submit encryption review 
requests. It also expands the authorizations for which travelers 
departing the United States may take encryption for their personal use. 
Finally this rule implements changes to the Wassenaar Arrangement List 
of dual-use items that eliminate from Export Control Classification 
Number (ECCN) 5A002 certain types of ``Personalized smart cards'' and 
equipment specially designed and limited to controlling access to 
copyright protected data.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 2096/MS 2705, 14th & Pennsylvania 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC78
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774 Supplement No. 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Transfer of Communications 
Satellites                      10/23/92                    57 FR 48312
Navigation and Avionics         06/23/93                    58 FR 34211
Final Rule - Transfer of 
Commercial Communication 
Satellites                      09/08/93                    58 FR 47322
Transfer of Items From the USMI 
to the CCL; Imposition of 
Certain Foreign Policy Controls 10/26/93                    58 FR 57549
Satellite Fuel                  09/29/97                    62 FR 50865


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brian Nilsson
Phone: 202 482-4196

RIN: 0694-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________




342. ADMINISTRATION OF STATE LOG EXPORTS BAN

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 754

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/07/95                    60 FR 30030
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/07/95
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440

RIN: 0694-AB25
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brian Nilsson
Phone: 202 482-4196

RIN: 0694-AB41
_______________________________________________________________________




344. CLARIFICATION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION GFT (HUMANITARIAN DONATIONS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

[[Page 30101]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB49
_______________________________________________________________________




345. EXPORTS OF TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE; RELEASE OF TECHNOLOGY OR SOURCE 
CODE TO FOREIGN NATIONALS IN THE UNITED STATES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




346. INDIA AND PAKISTAN SANCTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule - India and 
Pakistan Sanctions and Other 
Measures                        11/19/98                    63 FR 64322
Interim Final Rule - Correction 
to India and Pakistan Sanctions 
and Other Measures              11/27/98                    63 FR 65352
Final Rule                      03/17/00                    65 FR 14444
Final Rule                      07/26/00                    65 FR 45842


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




347. EXPANSION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION CIV ELIGIBILITY FOR MICROPROCESSORS 
CONTROLLED BY ECCN 3A001

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/08/99                    64 FR 36779
Interim Final Rule              11/26/99                    64 FR 66372
Interim Final Rule              06/13/00                    65 FR 37039


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________




348. EXPORT OF TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE THROUGH ELECTRONIC TRANSMISSIONS, 
DOWNLOADS, AND PROGRAMMING ONTO HARDWARE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                            To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




349. EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: SUPPORT DOCUMENTATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________




350. ANTITERRORISM CONTROLS ON IRAQ

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________




351. EXPANSION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION GOV; EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS TO 
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC15
_______________________________________________________________________




352. DE MINIMIS EXPANSION OF ELIGIBILITY: U.S. ORIGIN SOFTWARE 
INCORPORATED INTO FOREIGN-MADE RETAIL COMMODITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

[[Page 30102]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC17
_______________________________________________________________________




353. REVISION TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: REPLACEMENT 
LICENSES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 748 to 750

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC23
_______________________________________________________________________




354. SHORT SUPPLY CONTROLS: CRUDE OIL EXPORTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 754

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440

RIN: 0694-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________




355. OFFSETS IN MILITARY EXPORTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 701

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brad Botwin
Phone: 202 482-4060
Fax: 202 482-5650

RIN: 0694-AC27
_______________________________________________________________________




356. ENTITY LIST: ADDITIONS AND REVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC28
_______________________________________________________________________




357. CRIME CONTROL ITEMS: REVISIONS TO THE COMMERCE CONTROL LIST

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/13/00                    65 FR 55177
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC31
_______________________________________________________________________




358. REVISIONS TO ENCRYPTION ITEMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      10/19/00                    65 FR 62600


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brian Nilsson
Phone: 202 482-4196

RIN: 0694-AC32
_______________________________________________________________________




359. CLARIFICATIONS TO PART 753: SPECIAL COMPREHENSIVE LICENSE 
REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 700 to 799

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440

RIN: 0694-AC34
_______________________________________________________________________




360. ADDITION AND REVISION OF MISSILE PROJECTS IN THE EXPORT 
ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________




361. REVISION, SUSPENSION, OR PROHIBITION OF USE OF ``NO LICENSE 
REQUIRED'' PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 758

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook

[[Page 30103]]

Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC47
_______________________________________________________________________




362. REMOVAL OF LICENSING EXEMPTION FOR EXPORTS AND REEXPORTS OF MISSILE 
TECHNOLOGY-CONTROLLED ITEMS DESTINED TO CANADA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 742

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/20/01                    66 FR 65666


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC48
_______________________________________________________________________




363. EXPORTS TO THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF YUGOSLAVIA: LIFTING OF SANCTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 758

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-2440
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC57
_______________________________________________________________________




364. COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY AND SOFTWARE ELIGIBLE FOR EXPORT OR REEXPORT 
UNDER LICENSE EXCEPTION TSR

Priority: Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/10/02                    67 FR 39675


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC63
_______________________________________________________________________




365. [bull] REVISIONS TO LICENSE EXCEPTION TSR: EXPANSION TO SCOPE OF 
ELIGIBLE COUNTRIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 
7430; 18 USC 2510; 22 USC 287c; 22 USC 3201; 22 USC 6004; 30 USC 185; 
42 USC 2139; 42 USC 6212; 43 USC 1354; 46 USC app 466c; PL 106-387; PL 
107-56; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
the increase the number of countries to which certain technology and 
software may be exported or reexported under License Exception TSR.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Blaskovich, Export Policy Analyst, Department 
of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, MS 2705, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC71
_______________________________________________________________________




366. [bull] REVISIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS BASED ON 
THE 2002 MISSILE TECHNOLOGY CONTROL REGIME PLENARY AGREEMENTS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13222; EO 13026; 18 USC 
2510; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulation 
Commerce Control List (CCL) to reflect changes to the Missile 
Technology Control Regime (MTCR) Annex agreed to at the September 2002 
Plenary in Warsaw, Poland. New definitions for range and payload were 
added to provide clarity in determining whether systems fall under 
Category I MTCR controls. All other revisions/additions were made to 
insure that items which are useable in missiles of MTCR concern are 
appropriately controlled.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Blaskovich, Export Policy Analyst, Department 
of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, MS 2705, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC76
_______________________________________________________________________




367. [bull] ADDITION OF EAST TIMOR, NETHERLANDS ANTILLES, AND ARUBA TO 
THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; 18 USC 2510; 10 
USC 7420; ...

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 738

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is amending the 
Export
Administration Regulations (EAR) by adding the Democratic Republic of 
East Timor (East Timor) to the Commerce Country Chart, to reflect East 
Timor's status as a newly independent and sovereign State. This rule 
also adds Aruba and Netherlands Antilles to the Commerce Country Chart, 
in order to streamline the regulatory process for these dependant 
nations. This final rule adds East Timor, Aruba, and Netherlands 
Antilles as separate destinations on the Commerce Country Chart for 
export licensing purposes.

[[Page 30104]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Blaskovich, Export Policy Analyst, Department 
of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, MS 2705, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC77
_______________________________________________________________________




368. [bull] GENERAL ORDER ON EXPORTS TO IRAQ

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; Notice of 
Aug. 14, 2002, 67 FR 53721 (Aug.16, 2002); EO 12938; EO 13020; EO 13026

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 736

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security is amending the EAR by 
adding new General Order No. 4 to Supplement No. 1, Part 736. General 
Order No. 4 removes license requirements for the export or reexport to 
Iraq of commodities and software contained in two export control 
categories on the Commerce Control List. This General Order is intended 
to facilitate humanitarian activities in Iraq by State Department 
accredited non-governmental organizations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook, Policy Analyst, Department of Commerce, 
Bureau of Industry and Security, 2096/MS 2705, 14th & Pennsylvania 
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC79
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




369. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 2002 WASSENAAR ARRANGEMENT LIST OF DUAL-USE 
ITEMS: REVISIONS TO CATEGORIES 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, AND 9 OF THE COMMERCE 
CONTROL LIST, GENERAL SOFTWARE NOTE, AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 743; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/05/03                    68 FR 10586

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC65
_______________________________________________________________________




370. REVISION OF EXPORT CONTROLS FOR GENERAL PURPOSE MICROPROCESSORS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744; 15 CFR 772; 15 CFR 774

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/14/03                     68 FR 1796

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC66
_______________________________________________________________________




371. [bull] CORRECTION TO RULE ENTITLED: MISSILE TECHNOLOGY PRODUCTION 
EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401; 50 USC 1701; 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 
7430; 18 USC 2510; 22 USC 287c; 22 USC 3201; 22 USC 6004; 30 USC 185; 
42 USC 2139a; 42 USC 6212; 43 USC 1354; 46 USC app 466c; 50 USC app 5; 
PL 106-387; PL 107-56; EO 13026; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 744 Supp 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule corrects two errors in the List of Items Controlled 
sections for Export Controlled Classification Numbers (ECCNs) 9B115 and 
9B116 that were revised in a final rule that was published by the 
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) on September 18, 2002 (67 FR 
58691). That rule stated that BIS was revising the headings for ECCNs 
9B115 and 9B116 and adding a List of Items Controlled section to those 
ECCNs to clarify that all missile technology production equipment and 
facilities are subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
and controlled on the Commerce Control List (CCL). The September 18, 
2002 rule inadvertently omitted ECCN 9A011 from the List of Items 
Controlled sections of ECCNs 9B115 and 9B116, although it appears in 
the headings of those ECCNs. This rule corrects that oversight.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      11/21/02                    67 FR 70157

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Blaskovich, Export Policy Analyst, Department 
of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, MS 2705, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]



[[Page 30105]]

Related RIN: Related To 0694-AC51
RIN: 0694-AC72
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST)



_______________________________________________________________________




372. [bull] PROCEDURES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION 
SAFETY TEAM ACT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 7301 et seq.

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 270

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Director of the National Institute of Standard and 
Technology (NIST), Technology Administration (TA), U.S. Department of 
Commerce (DOC), requests comments on proposed regulations pertaining to 
the implementation of the National Construction Safety Team Act (Act). 
The proposed rule establishes procedures regarding the establishment 
and deployment of National Construction Safety Teams and for the 
conduct of investigations under the Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. James E. Hill, Deputy Director, Department of 
Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology, Mail Stop 8600, 
Building and Fire Research Laboratory, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8600
Phone: 301 975-5900

RIN: 0693-AB53
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST)



_______________________________________________________________________




373. [bull] PROCEDURES FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION 
SAFETY TEAM ACT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 7301 et seq; 5 USC 553

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 270

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Director of the National Institute of Standard and 
Technology (NIST), Technology Administration, U.S. Department of 
Commerce, requests comments on an interim final rule pertaining to the 
implementation of the National Construction Safety Team Act (Act). This 
rule with a request for public comments contains general provisions 
regarding implementation of the Act and establishes procedures for the 
collection, preservation, and protection of evidence obtained and 
information created as part of investigations conducted pursuant to the 
Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/30/03                     68 FR 4693
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/03/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. James E. Hill, Deputy Director, Department of 
Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology, Mail Stop 8600, 
Building and Fire Research Laboratory, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8600
Phone: 301 975-5900

RIN: 0693-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



374. FLEET CAPACITY CONTROL FOR U.S. TROLL ALBACORE TUNA FISHING IN 
CANADIAN WATERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will implement limits on albacore tuna fishing by 
vessels of the United States in Canadian waters pursuant to the U.S.-
Canada Albacore Fishing Treaty. In accordance with recent amendments to 
that Treaty, the United States is obliged to ensure that U.S. vessels 
do not fish for more than a set number of days each year 2003-2005. 
This will require methods to monitor fishing effort and notify U.S. 
vessel owners/operators of the date on which further U.S. fishing must 
cease. In turn, U.S. vessel operators/owners will be required to 
furnish reports of entry to and exit from Canadian waters and to 
provide points of contact for notices of closures. In addition, the 
Treaty requires that the United States exchange fishery data each year. 
The rule will require maintenance and submission of logbooks of fish 
catch and fishing effort in Canadian and U.S. waters each year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/00/03
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/00/03
NPRM                            03/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, Southwest Region, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, 
Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AQ22

[[Page 30106]]

_______________________________________________________________________




375. [bull] AMENDMENT 1 TO THE SPINY DOGFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would revise the rebuilding program and other 
management measures in the FMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/00/04
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/00/04
Final Action                    07/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ86
_______________________________________________________________________




376. [bull] CONTROL DATE FOR THE SMALL MESH MULTISPECIES (SILVER HAKE, 
OFFSHORE HAKE, AND RED HAKE) FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would announce that the New England Fishery 
Management Council intends to develop a new amendment to address 
limited access in the small mesh multispecies fishery. A new control 
date would reflect current participation levels, should the Council 
require such a benchmark when developing a new limited access program. 
The new control date would enable the Council to inform the industry 
that the Council is considering future action to control the number of 
participants in the fishery and that anyone entering the fishery after 
the control date will not be assured of future access, should a 
management regime that limits the number of participants in the fishery 
be prepared and implemented.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/00/03
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ89
_______________________________________________________________________




377. [bull] ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES; FINDING FOR A PETITION TO 
REVISE CRITICAL HABITAT FOR NORTHERN RIGHT WHALES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.203

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service announces the receipt 
of a petition to revise critical habitat for the endangered western 
North Atlantic right whales. NMFS finds that the petition presents 
substantial scientific information indicating that this action may be 
warranted and is soliciting public comment and information on the 
petition. NMFS will determine how to proceed with the petitioned action 
within 12 months after receiving the petition.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          11/19/02                    67 FR 69708
Comment Period End              01/21/03
Finding                         11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Lawson, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ53
_______________________________________________________________________




378. [bull] TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS; TAKING MARINE 
MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO MISSILE LAUNCH ACTIVITIES BY THE U.S. NAVY AT SAN 
NICOLAS ISLAND, CALIFORNIA

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371(a)(5)(A)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101 to 216.108

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service has received an 
application from the U.S. Navy for regulations under section 
101(a)(5)(A) of the MMPA to take non-endangered seals and sea lions 
incidental to conducting missile launch operations from San Nicolas 
Island, California. Target missile launches are used to support test 
and training activities associated with the Naval Air Warfare Center's 
Point Mugu Sea Range. In order to authorize the taking and issue 
authorizations, NMFS must, through regulations, determine that the 
proposed activity will have no more than a negligible impact on the 
affected species and stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/00/03
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2055
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ61
_______________________________________________________________________




379. [bull] ENDANGERED SPECIES AND PESTICIDE REGULATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1536

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 402.04

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NOAA, FWS, and EPA are jointly explores the issuance of 
``counterpart regulations.'' Issued under

[[Page 30107]]

the authority of the Endangered Species Act, these regulations would 
establish a separate section 7 consultation process for EPA, relative 
to pesticides actions under the Federal Insecticides, Fungicide and 
Rodentcide Act (FIFRA) that may affect endangered and threatened 
species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/00/03
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AQ69
_______________________________________________________________________




380. [bull] TAKING AND IMPORTING MARINE MAMMALS: TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO CONDUCTING OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES IN THE GULF 
OF MEXICO

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371(a)(5)(A)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.101-108

