[The Regulatory Plan and 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 72710]]



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 2003 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 (Department), 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 spring 2003 
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 fall 2003 regulatory agenda includes 
regulatory activities that are expected to be conducted during the 
period October 1, 2003, through September 30, 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 of July 31, 2003, the Office of 
Management and Budget issued guidelines and procedures for the 
preparation and publication of the fall 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 the spring and 
fall 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 Department's fall 2003 regulatory agenda follows.

 Theodore W. Kassinger,

General Counsel.

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


[[Page 72711]]


                                Bureau of Economic Analysis--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
476         Quarterly Surveys of International Trade in Services Between U.S. and Foreign            0691-AA49
            Persons.............................................................................
477         BE-80, Benchmark Survey of Financial Services Transactions Between U.S. Financial        0691-AA51
            Services Providers and Unaffiliated Foreign Persons.................................
478         Benchmark Survey of U.S. Direct Investment Abroad--2004.............................     0691-AA52
479         International Services Surveys: BE-45, Quarterly Survey of Insurance Transactions by     0691-AA53
            U.S. Insurance Companies With Foreign Persons.......................................
480         International Services Surveys: BE-25, Quarterly Survey of Transactions With             0691-AA54
            Unaffiliated Foreign Persons in Selected Services and in Intangible Assets..........
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Bureau of Economic Analysis--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
481         Annual Survey of Foreign Direct Investment in the United States.....................     0691-AA48
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Economic Analysis--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
482         International Services Surveys: BE-85, Quarterly Survey of Financial Services            0691-AA50
            Transactions Between U.S. Financial Services Providers and Unaffiliated Foreign
            Persons.............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Bureau of Economic Analysis--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
483         Economic Development Administration Regulations.....................................     0691-AA47
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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


                                    Bureau of the Census--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
485         Annual Trade Survey.................................................................     0607-AA40
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Bureau of the Census--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
486         Cutoff Dates for Recognition of Boundary Changes for Census 2000 and for the             0607-AA35
            Intercensal Period..................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 72712]]


                                     Bureau of the Census--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
487         Special Services and Studies by the Bureau of the Census; Amendments to Age Search       0607-AA24
            Procedures..........................................................................
488         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)..................................................
489         Mandatory Automated Export System (AES) for Exports (Re-Exports) of Rough Diamonds..     0607-AA39
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Economic Development Administration--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
490         Economic Development Administration Regulations.....................................     0610-AA63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    General Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
491         Public Information, Freedom of Information and Privacy..............................     0605-AA14
492         Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement)............................     0605-AA16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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


                              International Trade Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
494         Procedures for Conducting Five-Year (Sunset) Reviews of Antidumping and                  0625-AA51
            Countervailing Duty Orders..........................................................
495         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..................
496         Changes in the Insular Possessions Watch, Watch Movement, and Jewelry Program.......     0625-AA63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Bureau of Industry and Security--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
497         Chemical Weapons Convention Regulations.............................................     0694-AB06
498         Mandatory Electronic Filing of License Applications, Classification Requests, and        0694-AC20
            License Exceptions Notifications via BIS's Simplified Network Application Process
            (SNAP)..............................................................................
499         Export Administration Regulations: Penalty Guidance in the Settlement of                 0694-AC92
            Administrative Enforcement Cases....................................................
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                                Bureau of Industry and Security--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
500         Exports and Reexports to Sudan......................................................     0694-AC05

[[Page 72713]]

 
501         Revisions and Clarifications to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).........     0694-AC24
502         Removal of Licensing Exemption for Exports and Reexports of Missile Technology-          0694-AC48
            Controlled Items Destined to Canada.................................................
503         Elimination of ``National Security'' as a Reason for Control for Certain Items on        0694-AC54
            the Commerce Control List...........................................................
504         Protective Equipment Export License Jurisdiction....................................     0694-AC64
505         License Application Denial Policy, ``Red Flag'' Indicators of Possible Inappropriate     0694-AC68
            End-Use, End-User, or Destination...................................................
506         Revisions of Aircraft Export Licensing Jurisdiction Based on Review of the United        0694-AC74
            States Munitions List...............................................................
507         Revisions of Energetic Material Export Licensing Jurisdiction Based on Review of the     0694-AC75
            United States Munitions List........................................................
508         Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations Based on the 2002 Missile             0694-AC76
            Technology Control Regime Plenary Agreements........................................
509         Export and Reexport Controls on Iraq................................................     0694-AC84
510         Lifting of UN Sanctions Against UNITA...............................................     0694-AC86
511         Amendment to the Export Administration Regulations: Revision to Export Control           0694-AC87
            Classification Number 1C355.........................................................
512         Best Practices for Exporters/Re-Exporters and Trade Facilitation/Freight Forwarding      0694-AC89
            Companies Regarding the Transit, Transshipment, and Reexport of Dual-Use Items......
513         Clarification of Export Controls on Parts for Military Vehicles.....................     0694-AC91
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Bureau of Industry and Security--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
514         Administration of State Log Exports Ban.............................................     0694-AB25
515         Clarification of License Exception GFT (Humanitarian Donations).....................     0694-AB49
516         Export Administration Regulations: Support Documentation............................     0694-AC04
517         Expansion of License Exception GOV; Exports and Reexports to International               0694-AC15
            Organizations.......................................................................
518         De Minimis Expansion of Eligibility: U.S. Origin Software Incorporated Into Foreign-     0694-AC17
            Made Retail Commodities.............................................................
519         Revision to the Export Administration Regulations: Replacement Licenses.............     0694-AC23
520         Short Supply Controls: Crude Oil Exports............................................     0694-AC25
521         Crime Control Items: Revisions to the Commerce Control List.........................     0694-AC31
522         License Exception AVS: Cuba, Libya, and Serbia......................................     0694-AC33
523         Clarifications to Part 753: Special Comprehensive License Requirements..............     0694-AC34
524         Chemical Weapons Convention: Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations.....     0694-AC35
525         Addition and Revision of Missile Projects in the Export Administration Regulations..     0694-AC46
526         Revision, Suspension, or Prohibition of Use of ``No License Required'' Provisions...     0694-AC47
527         Computer Technology and Software Eligible for Export or Reexport Under License           0694-AC63
            Exception TSR.......................................................................
528         License Exception APR for Reexports To, From, and Among Countries in Country Group       0694-AC69
            A:1.................................................................................
529         Revisions to License Exception TSR: Expansion to Scope of Eligible Countries........     0694-AC71
530         Addition of East Timor, Netherlands Antilles, and Aruba to the Export Administration     0694-AC77
            Regulations.........................................................................
531         Imposition of Foreign Policy Controls on Surreptitious Communications Intercepting       0694-AC82
            Devices.............................................................................
532         December 2002 Wassenaar Arrangement Plenary Agreement Implementation: Revisions to       0694-AC85
            Categories 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 of the Commerce Control List, and Reporting
            Requirements........................................................................
533         Addition of Kazakhstan to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), and Other Revisions....     0694-AC90
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                               Bureau of Industry and Security--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
534         Transfer of Dual-Use Items From U.S. Munitions List to the Commerce Control List....     0694-AA52
535         Change the Commerce Control List To Revise Controls on Communication Intercepting        0694-AB41
            Devices (Export Commerce Control Number ECCN 5A980).................................
536         Exports of Technology and Software; Release of Technology or Source Code to Foreign      0694-AB59
            Nationals in the United States......................................................
537         Entity List Revision: Khan Research Laboratories....................................     0694-AB60
538         India and Pakistan Sanctions........................................................     0694-AB73

[[Page 72714]]

 
539         Exports and Reexports of Explosive Detection Systems; Expansion of Foreign Policy        0694-AB87
            Controls............................................................................
540         Expansion of License Exception CIV Eligibility for Microprocessors Controlled by         0694-AB90
            ECCN 3A001..........................................................................
541         Export of Technology and Software Through Electronic Transmissions, Downloads, and       0694-AB97
            Programming Onto Hardware...........................................................
542         Antiterrorism Controls on Iraq......................................................     0694-AC06
543         Revisions to the Export Administration Regulations Related to the Missile Technology     0694-AC22
            Control Regime (MTCR)...............................................................
544         Offsets in Military Exports.........................................................     0694-AC27
545         Entity List: Additions and Revisions................................................     0694-AC28
546         Revisions to Encryption Items.......................................................     0694-AC32
547         Exports to Afghanistan (the Taliban) and Liberia: Imposition of Foreign Policy           0694-AC45
            Controls............................................................................
548         Exports to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia: Lifting of Sanctions.................     0694-AC57
549         Imposition and Expansion of Controls on Designated Persons..........................     0694-AC60
550         Revisions and Clarifications to the Export Administration Regulations--Chemical and      0694-AC70
            Biological Weapons Controls: Australia Group (June 2002 Plenary Meeting)............
551         General Order Suspending License Requirement for Exports and Reexports in Support of     0694-AC73
            United Nation Security Counsel Resolution(s) Mandating Inspections in Iraq..........
552         Export Administration Regulations: Encryption Clarifications and Revisions..........     0694-AC78
553         General Order on Exports to Iraq....................................................     0694-AC79
554         General Order Removing License Requirements for the Export or Reexport to Iraq of        0694-AC80
            Certain Items Subject to the Export Administration Regulations......................
555         Export Clearance--Conformance of Export Administration Regulations With Foreign          0694-AC81
            Trade Statistics Regulations........................................................
556         Addition of Aruba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, Democratic           0694-AC83
            Republic of East Timor, and Netherlands Antilles to the Export Administration
            Regulations.........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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


                         National Institute of Standards & Technology--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
558         Procedures for Implementation of the National Construction Safety Team Act..........     0693-AB52
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Prerule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
559         Fleet Capacity Control for U.S. Troll Albacore Tuna Fishing in Canadian Waters......     0648-AQ22
560         Amendment 1 to the Spiny Dogfish Fishery Management Plan............................     0648-AQ86
561         Amendment 2 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan.........................     0648-AQ87
562         Weakfish: Increase in Incidental Catch per Amendment 4..............................     0648-AR11
563         Endangered Species and Pesticide Regulation.........................................     0648-AQ69
564         Designate Critical Habitat; Withdraw Previous Designations..........................     0648-AQ77
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 72715]]


                      National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
565         Amendment 4 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Fishery of Puerto Rico      0648-AG87
            and the U.S. Virgin Islands.........................................................
566         Regulatory Amendment To Require Mandatory Observer Coverage in the At-Sea Processing     0648-AK26
            Sector of the Whiting Fishery.......................................................
567         Adjustment of Management Program: Bottomfish Fisheries in the Hawaiian Islands......     0648-AK82
568         Revise Exempted Fishing Regulations To Specify Compensatory Fishing Under Exempted       0648-AK84
            Fishing.............................................................................
569         Amendment 11 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Crustacean Fisheries of the          0648-AL67
            Western Pacific Region..............................................................
570         Fishery Management Plan for Calico Scallop Fishery in the South Atlantic Region          0648-AL78
            (FMP)...............................................................................
571         Amendment 10 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of        0648-AM23
            Mexico (FMP)........................................................................
572         Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Bottomfish Fisheries of the           0648-AM98
            Western Pacific Region..............................................................
573         Amendment 7 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Spiny Lobster Fishery of the Gulf     0648-AN08
            of Mexico and South Atlantic FMP....................................................
574         Amendment 18 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Reef Fish Resources of the Gulf      0648-AN09
            of Mexico...........................................................................
575         Amendment 10 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan....................     0648-AN16
576         Amendment 13 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP) (Reg Plan       0648-AN17
            Seq No. 32).........................................................................
577         Amendment 9 to the Fishery Management Plan Amendment for the Pelagic Fisheries of        0648-AN76
            the Western Pacific Region..........................................................
578         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)..................
579         Fishery Management Plan for the Dolphin and Wahoo Fishery of the Atlantic,               0648-AO63
            Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico (FMP) of the Atlantic.................................
580         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..................................................
581         Amendment 13A to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the      0648-AP03
            South Atlantic Region...............................................................
582         Revision of American Lobster Regulations for the EEZ................................     0648-AP18
583         Regulatory Amendment To Implement Permit Stacking in the Limited-Entry Fixed-Gear        0648-AP38
            Sablefish Fishery in 2002 and Beyond................................................
584         Implementation of Fishery Management Plan for Highly Migratory Species Fisheries Off     0648-AP42
            the West Coast......................................................................
585         Regulatory Amendment Under the Coastal Migratory Pelagics Fishery Management Plan...     0648-AP50
586         Comprehensive Amendment Addressing Sustainable Fisheries Act Requirements Regarding      0648-AP51
            Overfishing, Bycatch, Fishing Communities and Provisions for Fishery Management
            Plans for the Caribbean.............................................................
587         Atlantic Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries; Amendment 13.........................     0648-AP57
588         Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries; Amendment 9.....................     0648-AP60
589         Implementation of the Regulatory Changes Resulting From the Amendments and Extension     0648-AP61
            of the South Pacific Tuna Act.......................................................
590         Revise Community Development Quota Program Administration and Allocation                 0648-AP67
            Regulations--BSAI FMP Amendment 71..................................................
591         Full Retention of Demersal Shelf Rockfish in Gulf of Alaska Area 650................     0648-AP73
592         Amendment to Fishery Management Plan for Reef Fish Resources of Gulf of Mexico to        0648-AP95
            Set 10-Year Rebuilding Plan for Red Grouper.........................................
593         Regulatory Amendment to Section 679 Permits or Permit-Related Issues................     0648-AQ07
594         Regulatory Amendment To Adjust Permit Renewal Requirements and Transferability           0648-AQ20
            Restrictions in NWHI's Hoomalu Zone and Mau Limited Access Programs.................
595         Fleet Capacity Control for U.S. Tuna Purse Seine Fisheries in the Eastern Pacific        0648-AQ21
            Ocean...............................................................................
596         Amendment 2 to Monkfish Fishery Management Plan.....................................     0648-AQ25
597         Amendment 1 to the Atlantic Herring Fishery Management Plan (FMP) and Amendment 2 to     0648-AQ27
            the Atlantic Salmon FMP to Address Essental Fish Habitat Conservation Measures......
598         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Bigeye Tuna and Swordfish Trade Statistical     0648-AQ37
            Document Programs...................................................................
599         Fisheries of the United States; National Standard 1.................................     0648-AQ63
600         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species: Billfish and Swordfish Recreational Fishing......     0648-AQ65
601         Annual Specifications for the Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Fisheries for 2004.........     0648-AQ79
602         Annual Specifications for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fisheries        0648-AQ80
            for 2004............................................................................
603         Specifications for the 2004-2005 Fishing Year for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery.........     0648-AQ81
604         Recreational Measures for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery for      0648-AQ82
            Fishing Year 2004...................................................................
605         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fisheries for     0648-AQ83
            2004................................................................................
606         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Herring Fishery for 2004.....................     0648-AQ84
607         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery for 2004....................     0648-AQ85
608         ``Other Species'' CDQ Reserve Management............................................     0648-AQ88
609         Adjustment of Management Program; Pelagic Fisheries in the Western Pacific Region...     0648-AQ91

[[Page 72716]]