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service has received an 
application from the U.S. Minerals Management Service for regulations 
under section 101(a)(5)(A) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) 
to authorize the taking of marine mammals incidental to conducting oil 
and gas exploration activities by U.S. citizens in the Gulf of Mexico. 
Without this authorization, the taking of marine mammals is prohibited 
by the MMPA. In order to authorize the taking and issue authorizations, 
NMFS must, through regulations, determine that the proposed activity 
will have no more than a negligible impact on the affected species and 
stocks of marine mammals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/00/03
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2055
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ71
_______________________________________________________________________




381. [bull] DESIGNATE CRITICAL HABITAT; WITHDRAW PREVIOUS DESIGNATIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1533

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 226; 50 CFR 424

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule (1) describes an approach for developing these 
critical habitat designations; (2) announces the NOAA Fisheries intent 
to conduct a series of public workshops to review a pilot area 
designation; (3) solicits public comment on the proposed designation 
approach and information to support the critical habitat designations; 
and (4) amends the Code of Federal Regulations to withdraw the previous 
critical habitat designations for 19 of the ESUs which were vacated by 
court order in April 2002.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/00/03
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ77
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



382. AMENDMENT 4 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
FISHERY OF PUERTO RICO AND THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: Amendment 4 would restrict the use of gillnets, fish traps, 
and other gear in the reef fish fishery in the Caribbean exclusive 
economic zone. Amendment 4 would address the possible need for 
permitting in the fish trap fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive

[[Page 30108]]

Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AG87
_______________________________________________________________________




383. ESTABLISH CENTRAL REGISTRY FOR LIMITED ACCESS SYSTEM PERMITS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will establish a central registry for limited 
access system permits as required by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act section 305(h).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/07/97                    62 FR 24897
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/05/97
NPRM                            08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles L. Cooper, Program Leader, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2396
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AJ77
_______________________________________________________________________




384. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REQUIRE MANDATORY OBSERVER COVERAGE IN THE 
AT-SEA PROCESSING SECTOR OF THE WHITING FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

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

Abstract: Regulations would require observer coverage on vessels in the 
at-sea processing sector of the whiting fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0648-AK26
_______________________________________________________________________




385. ADJUSTMENT OF MANAGEMENT PROGRAM: BOTTOMFISH FISHERIES IN THE 
HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

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

Abstract: The adjustment will establish eligibility criteria for new 
entry into the NWHIs Mau Zone limited access system and process for 
issuance of limited access permits under a community development 
program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AK82
_______________________________________________________________________




386. REVISE EXEMPTED FISHING REGULATIONS TO SPECIFY COMPENSATORY FISHING 
UNDER EXEMPTED FISHING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would revise current exempted fishing regulations 
to specifically authorize the use of an exempted fishing permit as the 
method of allowing the compensation of private vessels for their 
conduct of resource assessment. Specific methodology for vessel 
compensation would be developed on a fishery-by-fishery basis. The rule 
would also make other minor changes in the regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: John Dunnigan, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AK84
_______________________________________________________________________




387. AMENDMENT 11 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE CRUSTACEAN 
FISHERIES OF THE WESTERN PACIFIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

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

Abstract: Amendment 11 to the Western Pacific Remote Crustaceans 
Fishery Management Plan would add the exclusive economic zone waters 
off the U.S. Pacific Island Areas and the Commonwealth of the Northern 
Mariana Islands as crustaceans management areas.

[[Page 30109]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AL67
_______________________________________________________________________




388. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR CALICO SCALLOP FISHERY IN THE SOUTH 
ATLANTIC REGION (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: The FMP could include the following measures: (1) Definitions 
of management unit, MSY, OY, and overfishing; (2) requirement for a 
vessel permit to harvest or possess calico scallops in or from the 
South Atlantic EEZ; (3) designation of essential fish habitat for 
calico scallops; (4) prohibition on harvest of calico scallops in the 
area bounded to the west by 80 degrees W. longitude, to the north by 28 
degrees 30 minutes N. latitude, to the south by 27 degrees 30 minutes 
N. latitude, and to the east by the 100 fathom depth contour; and (5) 
requirement for use of transponders by calico scallop vessels.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AL78
_______________________________________________________________________




389. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY 
OF THE GULF OF MEXICO (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: Amendment 10 would extend the FMP requirements for using 
bycatch reduction devices in shrimp trawls in the exclusive economic 
zone from Cape San Blas, Florida, east and south to the boundary line 
(in South Florida) between the areas of jurisdiction of the Gulf of 
Mexico and South Atlantic Fishery Management Councils.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AM23
_______________________________________________________________________




390. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE BOTTOMFISH 
FISHERIES OF THE WESTERN PACIFIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

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

Abstract: Amendment 7 would facilitate and enable adjustments to 
management measures for the bottomfish fisheries in Guam and American 
Samoa. Possible regulatory changes include closed areas, gear 
restrictions, seasons, permit and notification/reporting requirements, 
etc.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AM98
_______________________________________________________________________




391. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SPINY LOBSTER 
FISHERY OF THE GULF OF MEXICO AND SOUTH ATLANTIC FMP

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 640

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

Abstract: Amendment 7 would address issues regarding the impacts of the 
FMP's tailing permit provisions on State spiny lobster conservation 
efforts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce,

[[Page 30110]]

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Marine 
Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 
33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AN08
_______________________________________________________________________




392. AMENDMENT 18 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE REEF FISH 
RESOURCES OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: Amendment 18 would address the need for improved conservation 
of grouper stocks in the Gulf of Mexico by establishing additional 
closed seasons and areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AN09
_______________________________________________________________________




393. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

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

Abstract: Amendment 10 would implement a management strategy that would 
incorporate rotational closed areas for rebuilding the sea scallop 
resource and address essential fish habitat issues. This action may 
replace or modify the current DAS reduction schedule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AN16
_______________________________________________________________________




394. AMENDMENT 13 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

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

Abstract: This action would amend the FMP to address the Magnuson-
Stevens Act requirement to implement a stock rebuilding program for all 
of the regulated multispecies. Management measures may include a days-
at-sea reduction, gear reductions and area management.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AN17
_______________________________________________________________________




395. AMENDMENT 9 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN AMENDMENT FOR THE 
PELAGIC FISHERIES OF THE WESTERN PACIFIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

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

Abstract: This amendment would prevent or mitigate and conserve, 
manage, and allow full utilization of sharks.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AN76
_______________________________________________________________________




396. REGULATORY AMENDMENT MODIFYING THE GULF OF MEXICO BRD PROTOCOL 
UNDER THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY OF THE GULF OF 
MEXICO (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: In accordance with the FMP's framework procedure for 
regulatory adjustments, the Gulf Council requested that NMFS develop 
alternative data collection procedures and statistical tests to certify 
bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) for use in the shrimp fishery of the 
Gulf of Mexico. The regulation would provide additional flexibility in 
sampling procedures to facilitate BRDs meeting the

[[Page 30111]]

testing/certifying protocol's requirements while maintaining the 
scientific and statistical credibility in achieving the FMP's 
established bycatch reduction criterion for certified BRDs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AN84
_______________________________________________________________________




397. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP) FOR SARGASSUM HABITAT OF THE SOUTH 
ATLANTIC

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: The regulatory action implementing measures in the FMP would: 
(1) establish a total prohibition of all harvest and possession of 
Sargassum from the South Atlantic exclusive economic zone (EEZ) south 
of 34 degrees N latitude; (2) allow a limited annual harvest of 5,000 
pound landed wet weight of Sargassum from the South Atlantic EEZ 100 
miles seaward of the shore between 34 degrees N latitude and the 
latitude line representing the North Carolina/Virginia border during 
the months of November through June; (3) require an official observer 
to be present on each Sargassum harvesting trip; and (4) require that 
nets used to harvest Sargassum be constructed of four-inch stretch mesh 
or larger fitted to a frame no larger than 4 feet by 6 feet. 
Restricting the harvest of Sargassum may result in the one small 
business entity ceasing business operations. The firm qualifies as a 
small business entity because its gross revenues do not exceed $3.0 
million annually. The value of the 1997 harvest (the last documented 
year in which harvest occurred) was estimated to be $36,000. The 
average annual value of the harvest from 1976 to 1997 was estimated to 
be $61,000. Additionally, there is no indication that harvest has 
occurred since 1997. Therefore, the SAFMC concluded that the indirect 
benefits of increased productivity of marine life and non-consumptive, 
non-use social benefits that would result from reduced harvest levels 
would greatly outweigh the direct impacts to the one intermittently 
operating business.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AN87
_______________________________________________________________________




398. MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR THE NORTHEAST SKATE COMPLEX

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

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

Abstract: This action would establish a fishery management plan for the 
seven species of skates found in the Northeast. Management measures 
would be established to end overfishing on two of the seven species of 
skate and to provide basic protection for the remaining five species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AO10
_______________________________________________________________________




399. FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE DOLPHIN AND WAHOO FISHERY OF THE 
ATLANTIC, CARIBBEAN, AND GULF OF MEXICO (FMP) OF THE ATLANTIC

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: This new FMP, as prepared by the South Atlantic Fishery 
Management Council, is to provide a comprehensive management program 
for dolphin and wahoo in the Atlantic Ocean exclusive economic zone.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AO63

[[Page 30112]]

_______________________________________________________________________




400. REGULATORY AMENDMENT UNDER THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR GULF OF 
MEXICO REEF FISH (FMP) TO ESTABLISH A RED SNAPPER STOCK REBUILDING PLAN 
AND TO SET RED SNAPPER OVERFISHING TARGETS AND THRESHOLDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: This regulatory amendment under the FMP's framework procedure 
would establish a revised red snapper stock rebuilding plan and red 
snapper overfishing targets and thresholds, all intended to meet 
requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act as amended by the Sustainable Fisheries Act of 1996.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AP02
_______________________________________________________________________




401. AMENDMENT 13 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SNAPPER-GROUPER 
FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: Amendment 13 will revise permit transfers, revise maximum 
sustainable yield (MSY) and overfishing definitions, revise snowy 
grouper and golden tilefish management measures, and include a formal 
section 7 analysis on the interaction of gear (with an emphasis on 
black sea bass traps) with endangered and threatened species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AP03
_______________________________________________________________________




402. REVISION OF AMERICAN LOBSTER REGULATIONS FOR THE EEZ

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In accordance with the Atlantic Coastal Fisheries Cooperative 
Management Act (Act), 16 U.S.C. et seq., NMFS announces that it is 
considering, and seeking public comment on, revisions to Federal 
American lobster regulations for the Exclusive Economic Zone in 
response to recommendations from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries 
Commission to NMFS in Addenda II and III to Amendment 3 to the 
Interstate Fishery Management Plan for American Lobster (ISFMP). This 
ANPR/NOI proposes to develop regulations relative to Addendum III to 
the ISFMP, and combine those with Addendum II (ANPR and NOI published 
May and September of 2001, respectively) into a single environmental 
impact statement. Addendum II management measures would include minimum 
gauge size increases in five of the seven Lobster Conservation 
Management Areas (LCMA), lobster trap gear modifications, a four-year 
lobster trap reduction schedule for LCMA 3, and a logbook requirement 
for LCMA 3 lobster vessels. Addendum III would further modify Addendum 
II's gauge increase schedule and include new management measures for 
the majority of the LCMAs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/24/01                    66 FR 28726
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/25/01
ANPRM                           09/05/02                    67 FR 56800
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/07/02
NPRM                            02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Thomas Meyer, Fisheries Biologist, Office of 
Intergovernmental/Recreational Fisheries, Department of Commerce, 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Suite 425, 8484 
Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 427-2014

RIN: 0648-AP18
_______________________________________________________________________




403. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO IMPLEMENT PERMIT STACKING IN THE LIMITED-
ENTRY FIXED-GEAR SABLEFISH FISHERY IN 2002 AND BEYOND

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

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

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would implement the following 
Amendment 14 provisions: permit owners will be required to provide 
detailed ownership information to ensure that no person has ownership 
interest in or holds more than 3 permits; current permit owners who 
were not permit owners before November 1, 2000, will be required to be 
on board the vessel fishing against the sablefish cumulative limits 
associated with that vessel's permit(s); vessels landing sablefish 
against their primary season limits will be required

[[Page 30113]]

to contact enforcement officials before making sablefish landings; 
vessel owners wishing to freeze sablefish at sea will be required to 
provide proof of a history of freezing sablefish at sea in the years 
1998, 1999, or 2000.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AP38
_______________________________________________________________________




404. IMPLEMENTATION OF FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR HIGHLY MIGRATORY 
SPECIES FISHERIES OFF THE WEST COAST

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the Fishery Management Plan (FMP) 
for Highly Migratory Species Fisheries off the West Coast. The FMP is 
currently under development by the Pacific Fishery Management Council 
(Council) under the terms of the Magnuson-Stevens Act and other 
applicable law. The FMP will both establish a process for implementing 
regulations as deemed necessary in the future and provide a basis for 
initial regulation of selected fishery sectors (e.g., drift gillnet and 
longline) to ensure conservation of the fish stocks involved and 
protection of species of special concern such as sea turtles and 
seabirds. The FMP will include substantial environmental and economic 
analyses consistent with the requirements of the National Environmental 
Policy Act, the Regulatory Flexibility Act, and Executive Order 12296 
and other laws and orders. Steps for reviewing and implementing 
approved elements of the FMP are set forth in the Magnuson-Stevens Act 
and include provisions for publication of proposed and final rules 
within certain time periods.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/03
Final Action                    12/00/03
Final Action Effective          01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, Southwest Region, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, 
Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AP42
_______________________________________________________________________




405. REGULATORY AMENDMENT UNDER THE COASTAL MIGRATORY PELAGICS FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 622

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: In accordance with the FMP's framework procedure for 
regulatory adjustments, this action would establish biomass-based stock 
status criteria such as maximum-sustainable yield (MSY), optimum yield 
(OY), and definitions of overfishing and overfished using default 
control rules as required by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation 
and Management Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AP50
_______________________________________________________________________




406. COMPREHENSIVE AMENDMENT ADDRESSING SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES ACT 
REQUIREMENTS REGARDING OVERFISHING, BYCATCH, FISHING COMMUNITIES AND 
PROVISIONS FOR FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR THE CARIBBEAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

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

Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to implement those provisions of 
the Comprehensive Amendment Addressing Sustainable Fishery Act (SFA) 
definitions and other required provision of the Magnuson-Stevens Act in 
the FMP of the U.S. Caribbean (Comprehensive SFA Amendment) that would 
modify and/or add framework procedures to the FMPs for reef fish, 
corals and reef associated plants and invertebrates, queen conch, and 
spiny lobster. These FMP framework modifications/additions would allow 
timely modification/addition of required stock parameters and 
management measures related to preventing overfishing and rebuilding 
overfished stocks. The intended effect is to provide a more efficient 
mechanism for implementation of improved estimates of stock parameters 
and necessary management measures as better information becomes 
available.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast

[[Page 30114]]

Region, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AP51
_______________________________________________________________________




407. ATLANTIC SURF CLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 13

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 40 CFR 648

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

Abstract: Amendment 13 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic 
Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries would describe gear impacts on 
essential fish habitat, revise the surf clam overfishing definition, 
establish multi-year quotas, and add/revise other measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AP57
_______________________________________________________________________




408. ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERIES; AMENDMENT 9

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

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

Abstract: Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Atlantic 
Mackerel, Squid and Butterfish Fisheries would establish a controlled 
access program for mackerel, address essential fish habitat, and revise 
the Illex quota procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AP60
_______________________________________________________________________




409. IMPLEMENT A VESSEL MONITORING SYSTEM UNDER THE SOUTH PACIFIC TUNA 
ACT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will implement an electronic vessel 
monitoring system under the South Pacific Tuna Act. The system is 
satellite-based with individual U.S. purse seine vessels providing 
automatic location information to the Forum Fisheries Agency located in 
Honiara, Solomon Islands. This rule will require that all U.S. purse 
seine vessels operating within the South Pacific Tuna Treaty Area shall 
participate and shall install and operate a transponder of the type and 
in such a manner as agreed upon by the parties to the ``Treaty on 
Fisheries between the Governments of Certain Pacific Island States and 
the Government of the United States of America'' (implemented as the 
South Pacific Tuna Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Administrator, Pacific Islands 
Area Office, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, Honolulu, HI 
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AP61
_______________________________________________________________________




410. REVISE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT QUOTA PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION AND 
ALLOCATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will revise regulations governing the process 
under which a portion of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands quotas for 
groundfish, prohibited species, crab, and halibut are allocated to 
groups representing Western Alaska communities eligible for the 
Community Development Quota (CDQ) Program. The action also will revise 
administrative regulations for the economic development aspects of the 
CDQ Program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AP67
_______________________________________________________________________




411. FULL RETENTION OF DEMERSAL SHELF ROCKFISH IN GULF OF ALASKA AREA 
650

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

[[Page 30115]]

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory rule would require full retention of demersal 
shelf rockfish (DSR) in the hook-and-line fisheries in the Gulf of 
Alaska, Regulatory Area 650. If approved, this rule would eliminate the 
maximum retainable bycatch limit for DSR, and require that all DSR 
caught by Federally permitted vessels using fixed gear in the Southeast 
Outside be retained, landed, weighted, and reported. When DSR is closed 
to directed fishing, fishermen would be allowed to retain the proceeds 
from the sale of any DSR not in excess of 10 percent of the aggregate 
round weight equivalence of IFQ Pacific halibut and groundfish species 
that are landed during the same fishing trip, or 1 percent of sablefish 
landed. Any DSR landed in excess of these limits could be retained for 
any use except sale, barter, or trade. This could include personal 
consumption or donation to a nonprofit charitable organization.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AP73
_______________________________________________________________________




412. AMENDMENT TO FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR REEF FISH RESOURCES OF 
GULF OF MEXICO TO SET 10-YEAR REBUILDING PLAN FOR RED GROUPER

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In October 2000, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) 
issued a determination that the Gulf of Mexico red grouper stock is 
overfished and undergoing overfishing. This determination was based on 
the results of a 1999 red grouper stock assessment. Once a stock is 
determined to be overfished the Magnuson-Stevens Act requires the Gulf 
of Mexico Fishery Management Council within one year to submit a plan 
to NMFS to end overfishing and rebuild the stock to a level capable of 
sustaining maximum sustainable yield on a continuing basis. The 
proposed rebuilding plan contains alternatives that would implement a 
10-year rebuilding plan for red grouper including a recreational and 
commercial shallow-water grouper closed season, recreational bag 
limits, movement of the commercial longline gear boundary, and a 
reduction of the shallow-water grouper quota by an amount consistent 
with a 45 percent reduction in commercial red grouper harvest. The 
rebuilding plan also contains alternatives for establishing red grouper 
sustainable fishing parameters (e.g., maximum sustainable yield, 
optimum yield, maximum fishing mortality rate, minimum stock size 
threshold).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AP95
_______________________________________________________________________




413. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO SECTION 679 PERMITS OR PERMIT-RELATED 
ISSUES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would revise several sections of regulations 
that pertain to permits or permit-related issues by technical edits and 
clarifications to existing requirements, removal of obsolete text, and 
clarification and simplification of text. In addition, this rulemaking 
would combine the registered buyer permit with the Federal processor 
permit when a shoreside processor does both IFQ and groundfish. This 
would be accomplished by adding an endorsement to the Federal processor 
permit.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ07
_______________________________________________________________________




414. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ADJUST PERMIT RENEWAL REQUIREMENTS AND 
TRANSFERABILITY RESTRICTIONS IN NWHI'S HOOMALU ZONE AND MAU LIMITED 
ACCESS PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, February 2003, Final Rule - adjust 
permit renewal requirements/transferability restrictions in NWHI 
Hoomalu Zone and Mau Limited Access Programs.

Abstract: This measure would remove the annual landings requirement for 
permit renewal retroactive to December 4, 2000, which is the date the 
Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Reserve (NWHI) was established and when 
restrictions on fishing in the NWHI became uncertain.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03

[[Page 30116]]

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Administrator, Pacific Islands 
Area Office, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, Honolulu, HI 
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AQ20
_______________________________________________________________________




415. FLEET CAPACITY CONTROL FOR U.S. TUNA PURSE SEINE FISHERIES IN THE 
EASTERN PACIFIC OCEAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 951 to 961; 16 USC 971 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will implement a tuna fishery management 
recommendation of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC), 
of which the United States is a party. The rule will establish 
procedures by which the United States will limit tuna purse seine fleet 
capacity consistent with the limits in the IATTC recommendation, which 
has been approved by the Department of State pursuant to the Tuna 
Conventions Act. Fleet capacity is necessary to prevent 
overcapitalization and achieve sustainable tuna fisheries in the 
eastern Pacific Ocean. Excessive fleet capacity threatens the ability 
of the IATTC and its member states to take effective action to control 
overall fishing mortality and maintain healthy stocks that will support 
economically viable fisheries, including U.S. tuna fisheries in the 
region.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/03
Final Action                    09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, Southwest Region, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, 
Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AQ21
_______________________________________________________________________




416. SECRETARIAL AMENDMENT 2 TO REEF FISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN TO SET 
GREATER AMBERJACK SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES ACT TARGETS AND THRESHOLDS AND 
TO SET REBUILDING PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, December 2002.
Final, Statutory, January 2003.

Abstract: The greater amberjack resource in the Gulf of Mexico was 
declared overfished by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) on 
February 9, 2001. This determination was based on the 2000 greater 
amberjack stock assessment conducted by the NMFS Southeast Fisheries 
Science Center (SEFSC) (Turner et al. 2000) and the December 2000 
Report of the Reef Fish Stock Assessment Panel (RFSAP) (GMFMC 2000). 
The results of several analyses indicated that the stock biomass was 
below the level needed to sustain harvest at maximum sustainable yield 
(MSY), with the best estimate indicating that the stock biomass was at 
less than half the biomass needed to sustain MSY, below the minimum 
level allowed under the 1998 NMFS National Standard Guidelines.
Currently, the Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan (FMP) requires that 
overfished stocks be restored to a level of 20 percent transitional 
spawning potential ratio (SPR) within one and a half generation times. 
A generation time is the average time it would take a year class in an 
unfished population to replace itself. However, in order to comply with 
the requirements of the NMFS National Standard Guidelines (NSG), new 
biomass based targets and recovery time frame parameters need to be 
implemented. The greater amberjack resource is not considered by NMFS 
to be undergoing overfishing at this time due to Council actions taken 
in 1997 and 1998 as cited in section 3.0 (1998 is the final year of 
data in the stock assessment). Consequently, actions to further reduce 
fishing mortality are not needed at this time.
This secretarial amendment proposes no changes to the current fishing 
regulations for greater amberjack, but does propose to establish new 
biomass based targets and thresholds as well as the establishment of a 
ten-year rebuilding plan. These measures would be in compliance with 
the provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act, Sustainable Fisheries Act (SFA), NMFS NSGs, and NMFS 
technical guidance on implementing National Standard 1 (Restrepo et al. 
1998).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AQ24
_______________________________________________________________________




417. AMENDMENT 2 TO MONKFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 2 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan would 
address essential fish habitat and bycatch issues and revise the 
management program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/03

[[Page 30117]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ25
_______________________________________________________________________




418. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP) 
AND AMENDMENT 2 TO THE ATLANTIC SALMON FMP

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These amendments would address essential fish habitat 
conservation measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ27
_______________________________________________________________________




419. RECREATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND 
BLACK SEA BASS FISHERY FOR FISHING YEAR 2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement recreational measures for the 
2003 fishing year for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ32
_______________________________________________________________________




420. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); BIGEYE TUNA AND SWORDFISH 
TRADE STATISTICAL DOCUMENT PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule is to comply with the recommendations of 
the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas 
(ICCAT) to establish statistical document programs for trade of 
swordfish and bigeye tuna. This regulation will require all dealers, 
who export or import swordfish or bigeye tuna, complete a statistical 
document and ensure the document accompanies the shipment. The purpose 
of the ICCAT recommendation and this regulation is to assist in the 
conservation of swordfish and bigeye tuna, improve the reliability of 
statistical information of catches, and to assist ICCAT with the 
elimination of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chris Rogers, Chief for Highly Migratory Species, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13563, Bldg. SSMC3, Stop F/SF1, Office of 
Sustainable Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2347
Fax: 301 713-1917

RIN: 0648-AQ37
_______________________________________________________________________




421. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); 2003 BLUEFIN TUNA QUOTA 
SPECIFICATIONS AND EFFORT CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes specifications for the Atlantic bluefin tuna 
(BFT) fishery to set BFT quotas and General category effort controls 
for the 2003 fishing year. This action will implement the U.S. annual 
BFT quota as recommended by the International Commission on 
Conservation of Atlantic Tunas and allocate that quota among the 
domestic fishing categories. Effort controls for the General category 
will allocate monthly quotas and set certain restricted fishing days.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chris Rogers, Chief for Highly Migratory Species, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13563, Bldg. SSMC3, Stop F/SF1, Office of 
Sustainable Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2347
Fax: 301 713-1917

RIN: 0648-AQ38
_______________________________________________________________________




422. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO COMMERCIAL FISHING 
OPERATIONS; ATLANTIC LARGE WHALE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

[[Page 30118]]

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS is amending the regulations that implement the Atlantic 
Large Whale Take Reduction Plan, specifically with regard to the 
straight set of gillnets in the southeast U.S. Restricted Area in 
waters off the coasts of Georgia and Florida. The intent of this 
proposed rule is to prohibit straight sets of gillnets at night from 
November 15 through March 31, annually to reduce the risk of 
entanglement of large whales, including the western North Atlantic 
right whale.
This rule was published on March 27, 2002, in the Federal Register 
under RIN 0648-AN88.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Lawson, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related To 0648-AN88
RIN: 0648-AQ42
_______________________________________________________________________




423. EFH AMENDMENTS TO THE BOTTOMFISH, CRUSTACEANS, AND PRECIOUS CORALS 
FMPS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, February 2003, Proposed rule to 
implement FMP amendments.
Final, Statutory, May 2003, Final rule to implement FMP amendments.

Abstract: Amendment 8, to the Bottomfish FMP, Amendment 12 to the 
Crustaceans FMP, and Amendment 6 to the Precious Corals FMP would 
revise the Essential Fish Habitat portions of the subject FMPs and 
include the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and the 
Pacific Remote Island Areas exclusive economic zones under Western 
Pacific Fishery Management Council developed management plans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Charles Karnella, Administrator, Pacific Islands 
Area Office, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1110, Honolulu, HI 
96814-4700
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AQ43
_______________________________________________________________________




424. [bull] RULEMAKING TO CORRECT THE SALMON FISHERY COORDINATES AS 
IMPLEMENTED IN THE AMENDMENT 3 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
SALMON FISHERIES IN THE EEZ OFF THE COAST OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will change the area coordinates for the 
salmon fishery in the EEZ off Alaska to agree with the coordinates 
implemented by Amendment 3 to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Salmon Fishery in the EEZ off Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ48
_______________________________________________________________________




425. [bull] FRAMEWORK 3 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action will extend the moratorium on entry to the Illex 
fishery while the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council addresses the 
moratorium issue in Amendment 9 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and 
Butterfish FMP. This extension is needed because the Illex moratorium 
program expires in July 1, 2003.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ57
_______________________________________________________________________




426. [bull] PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY; PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH 
VESSEL MONITORING SYSTEM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

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

Abstract: This regulation would require vessels participating in the 
Pacific Coast groundfish fishery off the coasts of WA, OR, and CA to 
carry and use vessel monitoring systems (VMS) transmitters. This action 
is necessary to enhance monitoring of compliance with large-scale 
depth-based closures that are proposed to be used to prohibit most 
fishing activities across much of the continental shelf. In addition, 
this action is intended to further the conservation goals and 
objectives of the

[[Page 30119]]

Pacific Coast Groundfish FMP by allowing fishing to continue in areas 
and with gear that can harvest healthy stocks with little incidental 
catch of overfished and low abundance species. This action will also 
require certain vessels legally fishing within the otherwise closed 
area to notify NMFS when they will be fishng in the closed areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ58
_______________________________________________________________________




427. [bull] FISHERIES OF THE UNITED STATES; NATIONAL STANDARD 1

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS is considering revisions to the national standard 
guidelines for national standard 1 that specify criteria for 
determining overfishing and establishing rebuilding schedules. There 
have been concerns expressed by the scientific community, fisheries 
managers, the fishing industry, and environmental groups regarding the 
appropriateness of some aspects of these guidelines.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           02/14/03                     68 FR 7492
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/17/03
NPRM                            06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mark Millikin, Fishery Management Specialist, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2341

RIN: 0648-AQ63
_______________________________________________________________________




428. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES: BILLFISH AND SWORDFISH 
RECREATIONAL FISHING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule implements domestic management measures based upon 
recommendations of the International Commission for the Conservation of 
Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) regarding billfish and swordfish. The rule would 
limit domestic recreational landings of Atlantic blue and white marlin 
to 250 fish, combined, on an annual basis. Also, the rule would provide 
for adjustments for any landings above or below the annual cap to the 
following year's recreational marlin landings cap. The rule also 
establishes in-season adjustment authority for, and modifies bag limits 
in the recreational North Atlantic swordfish fishery. The Atlantic blue 
and white marlin measures are necessary to comply with ICCAT 
obligations. Modification of the North Atlantic swordfish recreational 
bag limit is in response to comments received regarding equitable 
fishing opportunities in regional fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John H. Dunnigan, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway 13350, Silver Spring, MD
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AQ65
_______________________________________________________________________




429. [bull] AMENDMENT 17 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, February 2003.