 
610         Amendment 11 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Pelagic Fisheries of the Western     0648-AQ92
            Pacific Region (American Samoa Limited Access Program)..............................
611         Eastern Pacific Tuna Controls.......................................................     0648-AQ93
612         Announcement of the Optimum Yield and Harvest Limit for Pacific Sardine.............     0648-AQ97
613         Amendment 66 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish of the Gulf of Alaska     0648-AQ98
614         Amendment 62 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Groundfish Fishery of the Gulf       0648-AR06
            of Alaska and Amendment 62 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea
            and Aleutian Islands Area...........................................................
615         Port Codes Integration in Table 14..................................................     0648-AR07
616         Regulatory Amendment To Change Reporting Areas 620 and 630..........................     0648-AR08
617         Regulatory Rulemaking To Revise Accounting for Externally Tagged Halibut............     0648-AR09
618         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Trade Restrictive Measures.......................     0648-AR10
619         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Bluefin Tuna Season and Size Limit              0648-AR12
            Adjustments.........................................................................
620         Catcher Vessel Electronic Report....................................................     0648-AR30
621         Atlantic Striped Bass Fisheries in the EEZ; Modification of Federal Regulations.....     0648-AR33
622         Consideration of a Control Date for Bottomfishing Vessels in the EEZ Around Guam and     0648-AR37
            Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands........................................
623         Amendment 13B to the Fishery Management Plan for the Snapper-Grouper Fishery of the      0648-AR38
            South Atlantic Region...............................................................
624         Maximum Retainable Amount...........................................................     0648-AR41
625         Framework 4 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan      0648-AR44
            (FMP)...............................................................................
626         Establish Referendum Procedures and a Vote Weighting Formula for the Gulf of Mexico      0648-AR48
            Red Snapper Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program..................................
627         Implement Electronic Dealer Reporting and Adjustments to Vessel Reporting                0648-AR49
            Requirements........................................................................
628         Framework 5 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery................     0648-AR50
629         Annual Specifications for the Surf Clam and Ocean Quahog Fishery for Fishing Year        0648-AR52
            2005................................................................................
630         Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Announcement of the 2004 Groundfish Fishery            0648-AR54
            Specifications and Management Measures..............................................
631         Framework 16 to the Atlantic Sea Scallop Fishery Management Plan and Framework           0648-AR55
            Adjustment 39 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan.................
632         Annual Specifications for the Deep-Sea Red Crab Fishery for Fishing Year 2004.......     0648-AR58
633         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan      0648-AR60
            for Atlantic Tunas, Swordfish, and Sharks...........................................
634         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Amendment 2 to the Atlantic Billfish            0648-AR61
            Fishery Management Plan.............................................................
635         Framework 4 to the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery................     0648-AR62
636         Amendment 10 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan................     0648-AR63
637         Regulatory Amendment to Prohibited Species Catch Donation Regulations To Allow           0648-AR64
            Processing of Heads and Guts........................................................
638         Amendment 8 to the Fishery Management Plan for the Bottomfish Fisheries of the           0648-AR65
            Western Pacific Region..............................................................
639         Amendment 21 to the Reef Fish Fishery Management Plan...............................     0648-AR66
640         Amend Regulations Governing the Taking and Importing of Marine Mammals..............     0648-AH83
641         North Atlantic Whale Protection.....................................................     0648-AM85
642         Preventing Harassment From Human Activities Directed at Marine Mammals in the Wild..     0648-AN43
643         Endangered and Threatened Species: Permit Exemptions................................     0648-AO37
644         Captive Steller Sea Lions...........................................................     0648-AO61
645         Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Rocket Launches From the Kodiak Launch Complex,      0648-AP62
            Kodiak Island, Alaska...............................................................
646         Taking and Importing Marine Mammals: Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Conducting      0648-AQ71
            Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in the Gulf of Mexico............................
647         Alaska Transient Killer Whales (AT1 Group) Designated as Depleted...................     0648-AR14
648         Zero Mortality Rate Goal............................................................     0648-AR15
649         Regulations Implementing the Bottlenose Dolphin Take Reduction Plan.................     0648-AR39
650         Implement a Prohibition on Shallow Style Longline Sets..............................     0648-AR53
651         Revision of Overflight Regulations..................................................     0648-AI91
652         Interagency Consultation for the National Marine Sanctuary Program..................     0648-AL06
653         Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary...............................................     0648-AQ41
654         Regulatory Amendment To Correct Effective Dates for Regulatory Changes in 67 FR          0648-AR13
            79692 (December 30, 2002)...........................................................
655         Amendment 16-2 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan..............     0648-AR35
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


[[Page 72717]]


                        National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
656         Proposed Highly Migratory Species Process...........................................     0648-AK40
657         Enhanced Measures To Mitigate Seabird Bycatch in the Alaska Longline Fisheries (Hook-    0648-AM30
            and-Line)...........................................................................
658         Implementation of Western Pacific Coral Reef Ecosystem Fishery Management Plan (FMP)     0648-AM97
659         Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Sargassum Habitat of the South Atlantic...........     0648-AN87
660         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Exempted Fishing Permits Procedures..............     0648-AO79
661         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...........
662         Amendment to Regulations for Observer At-Sea Electronic Communication Equipment          0648-AP66
            Requirements for Vessels and Shoreside Processors in the North Pacific Groundfish
            Fisheries...........................................................................
663         IFQ Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements for Catcher Vessels; BSAI Amendment 72      0648-AP92
            and GOA Amendment 64................................................................
664         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); 2003 Bluefin Tuna Quota Specifications and      0648-AQ38
            Effort Controls.....................................................................
665         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...........................................................................
666         Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery; Pacific Coast Groundfish Vessel Monitoring System.     0648-AQ58
667         Continuation of Measures To Reduce Fishing Mortality in the Northeast Multispecies       0648-AQ72
            Fishery and Implement a DAS Leasing Program.........................................
668         Changes to Eligibility Criteria for Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands Crab License         0648-AQ73
            Limitation Program..................................................................
669         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species; Atlantic Swordfish Quotas........................     0648-AQ90
670         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Atlantic Shark Management Measures.........     0648-AQ95
671         Announcement of the Optimum Yield and Harvest Limit for Pacific Mackerel............     0648-AQ96
672         Amendment 77 to the FMP for the Groundfish Fishery of the Bering Sea and Aleutian        0648-AR31
            Islands Area........................................................................
673         Modification of Housing Requirements for Observers..................................     0648-AR32
674         Amendment 16-1 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan..............     0648-AR36
675         Emergency Rule To Close the Federal Tilefish Fishery................................     0648-AR40
676         Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass Fishery Management Plan; Framework             0648-AR43
            Adjustment 3........................................................................
677         Fisheries of the Exclusive Economic Zone off Alaska; Revisions to Observer Program       0648-AR46
            in the North Pacific Groundfish Fisheries; Correction...............................
678         Atlantic Large Whale 2002 Seasonal Area Management (SAM) Program....................     0648-AP68
679         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...........................................................................
680         Taking of the Cook Inlet, Alaska, Stock of Beluga Whales by Alaska Natives..........     0648-AO16
681         Listing Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Designating Critical Habitat; 12-         0648-AP94
            Month Finding.......................................................................
682         Taking of Threatened or Endangered Species Incidental to Commercial Fishing              0648-AQ13
            Operations..........................................................................
683         Access to Tissue Specimen Samples From the National Marine Mammal Tissue Bank.......     0648-AQ51
684         Joint Counterpart Regulations With FS, BLM, BIA, FWS, NPS, and NOAA Fisheries Under      0648-AR05
            Section 7 of the ESA................................................................
685         Coastal Zone Management Act Federal Consistency Regulations.........................     0648-AR16
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
686         Annual Specifications for Fishing Year 2005 for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black     0648-AR51
            Sea Bass Fishery....................................................................
687         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery for       0648-AR56
            Fishing Year 2005...................................................................
688         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery for Fishing Year 2005.......     0648-AR57
689         Annual Specifications for the Deep-Sea Red Crab Fishery for Fishing Year 2005.......     0648-AR59
690         Interagency Policy on the Prescription of Fishways Under Section 18 of the Federal       0648-AO70
            Power Act...........................................................................
691         Policy for Review of Mandatory Conditions Developed by the Departments of the            0648-AO84
            Interior and Commerce in the Context of Hydropower Licensing........................
692         Designated Critical Habitat: Proposed Critical Habitat for Northern California           0648-AO04
            Steelhead...........................................................................
693         Installing and Maintaining Commercial Submarine Cables in National Marine                0648-AO36
            Sanctuaries.........................................................................
694         Procedural Changes to the Federal Consistency Process...............................     0648-AP98
695         Regional Marine Research Program....................................................     0648-AF20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 72718]]


                       National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
696         Establish Central Registry for Limited Access System Permits........................     0648-AJ77
697         Regulatory Amendment To Allocate Pacific Halibut to the Charter Boat Fleet..........     0648-AK17
698         Regulatory Amendment To Reinstate 6,000-Pound Trip Limit of Halibut in Area              0648-AL97
            Northeast of the Bering Sea.........................................................
699         Crustaceans, Bottomfish, and Pelagics FMP Amendments Regarding Overfishing               0648-AN79
            Definitions.........................................................................
700         Management Measures for the Northeast Skate Complex.................................     0648-AO10
701         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Fisheries; Atlantic Bluefin Tuna Incidental Catch.     0648-AO75
702         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..........................................................................
703         Bottomfish and Pelagics Fisheries FMP Amendments Regarding Bycatch Provisions.......     0648-AP54
704         Bottomfish, Crustaceans, Pelagics, and Precious Corals Fisheries FMP Amendments          0648-AP55
            Regarding Fishing Communities.......................................................
705         Antarctic Marine Living Resources Vessel Monitoring System and Catch Documentation       0648-AP74
            Scheme..............................................................................
706         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......................................................................
707         Subsistence Fishery for Pacific Halibut in Waters Off Alaska........................     0648-AQ09
708         Capital Construction Fund Procedures................................................     0648-AQ16
709         2003-2004 Management Measures for Commercial, Recreational, and Treaty Indian Salmon     0648-AQ17
            Fisheries Off the Coasts of Washington, Oregon, and California......................
710         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................................................................................
711         Annual Specifications for the Atlantic Bluefish Fishery for Fishing Year 2003.......     0648-AQ26
712         Framework 2 to the Monkfish Fishery Management Plan.................................     0648-AQ29
713         Recreational Specifications for the Summer Flounder, Scup, and Black Sea Bass            0648-AQ32
            Fishery for Fishing Year 2003.......................................................
714         Specifications for the 2003-2004 Fishing Year for the Spiny Dogfish Fishery.........     0648-AQ34
715         Framework 37 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan..................     0648-AQ35
716         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS); Large and Small Coastal Shark Commercial        0648-AQ39
            Management Measures.................................................................
717         EFH Amendments to the Bottomfish, Crustaceans, and Precious Corals FMPs.............     0648-AQ43
718         Increase in Allowable Percentage of Pollock Roe.....................................     0648-AQ44
719         Opening Waters to Pacific Cod Pot Fishing Off Cape Barnabas and Caton Island in the      0648-AQ45
            Gulf of Alaska......................................................................
720         Framework 3 to the Atlantic Mackerel, Squid, and Butterfish Fishery Management Plan.     0648-AQ57
721         Amendment 17 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery Management Plan................     0648-AQ68
722         Corrected Amendment for a Charter Vessel/Headboat Permit Moratorium Amending the         0648-AQ70
            Gulf Reef Fish and Coastal Pelagics FMPs............................................
723         Notice of Technical Revision to Right Whale Nomenclature and Taxonomy Under the U.S.     0648-AQ74
            Endangered Species Act..............................................................
724         Revise Eligibility Criteria for BSAI Pacific Cod Endorsements to Groundfish Licenses     0648-AQ75
            Issued Under the License Limitation Program (LLP)...................................
725         Framework Adjustment 38 to the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan (FMP).     0648-AQ76
726         Implement BSAI FMP Amendment 75--Delaying Implementation of Improved Retention/          0648-AQ78
            Improved Utilization of Flatfish....................................................
727         Control Date for the Small Mesh Multispecies (Silver Hake, Offshore Hake, and Red        0648-AQ89
            Hake) Fishery.......................................................................
728         West Coast Coastal Pelagic Fisheries Sardine Allocation System Change...............     0648-AQ94
729         Commercial Shrimp Fishery of the Gulf of Mexico; Establish a Control Date...........     0648-AR00
730         Notice of a Control Date for Loligo and Illex Squid.................................     0648-AR01
731         Correction to Regulatory Amendment To Redefine Vessel Length Overall................     0648-AR04
732         Atlantic Highly Migratory Species (HMS) Fisheries; Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS)..     0648-AR29
733         Endangered and Threatened Wildlife; Sea Turtle Conservation Requirements............     0648-AR34
734         Effectiveness of Collection-of-Information Requirements.............................     0648-AR42
735         Implement a 30 Fathom Boundary Line Off Southern California for the Pacific Coast        0648-AR47
            Groundfish Commercial Non-Trawl and Recreational Fisheries..........................
736         Fishing Capacity Reduction Program in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery..........     0648-AQ99
737         Endangered and Threatened Species: Take of Threatened Southern Oregon/Northern           0648-AJ91
            California Coast Evolutionarily Significant Unit (ESU) of Coho Salmon...............
738         Draft Policy for Evaluation of Conservation Efforts in Making Listing Decisions.....     0648-AL91
739         Restrictions on Pound Net Leaders To Enhance Turtle Protection in Virginia;              0648-AP81
            Threatened and Endangered Sea Turtle Conservation...................................
740         Designating the Eastern North Pacific Southern Resident Stock of Killer Whales as        0648-AQ00
            Depleted............................................................................
741         Designation of Critical Habitat for Gulf Sturgeon...................................     0648-AQ03

[[Page 72719]]

 
742         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large     0648-AQ04
            Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations...............................................
743         Taking of Marine Mammals Incidental to Commercial Fishing Operations; Atlantic Large     0648-AQ42
            Whale Take Reduction Plan Regulations...............................................
744         Endangered and Threatened Species; Finding for a Petition To Revise Critical Habitat     0648-AQ53
            for Northern Right Whales...........................................................
745         List of Fisheries for 2003..........................................................     0648-AQ60
746         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................
747         Technical Amendment to the Atlantic Large Whale Take Reduction Plan.................     0648-AR02
748         Natural Resource Damage Assessments Under the Oil Pollution Act of 1990.............     0648-AM80
749         New Management Plan and Regulations for the Gray's Reef National Marine Sanctuary...     0648-AR03
750         Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary: Establishment of Temporary No-Entry Zone in      0648-AR17
            the White Bank Dry Rocks Area.......................................................
751         Policies and Procedures Regarding Use of the NOAA Space-Based Data Collection            0648-AQ55
            Systems.............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Patent and Trademark Office--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
752         Rules of Practice Before the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences..............     0651-AB32
753         Changes in Trademark Rules of Practice in Inter Partes Proceedings Before the            0651-AB56
            Trademark Trial and Appeal Board....................................................
754         Fast Track Examination..............................................................     0651-AB62
755         Changes to Support Implementation of the United States Patent and Trademark Office       0651-AB64
            21st Century Strategic Plan.........................................................
756         Changes in Requirements for Amendment and Correction of Trademark Registrations.....     0651-AB67
757         Revision of United States Patent and Trademark Office Practice for Handling Patent       0651-AB69
            Applications Filed Without the Appropriate Fees.....................................
758         Revision of Patent and Trademark Fees for Fiscal Year 2005..........................     0651-AB70
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Patent and Trademark Office--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
759         Changes To Implement the 2002 Inter Partes Reexamination and Other Technical             0651-AB57
            Amendments to the Patent Statute....................................................
760         Revision of Search and Preliminary Examination Fees for International Applications..     0651-AB61
761         Changes Related to Assignments of Patents and Trademarks............................     0651-AB63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
762         Processing Fee for Use of Paper Forms for Submission of Applications for                 0651-AB52
            Registration and Other Documents....................................................
763         Changes To Implement Patent-Related Provisions of the United States Patent and           0651-AB54
            Trademark Fee Modernization Act of 2003.............................................
764         Changes to Representation of Others Before the United States Patent and Trademark        0651-AB55
            Office..............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 72720]]


                                 Patent and Trademark Office--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
765         Elimination of Continued Prosecution Application Practice as to Utility and Plant...     0651-AB37
766         Madrid Protocol Implementation Act Rules Change.....................................     0651-AB45
767         Changes To Promote Quality Enhancement and Pendency.................................     0651-AB50
768         Changes To Implement Electronic Maintenance of Official Patent Application Records..     0651-AB59
769         Revision of Patent and Trademark Fees for Fiscal Year 2004..........................     0651-AB60
770         Reorganization of Correspondence and Other General Provisions in 37 CFR Chapter 1...     0651-AB68
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Technology Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                    Regulation
 Sequence                                          Title                                          Identification
  Number                                                                                              Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
771         Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under      0692-AA14
            Government Grants, Contracts, and Cooperative Agreements............................
772         Acquisition and Protection of Foreign Rights in Inventions..........................     0692-AA15
773         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)                          Completed Actions