Abstract: Since 1990, the Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) 
has annually developed its recommendations for specifications and 
management measures in a two-meeting process (usually its September and 
November meetings) followed by a NMFS final action published in the 
Federal Register and made available for public comment and correction 
after the effective date of the action. In 2001, NMFS was challenged on 
this process in Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. v. Evans, 2001 
168 F.Supp. 2d 1149 (N.D. Cal. 2001) and the court ordered NMFS to 
provide prior public notice and allow public comment on the annual 
specifications. Amendment 17 would respond to the court's order by 
revising the FMP's framework for developing specifications and 
management measures to incorporate NMFS publication of a proposed rule 
for the specifications and management measures, followed by a public 
comment period and a final rule. Amendment 17 would also respond to 
NMFS regulatory streamlining initiatives by implementing a biennial 
specifications and management measures process for Pacific Coast 
groundfish. Finally, it allows additional time for Council development 
of the management measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600

[[Page 30120]]

Sand Point Way NE, Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ68
_______________________________________________________________________




430. [bull] CONTINUATION OF MEASURES TO REDUCE FISHING MORTALITY IN THE 
NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY AND IMPLEMENT A DAS LEASING PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Judicial, July 27, 2003, Court Order requires the 
continuation of measures implemented in the August 1, 2002, interim 
rule until the implementation of Amendment 13 to the Northeast 
Multispecies Fishery Management Plan.

Abstract: The action proposes to continue management measures currently 
in place, which are intended to reduce overfishing on species managed 
under the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP) while 
the New England Fishery Management Council completes development of 
Amendment 13 to the FMP. In addition, a days-at-sea leasing program is 
proposed that would allow leasing of DAS by limited access permit 
holders in order to increase flexibility in the fishery and enable some 
participants to remain economically viable.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03
Interim Final Rule              06/00/03
Interim Final Rule Effective    07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ72
_______________________________________________________________________




431. [bull] CHANGES TO ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN 
ISLANDS CRAB LICENSE LIMITATION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will amend eligibility criteria for Bering 
Sea and Aleutian Islands (BSAI) crab species licenses issued under the 
License Limitation Program which are necessary to participate in the 
BSAI crab fisheries. This action is necessary to allow participation in 
the BSAI crab fisheries in a manner intended by the North Pacific 
Fishery Management Council. The intended effect of this action is to 
prevent unnecessary restriction on the participation of vessels in the 
BSAI crab fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related To 0648-AL95
RIN: 0648-AQ73
_______________________________________________________________________




432. [bull] REVISE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR BSAI PACIFIC COD 
ENDORSEMENTS TO GROUNDFISH LICENSES ISSUED UNDER THE LICENSE LIMITATION 
PROGRAM (LLP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would correct the eligibility 
criteria for a Pacific cod endorsement for the hook-and-line or pot 
gear fisheries so that a person may use BSAI Pacific cod harvests to 
meet the eligibility criteria for the Pacific cod endorsement if the 
person owned the qualifying fishing history which gave rise to a valid 
LLP groundfish license at the time he or she harvested Pacific cod to 
meet the eligibility criteria for a Pacific cod endorsement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ75
_______________________________________________________________________




433. [bull] FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 38 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This adjustment would modify existing multispecies 
regulations to establish a seasonal whiting grate raised footrope trawl 
fishery in the inshore Gulf of Maine.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ76

[[Page 30121]]

_______________________________________________________________________




434. [bull] IMPLEMENT BSAI FMP AMENDMENT 75--DELAYING IMPLEMENTATION OF 
IMPROVED RETENTION/IMPROVED UTILIZATION OF FLATFISH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This amendment would delay the effective date of requirements 
for 100 percent retention and utilization of rock sole and yellowfin 
sole from January 1, 2003, until June 1, 2004. The North Pacific 
Fishery Management Council (Council) submitted Amendment 75 to provide 
the Council and the affected industry with additional time to develop 
and assess alternatives to address groundfish discards in the 
groundfish fisheries of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Management 
Area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ78
_______________________________________________________________________




435. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND 
BLACK SEA BASS FISHERIES FOR 2004

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the annual specifications for the 
Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries for fishing year 
2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ80
_______________________________________________________________________




436. [bull] SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2004-2005 FISHING YEAR FOR THE SPINY 
DOGFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement specifications for the 2003-2004 
fishing year for the spiny dogfish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ81
_______________________________________________________________________




437. [bull] RECREATIONAL MEASURES FOR THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND 
BLACK SEA BASS FISHERY FOR FISHING YEAR 2004

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement recreational measures for the 
2003 fishing year for the summer flounder, scup, and black sea bass 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ82
_______________________________________________________________________




438. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND 
BUTTERFISH FISHERIES FOR 2004

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the annual specifications for the 
Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries for fishing year 
2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ83
_______________________________________________________________________




439. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY FOR 
2004

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the annual specifications for the

[[Page 30122]]

Atlantic Herring Fishery for fishing year 2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ84
_______________________________________________________________________




440. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ATLANTIC BLUEFISH FISHERY FOR 
2004

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the annual specifications for the 
Atlantic Bluefish Fishery for fishing year 2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ85
_______________________________________________________________________




441. [bull] ``OTHER SPECIES'' CDQ RESERVE MANAGEMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would revise how NMFS manages the 
``other species'' CDQ reserve. Although 7.5 percent of the ``other 
species'' would still be allocated to the ``other species'' CDQ 
reserve, the reserve would not be allocated to individual CDQ groups. 
``Other species'' CDQ would initially be closed to directed fishing, 
and CDQ fishery participants would be subject to maximum retainable 
amount standards in relation to their ``other species'' CDQ catch. Once 
the aggregate ``other species'' CDQ catch reaches the annual 7.5 
percent CDQ reserve amount, ``other species'' CDQ would be placed on 
prohibited species catch status. Further restrictions would not occur 
unless the harvest of ``other species'' by both CDQ and non-CDQ 
fisheries approached the overfishing level of this species complex.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ88
_______________________________________________________________________




442. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; ATLANTIC SWORDFISH QUOTAS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule would implement catch quotas for North and 
South Atlantic swordfish based on recommendations made by the 
International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas at its 
2002 meeting.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John H. Dunnigan, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway 13350, Silver Spring, MD
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AQ90
_______________________________________________________________________




443. [bull] ADJUSTMENT OF MANAGEMENT PROGRAM; PELAGIC FISHERIES IN THE 
WESTERN PACIFIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory action would revise certain sea turtle 
mitigation provisions for participants in the non-longline, hook-and-
line, pelagic fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AQ91
_______________________________________________________________________




444. [bull] AMENDMENT 11 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PELAGIC 
FISHERIES OF THE WESTERN PACIFIC REGION (AMERICAN SAMOA LIMITED ACCESS 
PROGRAM)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 11 would establish a limited access program for the 
pelagic longline fishery for the EEZ around American Samoa.

[[Page 30123]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AQ92
_______________________________________________________________________




445. [bull] EASTERN PACIFIC TUNA CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 955 to 961; 16 USC 971 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will implement tuna fishery conservation and 
management measures recommended by the Inter-American Tropical Tuna 
Commission (IATTC) and approved by the Department of State for 2003. 
Historically, the IATTC takes action in June each year and the member 
nations (including the United States) implement the actions as soon as 
practicable thereafter. Among the actions anticipated is a quota for 
yellowfin tuna or a similar conservation measure to limit effort (e.g., 
a seasonal closure) and prevent overfishing of the yellowfin stock in 
the eastern Pacific.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AQ93
_______________________________________________________________________




446. [bull] WEST COAST COASTAL PELAGIC FISHERIES SARDINE ALLOCATION 
SYSTEM CHANGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, July 2003, Important changes in the 
allocation process and criteria for Pacific sardine.
Final, Statutory, Final regulations to be published within 30 days of 
end of NPRM comment period.

Abstract: This rule will implement changes in the allocation process 
and criteria for Pacific sardine under the Fishery Management Plan for 
Coastal Pelagic Species Fisheries off the West Coast. The annual quota 
is set for all fishing coastwide, but the allocation system recognizes 
that there is seasonality in the availability of the fish to different 
portions of the coast. The current allocation system is being reviewed 
because some interests believe it unnecessarily restricts the fisheries 
and prevents achievement of the full allowable harvest of Pacific 
sardine. However, the current system was intended to ensure that 
fishing interests with long-standing involvement in the fishery would 
not be unfairly disadvantaged relative to new entrants into the 
fishery. The fishery has recently expanded to waters off Oregon and 
Washington, and these new entrants would like better opportunity to 
ensure that the full quota will be taken each year. Southern interests 
are concerned that there is too little known about the relationship 
between the northern component of the sardine stock and the southern 
component. Research is planned to address this point. However, a 
temporary adjustment in the allocation system may be warranted while 
this research is being conducted.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner, Assistant Regional Administrator for 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, Southwest Region, 501 W. Ocean Boulevard, 
Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AQ94
_______________________________________________________________________




447. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); ATLANTIC SHARK 
MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would implement management measures to amend some 
of the shark regulations currently issued under the Fishery Management 
Plan for Atlantic tunas, swordfish and sharks. Management measures that 
could change include commercial fishing quotas, recreational retention 
limits, minimum sizes, prohibited species, and the process for issuing 
permits for highly migratory species caught for display purposes. These 
changes would affect fishermen fishing for highly migratory species in 
the Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Sea.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          11/15/02                    67 FR 69180
NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John H. Dunnigan, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway 13350, Silver Spring, MD
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AQ95

[[Page 30124]]

_______________________________________________________________________




448. [bull] ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE OPTIMUM YIELD AND HARVEST LIMIT FOR 
PACIFIC MACKEREL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, July 2003.
The Coastal Pelagics Fisheries regulations require that the annual 
specifications for Pacific mackerel will be published in the FR before 
July 1, the start of the fishing season.

Abstract: This rule will announce the annual harvest guidelines for 
Pacific mackerel in the exclusive economic zone off the Pacific coast. 
The CPS FMP and its implementing regulations require NMFS to establish 
an annual harvest guideline for Pacific mackerel based on a formula in 
the FMP. This harvest guideline has been calculated according to the 
regulations implementing the Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery Management 
Plan (FMP) and establishes allowable harvest levels for Pacific 
mackerel off the Pacific coast.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03
Final Action                    07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ96
_______________________________________________________________________




449. [bull] ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE OPTIMUM YIELD AND HARVEST LIMIT FOR 
PACIFIC SARDINE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, January 2004, The CPS fisheries 
regulations require that the annual specs for Pacific sardine be 
published in the Federal Register before January 1, the start of the 
fishing year.

Abstract: This rule will announce the annual harvest guidelines for 
Pacific sardine in the exclusive economic zone off the Pacific coast. 
The CPS FMP and its implementing regulations require NMFS to establish 
an annual harvest guideline for Pacific sardine based on a formula in 
the FMP. This harvest guideline has been calculated according to the 
regulations implementing the Coastal Pelagic Species Fishery Management 
Plan (FMP) and establishes allowable harvest levels for Pacific sardine 
off the Pacific coast.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/03
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ97
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AH83
_______________________________________________________________________




451. NORTH ATLANTIC WHALE PROTECTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216; 50 CFR 222

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action investigates the need to adopt regulations to 
decrease negative action of whale watching.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/04/00                      65 FR 270
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/06/00
NPRM                            12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Trevor Spradlin, Marine Mammal Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AM85

[[Page 30125]]

_______________________________________________________________________




452. PREVENTING HARASSMENT FROM HUMAN ACTIVITIES DIRECTED AT MARINE 
MAMMALS IN THE WILD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would prohibit the public from swimming with or 
otherwise interacting with dolphins and other marine mammals in the 
wild.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/30/02                     67 FR 4379
ANPRM Comment Period End        04/01/02
NPRM                            12/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Trevor Spradlin, Marine Mammal Biologist, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AN43
_______________________________________________________________________




453. ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES: PERMIT EXEMPTIONS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq; 16 USC 742a et seq; 31 USC 9701

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 222

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS is providing exceptions to prohibitions to allow Federal 
and State employees to perform conservation activities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: LaMont Jackson, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301 713-0376
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO37
_______________________________________________________________________




454. CAPTIVE STELLER SEA LIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 to 1543; 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule is to provide exception to captive Steller sea 
lions (those captured before listing) to assist the public display 
community in commerce involving these animals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Jennifer Lyn Skidmore, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13710, 1315 East-West 
Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2289
Fax: 301 713-0376
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO61
_______________________________________________________________________




455. TAKING MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO ROCKET LAUNCHES FROM THE KODIAK 
LAUNCH COMPLEX, KODIAK ISLAND, ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS has received a request from the Alaska Aerospace 
Development Corporation (AADC) for a Letter of Authorization (LOA) to 
take small numbers of marine mammals incidental to rocket launches from 
the Kodiak Launch Complex (KLC), Kodiak Island, Alaska. As a result of 
that request, NMFS is proposing regulations that would authorize the 
incidental taking of a small number of marine mammals. In order to 
issue such regulations, NMFS must determine that these takings will 
have a negligible impact on the affected species and stocks of marine 
mammals and will not have an unmitigable adverse impact on the 
availability of marine mammal species or stocks for subsistence uses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/05/01                    66 FR 55909
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/05/01
NPRM                            06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Kenneth Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13600, Silver Spring, 
MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Fax: 301 713-0376
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AP62
_______________________________________________________________________




456. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE SURF CLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG 
FISHERIES FOR 2004

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the annual specifications for the 
Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries for fishing year 2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of

[[Page 30126]]

Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, One 
Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ79



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



457. REVISION OF OVERFLIGHT REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1431 et seq

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Debra Malek, National Marine Sanctuary Program, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, N ORM 6, 1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-3125

RIN: 0648-AI91
_______________________________________________________________________




458. INTERAGENCY CONSULTATION FOR THE NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434(d)

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the Federal agency consultation 
requirements of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Helen Golde, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic 
and Atmospheric Administration, Room 11536, Marine Sanctuaries 
Division, 1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-3145

RIN: 0648-AL06
_______________________________________________________________________




459. GRAY'S REEF NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1434; 16 USC 1439

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922.90 to 922.92

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend regulations and designation document 
for the Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary to clarify that the 
sanctuary boundary includes submerged lands; revise regulations on 
placing structures on the seabed, fishing, anchoring, discharges, and 
cultural resources; and revise procedure for issuing sanctuary permits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Reed Bohne, Manager, Gray's Reef National Marine 
Sanctuary, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 10 Ocean Science Circle, Savannah, GA 31411
Phone: 912 598-2345
Fax: 912 598-2367
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ41
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



460. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ALLOCATE PACIFIC HALIBUT TO THE CHARTER 
BOAT FLEET

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773c

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

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

Abstract: This action establishes measures to manage the halibut 
charter boat industry off Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/28/02                     67 FR 3867
NPRM Comment Period End         02/27/02
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AK17
_______________________________________________________________________




461. PROPOSED HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES PROCESS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes to revise the administrative procedures it 
follows to prepare and issue highly migratory species (HMS) fishery 
management plans (FMPs), FMP amendments and implementing regulations 
for the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea in response to 
recent

[[Page 30127]]

amendments to the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Management Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/18/97                    62 FR 48990
NPRM Comment Period End         10/15/97
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Dunnigan, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AK40
_______________________________________________________________________




462. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REINSTATE 6000-POUND TRIP LIMIT OF HALIBUT 
IN AREA NORTHEAST OF THE BERING SEA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

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

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would reinstate a 6000-pound 
halibut trip limit in the halibut management area northeast of the 
Bering Sea.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/15/02                    67 FR 63600
NPRM Comment Period End         11/14/02
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AL97
_______________________________________________________________________




463. ENHANCED MEASURES TO MITIGATE SEABIRD BYCATCH IN THE ALASKA 
LONGLINE FISHERIES (HOOK-AND-LINE)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, One year from approval of overfishing 
definitions. Final regulations to be published within 30 days of end of 
NPRM comment period.

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would enhance measures designed to 
mitigate seabird bycatch in the longline fisheries off Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/07/03                     68 FR 6386
NPRM Comment Period End         03/10/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AM30
_______________________________________________________________________




464. IMPLEMENTATION OF WESTERN PACIFIC CORAL REEF ECOSYSTEM FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

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

Abstract: This action would implement the Western Pacific Coral Reef 
Ecosystem FMP. Possible initial management measures include permit and 
reporting requirements, framework procedures, gear restrictions, 
harvest limits/restrictions, marine protected areas, no anchoring 
zones, etc.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/24/02                    67 FR 59824
Correction                      10/22/02                    67 FR 64861
NPRM Comment Period End         10/24/02
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AM97
_______________________________________________________________________




465. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES FISHERIES; ATLANTIC BLUEFIN TUNA 
INCIDENTAL CATCH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS is considering rulemaking on modifications to the target 
catch requirements for the incidental longline fishery for Atlantic 
bluefin tuna (BFT). NMFS requests comments on possible changes to 
Atlantic tuna regulations prior to drafting proposed changes to those 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/17/00                    65 FR 69492
ANPRM Comment Period End        12/14/00
Comment Period Extended         01/16/01
NPRM                            12/24/02                    67 FR 78404
NPRM Comment Period End         02/07/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chris Rogers, Chief for Highly Migratory Species, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13563, Bldg. SSMC3, Stop F/SF1, Office of 
Sustainable Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910

[[Page 30128]]

Phone: 301 713-2347
Fax: 301 713-1917

RIN: 0648-AO75
_______________________________________________________________________




466. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; EXEMPTED FISHING PERMITS 
PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS amends procedures for issuing exempted fishing permits 
for fishing activities that are otherwise prohibited, and for 
scientific research permits.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/06/02                    67 FR 72629
NPRM Comment Period End         01/06/03
NPRM Comment Period Extended    01/10/03                     68 FR 1430
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Dunnigan, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO79
_______________________________________________________________________




467. AMERICAN LOBSTER FISHERY; REVISIONS TO LOBSTER TRAP LIMITS, 
CONSERVATION EQUIVALENCY IN NEW HAMPSHIRE WATERS, AND CLARIFICATION OF 
LOBSTER MANAGEMENT BOUNDARIES PER ADDENDUM 1

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS announces that it is considering, and seeking public 
comment on, revisions to Federal American lobster regulations for 
Federal permit holders associated with Amendment 3 of the Interstate 
Fishery Management Plan for American Lobster (ISFMP). Addendum I to 
Amendment 3 of the ISFMP, approved by the Atlantic States Marine 
Fisheries Commission (ASMFC) on August 3, 1999, provides for the 
control of fishing effort as determined by historical participation in 
the American lobster trap fisheries in offshore waters of the Exclusive 
Economic Zone (EEZ) and areas of the EEZ closer to shore between New 
York and North Carolina. The addendum also clarifies lobster management 
area boundaries in Massachusetts waters. In addition, the ISFMP calls 
for the implementation of conservation equivalent trap limits in New 
Hampshire waters.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/03/02                      67 FR 282
NPRM Comment Period End         02/19/02
Comment Period Extended         02/19/02                     67 FR 4697
Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Agency Contact: Thomas Meyer, Fisheries Biologist, Office of 
Intergovernmental/Recreational Fisheries, Department of Commerce, 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Suite 425, 8484 
Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 427-2014

RIN: 0648-AP15
_______________________________________________________________________




468. FISHING CAPACITY REDUCTION PROGRAM FOR THE CRAB SPECIES COVERED BY 
THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE BERING SEA/ALEUTIAN ISLANDS KING AND 
TANNER CRABS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1861a; 46 USC 1279f; PL 106-554

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, May 1, 2001, Publish Final 
Regulations.
Other, Statutory, December 31, 2001, Complete Fishing Capacity 
Reduction Program.

Abstract: This action establishes a fishing capacity reduction program 
in the fishery for the crab species covered by the Fishery Management 
Plan for the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands King and Tanner Crabs. The 
crab reduction program makes payments for revoking crab licenses in, 
and withdrawing fishing vessels from, the crab fishery. Reducing the 
number of crab licenses and vessels in the crab fishery increases post-
reduction harvesting productivity, helps conserve and manage the crab 
resources, and fosters the potential for rationalizing crab fishery 
harvesting effort. The regulations add a new section 600.1018 to the 
fishing capacity reduction framework regulations contained in subpart L 
to 50 CFR part 600.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/12/02                    67 FR 76329
Correction                      12/30/02                    67 FR 79550
NPRM Comment Period End         01/28/03
Comment Period Extended         01/29/03                     68 FR 4161
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michael L. Grable, Chief, Financial Services Division, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2390
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AP25
_______________________________________________________________________




469. BOTTOMFISH AND PELAGICS FISHERIES FMP AMENDMENTS REGARDING BYCATCH 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would bring these FMPs into compliance with the 
Sustainable Fisheries Act regarding previously disapproved bycatch 
provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 30129]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AP54
_______________________________________________________________________




470. BOTTOMFISH, CRUSTACEANS, PELAGICS, AND PRECIOUS CORALS FISHERIES 
FMP AMENDMENTS REGARDING FISHING COMMUNITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would bring these FMPs into compliance with the 
Sustainable Fisheries Act regarding previously disapproved 
categorization of the State of Hawaii as a fishing community.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Sustainable Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1601 Kapiolani Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 
96814
Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AP55
_______________________________________________________________________




471. AMENDMENT TO REGULATIONS FOR OBSERVER AT-SEA ELECTRONIC 
COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR VESSELS AND SHORESIDE 
PROCESSORS IN THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH FISHERIES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

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

Abstract: This rulemaking would refine requirements for the 
facilitation of observer data transmission and improve support for 
observers. The rulemaking is intended to assure continued collection of 
high-quality observer data to support the management objectives of the 
Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea 
and Aleutian Islands Area and the Fishery Management Plan for 
Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/25/02                    67 FR 48604
NPRM Comment Period End         08/26/02
Final Rule                      06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AP66
_______________________________________________________________________




472. ANTARCTIC MARINE LIVING RESOURCES VESSEL MONITORING SYSTEM AND 
CATCH DOCUMENTATION SCHEME

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 2341 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would lengthen the duration of the permit required 
to enter a Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living 
Resources (CCAMLR) Ecosystem Monitoring Program (CEMP) site from one 
year to five years. The rule would define the CCAMLR fishing season and 
require the use of an automated satellite-linked vessel monitoring 
system (VMS) for U.S. vessels harvesting Antarctic marine living 
resources (AMLR) in the area of the Convention on the Conservation of 
Antarctic Marine Living Resources (Convention). The rule would also 
require a non-resident consignee to designate a resident agent; 
prohibit the importation of Dissostichus species declared as harvested 
in certain high seas areas outside the Convention area; prohibit the 
import of Dissostichus species issued a Specially Validated 
Dissostichus Catch Document (SVDCD); provide guidance on the 
disposition of AMLR seized by law enforcement personnel; and propose 
regulations to modify requirements for U.S. receivers and importers of 
Dissostichus species harvested in all waters, including those under the 
jurisdiction of CCAMLR. This rule is intended to implement U.S. 
obligations as a member of CCAMLR and to conserve Antarctic and 
Patagonian toothfish by preventing and discouraging unlawful harvest 
and trade in these species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/22/02                    67 FR 64853
NPRM Comment Period End         11/18/02
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Dean Swanson, Chief, International Fisheries Division, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2276
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AP74
_______________________________________________________________________




473. IFQ RECORDKEEPING AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR CATCHER VESSELS; 
BSAI AMENDMENT 72 AND GOA AMENDMENT 64

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendments 72/64 will revise the submittal time limit for the 
individual fishing quotas (IFQ) prior notice of landing; will combine 
the IFQ shipment report into the groundfish product transfer report; 
will remove the vessel clearance requirement; will remove authorized 
IFQ ports of landing from Table 14; and will revise the IFQ departure 
report.

[[Page 30130]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          10/29/02                    67 FR 65941
Comment Period End              12/27/02
NPRM                            01/24/03                     68 FR 3485
NPRM Comment Period End         02/24/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AP92
_______________________________________________________________________




474. EXTENSION OF AN EMERGENCY INTERIM RULE TO IMPLEMENT 2002 STELLER 
SEA LION PROTECTION MEASURES AND HARVEST SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE BERING 
SEA/ALEUTIAN ISLANDS AREA AND THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et 
seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, July 8, 2002, Extension of emergency 
interim rule.

Abstract: The extension of an emergency interim rule continues to 
implement Steller sea lion protection measures to avoid the likelihood 
that the groundfish fisheries off Alaska will jeopardize the continued 
existence of the western population of Steller sea lions or adversely 
modify their critical habitat. This action also extends final 2002 
harvest specifications and associated management measures for the 
groundfish fisheries of the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands management 
area and the Gulf of Alaska through December 31, 2002.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/16/02                    67 FR 34860
Correction                      10/18/02                    67 FR 64315
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

Related RIN: Related To 0648-AP69
RIN: 0648-AQ02
_______________________________________________________________________




475. SUBSISTENCE FISHERY FOR PACIFIC HALIBUT IN WATERS OFF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773-773k

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300; 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes regulations to authorize a subsistence fishery 
for Pacific halibut in waters off Alaska. These regulations are 
necessary to allow qualified persons to practice the long-term 
customary and traditional harvest of Pacific halibut for food in a 
noncommercial manner. This action is intended to meet the conservation 
and management requirements of the Northern Pacific Halibut Act of 1982 
(Halibut Act) and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/26/02                    67 FR 54767
NPRM Comment Period End         09/25/02
Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ09
_______________________________________________________________________




476. CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION FUND PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 46 USC 1177

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 259

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action simplifies and clarifies program regulations and 
eases restrictions on reconstructions to promote fleet safety, 
reliability, and efficiency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles L. Cooper, Program Leader, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2396
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ16
_______________________________________________________________________




477. 2003-2004 MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR COMMERCIAL, RECREATIONAL, AND 
TREATY INDIAN SALMON FISHERIES OFF THE COASTS OF WASHINGTON, OREGON, AND 
CALIFORNIA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, May 2003.

Abstract: The annual management measures for the 2003-2004 fishing year 
specify allowable ocean harvest levels (including quotas), allocations, 
management boundaries and zones, minimum size limits, gear definitions, 
seasons, selective fisheries, and in-season notice procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest

[[Page 30131]]

Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ17
_______________________________________________________________________




478. ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ATLANTIC BLUEFISH FISHERY FOR FISHING 
YEAR 2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement the annual specifications for the 
Atlantic Bluefish Fishery for fishing year 2003.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/06/03                      68 FR 533
NPRM Comment Period End         01/21/03
Final Action                    07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ26
_______________________________________________________________________




479. FRAMEWORK 2 TO THE MONKFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This framework would amend the overfishing criteria in the 
Monkfish Fishery Management Plan and establish measures for fishing 
year 2003-2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/07/03                    68 FR 11023
NPRM Comment Period End         03/24/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ29
_______________________________________________________________________




480. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2003-2004 FISHING YEAR FOR THE SPINY DOGFISH 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement specifications for the 2003-2004 
fishing year for the spiny dogfish fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/10/03                    68 FR 11346
NPRM Comment Period End         03/25/03
Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ34
_______________________________________________________________________




481. FRAMEWORK 37 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This framework action would establish year-4 measures for the 
whiting fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/25/03                     68 FR 8731
NPRM Comment Period End         03/27/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ35
_______________________________________________________________________




482. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); LARGE AND SMALL COASTAL 
SHARK COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule would address large and small coastal shark 
commercial management measures based on new stock assessments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Emergency Rule                  12/27/02                    67 FR 78990
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chris Rogers, Chief for Highly Migratory Species, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, Room 13563, Bldg. SSMC3, Stop F/SF1, Office of 
Sustainable Fisheries, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2347
Fax: 301 713-1917

RIN: 0648-AQ39

[[Page 30132]]

_______________________________________________________________________




483. INCREASE IN ALLOWABLE PERCENTAGE OF POLLOCK ROE

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 16 USC 773 et seq; 16 USC 1801 et seq; 16 USC 3631 et 
seq; PL 106-31; PL 105-277

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would increase from 7 to 9 percent 
the percentage of pollock roe that may be retained by operators of 
catcher/processors and motherships processing pollock harvested in the 
BSAI. This action is necessary because catcher/processors and 
motherships have been able to increase their pollock roe recovery rate 
since the passage of the American Fisheries Act through cooperative 
fishing practices and more precise timing of fishing activity.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/11/03                     68 FR 6865
NPRM Comment Period End         03/13/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ44
_______________________________________________________________________




484. OPENING WATERS TO PACIFIC COD POT FISHING OFF CAPE BARNABAS AND 
CATON ISLAND IN THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would remove restriction on directed fishing for 
Pacific cod by federally permitted vessels using pot gear in waters 
within 3 nautical miles of Cape Barnabas and Caton Island Steller sea 
lion haulouts in the Gulf of Alaska. This action is necessary to 
provide consistency between State of Alaska and Federal fishing 
regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/18/03                     68 FR 7750
NPRM Comment Period End         03/20/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, P.O. 21668, Juneau, AK 99802
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ45
_______________________________________________________________________




485. [bull] POLICIES AND PROCEDURES REGARDING USE OF THE NOAA SPACE-
BASED DATA COLLECTION SYSTEMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 313; 49 USC 44720; 15 USC 1525; 7 USC 450b; 5 
USC 552

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 911

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NOAA is issuing a revision to our policy on the use of the 
NOAA Data Collection Systems to allow non-environmental users access to 
the GOES Data Collection System for national and Homeland Security and 
other critical purposes and to lift the five percent cap on the use of 
the ARGOS Data Collection System for the same.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kay Metcalf, NOAA GOES DCS Program Manager, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NESDIS, 
5200 Auth Road, FB4, Room 3320, Suitland, MD 20746
Phone: 301 467-5681
Fax: 301 457-5620

RIN: 0648-AQ55
_______________________________________________________________________




486. [bull] CORRECTED AMENDMENT FOR A CHARTER VESSEL/HEADBOAT PERMIT 
MORATORIUM AMENDING THE GULF REEF FISH AND COASTAL PELAGICS FMPS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 1, 2003.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) 
promulgated the charter moratorium regulations (FR 67, 43558, June 28, 
2002) to implement Amendment 14 to the Fishery Management Plan for the 
Coastal Migratory Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic and 
Amendment 20 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Fishery 
of the Gulf of Mexico. However, after reviewing the administrative 
record, NOAA General Counsel, NOAA Fisheries and the Gulf of Mexico 
Fishery Management Council (Council) determined that the amendment 
contained an error that did not correctly reflect the actions approved 
by the Council. Thus, the regulations implementing the amendment also 
contained this error, and not all persons entitled to receive charter 
vessel/headboat (for-hire) permits under the moratorium approved by the 
Council would be able to receive permits under the promulgated 
regulations. In order to ensure that no qualified participants in the 
fishery are wrongfully excluded under the moratorium, due to an error 
in the amendment, and to fully comply with Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act requirements, NOAA Fisheries is 
submitting this corrected amendment for Secretarial review to address 
this error and, as such, to reflect the actions approved by the 
Council. Specifically, this corrected amendment will eliminate one 
eligibility criteria in the final rule which states that the charter 
vessel headboat permits for Gulf coastal migratory pelagic fish or Gulf 
reef fish is limited to an owner of a vessel that had a valid Gulf 
charter vessel/headboat permit on the effective date of the final rule 
(July 29, 2002).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          03/04/03                    68 FR 10180
NPRM                            03/12/03                    68 FR 11794

[[Page 30133]]

NPRM Comment Period End         03/27/03
Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

Related RIN: Related To 0648-AO62, Related To 0648-AQ59
RIN: 0648-AQ70
_______________________________________________________________________




487. [bull] NOTICE OF TECHNICAL REVISION TO RIGHT WHALE NOMENCLATURE AND 
TAXONOMY UNDER THE U.S. ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531-1543; 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NOAA Fisheries is revising the nomenclature and taxonomy for 
the northern right whale, Balaena glacialis, as it was listed in the 
List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife revised October 1, 1999. 
With this revision, the northern right whale will now be classified as 
two separate species, the North Atlantic right whale, Eubalaena 
glacialis, and the North Pacific right whale, Eubalaena japonica. This 
revision is being made to reflect the currently accepted nomenclature 
for the genus as well as the genetic distinctiveness now recognized 
between Pacific and Atlantic right whale populations in the northern 
hemisphere. NOAA Fisheries is also updating the formerly-used genus 
Balaena to the genus Eubalaena to conform to the scientific name 
currently accepted by the scientific community and supported by the 
scientific literature.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AQ74
_______________________________________________________________________




488. ATLANTIC LARGE WHALE 2002 SEASONAL AREA MANAGEMENT (SAM) PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Judicial, November 23, 2001, The Federal District 
Court for the District of Massachusetts order.
Final, Judicial, December 31, 2001, The Federal District Court for the 
District of Massachusetts order.