Office of the Secretary (OS)



_______________________________________________________________________




474. 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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/06/00                    65 FR 76460
NPRM Comment Period End         01/05/01
Final Action                    08/26/03                    68 FR 51333
Final Action Effective          09/25/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




475. 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                    05/09/03                    68 FR 24878

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Christopher Cox, Attorney Advisor, Ethics Division, 
Department of Commerce, HCHB Room 5709, 14th Street & Constitution 
Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2442
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0690-AA32

[[Page 72721]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




476. 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 
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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03
Final Action                    01/00/04
Final Action Effective          02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Acting 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
_______________________________________________________________________




477. [bull] BE-80, BENCHMARK SURVEY OF FINANCIAL SERVICES TRANSACTIONS 
BETWEEN U.S. FINANCIAL SERVICES PROVIDERS AND UNAFFILIATED FOREIGN 
PERSONS

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

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend existing rule 15 CFR 801.11 to provide 
for the conduct of the BE-80, Benchmark Survey of Financial Services 
Transactions Between U.S. Financial Services Providers and Unaffiliated 
Foreign Persons--2004, as required in the International Investment and 
Trade in Services Survey Act, 22 USC 3101 to 3108 (see especially 
section 4(b) of the Act). The existing rule covers a similar survey for 
1999, which has been completed and which the new survey will update.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/04
Final Action                    11/00/04
Final Action Effective          12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Acting 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-AA51
_______________________________________________________________________




478. [bull] BENCHMARK SURVEY OF U.S. DIRECT INVESTMENT ABROAD--2004

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

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 806

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend existing rule 15 CFR 806.16 to provide 
for the conduct of the BE-10, Benchmark Survey of U.S. Direct 
Investment Abroad--2004, as required in the International Investment 
and Trade in Services Survey Act, 22 USC 3101 to 3108 (see especially 
section 4(b) of the Act). The existing rule covers a similar survey for 
1999 which has been completed and which the new survey will update.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/04
Final Action                    10/00/04
Final Action Effective          11/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Acting 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-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________




479. [bull] INTERNATIONAL SERVICES SURVEYS: BE-45, QUARTERLY SURVEY OF 
INSURANCE TRANSACTIONS BY U.S. INSURANCE COMPANIES WITH FOREIGN PERSONS

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

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) amends 15 CFR Part 801 
to institute a new survey, BE-45, Quarterly Survey of Insurance 
Transactions by U.S. Insurance Companies with Foreign Persons, to be 
conducted by BEA.
The survey is mandatory and will be conducted under the International 
Investment and Trade in Services Survey Act. Data from the proposed BE-
45 survey are needed to monitor trade in insurance services, analyze 
its impact on the U.S. and foreign economies, compile and improve the 
U.S. economic accounts, support U.S. commercial policy on insurance 
services, conduct trade promotion, improve the ability of U.S. 
businesses to identify and evaluate market opportunities, and for other 
Government uses.
The survey will cover the same insurance services presently covered by 
the BE-48, Annual Survey of Reinsurance and Other Insurance 
Transactions by U.S. Insurance Companies with Foreign Persons, and 
auxiliary insurance services presently covered by the Benchmark and 
Annual Surveys of Selected Services Transactions with Unaffiliated 
Foreign Persons (Forms BE-20 and BE-22).

[[Page 72722]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/23/03                    68 FR 55202
NPRM Comment Period End         11/24/03
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Acting 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-AA53
_______________________________________________________________________




480. [bull] INTERNATIONAL SERVICES SURVEYS: BE-25, QUARTERLY SURVEY OF 
TRANSACTIONS WITH UNAFFILIATED FOREIGN PERSONS IN SELECTED SERVICES AND 
IN INTANGIBLE ASSETS

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

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) amends 15 CFR Part 801 
to institute a new survey, BE-25, Quarterly Survey of Transactions with 
Unaffiliated Foreign Persons in Selected Services and in Intangible 
Assets, to be conducted by the BEA.
Data from the proposed BE-25 survey are needed to monitor trade in 
services and intangible assets, analyze its impact on the U.S. and 
foreign economies, compile and improve the U.S. economic accounts, 
support U.S. commercial policy on financial services, conduct trade 
promotion, improve the ability of U.S. businesses to identify and 
evaluate market opportunities, and for other Government and public 
uses.
The proposed survey will cover some of the selected services presently 
covered by the BE-22, Annual Survey of Selected Services Transactions 
with Unaffiliated Foreign Persons. The selected services covered by the 
BE-25 survey will be removed from the BE-22 survey after the survey for 
2003 is conducted. The BE-22 survey will continue to be conducted for 
those services that were not moved to the BE-25 survey. The proposed 
survey will also cover construction, engineering, architectural, and 
surveying services presently covered by the BE-47, Annual Survey of 
Construction, Engineering, Architectural, and Mining Services Provided 
by U.S. Firms to Unaffiliated Foreign Persons, and will cover the same 
transactions in intangible assets presently covered by the BE-93, 
Annual Survey of Royalties, License Fees, and Other Receipts and 
Payments for Intangible Rights Between U.S. and Unaffiliated Foreign 
Persons; both of these annual surveys would be discontinued, following 
a final data collection for 2003.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/23/03                    68 FR 55204
NPRM Comment Period End         11/24/03
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Acting 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-AA54
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




481. 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                            08/29/03                    68 FR 51942
NPRM Comment Period End         10/28/03
Final Action                    12/00/03
Final Action Effective          01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Acting 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

[[Page 72723]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




482. [bull] INTERNATIONAL SERVICES SURVEYS: BE-85, QUARTERLY SURVEY OF 
FINANCIAL SERVICES TRANSACTIONS BETWEEN U.S. FINANCIAL SERVICES 
PROVIDERS AND UNAFFILIATED FOREIGN PERSONS

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

Legal Authority: 22 USC 3101 to 3108; 15 USC 4908

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend 15 CFR part 801 to institute a new 
survey, BE-85, Quarterly Survey of Financial Services Transactions 
Between U.S. Financial Services Providers and unaffiliated Foreign 
Persons, to be conducted by the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), U.S. 
Department of Commerce. The BE-85 survey is mandatory and will be 
conducted under the International Investment and Trade in Services 
Survey Act and under Section 5408 of the Omnibus Trade and 
Competitiveness Act of 1988. The first survey conducted under this rule 
will cover transactions in the first quarter of 2004.
The BE-85 survey will cover the same financial services presently 
covered by the BE-82, Annual Survey of Financial Service Transaction 
Between U.S. Financial Service Providers and Unaffiliated Foreign 
Person. Following a final annual data collection for 2003, the BE-85 
survey would replace the BE-82.
Data from the BE-85 survey are needed to monitor trade in financial 
services, analyze its impact on the U.S. and foreign economies, compile 
and improve the U.S. economic accounts, support U.S. commercial policy 
on financial services, conduct trade promotion, improve the ability of 
U.S. businesses to identify and evaluate market opportunities, and for 
other Government uses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/29/03                    68 FR 51939
NPRM Comment Period End         10/28/03
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Obie G. Whichard, Acting 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-AA50
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA)



_______________________________________________________________________




483. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Duplicate of RIN 0610-AA63      11/26/03

Agency Contact: Benjamin Erulkar, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Economic Analysis,
Phone: 202 482-4687
Fax: 202 482-5671
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0691-AA47
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




484. 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 United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           10/22/03                    68 FR 60301
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/21/03

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]

RIN: 0607-AA38

[[Page 72724]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




485. [bull] ANNUAL TRADE SURVEY

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

Legal Authority: 13 USC 182; 13 USC 224; 13 USC 225

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of the Census (Census Bureau) is proposing to 
expand the 2003 Annual Trade Survey (ATS) to include manufacturers' 
sales branches and offices (MSBO). The Census Bureau proposes this 
expansion at the request of the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). The 
BEA considers this information vital to its accurate measurement of 
sales and inventories for wholesale trade. These data are important 
inputs to BEA's preparation of National Income and Product accounts and 
its annual input-output tables.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Mr. John Trimble, Chief, Annual Trade and Special 
Projects Branch, Service Sector Statistics Div., Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of the Census, 4700 Silver Hill Road, Room 2682 FB-3, 
Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 763-7223
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0607-AA40
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




486. 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

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: Carol Van Horn, Acting Chief, Geography Division, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, Stop 7400, Stop 7400, 
4700 Silver Hill Road, Washington, DC 20233
Phone: 301 457-2131

RIN: 0607-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of the Census (CENSUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




487. 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                    07/18/03                    68 FR 42585

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
_______________________________________________________________________




488. 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

[[Page 72725]]

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                    07/17/03                    68 FR 42534

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
_______________________________________________________________________




489. MANDATORY AUTOMATED EXPORT SYSTEM (AES) FOR EXPORTS (RE-EXPORTS) OF 
ROUGH DIAMONDS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 108-19; EO 13312

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:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/20/03                    68 FR 59877

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

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-AA39
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                              Prerule Stage


Economic Development Administration (EDA)



_______________________________________________________________________




490. [bull] ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

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

Legal Authority: 42 USC 3121 et seq; 19 USC 3121 et seq; 42 USC 6701; 
42 USC 184; 42 USC 5141; 42 USC 3123; 42 USC 6709; 42 USC 6101; 20 USC 
1681; 29 USC 794; 42 USC 2000d-1; . . .

CFR Citation: 13 CFR 300 to 318

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Economic Development Administration will be reviewing and 
reissuing all regulations in order to make them more user friendly and 
effective, and in order to more directly align them with the reissued 
version of the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, 
currently before Congress. EDA plans to have the regulations drafted 
within three months of reauthorization.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           11/00/03
Interim Final Rule              01/00/04
Final Action                    04/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Myriah Jordan, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, Economic Development Administration, HCHB Room 7005, 14th 
Street & Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4687
Fax: 202 482-5671
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0610-AA63

[[Page 72726]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


General Administration (ADMIN)



_______________________________________________________________________




491. PUBLIC INFORMATION, FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AND PRIVACY

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 5 USC 552 to 553; 44 USC 3101; 44 USC 3717; 
Reorganization Plan No. 5 of 1950

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Department of Commerce plans to amend the regulations 
pertaining to the Freedom of Information Act, Privacy Act, and 
declassification and public availability of national security 
information. The proposed rule contains new provisions implementing the 
Electronic Freedom of Information Act Amendment of 1996, reflects the 
principles established by the President and Attorney General in the 
FOIA Policy Memoranda of October 4, 1993, incorporates updated cost 
figures to be used in charging fees, and streamlines and clarifies the 
present regulations at 15 CFR parts 4, 4a and 4b.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/31/00                    65 FR 34606
Final Action                    12/20/01                    66 FR 65631

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Additional Information: None.

Agency Contact: Andy McCready, Attorney Advisor, Department of 
Commerce, 14th & Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-8044

RIN: 0605-AA14
_______________________________________________________________________




492. 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                    11/26/03                    68 FR 66533

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

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)                        Proposed Rule Stage


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




493. 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; PL 107-210, sec 3103

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) and title XXXI 
of the Trade Act of 2002 (the Andean Trade Promotion and Drug 
Eradication Act, or ATPDEA) 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, the ATPDEA, 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

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 72727]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


International Trade Administration (ITA)



_______________________________________________________________________




494. 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                    11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




495. 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 Action                    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
_______________________________________________________________________




496. [bull] CHANGES IN THE INSULAR POSSESSIONS WATCH, WATCH MOVEMENT, 
AND JEWELRY PROGRAM

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

Legal Authority: PL 97-446

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 303

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Departments propose amending their regulations governing 
watch duty-exemptions and the watch and jewelry duty-refund benefits 
for producers in the United States insular possession (the U.S. Virgin 
Islands, Guam, American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern 
Mariana Islands). The proposed rule would amend ITA regulations, due to 
changes in the industry, by updating the watch assembly requirements 
for purposes of the duty refund. We also propose amending 15 CFR 303 to 
reflect the new designations that were created with the addition of the 
Department of Homeland Security.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/01/03                    68 FR 45177
Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Faye Robinson, Acting Director, Statutory Import 
Programs Staff, Department of Commerce, International Trade 
Administration, FCB Suite 4100W, FCB

[[Page 72728]]

Suite 4100W, 14th Street & Constitution Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 
20230
Phone: 202 482-3526

RIN: 0625-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




497. 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

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
Fax: 202 482 3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB06
_______________________________________________________________________




498. 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                            11/12/03                    68 FR 64009
NPRM Comment Period End         01/12/04
Final Action                    03/00/04

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, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________




499. [bull] EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: PENALTY GUIDANCE IN THE 
SETTLEMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE ENFORCEMENT CASES

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

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 764; 15 CFR 766

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: As an essential part of its administration of the export 
control system, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) brings 
administrative enforcement actions for violations of the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR). Many administrative enforcement cases 
are resolved through settlements between BIS and the respondent.

[[Page 72729]]

The rule proposes to incorporate guidance in the EAR on how BIS 
determines what penalty is appropriate for the settlement of an 
administrative enforcement case. This guidance would appear in a new 
Supplement No. 1 to part 766 of the EAR. The proposed guidance 
identifies both general factors, such as the destination for the export 
and degree of willfulness involved in violations, and specific 
mitigating and aggravating factors which BIS typically takes into 
account in determining an appropriate penalty. The proposed guidance 
also describes factors that BIS's Office of Export Enforcement (OEE) 
typically considers in describing whether a violation should be 
addressed in a warning letter, rather than in an administrative 
enforcement case. The guidance would not apply to antiboycott matters 
arising under part 760 of the EAR.
In part 764, the rule proposes to amend section 764.5(e) to state that 
Supplement No. 1 to part 766 describes how BIS typically exercises its 
discretion regarding whether to pursue an administrative enforcement 
case regarding violations reported in a voluntary self-disclosure under 
section 764.5, and what administrative sanctions to seek in settling 
such a case.
In part 766, the rule proposes to amend section 766.3(a) to state that 
Supplement No. 1 to part 766 describes how BIS typically exercises its 
discretion regarding the issuance of charging letters, other than in 
antiboycott matters under part 760. The rule proposes to amend section 
766.18 to add a new paragraph (f), stating that Supplement No. 1 to 
part 766 describes how BIS typically exercises its discretion regarding 
the terms under which it is willing tsettle particular cases, other 
than antiboycott matters under part 760.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/17/03                    68 FR 54402
NPRM Comment Period End         11/17/03
Final Action                    02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Philip Golrick, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 3839, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., 
Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5301
Fax: 202 482-0085
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC92
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




500. 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

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      04/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




501. 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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 10 USC 
7420; 10 USC 7430(e); 18 USC 2501 et seq; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 742

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 72730]]

Abstract: This rule revises the existing license exemption in the 
Export Administration Regulations for the export of missile technology 
controlled items to Canada. It implements recommendations contained in 
the General Accounting Office report entitled Export Controls: 
Regulatory Change Needed to Comply with Missile Technology Licensing 
Requirements (GA-01-530).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/20/01                    66 FR 65666
Final Action                    04/00/04

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-AC48
_______________________________________________________________________




503. 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                    12/00/03

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, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC54
_______________________________________________________________________




504. PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT EXPORT LICENSE JURISDICTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/00/04

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, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC64
_______________________________________________________________________




505. 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                    01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC68

[[Page 72731]]

_______________________________________________________________________




506. 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 
ongoing 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                      01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC74
_______________________________________________________________________




507. 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 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 FR 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                      01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC75
_______________________________________________________________________




508. REVISIONS TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS BASED ON THE 
2002 MISSILE TECHNOLOGY CONTROL REGIME PLENARY AGREEMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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                    11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




509. [bull] EXPORT AND REEXPORT CONTROLS ON IRAQ

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

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 
744;

[[Page 72732]]

15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 750; 15 CFR 752; 15 CFR 758; 15 CFR 762; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule establishes the new export control policy for 
exports to Iraq under the licensing responsibility of the Bureau of 
Industry and Security. The new export control policy reflects the 
changed circumstances in Iraq and is consistent with changes in U.S. 
legal authorities concerning Iraq and actions taken by the United 
Nations Security Council with respect to the embargo against Iraq.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      03/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC84
_______________________________________________________________________