Abstract: NMFS is preparing regulations to implement a SAM program for 
the 2002 fishing year, which was identified as a measure under the RPA 
that resulted from the biological opinions prepared for the Northeast 
multispecies, monkfish, spiny dogfish, and American lobster fisheries. 
The 2002 SAM program is intended as an incremental step to provide 
endangered western North Atlantic right whales protection from 
entanglement with fishing gear used in those fisheries. NMFS is 
preparing an EIS for more comprehensive SAM regulations for 2003 and 
beyond, in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act 
(NEPA), to analyze the impacts on the human environment of the 
management alternatives under consideration. The measures that have 
been identified for the 2002 SAM proposed rulemaking requires 
reduction, elimination, and/or modification of certain types of fixed 
gear (i.e., gillnets and lobster traps) in specific areas off the 
Atlantic coast of the United States during times of the year when right 
whales are known to be present in significant concentrations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/03/01                    66 FR 50390
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/02/01
NPRM                            11/28/01                    66 FR 59394
NPRM Comment Period End         12/13/01
Interim Final Rule              01/09/02                     67 FR 1142
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/08/02
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Lawson, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AP68
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1372 (c)

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/03/01                    66 FR 35209
NPRM Comment Period Extended    08/22/01                    66 FR 44109
NPRM Comment Period End         09/04/01
Comment Period Extended         11/02/01
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 30134]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AH26
_______________________________________________________________________




490. DRAFT POLICY FOR EVALUATION OF CONSERVATION EFFORTS IN MAKING 
LISTING DECISIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 424

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This draft policy evaluates conservation efforts in making 
listing decisions under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The policy 
identifies considerations to be used in determining whether 
conservation plans and agreements, management plans or other efforts 
provide sufficient protections to preclude or remove the need to list a 
species under the ESA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/13/00                    65 FR 37102
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Margaret C. Lorenz, ESA Policy Coordinator, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AL91
_______________________________________________________________________




491. TAKING OF THE COOK INLET, ALASKA, STOCK OF BELUGA WHALES BY ALASKA 
NATIVES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS is regulating subsistence harvest of Cook Inlet Beluga 
to ensure that the harvest is sustainable and does not substantially 
delay the recovery of this marine mammal stock. Specific harvest levels 
and distribution of the harvest will be based upon cooperative 
agreements with Alaska native organizations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/04/00                    65 FR 59164
NPRM Comment Period End         11/27/00
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Organizations, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Tribal, Federal

Agency Contact: Thomas C. Eagle, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13725, 
Office of Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, 
MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2055
Fax: 301 713-4060
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO16
_______________________________________________________________________




492. RESTRICTIONS ON POUND NET LEADERS TO ENHANCE TURTLE PROTECTION IN 
VIRGINIA; THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 223; 50 CFR 224

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action involves prohibiting the use of all pound net 
leaders measuring 12 inches or greater stretched mesh and all pound 
nets with stringer leaders in the Virginia waters of the mainstem 
Chesapeake Bay and the waters of the James River, York River, and 
Rappahannock River downstream of the first bridge in each tributary 
from May 8 to June 30. This action also includes a provision to extend 
the regulation if NMFS believes that sea turtles may still be 
vulnerable to entanglement in pound net leaders after June 30. Should 
an extension of the prohibition of pound net leaders measuring 12 
inches or greater stretched mesh and leaders with stringers be 
necessary, NMFS will file a notification with the Office of the Federal 
Register explicitly stating the duration of the extension. 
Additionally, this action incorporates a measure that if high 
strandings start to occur and/or monitoring of pound net leaders 
reveals new information about sea turtle interactions with pound net 
leaders less than 12 inches stretched mesh, NMFS may determine that 
additional restrictions are necessary. Should this occur, NMFS will 
immediately file a final rule with the Office of the Federal Register 
which explicitly states the mandatory gear modification as well as the 
affected area and the time period. Such additional restrictions may 
include prohibiting the use of all pound net leaders measuring 8 inches 
or greater stretched mesh or prohibiting the use of all pound net 
leaders regardless of mesh size in the Virginia waters of the mainstem 
Chesapeake Bay and portions of the Virginia tributaries from the date 
of publication to June 30.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/02                    67 FR 15160
NPRM Comment Period End         04/15/02
Interim Final Rule              06/17/02                    67 FR 41196
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/17/02
Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary A. Colligan, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS/Protected Resources, Protected Resources Division, 
One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9116
Fax: 978 281-9394

RIN: 0648-AP81
_______________________________________________________________________




493. LISTING ENDANGERED AND THREATENED WILDLIFE AND DESIGNATING CRITICAL 
HABITAT; 12-MONTH FINDING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 30135]]

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Department of Commerce, 
announces the 90-day finding for a petition to reclassify the Northern 
and Florida Panhandle nesting subpopulations of the loggerhead (Caretta 
caretta) sea turtle from threatened to endangered and designate 
critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The Services 
find that the petition to reclassify presents substantial scientific 
information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. The 
Services find that the petition to designate critical habitat did not 
provide substantial scientific information to warrant further review. 
The Services will conduct a status review of the loggerhead turtle to 
determine whether the petitioned action is warranted. To ensure a 
comprehensive review, the Services are soliciting information and 
comments pertaining to this species from any interested party.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/04/02                    67 FR 38459
NPRM Comment Period End         08/05/02
Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Therese Conant, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Protected Resources, 
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1431
Fax: 301 713-0376

RIN: 0648-AP94
_______________________________________________________________________




494. DESIGNATING THE EASTERN NORTH PACIFIC SOUTHERN RESIDENT STOCK OF 
KILLER WHALES AS DEPLETED

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1383b

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS anticipates promulgating regulations to designate the 
Eastern North Pacific, Southern Resident stock of killer whales as 
depleted under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/28/02                    67 FR 43586
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/30/02
NPRM                            01/30/03                     68 FR 4719
NPRM Comment Period End         03/31/03
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Thomas C. Eagle, Fishery Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Room 13725, 
Office of Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, 
MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2055
Fax: 301 713-4060
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ00
_______________________________________________________________________




495. DESIGNATION OF CRITICAL HABITAT FOR GULF STURGEON

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Judicial, May 23, 2002.
Final, Judicial, February 28, 2003.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service and U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service (collectively, the Services) jointly listed the Gulf 
sturgeon as ``threatened'' under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 
1991. The ESA requires that critical habitat be designated for any 
listed species. On June 6, 2002, the Services proposed designating 
critical habitat for the Gulf sturgeon. The proposed designation 
includes seven freshwater and seven estuarine/marine units in the Gulf 
of Mexico as critical habitat. All of the units proposed as critical 
habitat are areas presently occupied by Gulf sturgeon during part of 
its life cycle. On August 8, 2002, the Services announced the 
availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation, 
and extended the public comment period for the proposal to October 7, 
2002. A final designation must be filed by February 28, 2003, per a 
court settlement agreement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/06/02                    67 FR 39106
Comment Period Extended         08/08/02                    67 FR 51530
NPRM Comment Period End         10/07/02
Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Stephania Bolden, Fisheries Biologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, F/SER3, 9721 
Executive Center Drive North, St. Peterburg, FL 33702
Phone: 727 570-5312

RIN: 0648-AQ03
_______________________________________________________________________




496. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO COMMERCIAL FISHING 
OPERATIONS; ATLANTIC LARGE WHALE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed regulatory action is related to RIN 0648-AN88, 
a final rule which amended the regulations that implement the Atlantic 
Large Whale Take Reduction Plan and established a Dynamic Area 
Management (DAM) program. This proposed regulatory action involves the 
identification of acceptable fishing practices and gear which could be 
used under the DAM program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM Comment Period End         04/03/02
NPRM                            03/04/03                    68 FR 10195
Final Rule                      06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary A. Colligan, Assistant Regional Administrator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS/Protected Resources, Protected Resources Division, 
One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9116

[[Page 30136]]

Fax: 978 281-9394

Related RIN: Related To 0648-AN88
RIN: 0648-AQ04
_______________________________________________________________________




497. TAKING OF THREATENED OR ENDANGERED SPECIES INCIDENTAL TO COMMERCIAL 
FISHING OPERATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes to 
prohibit drift gillnet fishing in U.S. ocean waters off of southern 
California south of Point Conception (34 degrees 27 minutes N) and west 
to 120 degrees W longitude from August 15 to August 31, and from 
January 1 to January 31, during El Nino events.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/20/02                    67 FR 59243
NPRM Comment Period End         10/21/02
Interim Final Rule              12/24/02                    67 FR 78388
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/07/03
Comment Period Extended         02/12/03                     68 FR 7080
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Therese Conant, Department of Commerce, National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Protected Resources, 
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1431
Fax: 301 713-0376

RIN: 0648-AQ13
_______________________________________________________________________




498. [bull] ACCESS TO TISSUE SPECIMEN SAMPLES FROM THE NATIONAL MARINE 
MAMMAL TISSUE BANK

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 CFR 1361

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216.22

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Tissue Bank (NMMTB) proposes to make 
available tissue specimen samples to the scientific community for 
research that is consistent with the goal of the NMMTB. The intent of 
this proposed rule is to allow the scientific community the opportunity 
to comment on the protocol for requests for tissue specimen samples.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/12/02                    67 FR 68553
NPRM Comment Period End         12/12/02
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Lawson, Office of Protected Resources, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2322
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ51
_______________________________________________________________________




499. [bull] LIST OF FISHERIES FOR 2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, January 2, 2003.
Final, Statutory, April 1, 2003.

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) proposes to 
amend the 2003 List of Fisheries (LOF), as required by the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) (16 U.S.C. 1387(c)(1)), to update the 
status of commercial fisheries to reflect new information on the 
interaction with marine mammals. Under the MMPA, NMFS must place each 
commercial fishery on the LOF into one of three categories based upon 
the level of serious injury and mortality of marine mammals that occurs 
incidental to that fishery. The categorization of a fishery in the LOF 
determines whether participants in that fishery are subject to certain 
provisions of the MMPA, such as registration, observer coverage, and 
take reduction plan requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/10/03                     68 FR 1414
NPRM Comment Period End         02/10/03
Final Action                    07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Tanya Dobrzynski, Marine Resource Manager, Office of 
Protected Resources, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-2289

RIN: 0648-AQ60



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



500. NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS UNDER THE OIL POLLUTION ACT OF 
1990

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 33 USC 2706(e)

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 990

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action amends the natural resource damage assessment 
rule under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990, codified at 15 CFR 990, due 
to court remand (General Electric vs. Commerce, 128 F. 3d 767. DC Cir. 
1997).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/31/01                    66 FR 39464
Final Action                    05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Eli Reinharz, Ecologist, Department of Commerce, 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA/DAC, Room 10218, 
1305 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-3038
Fax: 301 713-4387

RIN: 0648-AM80

[[Page 30137]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



501. CRUSTACEANS, BOTTOMFISH, AND PELAGICS FMP AMENDMENTS REGARDING 
OVERFISHING DEFINITIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          11/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Alvin Katekaru
Phone: 808 973-2985

Related RIN: Related To 0648-AP54, Related To 0648-AP55
RIN: 0648-AN79
_______________________________________________________________________




502. [bull] AMENDMENT 2 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement a limited access program and make 
other adjustment to the FMP.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/00/04
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/00/04
Final Action                    10/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ87
_______________________________________________________________________




503. INTERAGENCY POLICY ON THE PRESCRIPTION OF FISHWAYS UNDER SECTION 18 
OF THE FEDERAL POWER ACT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 18 CFR 385.713

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          12/22/00                    65 FR 80898
Notice Comment Period End       02/20/01
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Kathryn Conant
Phone: 301 713-2325
Fax: 301 713-1043
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO70
_______________________________________________________________________




504. POLICY FOR REVIEW OF MANDATORY CONDITIONS DEVELOPED BY THE 
DEPARTMENTS OF THE INTERIOR AND COMMERCE IN THE CONTEXT OF HYDROPOWER 
LICENSING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 18 CFR 385.713

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          12/13/00                    65 FR 77889
Notice Comment Period End       01/03/01
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Energy Effects:  Statement of Energy Effects planned as required by 
Executive Order 13211.