510. [bull] LIFTING OF UN SANCTIONS AGAINST UNITA

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

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 732; 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 746

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
by removing from the EAR references to sanctions on Angola administered 
by the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control 
(OFAC). In response to United Nations Security Council (UNSC) 
resolutions regarding the conflict in Angola, the President, by 
Executive order, directed the Department of the Treasury to maintain 
sanctions on the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola 
(UNITA). On December 9, 2002, the UNSC terminated the sanctions 
previously imposed on UNITA. On May 6, 2003, consistent with the UNSC 
action, the President terminated the relevant Executive orders, 
effectively ending U.S. sanctions. This rule amends the EAR to remove 
certain references to the sanctions which had been maintained by OFAC 
with respect to UNITA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC86
_______________________________________________________________________




511. [bull] AMENDMENT TO THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: REVISION 
TO EXPORT CONTROL CLASSIFICATION NUMBER 1C355

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

Legal Authority: 50 USC app 2401 et seq; 50 USC 1701 et seq; 10 USC 
7420; 10 USC 7430; 18 USC 2510 et seq; 22 USC 287c; 22 USC 3201 et seq; 
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 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the ``List of Items Controlled'' Section of 
Export Control Classification Number 1C355 (Supp. No. 1 to part 744) to 
conform with the schedule of precursor chemicals in Supp. No. 1 to part 
745.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

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-AC87
_______________________________________________________________________




512. [bull] BEST PRACTICES FOR EXPORTERS/RE-EXPORTERS AND TRADE 
FACILITATION/FREIGHT FORWARDING COMPANIES REGARDING THE TRANSIT, 
TRANSSHIPMENT, AND REEXPORT OF DUAL-USE ITEMS

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

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

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security plans to publish guidance 
entitled, ``Best Practices for Exporters/Re-exporters and Trade 
Facilitation/Freight Forwarding Companies Regarding the Transit, 
Transshipment, and Reexport of Dual-Use Items.'' These ``best 
practices'' will appear as Supplement No. 4 to part 732 of the Export 
Administration Regulations. Although the best practices will be 
published in title 15 of the Code of Federal Regulations, they will be 
guidance with which the public has no legal obligation to comply, and 
compliance with them will not be a defense against a charge (either 
administrative or criminal) of violating export control laws.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/00/03

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, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230

[[Page 72733]]

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

RIN: 0694-AC89
_______________________________________________________________________




513. [bull] CLARIFICATION OF EXPORT CONTROLS ON PARTS FOR MILITARY 
VEHICLES

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

Legal Authority: 50 USC app. 2401; 50 USC 1701; 10 USC 7420; 10 USC 
7430; 18 USC2510; 22 USC 287; 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 770; 15 CFR 774 supp. no. 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 
9A018 to make clear that it includes components for the certain 
vehicles covered by that ECCN, to update that ECCN to cover a class of 
vehicles recently added to the International Munitions List and also to 
make clear that it does not include vehicles and components that are 
subject to the export licensing jurisdiction of the Department of 
State, Office of Defense Trade Controls. This rule also amends the 
interpretation in section 770(h) to provide guidance based on the 
International Munitions List for distinguishing military vehicles from 
other vehicles and to assist in distinguishing military vehicles 
subject to the export licensing jurisdiction of the Department of 
State, Office of Defense Trade Controls from those subject to the 
export licensing jurisdiction of the Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security. The International Munitions List is published by 
the Wassenaar Arrangement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin, Department of Commerce, Bureau of 
Industry and Security, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC91
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




514. 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

Government Levels Affected: State, Local

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482 3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB25
_______________________________________________________________________




515. CLARIFICATION OF LICENSE EXCEPTION GFT (HUMANITARIAN DONATIONS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

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
_______________________________________________________________________




516. 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

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

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

RIN: 0694-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________




517. 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

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC15
_______________________________________________________________________




518. 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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 72734]]

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC17
_______________________________________________________________________




519. 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

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC23
_______________________________________________________________________




520. 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
Fax: 202 482 3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________




521. 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: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC31
_______________________________________________________________________




522. LICENSE EXCEPTION AVS: CUBA, LIBYA, AND SERBIA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482 3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC33
_______________________________________________________________________




523. 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

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482 3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC34
_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Willard Fisher
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482 3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC35
_______________________________________________________________________




525. 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

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0694-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

RIN: 0694-AC47
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharron Cook

[[Page 72735]]

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

RIN: 0694-AC63
_______________________________________________________________________




528. LICENSE EXCEPTION APR FOR REEXPORTS TO, FROM, AND AMONG COUNTRIES 
IN COUNTRY GROUP A:1

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                            To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: William Arvin
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC69
_______________________________________________________________________




529. REVISIONS TO LICENSE EXCEPTION TSR: EXPANSION TO SCOPE OF ELIGIBLE 
COUNTRIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 774

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Blaskovich
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC71
_______________________________________________________________________




530. ADDITION OF EAST TIMOR, NETHERLANDS ANTILLES, AND ARUBA TO THE 
EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 738

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Matthew Blaskovich
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC77
_______________________________________________________________________




531. [bull] IMPOSITION OF FOREIGN POLICY CONTROLS ON SURREPTITIOUS 
COMMUNICATIONS INTERCEPTING DEVICES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222; EO 
12938; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 742; 15 CFR 746; 15 CFR 
752; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR) by imposing export and reexport 
controls on communications intercepting devices primarily useful for 
surreptitious interception of wire, oral or electronic communications 
classified under Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) 5A980. In 
this rule, BIS also imposes controls on related software and technology 
by creating ECCNs 5D980 and 5E980, the classifications for software and 
technology designed or modified for the ``development,'' ``production'' 
or ``use'' of equipment controlled under 5A980. The items controlled 
under ECCNs 5A980, 5D980 and 5E980 are controlled for crime control 
(CC) and antiterrorism (AT) reasons.

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, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC82
_______________________________________________________________________




532. [bull] DECEMBER 2002 WASSENAAR ARRANGEMENT PLENARY AGREEMENT 
IMPLEMENTATION: REVISIONS TO CATEGORIES 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, AND 7 OF THE 
COMMERCE CONTROL LIST, AND REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 13026; EO 13222; EO 
13206; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 743; 15 CFR 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) maintains the 
Commerce Control List (CCL), which identifies items subject to 
Department of Commerce export controls. This final rule revises certain 
entries controlled for national security reasons in Categories 1, 2, 3, 
4, 5 Part I (telecommunications), 5 Part II (information security), 6, 
and 7 to conform with changes in the List of Dual-Use Goods and 
Technologies maintained and agreed to by governments participating in 
the Wassenaar Arrangement on Export Controls for Conventional Arms and 
Dual-Use Goods and Technologies (Wassenaar Arrangement). The Wassenaar 
Arrangement controls strategic items with the objective of improving 
regional and international security and stability.
The purpose of this final rule is to make the necessary changes to the 
Commerce Control List to implement revisions to the Wassenaar List that 
were agreed upon in the December 2002 meeting and to make necessary 
revisions to reporting requirements, and License Exception GOV 
restrictions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC85

[[Page 72736]]

_______________________________________________________________________




533. [bull] ADDITION OF KAZAKHSTAN TO THE NUCLEAR SUPPLIERS GROUP (NSG), 
AND OTHER REVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740; 15 CFR 772

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: As a result of the admission of Kazakhstan to the Nuclear 
Suppliers Group (NSG), this rule amends the Export Administration 
Regulations (EAR) to add Kazakhstan to Country Group A, Column A:4, 
which identifies the member countries of the NSG, and to the definition 
of ``Nuclear Suppliers Group.'' The NSG member countries have agreed to 
establish export licensing procedures for the transfer of items 
identified on the Annex to the ``Nuclear-Related Dual-Use Equipment, 
Materials, and Related Technology List,`` which is published by the 
International Atomic Energy Agency.

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

RIN: 0694-AC90
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

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 774 Supplement No. 1

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Transfer of Communications 
Satellites                      10/23/92                    57 FR 48312
Navigation and Avionics         06/23/93                    58 FR 34211
Final Rule--Transfer of 
Commercial Communication 
Satellites                      09/08/93                    58 FR 47322
Transfer of Items From the USMI 
to the CCL; Imposition of 
Certain Foreign Policy Controls 10/26/93                    58 FR 57549
Satellite Fuel                  09/29/97                    62 FR 50865
Final Rule                      09/29/97                    62 FR 50856

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brian Nilsson, Acting Director/STFPC, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196

RIN: 0694-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________




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

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 799

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brian Nilsson, Acting Director/STFPC, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196

RIN: 0694-AB41

[[Page 72737]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

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 730 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule will modify the Department of Commerce's 
current ``deemed export'' rule covering foreign nationals working on 
controlled U.S. high technology or source code in the United States or 
abroad.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




537. 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
Withdrawn                       08/26/03

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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________




538. INDIA AND PAKISTAN SANCTIONS

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: On June 18, 1998, the Administration announced additional 
details of the sanctions imposed on India and Pakistan in response to 
their recent detonation of nuclear devices. The President had 
previously determined and reported to Congress, under the authority of 
section 102 of the Arms Export Control Act, that the Indian and 
Pakistani activities had violated the Act and sanctions were required.
Under the provisions of the Arms Export Control Act, the Department of 
Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is revising the Export 
Administration Regulations (EAR) to expand the license requirements and 
set forth licensing policy for exports and reexports of most items 
controlled for nuclear nonproliferation and missile technology to India 
and Pakistan. Under the provisions of the Export Administration Act 
(EAA), BIS is revising the EAR to expand the license requirements and 
set forth licensing policy for exports and reexports of high 
performance computers to India and Pakistan. In addition, Indian and 
Pakistani government entities involved in nuclear or missile activities 
will be added to the Entity List. Additional military and private 
entities located in India and Pakistan will be added to the Entity List 
in the near future.

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 Action                    07/26/00                    65 FR 45842
Final Action Effective          07/26/00

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess, Director, Regulatory Policy Division, 
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-AB73

[[Page 72738]]

_______________________________________________________________________




539. 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 Industry and Security (BIS) 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              04/03/03                    68 FR 16208

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB87
_______________________________________________________________________




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

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 
13222; EO 13026

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 730 to 774

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) maintains the 
Commerce Control List (CCL), which identifies those items subject to 
Department of Commerce export licensing requirements. Consistent with 
technological changes, this interim rule adjusts the License Exception 
CIV eligibility level for microprocessors controlled by Export Control 
Classification Number (ECCN) 3A001.

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Hillary Hess, Director, Regulatory Policy Division, 
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-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________




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

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

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is reviewing 
technology and software export issues as they pertain to electronic 
transmissions and downloads, as well as programming onto hardware. BIS 
is considering how export controls on such technology transfers affect 
U.S. exporters. Specifically, BIS is seeking to gain a better 
understanding of how these transfers actually take place so that the 
Export Administration Regulations may be clarified in a manner that 
meets the export control objectives of the regulations while increasing 
the utility of the regulations to the public. BIS is particularly 
interested in the comments of those who have direct experience in the 
area of technology and software exports.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




542. ANTITERRORISM CONTROLS ON IRAQ

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 to impose foreign policy controls on 
Iraq for antiterrorism reasons.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

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, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC06

[[Page 72739]]

_______________________________________________________________________




543. 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                    04/02/03                    68 FR 16144

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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC22
_______________________________________________________________________




544. OFFSETS IN MILITARY EXPORTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 102-558, title I, sec 124; 106 Stat. 4207; 50 USC 
app 2099

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 701

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) proposes to amend 
the National Security Industrial Base Regulations to refine current 
defense offset reporting requirements. These changes will allow BIS to 
more accurately address the impact of offsets on the defense 
preparedness, industrial competitiveness, employment, and trade of the 
United States. These changes will also further standardize the data 
collection framework, thus reducing the burden of reporting 
requirements on U.S. firms.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brad Botwin, Director, Trade Analysis Division, 
Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, Room 3878, 
14th & Pennsylvania Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4060
Fax: 202 482-5650

RIN: 0694-AC27
_______________________________________________________________________




545. ENTITY LIST: ADDITIONS AND REVISIONS

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 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Export Administration Regulations (EAR) provide that the 
Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) may inform exporters, 
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 makes 
additions, modifications and corrections to the Entity List.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC28
_______________________________________________________________________




546. REVISIONS TO ENCRYPTION ITEMS

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 730 to 799

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
and implements the July 17 White House announcement to allow the export 
and reexport of most encryption items, including U.S. products that use 
open cryptographic interface (OCI), to European Union (EU) member 
states, Australia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, 
Poland and Switzerland under License Exception ENC.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/19/00                    65 FR 62600

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brian Nilsson, Acting Director/STFPC, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th & Pennsylvania Avenue 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-4196

RIN: 0694-AC32
_______________________________________________________________________




547. 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

[[Page 72740]]

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

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/26/03

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, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC45
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 1701; 50 USC 2401; EO 13026; EO 13222; EO 
12854; . . .

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
by removing the license requirements imposed on the Federal Republic of 
Yugoslavia on July 14, 1998. Under the EAR, controls have been 
maintained on arms and related material to the Federal Republic of 
Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro) consistent with the UNSC Resolution 
1160. On September 10, 2001, in Resolution 1367, the UNSC terminated 
the international arms embargo against the Federal Republic of 
Yugoslavia established by Resolution 1160. This rule implements UNSC 
Resolution 1367.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      11/25/02                    67 FR 70545
Final Action                    06/30/03                    68 FR 38591

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, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC57
_______________________________________________________________________




549. 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 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                    06/06/03                    68 FR 34192

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, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC60
_______________________________________________________________________




550. 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                      06/10/03                    68 FR 34526

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 72741]]

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
Fax: 202 482 3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC70
_______________________________________________________________________




551. [bull] GENERAL ORDER SUSPENDING LICENSE REQUIREMENT FOR EXPORTS AND 
REEXPORTS IN SUPPORT OF UNITED NATION SECURITY COUNSEL RESOLUTION(S) 
MANDATING INSPECTIONS IN IRAQ

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

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO12938; EO 13020; EO 13026; 
EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 736

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule adds a new General Order No. 4 to Supplement No. 1, 
part 736. General Order No. 4 authorize exports and reexports of items 
subject to the EAR to any country for use by or for the International 
Atomic Energy Agency or the United Nations Monitoring, Verification and 
Inspection Commission to carry out inspections of Iraq pursuant to 
United Nations Security Council Resolution 1441 of November 8, 2002, 
and other resolutions that may be issued with respect to such 
inspections.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sheila Quarterman, Export Policy Analyst, Department of 
Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, 14th and Pennsylvania 
Avenue, NW., HCHB Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-5347
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC73
_______________________________________________________________________




552. EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS: ENCRYPTION CLARIFICATIONS AND 
REVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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                    06/17/03                    68 FR 35783
Final Action Effective          06/17/03

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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC78
_______________________________________________________________________




553. 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 nongovernmental organizations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

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., Room 2096, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC79
_______________________________________________________________________




554. [bull] GENERAL ORDER REMOVING LICENSE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE EXPORT 
OR REEXPORT TO IRAQ OF CERTAIN ITEMS SUBJECT TO THE EXPORT 
ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; EO 12938; EO 13020; EO 13222

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 736

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Bureau of Industry and Security, U.S. Department of 
Commerce, is issuing General Order No. 4 to remove license requirements 
for the export or reexport to Iraq of the following items in order to 
facilitate humanitarian activities in Iraq by State Department 
accredited non-governmental organizations (NGOs):
Items controlled under Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) 
5A002 and 5D002.
Please note that many other items needed for humanitarian activities in

[[Page 72742]]

Iraq, including food, medicine, clothing, and shelter materials, do not 
require a Department of Commerce license for export or reexport to 
Iraq.
The Iraqi Sanctions Regulations (31 CFR part 575), administered by the 
Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), 
continue to apply to exports and reexports to Iraq. Any export or 
reexport made on the basis of this general order must nonetheless be 
authorized by OFAC. The reexport from Iraq of items listed herein may 
be subject to license requirements under the EAR.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/12/03

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-AC80
_______________________________________________________________________




555. [bull] EXPORT CLEARANCE--CONFORMANCE OF EXPORT ADMINISTRATION 
REGULATIONS WITH FOREIGN TRADE STATISTICS REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 758

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 
to add references to the Automated Export System (AES) and to conform 
the EAR to certain provisions of the Foreign Trade Statistics 
Regulations (FTSR (15 CFR Part 30)) including provisions related to AES 
promulgated at 68 FR 42534 on July 17, 2003. It also conforms some 
terminology in part 758 to that found elsewhere in the EAR and updates 
references to another government agency to reflect a name change.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/21/03                    68 FR 50470
Final Action Effective          09/22/03                    68 FR 50740

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, HCHB Room 2096, 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue, 
NW., Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-2440
Fax: 202 482-3355
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0694-AC81
_______________________________________________________________________




556. [bull] ADDITION OF ARUBA, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, REPUBLIC OF 
CONGO, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF EAST TIMOR, AND NETHERLANDS ANTILLES TO 
THE EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 50 USC 2401; 50 USC 1701; 18 USC 2510; 22 USC 3201; 43 
USC 1354; . . .