Agency Contact: Kathryn Conant
Phone: 301 713-2325
Fax: 301 713-1043
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO84
_______________________________________________________________________




505. ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES: TAKE OF THREATENED SOUTHERN 
OREGON/NORTHERN CALIFORNIA COAST EVOLUTIONARILY SIGNIFICANT UNIT (ESU) 
COHO SALMON

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/18/97                    62 FR 38479


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Barry Thom
Phone: 301 713-1401
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AJ91
_______________________________________________________________________




506. DESIGNATED CRITICAL HABITAT: PROPOSED CRITICAL HABITAT FOR NORTHERN 
CALIFORNIA STEELHEAD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 226

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/19/00                    65 FR 79328
NPRM Comment Period End         02/20/01
Final Action                    02/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Barry Thom
Phone: 301 713-1401
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO04



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



507. INSTALLING AND MAINTAINING COMMERCIAL SUBMARINE CABLES IN NATIONAL 
MARINE SANCTUARIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/23/00                    65 FR 51264
ANPRM Comment Period End        10/23/00


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Helen Golde
Phone: 301 713-3145

RIN: 0648-AO36

[[Page 30138]]

_______________________________________________________________________




508. PROCEDURAL CHANGES TO THE FEDERAL CONSISTENCY PROCESS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 930

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/02/02                    67 FR 44407
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/03/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: David W. Kaiser
Phone: 301 713-3155
Fax: 301 713-4367
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AP98



_______________________________________________________________________



OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR


                    ________________________________



509. REGIONAL MARINE RESEARCH PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Don Scavia
Phone: 301 713-3060

RIN: 0648-AF20
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________




510. COMPREHENSIVE AMENDMENT ADDRESSING SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES ACT 
REQUIREMENTS REGARDING OVERFISHING, BYCATCH, FISHING COMMUNITIES AND 
PROVISIONS FOR FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR THE CARIBBEAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      05/01/02                    67 FR 21598

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AL86
_______________________________________________________________________




511. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CHANGE THE REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING THE 
NORTH PACIFIC OBSERVER PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/07/03                      68 FR 715

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AM44
_______________________________________________________________________




512. FRAMEWORK REGULATORY AMENDMENT FOR THE ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY 
SPECIES (HMS); FISHING VESSEL PERMITS; CHARTER BOAT OPERATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/18/02                    67 FR 77434

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chris Rogers
Phone: 301 713-2347
Fax: 301 713-1917

RIN: 0648-AM91
_______________________________________________________________________




513. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES FISHERIES; MONITORING OF THE 
ATLANTIC BILLFISH AND SWORDFISH RECREATIONAL FISHERIES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/07/03                      68 FR 711

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Chris Rogers
Phone: 301 713-2347
Fax: 301 713-1917

RIN: 0648-AN06
_______________________________________________________________________




514. AMENDMENT 7 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE STONE CRAB 
FISHERY OF THE GULF OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 654

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/03/02                    67 FR 61990

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AN10
_______________________________________________________________________




515. AMENDMENT 13 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/04/02                    67 FR 72131
Final Action                    03/04/03                    68 FR 10181

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

[[Page 30139]]

Government Levels Affected: State, Federal

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AN12
_______________________________________________________________________




516. AMENDMENTS 61/61 FOR BSAI AND GOA GROUNDFISH; AMENDMENT 13 FOR 
COMMERCIAL KING AND TANNER CRAB; AND AMENDMENT 8 FOR ALASKA SCALLOP 
FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/30/02                    67 FR 79692

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AN55
_______________________________________________________________________




517. DEEP-SEA RED CRAB FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/10/02                    67 FR 63222

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AN68
_______________________________________________________________________




518. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; SWORDFISH QUOTAS AND FISHING 
AREAS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/20/02                    67 FR 70023

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John Dunnigan
Phone: 301 713-2334
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO93
_______________________________________________________________________




519. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO ALLOW EXPERIMENTAL SETNET SABLEFISH 
LANDINGS TO QUALIFY LIMITED-ENTRY SABLEFISH ENDORSEMENT HOLDERS FOR TIER 
ASSIGNMENT IN THE WEST COAST PRIMARY SABLEFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/29/02                    67 FR 65902
Correction                      11/18/02                    67 FR 69479

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AP39
_______________________________________________________________________




520. AMENDMENT 5 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE SHRIMP FISHERY 
OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/16/03                     68 FR 2188

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Peter J. Eldridge
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-3583
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AP41
_______________________________________________________________________




521. ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE OPTIMUM YIELD AND HARVEST LIMIT FOR PACIFIC 
MACKEREL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/03/02                    67 FR 61994

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AP43
_______________________________________________________________________




522. AMENDMENT 69 TO THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS (BSAI) FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)--AMERICAN FISHERIES ACT (AFA) COOP LEASING

Priority: Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/11/03                     68 FR 6833

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AP71
_______________________________________________________________________




523. PROTECT NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES GROUNDFISH STOCKS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/25/02                    67 FR 70570
Interim Final Rule              01/22/03                     68 FR 2919
Final Action                    01/28/03                     68 FR 4113

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AP78
_______________________________________________________________________




524. AMENDMENT 60 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE GROUNDFISH 
FISHERY OF THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/27/02                    67 FR 70859

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger

[[Page 30140]]

Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AP79
_______________________________________________________________________




525. PACIFIC TUNA FISHERIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/04/02                    67 FR 67139
Final Action Effective          12/01/02
Final Action                    12/09/02                    67 FR 72394

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AP86
_______________________________________________________________________




526. AMENDMENT 10 TO THE COASTAL PELAGIC SPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          10/03/02                    67 FR 62001
Correction                      10/15/02                    67 FR 63599
NPRM                            10/30/02                    67 FR 66103
Final Action                    01/27/03                     68 FR 3819

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AP87
_______________________________________________________________________




527. ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE OPTIMUM YIELD AND HARVEST LIMIT FOR PACIFIC 
SARDINE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/25/02                    67 FR 70573
Final Action                    12/31/02                    67 FR 79889
Final Action Effective          01/30/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AP88
_______________________________________________________________________




528. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); REGULATORY ADJUSTMENTS; 
NOAA INFORMATION COLLECTION REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/18/02                    67 FR 64311

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John H. Dunnigan
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AP89
_______________________________________________________________________




529. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); 2002 BLUEFIN TUNA QUOTA 
SPECIFICATIONS AND EFFORT CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/01/02                    67 FR 61537

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: John H. Dunnigan
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AP90
_______________________________________________________________________




530. 2003 OBSERVER PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/06/02                    67 FR 72595
Correction                      01/10/03                     68 FR 1392

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ05
_______________________________________________________________________




531. FISHERIES OF THE EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE OFF ALASKA--STELLER SEA 
LION PROTECTION MEASURES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/02/03                      68 FR 204

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ08
_______________________________________________________________________




532. FISHERIES OF THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES; ATLANTIC MACKEREL, 
SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH FISHERIES; CONTROL DATE FOR ATLANTIC MACKEREL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/05/02                    67 FR 44792
Comment Period End              08/05/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ11
_______________________________________________________________________




533. IMPLEMENTATION OF NEW DEPTH-BASED MANAGEMENT MEASURES IN THE 
PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Emergency Final Rule            09/13/02                    67 FR 57973
Emergency Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/15/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ14

[[Page 30141]]

_______________________________________________________________________




534. 2003 INITIAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND 
BUTTERFISH

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/29/02                    67 FR 65934
Final Action                    01/02/03                       68 FR 57

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ15
_______________________________________________________________________




535. PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY; ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE 2003 
GROUNDFISH FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/07/03                      68 FR 936
Final Action                    03/07/03                    68 FR 11182

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ18
_______________________________________________________________________




536. GROUNDFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT MEASURES FOR JANUARY THROUGH FEBRUARY 
2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/07/03                      68 FR 908

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ19
_______________________________________________________________________




537. FISHERIES OF THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES; ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP 
FISHERY; FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 15

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/16/03                     68 FR 2303
Final Action                    02/28/03                     68 FR 9580

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ28
_______________________________________________________________________




538. ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR FISHING YEAR 2003 FOR THE SUMMER 
FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/27/02                    67 FR 70904
Final Action                    01/02/03                       68 FR 60

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ30
_______________________________________________________________________




539. ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE SURF CLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG FISHERIES 
FOR FISHING YEAR 2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/29/02                    67 FR 65938
Final Action                    12/31/02                    67 FR 79887

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ31
_______________________________________________________________________




540. SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY FOR FISHERY YEAR 
2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/15/02                    67 FR 69181
Final Action                    02/06/03                     68 FR 6088

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ33
_______________________________________________________________________




541. SEASONAL ADJUSTMENT OF CLOSURE AREAS TO POLLOCK AND PACIFIC COD 
TRAWL FISHING IN WATERS OFF CAPE SARICHEF IN THE BERING SEA SUBAREA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/23/03                     68 FR 3228
Final Action                    03/07/03                    68 FR 11004

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger
Phone: 907 586-7221
Fax: 907 586-7249

RIN: 0648-AQ46
_______________________________________________________________________




542. EXPEDITE REALLOCATION OF SARDINE IN THE WEST COAST COASTAL PELAGIC 
SPECIES FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/26/02                    67 FR 60601

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Svein Fougner
Phone: 562 980-4040

RIN: 0648-AQ47

[[Page 30142]]

_______________________________________________________________________




543. [bull] MODIFICATION OF THE REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING FRAMEWORK 
ADJUSTMENT 35 (FRAMEWORK 35) TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework 35 established an exempted small mesh whiting 
fishery in the Gulf of Maine, near Provincetown, MA. The fishery occurs 
from September 1 through November 20 each year and requires the use of 
raised footrope trawl gear. This rule modifies the boundaries of the 
current exemption area through inclusion of an area east of Cape Cod 
and would allow the fishery to continue in the newly-added eastern 
portion of the exemption area through December 31 each year.
This action is not likely to be controversial. The fishery was widely 
supported as an experimental fishery and provided Massachusetts 
fishermen with an opportunity to redirect fishing effort away from 
regulated multispecies. Adding the area east of Cape Cod (Area 3) to 
the Raised Footrope Trawl Whiting Fishery Exemption Area, after 
successfully being prosecuted as an experimental fishery, would open 
the fishery to a wider range of participants, allow continuation of the 
fishery in the newly-added portion through the end of December each 
year, and provide for an alternative for fishermen under current 
restrictions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/19/02                    67 FR 69694

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ50
_______________________________________________________________________




544. [bull] RESCIND A FINAL RULE IMPLEMENTING A CHARTER VESSEL/HEADBOAT 
PERMIT MORATORIUM AMENDING THE REEF FISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN 
(AMENDMENT 20) AND COASTAL MIGRATORY PELAGICS FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, December 2002.

Abstract: NOAA Fisheries promulgated the charter moratorium regulations 
(FR 67, 43558, June 28, 2002) to implement Amendment 14 to the Fishery 
Management Plan for the Coastal Migratory Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico 
and South Atlantic and Amendment 20 to the Fishery Management Plan for 
the Reef Fish Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico. However, after reviewing 
the administrative record, NOAA Fisheries and the Council have 
determined that the amendment contained errors that did not correctly 
reflect the actions approved by the Council. Thus, the regulations 
implementing the amendment also contained these errors, and not all 
persons entitled to receive charter vessel/headboat permits under the 
moratorium approved by the Council would be able to receive permits 
under the erroneous regulations. These regulations require all charter 
operators in the Gulf of Mexico exclusive economic zone have a valid 
``moratorium permit,'' as opposed to the prior open access charter 
permit, beginning December 26, 2002. In order to ensure that no 
participants in the fishery are adversely affected by the regulations, 
and to fully comply with Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act requirements, NOAA Fisheries is promulgating an interim 
final rule to rescind the erroneous regulations and reinstate the 
``open access'' system that existed previously. The open access system 
will remain in effect until NOAA Fisheries can issue a notice of 
availability of the corrected amendment for public comment and conduct 
a rulemaking based on the corrected amendment with the moratorium as it 
was approved by the Council.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Emergency Rule                  12/17/02                    67 FR 77193

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast Region, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, National Marine Fisheries Service, 9721 Executive 
Center Drive N., St. Petersburg, FL 33702-2432
Phone: 727 570-5305
Fax: 727 570-5583

RIN: 0648-AQ59
_______________________________________________________________________




545. [bull] SEA SCALLOP RESEARCH PROPOSALS UNDER FRAMEWORK 15 TO THE 
ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The notice of request for submission of Atlantic Sea Scallop 
proposals to conduct research activities under Framework 15 to the 
Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan announces a program to set 
aside 1 percent of the sea scallop total allowable catch level to be 
established for the Hudson Canyon and Virginia Beach Areas in fishing 
year 2003, for the purpose of funding sea scallop research. Vessels 
participating in an approved research project submitted in response to 
the notice of request for proposals would be authorized to land 
scallops in excess of the proposed possession limit, or to take 
additional trips above those proposed in the program, and use the 
proceeds of the excess catch or additional trips to offset the costs of 
the approved research project.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/17/03                     68 FR 2527

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ62

[[Page 30143]]

_______________________________________________________________________




546. [bull] RESEARCH PROPOSALS FOR FISHING YEAR 2004 FOR A RESEARCH SET-
ASIDE PROGRAM FOR SELECTED MID-ATLANTIC FISHERIES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The notice of request for submission of proposals funded 
under a research set-aside program (RSP) for fishing year 2004. NMFS 
announces that up to 3 percent of the total allowable landings will be 
dedicated to research endeavors under the RSP. The RSA provides a 
mechanism to fund research and compensate vessels through the sale of 
fish harvested under the research quota. NMFS is soliciting proposals 
for research activities concerning the summer flounder, scup, black sea 
bass, Loligo squid, Illex squid, Atlantic mackerel, butterfish, 
bluefish, and tilefish fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/27/03                     68 FR 3864

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Patricia Kurkul, Regional Administrator, Northeast 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, One Blackburn Drive, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AQ66
_______________________________________________________________________




547. [bull] REVISIONS TO THE PACIFIC HALIBUT CATCH SHARING PLAN FOR 2003 
AND BEYOND

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would propose changes to the Pacific halibut catch 
sharing plan proposed by the States of WA, OR, and CA that would 
provide more flexibility in managing the recreational fisheries 
inseason in order to fully utilize the available halibut; allocate 
halibut fishing opportunities between the May and June recreational 
fisheries off Washington's north coast; and prohibit fishing for 
halibut in areas where yelloweye rockfish, an overfished species, are 
commonly found. This proposed rule would also propose sport fishing 
seasons for 2003 that implement the catch sharing plan based on the 
expected total allowable catch in 2003 that is established by the 
International Pacific Halibut Commission.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/06/03                     68 FR 6103
NPRM Comment Period End         02/18/03
Final Action                    03/07/03                    68 FR 10989

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: D. Robert Lohn, Regional Administrator, Northwest 
Region, NMFS, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 7600 Sand Point Way NE, Building 1, Seattle, WA 48115-
0070
Phone: 206 526-6150
Fax: 206 526-6426

RIN: 0648-AQ67
_______________________________________________________________________




548. PACIFIC OFFSHORE CETACEAN TAKE REDUCTION PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/24/01                    66 FR 44549

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Lawson
Phone: 301 713-2322
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AL70
_______________________________________________________________________




549. SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION REGULATIONS; SHRIMP FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/21/03                     68 FR 8456

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Therese Conant
Phone: 301 713-1431
Fax: 301 713-0376

RIN: 0648-AN62
_______________________________________________________________________




550. SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION REGULATIONS; FISHERY ACTIVITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/03/02                    67 FR 71895

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patrick Opay
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AP91
_______________________________________________________________________




551. TAKING OF MARINE MAMMALS INCIDENTAL TO COMMERCIAL FISHING 
OPERATIONS; ATLANTIC LARGE WHALE TAKE REDUCTION PLAN REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/28/02                    67 FR 65722

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia Lawson
Phone: 301 713-2322
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ23
_______________________________________________________________________




552. [bull] SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION; SHRIMP TRAWLING REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS issued this temporary action to allow the use of limited 
tow times by shrimp trawlers as an alternative to the use of Turtle 
Excluder Devices (TEDs) in the waters off Mississippi in an area from 
the coastline of Mississippi at its intersection with the line of 
longitude 89 degrees 30 minutes W., thence