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 738; 15 CFR 740

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       09/11/03

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-AC83
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST)



_______________________________________________________________________




557. 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                            11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 72743]]

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)                          Completed Actions


National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST)



_______________________________________________________________________




558. 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                    05/07/03                    68 FR 24343

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


                    ________________________________



559. 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                           02/00/04
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/00/04
NPRM                            05/00/04

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
_______________________________________________________________________




560. 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: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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

[[Page 72744]]

_______________________________________________________________________




561. 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: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




562. [bull] WEAKFISH: INCREASE IN INCIDENTAL CATCH PER AMENDMENT 4

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 5101 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) has 
proposed regulations that would modify management restrictions in the 
Federal weakfish fishery in a manner consistent with the 
recommendations made by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission 
in Amendment 4 of the Commission's Interstate Fisheries Management Plan 
for the species. In short, the proposed Federal regulatory change would 
increase the permitted non-directed incidental catch of the species 
from 150 pounds to 300 pounds per day or trip. Analysis of the best 
available data suggests that the proposed increase would not alter 
current fishing practices or effort, or increase the number of weakfish 
caught--the 150 pound increase simply converts 150 pounds of weakfish, 
which would be caught and discarded at sea dead regardless, into 150 
pounds of weakfish caught and landed. Accordingly, no significant 
impact is found and the environmental analysis that would support such 
a finding is set forth herein

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/01/03                    68 FR 39048
NPRM Comment Period End         07/31/03
End Review                      11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

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-AR11
_______________________________________________________________________




563. 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 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                           11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




564. DESIGNATE CRITICAL HABITAT; WITHDRAW PREVIOUS DESIGNATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, 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

[[Page 72745]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



565. 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.

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                            06/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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-AG87
_______________________________________________________________________




566. 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.

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




567. 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.

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




568. 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: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AK84
_______________________________________________________________________




569. 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.

Abstract: Amendment 2 would add the exclusive economic zone waters off 
the U.S. Pacific Island Remote Areas and the Commonwealth of the 
Northern Mariana Islands as crustaceans management areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

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

[[Page 72746]]

Phone: 808 973-2985

RIN: 0648-AL67
_______________________________________________________________________




570. 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.

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




571. 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.

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

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          08/14/03                    68 FR 48592
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
_______________________________________________________________________




572. 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.

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




573. 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.

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                            06/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/04

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-AN08
_______________________________________________________________________




574. 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.

Abstract: Amendment 18 would address the need for improved conservation 
of grouper stocks in the Gulf of Mexico by addressing effort capacity 
control, using VMS, addressing the use of reef fish as bait, addressing 
longline and buoy gear phase-out, establishing closed areas, modifying 
TAC Framework procedures and grouper allocations, defining

[[Page 72747]]

grouper and amberjack status determination criteria, developing Nassau 
and goliath grouper rebuilding plans, and incorporating the SEDAR 
process into the TAC Framework procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




575. 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.

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: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




576. AMENDMENT 13 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN 
(FMP)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 32 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0648-AN17
_______________________________________________________________________




577. 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.

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
_______________________________________________________________________




578. 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.

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 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                            11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




579. 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.

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Roy Crabtree, Regional Administrator, Southeast

[[Page 72748]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




580. 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.

Abstract: This plan 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. In addition, this 
amendment will address bycatch reporting requirements of the reeffish 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




581. AMENDMENT 13A 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, NPRM.

Abstract: Amendment 13A will evaluate alternatives to extend the 
prohibition on fishing for and possessing Snapper-Grouper species 
within the oculina experimental closed area for an additional period of 
time, that prohibition which was implemented in 1996 through amendment 
6 to the Snapper-Grouper FMP, is scheduled to sunset in June 2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




582. 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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




583. 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, NPRM.

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would implement the following 
Amendment 14 provisions: permit

[[Page 72749]]

owners will be required to provide detailed ownership information to 
ensure that no person has ownership interest in or holds more than 
three 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 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                            12/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/04

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
_______________________________________________________________________




584. 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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03
Final Action Effective          01/00/04
Final Action                    02/00/04

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
_______________________________________________________________________




585. 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.

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
_______________________________________________________________________




586. 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.

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

[[Page 72750]]

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 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
_______________________________________________________________________




587. 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.

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

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          08/25/03                    68 FR 50998
NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




588. 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.

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                            09/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




589. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE REGULATORY CHANGES RESULTING FROM THE 
AMENDMENTS AND EXTENSION OF THE SOUTH PACIFIC TUNA ACT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 300

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would implement the regulatory changes 
resulting from the recently renegotiated Treaty on Fisheries between 
the Government of Certain Pacific Island States and the Government of 
the United States of America, as authorized under the South Pacific 
Tuna Act. These changes include the implementation of an electronic 
vessel monitoring system for U.S. purse seine vessels licensed to fish 
within the Treaty Area. The location information will be provided to 
the Forum Fisheries Agency, located in Honiara Solomon Islands, as well 
as NOAA Fisheries. This rule would eliminate the prohibition of duly 
authorized U.S. longline vessels from fishing in the high seas areas 
within the Treaty Area. Additionally, it will impose minor 
modifications in the various reporting requirements, as well as modify 
the areas of fishing allowed in the exclusive economic zones of the 
Solomon islands and Papua New Guinea.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




590. REVISE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT QUOTA PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION AND 
ALLOCATION REGULATIONS--BSAI FMP AMENDMENT 71

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

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

[[Page 72751]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

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                            06/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/04

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
_______________________________________________________________________




592. 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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




593. 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                            06/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         07/00/04

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
_______________________________________________________________________




594. 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: None

[[Page 72752]]

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




595. 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                            12/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/04
Final Action                    02/00/04

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-AQ21
_______________________________________________________________________




596. 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                            04/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




597. AMENDMENT 1 TO THE ATLANTIC HERRING FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP) 
AND AMENDMENT 2 TO THE ATLANTIC SALMON FMP TO ADDRESS ESSENTAL FISH 
HABITAT CONSERVATION MEASURES

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




598. 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

[[Page 72753]]

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

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: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ37
_______________________________________________________________________




599. 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
Comment Period Extended         03/03/03                     68 FR 9967
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/17/03
NPRM                            11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




600. 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 Atlantic blue 
and white marlin measures are necessary to comply with ICCAT 
obligations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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, Room 13362, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AQ65
_______________________________________________________________________




601. 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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AQ79
_______________________________________________________________________




602. 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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




603. 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.

[[Page 72754]]

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 A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




604. 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 
2004 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 A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




605. 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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




606. 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 
Atlantic Herring Fishery for fishing year 2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




607. 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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




608. ``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                            08/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         09/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 72755]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




609. 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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




610. 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.

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: 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
_______________________________________________________________________




611. 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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




612. 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, Final.

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




613. [bull] AMENDMENT 66 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
GROUNDFISH OF THE GULF OF ALASKA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would modify the Individual Fishing Quota 
(IFQ) Program by revising the definition of an eligible quota share 
holder to allow eligible communities in the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) to 
purchase and hold halibut and sablefish quota share (QS) for lease to, 
and use by, community residents as defined by specific elements of the 
proposed action.

[[Page 72756]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          09/02/03                    68 FR 52173
Comment Period End              11/03/03
NPRM                            11/00/03
Final Action                    05/00/04
Final Action Effective          05/00/04

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-AQ98
_______________________________________________________________________




614. [bull] AMENDMENT 62 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE GULF OF ALASKA AND AMENDMENT 62 TO THE FMP FOR 
THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS AREA

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would redefine the flexibility of AFA-
qualified inshore floating processors to relocated between reporting 
weeks rather than between fishing years for the purpose of processing 
targeted BSAI pollock.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/04

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-AR06
_______________________________________________________________________




615. [bull] PORT CODES INTEGRATION IN TABLE 14

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Table 14 to 50 CFR part 679 presents codes for ports of 
landing in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, and the western 
coast of Canada. Two codes are given for most ports. A three-digit 
numerical code is used in the NMFS Alaska Region Individual Fishing 
Quota Program when reporting landings of Pacific halibut and sablefish. 
A three-digit alphabetic code is used when reporting groundfish 
landings on State of Alaska, Department of Fish and Game fish tickets 
and in the NMFS Alaska Region Shoreside Processor Electronic Logbook 
Report. This regulatory amendment will revise table 14 numerical port 
codes to remove ports that have not been reported on a frequent basis 
and to combine certain geographically close ports under one code.

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: 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-AR07
_______________________________________________________________________




616. [bull] REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CHANGE REPORTING AREAS 620 AND 630

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The boundary between Gulf of Alaska (GOA) reporting areas 620 
and 630 near Kodiak Island, Alaska, is 154 W. longitude from the south 
side of the Alaska Peninsula, southward to the limits of the EEZ off 
Alaska. On Kodiak Island, this line of longitude bisects Alitak/Deadman 
Bay, a large, deep bay on the south end of the island. Frequently, 
there is a great amount of pollock in this bay, and consequent pollock 
fishing.
When either of the two reporting areas is open to pollock fishing, and 
the other reporting area is closed, vessels will fish in the bay on the 
``open'' side of the line. The area of the Alitak/Deadman Bay of Kodiak 
Island would be much more efficiently enforced if the bay were either 
all open or all closed. Because the mouth of the bay is totally 
contained within reporting area 620, the pollock found in the bay are 
arguably associated with the 620 stocks.
The Alitak/Deadman Bay of Kodiak Island is one body of water basically 
enclosed by Kodiak Island but divided superficially into two reporting 
areas by 154 degrees W. longitude. This division of the bay into two 
separate reporting areas is impractical for quota management and 
enforcement purposes. The mouth of the bay is totally contained in 
reporting area 620 and logically should be included in area 620. This 
action corrects that error by revising the descriptions of reporting 
areas 620 and 630 in figure 3 to part 679.
The description of reporting area 620 in figure 3 is revised by adding 
``except that all waters of the Alitak/Deadman Bay of Kodiak Island are 
included in this reporting area.'' The description of reporting area 
630 in figure 3 is revised by removing ``Excluding Area 649'' and 
adding in its place ``Excluding all waters of the Alitak/Deadman Bay of 
Kodiak Island and Area 649.''

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

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-AR08

[[Page 72757]]

_______________________________________________________________________




617. [bull] REGULATORY RULEMAKING TO REVISE ACCOUNTING FOR EXTERNALLY 
TAGGED HALIBUT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would revise accounting procedures when 
deducting halibut catch from the Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ). Only 
those halibut with external tags are excluded from IFQ quota deduction.

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: 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-AR09
_______________________________________________________________________




618. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES; TRADE RESTRICTIVE 
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 the trade restrictive measures 
recommended at the 2002 meeting of the International Commission for the 
Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). The proposed rule would lift 
the import prohibition on Atlantic bigeye tuna from Honduras and 
conditionally from St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Belize, depending 
on decisions at the 2003 ICCAT meeting. Bigeye tuna imports from Sierra 
Leone and Bolivia would be banned. The import prohibitions on Atlantic 
bluefin tuna and Atlantic swordfish would be lifted from Honduras and 
conditionally from Belize, depending on decisions at the 2003 ICCAT 
meeting. Bluefin tuna and swordfish imports from Sierra Leone would be 
banned. The proposed rule would also prohibit imports from vessels on 
the ICCAT negative list and would require prior notification from NOAA 
Fisheries before a U.S. documented or registered vessel enters a 
chartering arrangement with another country.

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: John H. Dunnigan, Director, Office of Sustainable 
Fisheries, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, NMFS, 1315 East-West Highway, Room 13362, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AR10
_______________________________________________________________________




619. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); BLUEFIN TUNA SEASON 
AND SIZE LIMIT ADJUSTMENTS

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

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS proposes changes to start and end dates and size 
tolerances for certain commercial fishery sectors. Quota and fishing 
effort for these fisheries will remain within the bounds of previously 
established management programs. A recommendation from the 
International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas 
providing additional quota for incidental longline BFT catches in 
certain areas is clarified.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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, Room 13362, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AR12
_______________________________________________________________________




620. [bull] CATCHER VESSEL ELECTRONIC REPORT

Priority: Info./Admin./Other. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Paper daily fishing logbooks are required from catcher 
vessels greater than 60 feet in length overall. Requirements for 
completion and submittal of the logbooks exist in the regulations at 50 
CFR part 679. Recently, electronic capability to record information 
required in catcher vessel logbooks occurred. Electronic logbooks or 
reports occurred first as a pilot project and now as a pre-approval 
project. The operator of a catcher vessel has the option of using an 
NMFS-approved electronic version of the logbook in place of the paper 
logbook. The electronic logbooks are not required by NMFS. However, the 
current regulations are changed to reflect the differences in 
submitting data by electronic means versus paper logsheet.

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: 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-AR30

[[Page 72758]]

_______________________________________________________________________




621. [bull] ATLANTIC STRIPED BASS FISHERIES IN THE EEZ; MODIFICATION OF 
FEDERAL REGULATIONS

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1851

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 697

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS announces that it is considering, and seeking public 
comment on, revisions to Federal Atlantic striped bass regulations for 
the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in response to recommendations 
from the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (Commission) to 
the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary). The Commission recommended that 
the Secretary remove the moratorium on the harvest of Atlantic striped 
bass in the EEZ after a 13-year closure; implement a 28-inch minimum 
size limit for the recreational and commercial Atlantic striped bass 
fisheries in the EEZ; and allow states the ability to adopt more 
restrictive rules for fishermen and vessels licensed in their 
jurisdiction. NMFS is soliciting comments with this notice regarding 
possible management measures and issues that NMFS should consider 
relative to these recommendations.
These regulations would be developed under section 9 of the Atlantic 
Striped Bass Conservation Act, Pub. L. 100-589 (16 U.S.C. 1851 note), 
which requires the Secretary to promulgate regulations on fishing for 
Atlantic striped bass in the EEZ that the Secretary determines: (1) are 
consistent with the national standards in Section 301 of the Magnuson-
Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act) 
(16 U.S.C. 1851); (2) are compatible with the Plan and each Federal 
moratorium in effect on fishing for Atlantic striped bass within the 
coastal waters of a coastal State; (3) ensure the effectiveness of 
State regulations on fishing for Atlantic striped bass within the 
coastal waters of a coastal State; and (4) are sufficient to assure the 
long-term conservation of Atlantic striped bass populations. In 
developing the regulations, the Secretary is to consult with the 
Commission, the appropriate Regional Fishery Management Councils, and 
each affected Federal, State and local government entity.
CONTROVERSY: This ANPRM is considered controversial because NOAA 
Fisheries expects interest from Congress, environmental groups, 
portions of the fishing industry, and States. Currently, four Atlantic 
coast States consider Atlantic striped bass to be a game fish in their 
State waters and will likely be against commercial fishing in the EEZ.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/21/03                    68 FR 43074
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/20/03
Comment Period Extended         08/26/03                    68 FR 51232
NPRM                            01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

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-AR33
_______________________________________________________________________




622. [bull] CONSIDERATION OF A CONTROL DATE FOR BOTTOMFISHING VESSELS IN 
THE EEZ AROUND GUAM AND COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On June 13, 2003, the Western Pacific Fishery Management 
Council (Council) adopted a ``control date'' of June 13, 2003, as a 
notice to persons contemplating entering the fisheries for bottomfish 
species in the U.S. exclusive economic zone around Guam and the 
neighboring Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. This action 
would not impose any restrictions on the public, but is intended solely 
to notify persons interested in joining these fisheries after June 13 
that they might be excluded if restrictions are adopted in the future 
under the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. 
Although the ``control date'' is a signal that the Council is likely to 
consider limiting entry to any or all of these bottomfish fisheries, 
neither the Council or NMFS have made any decision yet. They might 
decide to limit new entry to some or all of these fisheries or might 
decide to take no action at all.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           08/28/03                    68 FR 51763
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/29/03
NPRM                            01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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-AR37
_______________________________________________________________________




623. [bull] AMENDMENT 13B TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
SNAPPER-GROUPER FISHERY OF THE SOUTH ATLANTIC REGION

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 13B will: (1) redefine, as needed, the snapper-
grouper fishery management unit (FMU) and FMU sub-units; (2) define 
biomass-based estimates of biological reference points and status 
determination criteria for all stocks/complexes that comprise the FMU; 
(3) establish rebuilding schedules based on biomass-based estimates of 
status determination criteria for all overfished stocks/complexes in 
the FMU; (4) establish control rules and implement management measures, 
as needed, to end overfishing and rebuild overfished stocks; (5) review 
the implementation of the Logbook/Atlantic Coastal Cooperative 
Statistics Program bycatch reporting program in the

[[Page 72759]]

context of its consistency with the MSFCMA requirement to establish a 
standardized bycatch reporting methodology; and (6) assess the 
practicability of additional bycatch reduction measures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/04

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-AR38
_______________________________________________________________________




624. [bull] MAXIMUM RETAINABLE AMOUNT

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would revise the maximum retainable 
allowance (MRA) accounting to an offload to offload basis for pollock 
caught with trawl gear in the BSAI. The objective of this action is to 
increase retention of pollock taken as incidental catch in the directed 
fisheries for other, non-pollock groundfish species, but without 
increasing the overall amount of pollock that has been historically 
caught as incidental catch in such fisheries.