[[Page 30144]]

southward to its intersection with the line of latitude 30 degrees 10 
minutes N., thence eastward to the line of longitude 89 degrees 05.5 
minutes W. (approximately even with the southern tip of Cat Island), 
thence northward to the line of latitude 30 degrees 13.8 minutes N. 
(approximately even with the western tip of Cat Island, thence westward 
to the line of longitude 89 degrees 10 minutes W., thence northward to 
its intersection with the coastline of Mississippi, thence continuing 
along the coastline to the original point for a period of 20 days.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/07/02                    67 FR 67795

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patrick Opay, Sea Turtle Ecologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Hwy., Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AQ52
_______________________________________________________________________




553. [bull] TAKING AND IMPORTING OF MARINE MAMMALS: TAKINGS INCIDENTAL 
TO POWER PLANT OPERATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1371 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: A final rule authorizing the unintentional take of small 
numbers of harbor seals, gray seals, harp seals, and hooded seals 
incidental to the routine operation of the Seabrook Station nuclear 
power plant was issued for the North Atlantic Energy Services 
Corporation (NAEC) on May 25, 1999 (64 FR 28114) and are effective 
until 2004. The purpose of this final rule is to effect non-substantive 
modifications to the regulations that will relieve a regulatory burden 
on the NAEC and subsequent owners of Seabrook. These changes will 
remove mitigation requirements that are no longer appropriate and to 
facilitate transfer of the appropriate authorization under the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act to new owners when the power plant is sold later 
this year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/21/02                    67 FR 70180

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kenneth R. Hollingshead, Fishery Biologist, Department 
of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2055
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ54
_______________________________________________________________________




554. [bull] SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION; SHRIMP TRAWLING REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 222; 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS issues this temporary action to allow the use of limited 
tow times by shrimp trawlers as an alternative to the use of Turtle 
Excluder Devices (TEDs) in the waters off Louisiana and Alabama. The 
exempted area in Louisiana consists of all the Louisiana state waters 
east of 92 degrees 20 minutes W. longitude (approximately at Fresh 
Water Bayou in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana); Federal waters are not 
included. The exempted area in Alabama consists of the inshore waters 
(inshore waters are landward of the COLREGS demarcation line) of Bon 
Secour Bay, Mobile Bay, and Mississippi Sound, south of the 
Intracoastal Waterway. This exemption will be in effect for 30 days.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/07/02                    67 FR 67793

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patrick Opay, Sea Turtle Ecologist, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 1315 East-
West Hwy., Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401

RIN: 0648-AQ56
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




555. RULES OF PRACTICE BEFORE THE BOARD OF PATENT APPEALS AND 
INTERFERENCES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2; 35 USC 3; 35 USC 6; 35 USC 10; 35 USC 22; 35 
USC 23; 35 USC 25; 35 USC 32; 35 USC 41; 35 USC 135; ...

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 41; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office proposes to 
amend its rules of practice before the Board of Patent Appeals and 
Interferences in appeals and contested cases to clarify the rules and 
to simplify proceedings.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffrey V. Nase, Administrative Patent Judge, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Commissioner of 
Patents and Trademarks, Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 308-9797
Fax: 703 305-0942
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related To 0651-AB27, Related To 0651-AB57
RIN: 0651-AB32

[[Page 30145]]

_______________________________________________________________________




556. MADRID PROTOCOL IMPLEMENTATION ACT RULES CHANGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) 
proposes to amend 37 CFR part 2 and to add a new 37 CFR part 7 to 
implement the Madrid Protocol Implementation Act of 2002, Pub. L. 107-
273, 116 Stat. 1758, 1913-1921 (15 U.S.C. 1051) (MPIA). MPIA permits 
the owner of a United States trademark application or registration to 
file an international trademark application with the International 
Bureau of the World Intellectual Property Organization through the 
USPTO. It also permits the holder an international registration to 
request an extension of protection of that registration to the United 
States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/03
Final Action                    10/00/03
Final Action Effective          11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Staff Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
Patent and Trademark Office, 2900 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202-
3513
Phone: 703 308-8900
Fax: 703 872-9280
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________




557. CHANGES TO PROMOTE QUALITY ENHANCEMENT AND PENDENCY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is 
proposing to revise the rules of practice to improve the patent 
application and examination process by promoting quality enhancement 
and reducing patent pendency. For example, the Office is proposing: (1) 
changes to facilitate the filing of applications and subsequent papers 
by facsimile or electronic mail message over the Internet; (2) changes 
to the manner in which applicants bring pertinent information to the 
Office's attention and how the Office uses that information; and (3) 
changes to allow the Office to terminate proceedings on an application 
if the applicant refuses to prosecute the application with reasonable 
diligence. These changes to the patent application and examination 
process are necessary for the Office to be able to process an ever-
increasing number of applications within a reasonable time frame.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the Deputy 
Commissioner for Patent Examination Policy, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, 
VA 22313-1450
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB50
_______________________________________________________________________




558. CHANGES IN TRADEMARK RULES OF PRACTICE IN INTER PARTES PROCEEDINGS 
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARD

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1067; 35 USC 2(8)(2)(A)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.120(a); 37 CFR 2.120(d) to (g); 37 CFR 2.120 (i) 
to (j); 37 CFR 2.121 (a) to (b); 37 CFR 2/127 (e)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office proposes to 
amend its rules of practice in connection with inter partes proceedings 
before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board to require initial 
disclosure of certain information.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James David Sams, Chief Administrative Trademark Judge, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, ST-9A03, Trademark 
Trial and Appeal Board, 2900 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: 703 308-9300
Fax: 703 308-9092
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB56
_______________________________________________________________________




559. [bull] CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT THE 2002 INTER PARTES REEXAMINATION AND 
OTHER TECHNICAL AMENDMENTS TO THE PATENT STATUTE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); PL 107-273

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The 21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations 
Authorization Act contains a title relating to intellectual property. 
The patent-related provisions in the intellectual property title of the 
21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act 
include provisions permitting a third party requester in an inter 
partes reexamination proceeding to appeal a final decision by the Board 
of Patent Appeals and Interferences to the U.S. Court of Appeals for 
the Federal Circuit, and to participate in the patent owner's appeal of 
a final decision by the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences to 
the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Also included are 
technical amendments to statutory provisions directed to inter partes 
reexamination, eighteen-month publication of patent applications and 
provisional rights, and issuance of patents. The United States Patent 
and Trademark Office (Office) is in this notice proposing changes to 
the rules of practice to implement the patent-related provisions of the 
21st Century Department of Justice Appropriations Authorization Act, 
and other miscellaneous changes related to appeals in reexamination 
proceedings.

[[Page 30146]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the Deputy 
Commissioner for Patent Examination Policy, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, 
VA 22313-1450
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




560. [bull] CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT ELECTRONIC MAINTENANCE OF OFFICIAL 
PATENT APPLICATION RECORDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) has 
established a 21st Century Strategic Plan to transform the Office into 
a quality-focused, highly productive, responsive organization 
supporting a market-driven intellectual property system. One priority 
of the 21st Century Strategic Plan is the beginning-to-end electronic 
processing of patent applications. The Office is proposing changes to 
the rules of practice in this notice to adapt to a patent electronic 
image management system. Specifically, the changes proposed in this 
notice facilitate electronic data capture and processing, streamline 
the patent application process, and simplify and clarify the pertinent 
provisions of the rules of practice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the Deputy 
Commissioner for Patent Examination Policy, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, 
VA 22313-1450
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




561. [bull] REVISION OF PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2004

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 15 USC 1115; 35 USC 376; 15 USC 1051; 15 
USC 1113; ...

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.16 to 1.21; 37 CFR 1.26; 37 CFR 1.445; 37 CFR 
1.482; 37 CFR 1.492; ...

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 1, 2003, Final Action 
Effective Date.

Abstract: This rulemaking revises certain patent and trademark fees to 
reflect fluctuations in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) consistent with 
PL 105-358, as amended by PL 106-113.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/03
Final Action                    08/00/03
Final Action Effective          10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Lee, Financial Systems Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, PK1-802, Washington, DC 20231
Phone: 703 305-8051
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________




562. [bull] REVISION OF SEARCH AND PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION FEES FOR 
INTERNATIONAL APPLICATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2); 35 USC 376; ...

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is 
proposing to adjust the international search and international 
preliminary examination fees for international applications filed under 
the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The Office is planning to 
outsource the international search under PCT chapter I for 
international applications. The Office is proposing to adjust the 
international search and international preliminary examination fees to 
more closely reflect the estimated cost of obtaining a PCT chapter I 
search and conducting the international preliminary examination under 
the new process. The Office is also proposing miscellaneous changes to 
the rules of practice in patent cases that relate to the United States 
Patent and Trademark Fee Modernization Act of 2003.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/03
Final Action                    11/00/03
Final Action Effective          01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the Deputy 
Commissioner for Patent Examination Policy, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, 
VA 22313-1450
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related To 0651-AB54
RIN: 0651-AB61

[[Page 30147]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




563. ELIMINATION OF CONTINUED PROSECUTION APPLICATION PRACTICE AS TO 
UTILITY AND PLANT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The American Inventors Protection Act of 1999 (AIPA) enacted 
provisions for the continued examination of a utility or plant 
application at the request of the applicant (request for continued 
examination or RCE practice). Therefore, there no longer appears to be 
a need for continued prosecution application (CPA) practice as to 
utility and plant applications. Thus, the Office is eliminating CPA 
practice as to utility and plant applications. An applicant for a 
utility or plant patent may also continue to effectively obtain further 
examination of the application by filing a continuing application under 
section 1.53(b). Since RCE practice does not apply to design 
applications, CPA practice will remain in place for design 
applications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/09/01                    66 FR 35763
NPRM Comment Period End         09/07/01
Final Action                    05/00/03
Final Action Effective          07/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the Deputy 
Commissioner for Patent Examination Policy, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, 
VA 22313-1450
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB37
_______________________________________________________________________




564. CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT PATENT-RELATED PROVISIONS OF THE UNITED STATES 
PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEE MODERNIZATION ACT OF 2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 41, 2(b)(2)

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office Fee 
Modernization Act of 2003 would (if enacted) revise patent fees in 
general, and provides for a search fee and examination fee that are 
separate from the filing fee. The United States Patent and Trademark 
Office Fee Modernization Act of 2003 also provides that the United 
States Patent and Trademark Office may, by regulation, provide a refund 
of any part of the excess claim fee for any claim that is canceled 
before an examination has been made of the application, provide a 
refund of any part of the examination fee and the search fee for any 
applicant who files a written declaration of express abandonment as 
prescribed by the Office before an examination has been made of the 
application, and provide a refund of any part of the examination fee 
and the search fee for any applicant who provides a search report that 
meets the conditions prescribed by the Office. This rulemaking 
implements the changes to the patent fees contained in the United 
States Patent and Trademark Office Fee Modernization Act of 2003.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr, Senior Patent Attorney, Department of 
Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Office of the Deputy 
Commissioner for Patent Examination Policy, P.O. Box 1450, Alexandria, 
VA 22313-1450
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB54
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




565. PROCESSING FEE FOR USE OF PAPER FORMS FOR SUBMISSION OF 
APPLICATIONS FOR REGISTRATION AND OTHER DOCUMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.6(a)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/12/02                    67 FR 35081


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Morris
Phone: 703 308-3910

Related RIN: Related To 0651-AB47
RIN: 0651-AB52
_______________________________________________________________________




566. CHANGES TO REPRESENTATION OF OTHERS BEFORE THE UNITED STATES PATENT 
AND TRADEMARK OFFICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 2; 37 CFR 10; 37 CFR 11

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Harry I. Moatz
Phone: 703 306-4097

Related RIN: Related To 0651-AB38
RIN: 0651-AB55

[[Page 30148]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




567. COMPLAINTS REGARDING INVENTION PROMOTERS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 4

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    02/28/03                     68 FR 9551
Final Action Effective          02/28/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William R. Covey
Phone: 703 308-2000
Fax: 703 305-5907
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB12
_______________________________________________________________________




568. REVISION OF PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2003

Priority: Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.16 to 1.21; 37 CFR 1.26; 37 CFR 1.445; 37 CFR 
1.482; 37 CFR 1.492; 37 CFR 2.6

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/27/02                    67 FR 70847
Final Action Effective          01/01/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Lee
Phone: 703 305-8051
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________




569. [bull] TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS ACT OF 2002 RULES CHANGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1.4(D)(1)(III)(A); 37 CFR 2.18; 37 CFR 2.24; 37 
CFR 2.33; 37 CFR 2.34; ...

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is 
revising its rules of practice to simplify the requirements for: (1) 
filing application for registration based on a foreign registration 
under 15 U.S.C. 1126(e); and (2) designation of a domestic 
representative party who is not domiciled in the United States. These 
changes implement the changes to the Trademark Act of 1946, 15 U.S.C. 
105 et seq., made by the Technical Corrections in Trademark Law Act, 
title III, subtitle B, Sec. 13207 of Pub. L. 107-273, 116 Stat. 1758. 
USPTO is also making some minor technical corrections to the rules of 
practice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/30/02                    67 FR 79520
Final Action Effective          12/30/02

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Staff Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
Patent and Trademark Office, 2900 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202-
3513
Phone: 703 308-8900
Fax: 703 872-9280
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB58
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Technology Administration (TA)



_______________________________________________________________________




570. RIGHTS TO INVENTIONS MADE BY NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND SMALL 
BUSINESS FIRMS UNDER GOVERNMENT GRANTS, CONTRACTS, AND COOPERATIVE 
AGREEMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 206

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 401

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule is issued to authorize the electronic reporting of 
inventions and the filing of provisional patent applications.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/14/95                    60 FR 41811
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/13/95
Final Action                    06/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Karen Laney-Cummings, Acting Director, Technology 
Competitiveness, Department of Commerce, Technology Administration, 
14th & Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2100
Fax: 202 219-8667

RIN: 0692-AA14
_______________________________________________________________________




571. ACQUISITION AND PROTECTION OF FOREIGN RIGHTS IN INVENTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: EO 10096; 15 USC 3710d

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 101; 37 CFR 501

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On August 7, 1996, 37 CFR part 101 was abolished and 37 CFR 
part 501 expanded to cover foreign rights of inventions made by Federal 
employees.
We are evaluating the comments received on the interim final rule and 
will be making minor changes to the regulation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/07/96                    61 FR 40997
Interim Final Rule Effective    08/07/96
Final Action                    10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: John H. Raubitschek, Patent Counsel, Department of 
Commerce, Technology Administration, HCHB Room 4613, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-8010
Fax: 202 273-0607
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0692-AA15

[[Page 30149]]

_______________________________________________________________________




572. AMENDMENT TO RIGHTS TO INVENTIONS MADE BY NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 
AND SMALL BUSINESS FIRMS UNDER GOVERNMENT GRANTS, CONTRACTS, AND 
COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 35 USC 206

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 401

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, June 30, 2000, To provide for an 
exception for support contractors.

Abstract: This would require certain support contractors to license 
their rights if they make an invention under a Cooperative Research and 
Development Agreement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/11/00                    65 FR 54826
Final Action                    10/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: John H. Raubitschek, Patent Counsel, Department of 
Commerce, Technology Administration, HCHB Room 4613, 14th & 
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-8010
Fax: 202 273-0607
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0692-AA18
[FR Doc. 03-9562 Filed 05-23-03; 8:45 am]
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