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: 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-AR41
_______________________________________________________________________




625. [bull] FRAMEWORK 4 TO THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND BUTTERFISH 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN (FMP)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The action proposes to extend the moratorium on entry to the 
Illex fishery. This extension is needed because the Illex moratorium 
program is set to expire in July of 2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR44
_______________________________________________________________________




626. [bull] ESTABLISH REFERENDUM PROCEDURES AND A VOTE WEIGHTING FORMULA 
FOR THE GULF OF MEXICO RED SNAPPER INDIVIDUAL FISHING QUOTA (IFQ) 
PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Pursuant to the policies established by the Administrative 
Procedure Act, NOAA Fisheries is submitting a proposed rule, to 
establish referendum procedures and a vote weighting formula for the 
Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) Program, for 
public review and comment.

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-AR48
_______________________________________________________________________




627. [bull] IMPLEMENT ELECTRONIC DEALER REPORTING AND ADJUSTMENTS TO 
VESSEL REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would implement electronic dealer reporting and 
adjustments to vessel reporting requirements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR49

[[Page 72760]]

_______________________________________________________________________




628. [bull] FRAMEWORK 5 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish the ability to set multiyear 
specifications for the summer flounder, scup and black sea bass 
fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR50
_______________________________________________________________________




629. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE SURF CLAM AND OCEAN QUAHOG 
FISHERY FOR FISHING YEAR 2005

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

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 2005.

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: Patricia A. 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-AR52
_______________________________________________________________________




630. [bull] PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY; ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE 2004 
GROUNDFISH FISHERY SPECIFICATIONS AND MANAGEMENT MEASURES

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will implement the 2004 annual specifications 
and management measures for the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

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-AR54
_______________________________________________________________________




631. [bull] FRAMEWORK 16 TO THE ATLANTIC SEA SCALLOP FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN AND FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 39 TO THE NORTHEAST MULTISPECIES FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: These frameworks would establish access program for 
scallopers in the groundfish closed areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR55
_______________________________________________________________________




632. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE DEEP-SEA RED CRAB FISHERY FOR 
FISHING YEAR 2004

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

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 
Deep-Sea Red Crab Fishery for fishing year 2004.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR58

[[Page 72761]]

_______________________________________________________________________




633. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); AMENDMENT 2 TO THE 
FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR ATLANTIC TUNAS, SWORDFISH, AND SHARKS

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

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 2 to the Fishery Management Plan for Atlantic 
Tunas, Swordfish and Sharks is intended to address issues regarding 
quota allocation of Atlantic bluefin tuna, swordfish, and sharks among 
and within domestic fishing categories, examine management alternatives 
to improve and streamline the current limited access permit program, 
conduct a five-year review of essential fish habitat identifications, 
and address exempted fishing and scientific research permitting issues 
consistent with rebuilding plans, the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
Conservation and Management Act, Atlantic Tunas Convention Act, and 
other relevant Federal laws.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

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, Room 13362, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AR60
_______________________________________________________________________




634. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); AMENDMENT 2 TO THE 
ATLANTIC BILLFISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

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

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 2 to the Atlantic Billfish Fishery Management Plan 
is intended to conduct a five-year review of essential fish habitat 
identifications, and address other issues as necessary consistent with 
rebuilding plans, the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 
Management Act, Atlantic Tunas Convention Act, and other relevant 
Federal laws.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         08/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

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: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AR61
_______________________________________________________________________




635. [bull] FRAMEWORK 4 TO THE SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS 
FISHERY

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework 4 proposes to allow, under certain circumstances, 
the at-sea transfer of scup from one vessel to another. The intent of 
this proposed action is to minimize discards of scup that may occur 
when a vessel exceeds its possession limit on a large tow of scup.

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: Patricia A. 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-AR62
_______________________________________________________________________




636. [bull] AMENDMENT 10 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The need for implementing a permanent monitoring program in 
the shore-based Pacific whiting (whiting) fishery is to provide for a 
full retention fishery by enabling the shore-based whiting fleet, 
comprised exclusively of catcher vessels, to deliver unsorted catch to 
processing plants. This practice is necessary to ensure that whiting 
landings are of market quality, while abiding by Federal groundfish 
regulations and those implementing the Pacific Coast salmon and 
groundfish fishery management plans (FMPs). The treatment and 
disposition of salmon in the groundfish trawl fisheries, specifically 
the shore-based whiting fishery, was last addressed by the Pacific 
Fishery Management Council (Pacific Council) at their October 21 to 25, 
1996, meeting in San Francisco, California. At that meeting, the 
Pacific Council discussed the retention of salmon in the shore-based 
whiting fishery and took action to maintain a viable shore-based 
whiting fishery by using exempted fishing permits (EFPs). These EFPs 
allowed the shore-based whiting fleet to temporarily deliver unsorted 
catch to processing plants and provided for the monitoring of 
incidentally taken salmon until a permanent monitoring program could be 
implemented. In keeping with the Pacific Council's recommendation, NMFS 
is proceeding with implementing a monitoring program for the shore-
based whiting fishery. This action will aid in the sustainable 
management of Pacific Coast salmon and groundfish fisheries while 
providing an important economic opportunity to those associated with 
the harvest, processing, and selling of whiting taken by the shore-
based whiting fleet.

[[Page 72762]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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-AR63
_______________________________________________________________________




637. [bull] REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO PROHIBITED SPECIES CATCH DONATION 
REGULATIONS TO ALLOW PROCESSING OF HEADS AND GUTS

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 60 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory amendment would allow the sale of certain 
products to be made from the heads and guts of salmon and halibut taken 
incidentally in groundfish fisheries. This action would revise our 
prohibited species donation rules to allow processors to convert the 
heads and guts of salmon and halibut into fish meal, fish oil or bone 
meal, and retain the proceeds of the sale of these products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

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-AR64
_______________________________________________________________________




638. [bull] AMENDMENT 8 TO THE FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE 
BOTTOMFISH FISHERIES OF THE WESTERN PACIFIC REGION

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Amendment 8 would add the exclusive economic zone off the 
U.S. Pacific Remote Island areas as bottomfish management areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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-AR65
_______________________________________________________________________




639. [bull] AMENDMENT 21 TO THE REEF FISH FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (Council) has 
submitted Amendment 21 to the subject FMP to the National Marine 
Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) for Secretarial review. The 
amendment was approved by the Council by a vote of 10 to 5 (two 
absentees) at its July 2003 meeting. It proposes to: (1) extend the 
marine reserves at Madison-Swanson and Steamboat Lumps for an 
additional six years; (2) allow surface trolling only for coastal 
migratory pelagics and highly migratory species (HMS) in the marine 
reserves during May through October; (3) prohibit all fishing in the 
marine reserves during November through April; and (4) prohibit the 
possession of reef fish within the reserves except for vessels 
transiting the reserves in accordance with the same requirements as 
implemented for the Tortugas South and North closed fishing areas (Reef 
Fish Amendment 19). Additionally, the Council will send a letter to the 
Highly Migratory Species Division of NOAA Fisheries requesting that 
they implement regulations compatible with the proposals in this 
amendment for species under their jurisdiction.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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-AR66
_______________________________________________________________________




640. 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

[[Page 72763]]

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




641. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




642. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




643. 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                            12/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




644. 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                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




645. 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

[[Page 72764]]

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                            12/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




646. TAKING AND IMPORTING MARINE MAMMALS: TAKING MARINE MAMMALS 
INCIDENTAL TO CONDUCTING OIL AND GAS EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES IN THE GULF 
OF MEXICO

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/04

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
_______________________________________________________________________




647. [bull] ALASKA TRANSIENT KILLER WHALES (AT1 GROUP) DESIGNATED AS 
DEPLETED

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 216

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, June 16, 2003, NPRM.

Abstract: After reviewing a petition received from members of the 
public, NMFS is proposing to designate the AT1 group of Alaska 
Transient Killer Whales as a depleted population stock pursuant to the 
Marine Mammal Protection Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Laurie K. Allen, Acting Director, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AR14
_______________________________________________________________________




648. [bull] ZERO MORTALITY RATE GOAL

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS is clarifying through regulation the definition of 
``insignificant levels approaching a zero mortality and serious injury 
rate,'' which is a part of the Zero Mortality Rate Goal of the Marine 
Mammal Protection Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           07/09/03
ANPRM Comment Period End        09/08/03
NPRM                            11/00/03
NPRM Comment Period End         12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Laurie K. Allen, Acting Director, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AR15
_______________________________________________________________________




649. [bull] REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING THE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN TAKE 
REDUCTION PLAN

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1361 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 229

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, September 2003, NPRM.
Final, Statutory, January 2004, Final.
There is a deadline under the MMPA, but noting that we cannot meet this 
deadline because of requirements related to compliance with other laws, 
such as NEPA and the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

Abstract: Regulations implementing the Bottlenose Dolphin Take 
Reduction Plan; measures to reduce incidental mortality and serious 
injury of Western

[[Page 72765]]

North Atlantic coastal bottlenose dolphins in Atlantic fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Laurie K. Allen, Acting Director, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AR39
_______________________________________________________________________




650. [bull] IMPLEMENT A PROHIBITION ON SHALLOW STYLE LONGLINE SETS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would implement a prohibition on shallow 
style longline sets of the type normally used to target swordfish in 
the West Coast longline fishery to protect sea turtles.

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: Laurie K. Allen, Acting Director, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AR53



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



651. 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                            11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




652. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




653. 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                            10/31/03                    68 FR 62033
NPRM Comment Period End         12/31/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

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
_______________________________________________________________________




654. [bull] REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO CORRECT EFFECTIVE DATES FOR 
REGULATORY CHANGES IN 67 FR 79692 (DECEMBER 30, 2002)

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The EFFECTIVE DATES section of the preamble of 67 FR 79692 
(December 30, 2002) inadvertently was written in such a way that all 
the regulatory revisions expire on December 31, 2007. NMFS' intention 
was to have all of the regulatory

[[Page 72766]]

revisions made as permanent changes except for section 679.50. Section 
679.50 is to be effective through December 31, 2007. This proposed rule 
corrects the language of the EFFECTIVE DATES section of the preamble.

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: 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-AR13
_______________________________________________________________________




655. [bull] AMENDMENT 16-2 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, November 2003, NPRM.
Final, Statutory, January 2004, Final.

Abstract: Amendment 16-2 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery 
Management Plan (FMP) would implement overfished species rebuilding 
plans for canary rockfish, darkblotched rockfish, lingcod, and Pacific 
ocean perch through a fishery management plan amendment and federal 
regulations. Amendment 16-2 is intended to ensure that Pacific coast 
groundfish overfished species rebuilding plans meet the requirements of 
the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-
Stevens Act,) in particular National Standard 1 on overfishing and 
section 304(e), which addresses rebuilding overfished fisheries. 
Amendment 16-2 is also intended to partially respond to a court order 
in Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. et al., v. Donald Evans, 
Secretary of Commerce, et al., 168 F. Supp. 2d 1149 (N.D. Cal 2001) in 
which NOAA Fisheries was ordered to implement Pacific Coast groundfish 
rebuilding plans as FMPs, FMP amendments, or regulations, per the 
Magnuson-Stevens Act. This action has been analyzed under the National 
Environmental Policy Act with an Environmental Impact Statement. NMFS 
has been implementing rebuilding measures for these species for several 
years and the agency does not consider this action significant

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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-AR35
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



656. 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 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                    06/00/04

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: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AK40
_______________________________________________________________________




657. 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, Final.

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                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

[[Page 72767]]

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
_______________________________________________________________________




658. 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.

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                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




659. 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.

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

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          04/17/03                    68 FR 18942
Comment Period Extended         05/05/03                    68 FR 23686
NPRM                            05/30/03                    68 FR 32450
NPRM Comment Period End         06/16/03
Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




660. 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                    11/00/03

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: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AO79
_______________________________________________________________________




661. 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, Final.
Other, Statutory, December 31, 2001, Other.

Abstract: This action establishes a fishing capacity reduction program 
in the fishery for the crab species covered by the Fishery Management 
Plan for the

[[Page 72768]]

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
NPRM Comment Period Reopened    04/15/03                    68 FR 18185
Second NPRM Comment Period End  04/30/03
Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




662. 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, NPRM.

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                      11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




663. 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.

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                    07/29/03                    68 FR 44473
Correction                      08/28/03                    68 FR 51711
Correction                      11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




664. 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                            07/10/03                    68 FR 41103
NPRM Comment Period End         08/08/03
Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ38

[[Page 72769]]

_______________________________________________________________________




665. 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                            07/23/03                    68 FR 43483
NPRM Comment Period End         08/22/03
Final Action                    11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




666. 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, NPRM.

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 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 fishing in the 
closed areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          05/22/03                    68 FR 27972
NPRM                            06/13/03                    68 FR 35354
NPRM Comment Period End         07/28/03
Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




667. 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, NPRM.

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                            04/24/03                    68 FR 20096
Correction                      05/09/03                    68 FR 24914
Comment Period Extended         05/23/03                    68 FR 28188
NPRM Comment Period End         05/27/03
Correction                      06/20/03                    68 FR 36970
Final Rule                      06/27/03                    68 FR 38234
Final Rule                      07/14/03                    68 FR 41549
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




668. 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                            04/30/03                    68 FR 22667
NPRM Comment Period End         05/14/03
Final Action                    08/05/03                    68 FR 46117
Correction                      11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James W. Balsiger, Administrator, Alaska Region,

[[Page 72770]]

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-AQ73
_______________________________________________________________________




669. 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                            06/20/03                    68 FR 36967
NPRM Comment Period End         08/04/03
Final Action                    12/00/03

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, Room 13362, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AQ90
_______________________________________________________________________




670. ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS); ATLANTIC SHARK MANAGEMENT 
MEASURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 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                            08/01/03                    68 FR 45196
NPRM Comment Period End         09/30/03
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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, Room 13362, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AQ95
_______________________________________________________________________




671. 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, Final.
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                            07/29/03                    68 FR 44518
NPRM Comment Period End         08/13/03
Final Action                    11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




672. [bull] AMENDMENT 77 TO THE FMP FOR THE GROUNDFISH FISHERY OF THE 
BERING SEA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS AREA

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory action would supersede Amendment 64, the 
regulations for which are
scheduled to expire on December 31, 2003. Amendment 77 continues to 
apportion the fixed gear allocation of total allowable catch (TAC) for 
Pacific cod in the Bering Sea among sectors of the fixed gear fleet 
(i.e., hook-and-line catcher vessels, catcher processors, pot vessels, 
and catcher vessels under 60 feet in length). Amendment 77 would for 
the first time split the pot sector, allocating the TAC
further between pot catcher vessels and pot catcher/processors. Its 
implementing regulations would also change the provisions for unused 
portions of BSAI Pacific cod TAC allocated to the jig gear sector, 
which would be reallocated to catcher vessels under 60 feet in length 
on a seasonal basis.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          07/22/03                    68 FR 43342
Comment Period End              09/22/03
NPRM                            08/18/03                    68 FR 49416

[[Page 72771]]

NPRM Comment Period End         10/02/03
Final Action                    02/00/04

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-AR31
_______________________________________________________________________




673. [bull] MODIFICATION OF HOUSING REQUIREMENTS FOR OBSERVERS

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulatory rulemaking will amend the current observer 
regulations by modifying the housing requirements for observers. This 
modification of the regulations will provide flexibility in the 
deployment of observers and ensure the continued collection of high 
quality observer data.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/03/03                    68 FR 52378
NPRM Comment Period End         10/03/03
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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-AR32
_______________________________________________________________________




674. [bull] AMENDMENT 16-1 TO THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH FISHERY 
MANAGEMENT PLAN

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, August 2003, NPRM.
Final, Statutory, November 2003, Final.

Abstract: Amendment 16-1 to the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery 
Management Plan (FMP) would set the process and standards by which the 
Pacific Fishery Management Council (Council) will specify rebuilding 
plans for groundfish stocks declared overfished by the Secretary of 
Commerce. Amendment 16-1 is intended to ensure that Pacific Coast 
groundfish overfished species rebuilding plans meet the requirements of 
the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-
Stevens Act,) in particular National Standard 1 on overfishing and 
Sec.  304(e), which addresses rebuilding overfished fisheries. 
Amendment 16-1 is also intended to partially respond to a court order 
in Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. et al., v. Donald Evans, 
Secretary of Commerce, et al., 168 F. Supp. 2d 1149 (N.D. Cal 2001) in 
which NOAA Fisheries was ordered to provide Pacific Coast groundfish 
rebuilding plans as FMPs, FMP amendments, or regulations, per the 
Magnuson-Stevens Act. Amendment 16-1 will be followed by Amendment 16-
2, which will implement rebuilding plans for canary rockfish, 
darkblotched rockfish, lingcod, and Pacific ocean perch. This action 
has been analyzed under the National Environmental Policy Act with an 
Environmental Assessment. This action is primarily administrative in 
nature and NMFS does not consider the action significant.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          08/18/03                    68 FR 49415
NPRM                            09/05/03                    68 FR 52732
NPRM Comment Period End         10/06/03
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  Undetermined

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-AR36
_______________________________________________________________________




675. [bull] EMERGENCY RULE TO CLOSE THE FEDERAL TILEFISH FISHERY

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

Legal Authority: 16 usc 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would close the directed tilefish fishery based 
on projections that the overall quota of 1.995 million pounds has been 
reached. A recent court decision in Hadaja v. Evans (May 15, 2003), set 
aside the regulations found at 50 CFR 648(a)(12) which contain the 
Federal permitting requirements for the tilefish fishery, including the 
qualification criteria for the limited access permit system. As a 
result, there is currently no Federal permit requirement for a vessel 
that wishes to target tilefish in Federal waters. In addition, the 
quota system established for the tilefish fishery is divided among 
three limited access permit categories, which can be closed once the 
quota for a particular permit category is projected to be reached. 
Because there are technically no longer separate limited access permit 
categories as a result of the Court's decision, NMFS no longer has the 
authority to close the Federal tilefish fishery once the quota is 
projected to be reached since that authority was based on the limited 
access permit categories. As a result, NMFS is taking this emergency 
action under the authority of 16 USC 1824 section 305(c) to close the 
Federal tilefish fishery because the overall tilefish quota of 1.995 
million pounds is projected to be reached prior to the end of the 
tilefish fishing year on October 31, 2003.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 72772]]

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR40
_______________________________________________________________________




676. [bull] SUMMER FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS FISHERY MANAGEMENT 
PLAN; FRAMEWORK ADJUSTMENT 3

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Framework 3 proposes a process to allow unused commercial 
scup quota from the Winter I period to be rolled over to the quota for 
the Winter II period. Commercial possession limits for the Winter II 
period also would be adjusted, based on the amount rolled over. 
Framework 3 also proposes a mechanism, for years when the Winter I 
commercial scup quota is completely harvested and the Winter I fishery 
is closed prior to April 15, and upon a State's written request, to 
allow for commercial landings of scup by State-only permitted vessels 
in that State that occur from April 15 through April 30 to be counted 
against that State's summer quota allocation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR43
_______________________________________________________________________




677. [bull] FISHERIES OF THE EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE OFF ALASKA; 
REVISIONS TO OBSERVER PROGRAM IN THE NORTH PACIFIC GROUNDFISH FISHERIES; 
CORRECTION

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 60 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action amends a December 30, 2002, final rule that 
implemented changes to regulations governing the American Fisheries Act 
(AFA). This final rule included revisions to the North Pacific 
Groundfish Observer Program (Observer Program). The action is necessary 
to correct an error in replacement text that occurred in the final 
rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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-AR46
_______________________________________________________________________




678. 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, NPRM.
Final, Judicial, December 31, 2001, Final.

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




679. 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

[[Page 72773]]

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

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
_______________________________________________________________________




680. 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                    11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




681. 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

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                    11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




682. 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                    11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




683. 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

[[Page 72774]]

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                    11/00/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




684. [bull] JOINT COUNTERPART REGULATIONS WITH FS, BLM, BIA, FWS, NPS, 
AND NOAA FISHERIES UNDER SECTION 7 OF THE ESA

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1533

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 402

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The notice of proposed rulemaking will modify the way section 
7 consultations are conducted under the Endangered Species Act. This 
modification will apply to activities that support the National Fire 
Plan (NFP) and would eliminate the need to obtain written concurrence 
when an action agency determines that an action that implements the NFP 
is not likely to adversely affect a listed species.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/05/03                    68 FR 33805
NPRM Comment Period End         08/04/03
Final Action                    01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

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

Agency Contact: Phil Williams, Chief, Endangered Species Division, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-1401
Fax: 301 713-0376

RIN: 0648-AR05



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF MINERAL ENERGY


                    ________________________________



685. [bull] COASTAL ZONE MANAGEMENT ACT FEDERAL CONSISTENCY REGULATIONS

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1451

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 930

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration revises 
the Federal Consistency regulations under the Coastal Zone Management 
Act. This rule addresses the CZMA-related recommendations of the Report 
of the National Energy Policy Development Group (Energy Report) as 
described in NOAA's July 2, 2002 Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 
(67 FR 44407). This rule seeks to make improvements to the Federal 
Consistency regulations to clarify some sections and to provide greater 
transparency and predictability to the Federal Consistency regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/11/03                    68 FR 34851
Final Action                    12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David W. Kaiser, Federal Consistency Coordinator, 
Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, 1305 East-West Highway, 11th Floor, Silver Spring, MD 
20910
Phone: 301 713-3155
Fax: 301 713-4367
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AR16
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)



_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE


                    ________________________________



686. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR FISHING YEAR 2005 FOR THE SUMMER 
FLOUNDER, SCUP, AND BLACK SEA BASS FISHERY

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish annual specifications for the 
summer flounder, scup and black sea bass fishery for fishing year 2005.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

[[Page 72775]]

Phone: 978 281-9200

RIN: 0648-AR51
_______________________________________________________________________




687. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ATLANTIC MACKEREL, SQUID, AND 
BUTTERFISH FISHERY FOR FISHING YEAR 2005

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

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 & Butterfish Fishery for fishing year 2005.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR56
_______________________________________________________________________




688. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE ATLANTIC BLUEFISH FISHERY FOR 
FISHING YEAR 2005

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

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 2005.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         11/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR57
_______________________________________________________________________




689. [bull] ANNUAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE DEEP-SEA RED CRAB FISHERY FOR 
FISHING YEAR 2005

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

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 
Deep-Sea Red Crab Fishery for fishing year 2005.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/04
NPRM Comment Period End         01/00/05

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR59
_______________________________________________________________________




690. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




691. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




692. 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

[[Page 72776]]




_______________________________________________________________________



NATIONAL OCEAN SERVICE/OFFICE OF OCEAN AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT


                    ________________________________



693. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




694. 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


                    ________________________________



695. 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)



_______________________________________________________________________




696. 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
Withdrawn                       08/26/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




697. 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.

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                    08/08/03                    68 FR 47264

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




698. REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REINSTATE 6,000-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.

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                    03/03/03                     68 FR 9902

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

[[Page 72777]]

_______________________________________________________________________




699. CRUSTACEANS, BOTTOMFISH, AND PELAGICS FMP AMENDMENTS REGARDING 
OVERFISHING DEFINITIONS

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 overfishing 
definitions and bycatch provisions and fishing community definitions 
(0648-AP54, 0648-AP55).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          04/07/03                    68 FR 16754
Comment Period End              06/06/03
Final Action                    08/05/03                    68 FR 46112

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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-AN79
_______________________________________________________________________




700. 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.

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

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          05/01/03                    68 FR 23275
NPRM                            06/04/03                    68 FR 33432
Comment Period End              06/30/03
NPRM Comment Period End         07/07/03
Final Action                    08/19/03                    68 FR 49693
Final Action Effective          09/18/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




701. 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                    05/30/03                    68 FR 32414

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-AO75
_______________________________________________________________________




702. 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
Comment Period Extended         02/19/02                     67 FR 4697
NPRM Comment Period End         02/19/02
Final Action                    03/27/03                    68 FR 14902

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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

[[Page 72778]]

_______________________________________________________________________




703. 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

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          04/07/03                    68 FR 16754
Comment Period End              06/06/03
Final Action                    08/05/03                    68 FR 46112

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-AP54
_______________________________________________________________________




704. 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

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          04/07/03                    68 FR 16754
Comment Period End              06/06/03
Final Action                    08/05/03                    68 FR 46112

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
_______________________________________________________________________




705. 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                    05/01/03                    68 FR 23224

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




706. 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, Other.

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

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-AQ02

[[Page 72779]]

_______________________________________________________________________




707. 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                    04/15/03                    68 FR 18145
Correction                      05/15/03                    68 FR 26230

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
_______________________________________________________________________




708. 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

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/26/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




709. 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, Final.

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                    05/06/03                    68 FR 23913

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-AQ17
_______________________________________________________________________




710. 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, NPRM.
Final, Statutory, January 2003, Final.

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

[[Page 72780]]

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                            03/14/03                    68 FR 12344
NPRM Comment Period End         05/13/03
Final Action                    07/03/03                    68 FR 39898

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
_______________________________________________________________________




711. 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                    05/12/03                    68 FR 25305

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




712. 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                    04/28/03                    68 FR 22325
Correction                      06/20/03                    68 FR 36946

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




713. 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                            05/21/03                    68 FR 27768
NPRM Comment Period End         06/05/03
Final Action                    07/28/03                    68 FR 44232

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




714. 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                    04/18/03                    68 FR 19160

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




715. 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                    06/28/03                    68 FR 22333

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

[[Page 72781]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 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                    05/29/03                    68 FR 31987

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: 301 713-1917
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0648-AQ39
_______________________________________________________________________




717. 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, NPRM.
Final, Statutory, May 2003, Final.

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

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/22/03

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
_______________________________________________________________________




718. INCREASE IN ALLOWABLE PERCENTAGE OF POLLOCK ROE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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                    07/09/03                    68 FR 40812

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
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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                    05/28/03                    68 FR 31629

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




720. 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.

[[Page 72782]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/26/03                    68 FR 14571
NPRM Comment Period End         04/10/03
Final Action                    05/29/03                    68 FR 31988

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




721. 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, NPRM.

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                            06/13/03                    68 FR 35354
NPRM Comment Period End         07/28/03
Final Action                    09/04/03                    68 FR 52519

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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-AQ68
_______________________________________________________________________




722. 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, Final.

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
NPRM Comment Period End         03/27/03
Final Action                    05/15/03                    68 FR 26291
Correction                      06/27/03                    68 FR 38232

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-AQ70
_______________________________________________________________________




723. 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 to 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,

[[Page 72783]]

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                    04/10/03                    68 FR 17560

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
_______________________________________________________________________




724. 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                            04/24/03                    68 FR 20360
NPRM Comment Period End         05/27/03
Final Action                    07/30/03                    68 FR 44666

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
_______________________________________________________________________




725. 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                            05/21/03                    68 FR 27774
NPRM Comment Period End         06/05/03
Final Action                    07/09/03                    68 FR 40808
Correction                      08/08/03                    68 FR 47264

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




726. 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                            03/28/03                    68 FR 15144
NPRM Comment Period End         05/12/03
Final Action                    09/02/03                    68 FR 52142

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
_______________________________________________________________________




727. 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

[[Page 72784]]

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

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/25/03                    68 FR 14388

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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
_______________________________________________________________________




728. 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, Final.
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 coast wide, 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                            06/26/03                    68 FR 37995
NPRM Comment Period End         07/28/03
Final Action                    09/04/03                    68 FR 52523

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

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
_______________________________________________________________________




729. [bull] COMMERCIAL SHRIMP FISHERY OF THE GULF OF MEXICO; ESTABLISH A 
CONTROL DATE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 622

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council (GMFMC) voted 
unanimously to establish a control date effective December 6, 2003, for 
Federally permitted shrimp vessels fishing in the exclusive economic 
zone of Gulf of Mexico (Gulf EEZ). The GMFMC anticipates that future 
action may be necessary to control effort and the number of 
participants engaged in the commercial shrimp fishery of the Gulf EEZ. 
Consideration of a control date does not commit the GMFMC or NMFS to 
any particular management regime for entry into the commercial shrimp 
fishery. Fishermen are not guaranteed future participation in a fishery 
regardless of their entry date or intensity of participation in the 
fishery before or after the control date under consideration. The GMFMC 
subsequently may choose a different control date or they may choose a 
management regime that does not make use of a control date. The GMFMC 
also may choose to take no further action to control entry or access to 
the fisheries, in which case the control date may be rescinded.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/29/03                    68 FR 22667

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-AR00
_______________________________________________________________________




730. [bull] NOTICE OF A CONTROL DATE FOR LOLIGO AND ILLEX SQUID

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 648

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, May 30, 2003, Other.

Abstract: NMFS announces that it is considering, and is seeking public 
comment on proposed rulemaking to control future access to the Illex 
(Illex illecebrosus)and Loligo (Loligo pealei) fisheries under the 
Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. This 
announcement is intended, in part, to discourage speculative entry and 
increases in effort or capacity in these fisheries while the Mid-
Atlantic Fishery Management Council and NMFS consider alternative 
allocation schemes and whether and how to control capacity in the Illex 
and Loligo fisheries.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/21/03                    68 FR 27774

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Patricia A. 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-AR01

[[Page 72785]]

_______________________________________________________________________




731. [bull] CORRECTION TO REGULATORY AMENDMENT TO REDEFINE VESSEL LENGTH 
OVERALL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would correct figure 6 to part 679 published in 
the final rule of September 12, 2001 (66 FR 47416), which implemented 
changes to the definition of length overall (LOA) of a vessel. This 
action corrects errors in the figure.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/24/03                    68 FR 20083
Correction                      05/06/03                    68 FR 23925

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-AR04
_______________________________________________________________________




732. [bull] ATLANTIC HIGHLY MIGRATORY SPECIES (HMS) FISHERIES; VESSEL 
MONITORING SYSTEMS (VMS)

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 635

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On May 28, 1999, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) 
issued a regulation (64 FR 29090) codified at 50 CFR 635.69(a), 
requiring all commercial pelagic longline vessels fishing for Atlantic 
HMS to install a NMFS-approved VMS unit. Due to litigation, the 
requirement was stayed indefinitely on October 1, 2000 (66 FR 1907, 
January 10, 2001). On October 15, 2002, the U.S. District Court for the 
District of Columbia issued a final order upholding the VMS regulation. 
This rule would amend the effective date for the requirement to have a 
NOAA-approved, VMS unit installed and operating on any vessel leaving 
port to fish for HMS with pelagic longline gear on board to September 
1, 2003.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/01/03                    68 FR 45169

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: 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, Room 13362, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910
Phone: 301 713-2334

RIN: 0648-AR29
_______________________________________________________________________




733. [bull] ENDANGERED AND THREATENED WILDLIFE; SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION 
REQUIREMENTS

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

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: NMFS intends to publish a proposed rule amending the 
regulation requiring certain kinds of turtle excluder devices (TEDs) in 
shrimp fisheries. Sea turtles, listed pursuant to the Endangered 
Species Act, drown when caught in shrimp trawl gear. NMFS and fishermen 
have developed several models of TEDs, which in different fashions 
exclude sea turtles. On February 21, 2003 (68 FR 8456), NMFS issued a 
regulation requiring TEDs with larger openings that would allow 
leatherback and larger loggerhead sea turtles to escape. The rule 
becomes effective in the Gulf of Mexico on August 21 of this year. One 
of the provisions is that those who shrimp in offshore waters in the 
Gulf of Mexico may as of August 21 no longer use the popular Coulon 
TED. Louisiana fishermen developed this TED and many like it because it 
retains shrimp but excludes not only sea turtles but also other fish. 
Because the Gulf shrimp trawlers wanted to continue using the Coulon 
TED, the agency tested a modified Coulon TED, based on its regulatory 
protocols (50 CFR 223.207(e)) for approving the use of new TEDs, and 
determined that a modified Coulon TED both met the protocol 
requirements and excluded the larger turtles. Agency scientists 
describe this modified Coulon TED as the best they have ever seen at 
excluding smaller turtles. The agency now wishes to amend the newest 
TED rule to permit shrimp trawlers to use the Coulon TED as one option 
in offshore waters.
This amendment to the TED rule is not expected to be controversial, as 
it permits offshore Gulf of Mexico shrimp trawlers to retain a popular 
option. Further, because the modified Coulon TED permits larger turtles 
to escape as well as making escape for smaller turtles very easy, 
environmental groups should also find this amendment acceptable.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/30/03                    68 FR 44722
NPRM Comment Period End         08/14/03
Final Action                    08/27/03                    68 FR 51508

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Laurie K. Allen, Acting Director, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AR34
_______________________________________________________________________




734. [bull] EFFECTIVENESS OF COLLECTION-OF-INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 679

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: A final rule that implemented the measures contained in 
Amendment 61/61/13/8 was published in the Federal Register on December 
30, 2002 (67 FR 79692), and most of the

[[Page 72786]]

measures were effective January 29, 2003. A final rule that implemented 
the measures contained in Amendment 69 was published in the Federal 
Register on February 11, 2003 (68 FR 6833), and most of the measures 
were effective March 13, 2003. However, because OMB approval of the 
reporting requirements contained in these amendments had not yet been 
received as of the effective date of each rule, effectiveness of the 
requirements contained in the amendments was delayed.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/25/03                    68 FR 51146

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-AR42
_______________________________________________________________________




735. [bull] IMPLEMENT A 30 FATHOM BOUNDARY LINE OFF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 
FOR THE PACIFIC COAST GROUNDFISH COMMERCIAL NON-TRAWL AND RECREATIONAL 
FISHERIES

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1801 et seq

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 660

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The emergency rule would move the conservation boundary line 
affecting the commercial non-trawl fisheries and the recreational 
fishery from 20 fathoms to 30 fathoms south of 34 degrees 27 minutes 
north latitude to the U.S./Mexico border. This increases the area in 
which the fishery can take place and decreases the closed area that was 
implemented to protect overfished species of groundfish. This 
management change would cause the optimum yield (the harvest target) 
for bocaccio rockfish for 2003 of less than 20 metric tons to be 
exceeded by approximately 2 metric tons. This action was recommended by 
the State of California and the Pacific Fishery Management Council 
(Council). The Council and NMFS concluded that this change was 
appropriate based on a new stock assessment released in May 2003 by 
NMFS Southwest Fisheries Science Center that shows increased biomass 
and productivity for the southern stock of bocaccio. (Based on the new 
stock assessment and rebuilding analysis, the Council adopted a 
preliminary range of optimum yields for bocaccio for 2004 of 199 to 526 
metric tons, significantly higher than the less than 20 metric tons 
optimum yields adopted in 2003.) The change in the closed area boundary 
is intended to provide some relief in 2003 to the severely constrained 
commercial and recreational fishers in southern California based on the 
new bocaccio stock assessment and rebuilding analysis. The effects of 
using this new boundary line were not previously analyzed under the 
National Environmental Policy Act; so NMFS has prepared an 
Environmental Assessment for this action. This regulation is being 
prepared as an emergency action under the Magnuson Act not because it 
has significant impacts, but rather because the action does not fit 
within the framework established for inseason actions under the 
Groundfish Fishery Management Plan. While some environmental groups may 
not support this action, NMFS does not consider the action significant.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/05/03                    68 FR 52703

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-AR47
_______________________________________________________________________




736. [bull] FISHING CAPACITY REDUCTION PROGRAM IN THE PACIFIC COAST 
GROUNDFISH FISHERY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1861a (b) to 1861a (e); PL 107-206; PL 108-7

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 600

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, April 10, 2003, NPRM.
Final, Statutory, May 21, 2003, Final.

Abstract: Establishes a fishing capacity reduction program in the 
Pacific Coast groundfish fishery by Federal Register notice rather than 
regulation. The maximum reduction cost is $46 million, funded by a $10 
million appropriation and a $36 million loan to be repaid by landing 
fees for those participants remaining in the fishery. Eligible parties 
volunteer for reduction by submitting bids in a reverse auction where 
bid prices are scored by the value of bidders' past harvests. The 
groundfish reduction program makes payments for relinquishing all 
Federal fishing permits, as well as state permits for Washington, 
Oregon, and California Dungeness crab and pink shrimp. Participating 
fishing vessels can never fish again anywhere in the world. Reducing 
capacity will increase post-reduction harvesters' productivity, 
financially stabilize the fishery, and help conserve and manage Pacific 
Coast groundfish.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/28/03                    68 FR 31653
NPRM Comment Period End         06/27/03
Final Action                    07/18/03                    68 FR 42613
Final Action Effective          07/18/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Federalism:  Undetermined

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-AQ99

[[Page 72787]]

_______________________________________________________________________




737. ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES: TAKE OF THREATENED SOUTHERN 
OREGON/NORTHERN CALIFORNIA COAST EVOLUTIONARILY SIGNIFICANT UNIT (ESU) 
OF COHO SALMON

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 50 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On May 6, 1997, NMFS listed the Southern Oregon/Northern 
California Coast Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) of coho salmon as 
threatened. NMFS is now issuing protective regulations under section 
4(d) of the ESA which will apply section 9(a) prohibitions to all 
activities within this ESU unless: in compliance with section 10 or 
other exemptions under the ESA; in accordance with a timely application 
for a permit for scientific purposes to enhance propagation or survival 
of the species; or within carefully circumscribed harvest hatchery, 
research and monitoring, or habitat restoration activity exceptions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/18/97                    62 FR 38479
Withdrawn                       08/15/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Barry Thom, Fishery Biologist, 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-AJ91
_______________________________________________________________________




738. 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                    03/28/03                    68 FR 15100

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Additional Information: This document was published under RINS: 1018-
AF55, 0648-XA48

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
_______________________________________________________________________




739. 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                    07/16/03                    68 FR 41944

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
_______________________________________________________________________




740. 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

[[Page 72788]]

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                    05/29/03                    68 FR 31980

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
_______________________________________________________________________




741. 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, NPRM.
Final, Judicial, February 28, 2003, Final.

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                    03/19/03                    68 FR 13419

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
_______________________________________________________________________




742. 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                            03/04/03                    68 FR 10195
NPRM Comment Period End         04/03/03
Final Action                    08/26/03                    68 FR 51195

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-AQ04
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Duplicate of 0648-AR02          08/22/03

RIN: 0648-AQ42
_______________________________________________________________________




744. 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 226

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                         08/28/03                    68 FR 51758

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-AQ53

[[Page 72789]]

_______________________________________________________________________




745. 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, NPRM.
Final, Statutory, April 1, 2003, Final.

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                    07/15/03                    68 FR 41725

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
_______________________________________________________________________




746. 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

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/09/03                    68 FR 24905
NPRM Comment Period End         06/23/03
Final Action                    09/02/03                    68 FR 42132

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
_______________________________________________________________________




747. [bull] TECHNICAL AMENDMENT TO THE ATLANTIC LARGE WHALE TAKE 
REDUCTION PLAN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

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

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/21/03                    68 FR 19464

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Laurie K. Allen, Acting Director, Department of 
Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of 
Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20912
Phone: 301 713-2332

RIN: 0648-AR02
_______________________________________________________________________




748. NATURAL RESOURCE DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS UNDER THE OIL POLLUTION ACT OF 
1990

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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                    10/01/02                    67 FR 61483

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 72790]]

_______________________________________________________________________




749. Sequence Number Intentionally Skipped

 
_______________________________________________________________________




750. [bull] FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY: ESTABLISHMENT OF 
TEMPORARY NO-ENTRY ZONE IN THE WHITE BANK DRY ROCKS AREA

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

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1431

CFR Citation: 15 CFR 922

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
issues a temporary rule prohibiting all entry into two areas off the 
east side of Key largo within Federal waters of the Florida Keys 
National Marine Sanctuary. The combined areas are approximately .50 
square mile in size. This rule is necessary to prevent injury to, and 
destruction of, living coral from stress to diseased coral within the 
closed areas, and to protect healthy coral from human-causes 
contamination.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/01/03                    68 FR 39005

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Billy Causey, Superintendent, Florida Keys National 
Marine Sanctuary, Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, P.O. Box 500368, Marathon, FL 33050
Phone: 305 743-2437

RIN: 0648-AR17
_______________________________________________________________________




751. 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 its policies and procedures for 
the use of NOAA data collection systems (DCS) that operate on NOAA's 
Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites and on its Polar-
orbiting Operational Environmental Satellites. The changes will allow 
expanded use of the NOAA DCS for government interests and permit 
greater flexibility in utilizing these assets in support of homeland 
security, national security, law enforcement, and humanitarian 
operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/01/03                    68 FR 45160

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
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                        Proposed Rule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




752. 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                            11/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffrey V. Nase, Administrative Patent Judge, 
Department of Commerce, Patent and Trademark Office, Board of Patent 
Appeals and Interferences, P. O. Box 1450, Alexandria, VA 22313
Phone: 703 308-9797
Fax: 703 305-0942
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB32
_______________________________________________________________________




753. 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);

[[Page 72791]]

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                            09/00/04

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
_______________________________________________________________________




754. [bull] FAST TRACK EXAMINATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2; . . .

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.2; 37 CFR 2.6; 37 CFR 2.22; 37 CFR 2.23; 37 CFR 
2.62; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office proposes to 
amend its rules to permit an applicant to obtain examination of an 
application for registration of a mark at a reduced fee if the 
applicant files a complete application through the Trademark Electronic 
Application System (TEAS), responds to Office actions within two months 
of the mailing date, files communications regarding the application 
through TEAS, and authorizes the Office to send communications 
concerning the application by electronic mail. The Office also proposes 
to charge graduated fees for filing trademark applications, based upon 
the costs the Office incurs in processing the application.

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: Mary E. Hannon, Staff Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
Patent and Trademark Office, 2900 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: 703 308-8900
Fax: 703 872-9280
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB62
_______________________________________________________________________




755. [bull] CHANGES TO SUPPORT IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNITED STATES 
PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE 21ST CENTURY STRATEGIC PLAN

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. The Office is 
proposing to revise the rules of practice to support the implementation 
of the 21st Century Strategic Plan, which involves improving the patent 
application and examination process by promoting quality enhancement, 
reducing patent pendency, and using information technology to simplify 
the patent application process. The more notable changes being proposed 
in this notice involve permitting typewritten signatures on documents 
submitted by facsimile, streamlining the requirements for incorporation 
by reference of priority applications, and clarifying the 
qualifications for claiming small entity status for purposes of paying 
reduced patent fees. These changes to the patent application and 
examination process are necessary for the Office to be able to process 
the long-term trend of increasing number of applications within a 
reasonable time frame.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/00/03
Final Rule                      03/00/04
Effective Date                  05/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
[email protected]

URL For Public Comments:
ab [email protected]

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
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB64
_______________________________________________________________________




756. [bull] CHANGES IN REQUIREMENTS FOR AMENDMENT AND CORRECTION OF 
TRADEMARK REGISTRATIONS

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

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2.173; 37 CFR 2.174; 37 CFR 2.175

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office proposes to 
amend its rules to: (1)eliminate the requirement that a request for 
amendment or correction of a trademark registration be accompanied by 
the original certificate of registration or a certified copy thereof; 
and (2) add a requirement that a request for correction of a mistake in 
a registration be filed within one year of the date of registration.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 72792]]

Agency Contact: Mary E. Hannon, Staff Attorney, Department of Commerce, 
Patent and Trademark Office, 2900 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: 703 308-8900
Fax: 703 872-9280
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB67
_______________________________________________________________________




757. [bull] REVISION OF UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE 
PRACTICE FOR HANDLING PATENT APPLICATIONS FILED WITHOUT THE APPROPRIATE 
FEES

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

Legal Authority: 35 USC 2(b)(2) ; 35 USC 41

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Among other changes to patent and trademark fees, the United 
States Patent and Trademark Office Fee Modernization Act of 2003 would 
(if enacted) split the patent application filing fee into a separate 
filing fee, search fee and examination fee. The United States Patent 
and Trademark Office Fee Modernization Act of 2003 would (if enacted) 
also require an additional fee for any application whose specification 
and drawings, excluding any sequence listing or computer program 
listing filed in the prescribed electronic medium, exceed 100 sheets of 
paper. This notice proposes changes in United States Patent and 
Trademark Office practice for handling patent applications filed 
without the appropriate fees in view of the revised patent fee 
structure set forth in the United States Patent and Trademark Office 
Fee Modernization Act of 2003. The United States Patent and Trademark 
Office will implement the changes to the patent fees provided in the 
United States Patent and Trademark Office Fee Modernization Act of 2003 
in a separate rule making.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

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
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB69
_______________________________________________________________________




758. [bull] REVISION OF PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2005

Priority: Routine and Frequent. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 35 USC 41; 15 USC 1115; 35 USC 376; 15 USC 1051; 15 
USC 1113; 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2(b)(2)

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

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, October 1, 2004, Final.

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                            05/00/04
Final Action                    08/00/04
Final Action Effective          10/00/04

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, PK1-802, Washington, DC 
20231
Phone: 703 305-8051
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




759. 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.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/28/03                    68 FR 22343
NPRM Comment Period End         06/27/03
Final Action                    11/00/03
Final Action Effective          12/00/03

[[Page 72793]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
[email protected]

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB57
_______________________________________________________________________




760. 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                            05/30/03                    68 FR 32441
NPRM Comment Period End         06/30/03
Final Action                    11/00/03
Final Action Effective          01/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
[email protected]

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________




761. [bull] CHANGES RELATED TO ASSIGNMENTS OF PATENTS AND TRADEMARKS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2(b)(2); . . .

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 3; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark (Office) is proposing 
changes to the rules of practice to allow for more efficient electronic 
routing of assignment documents within the Office. Specifically, the 
Office proposes to discontinue the current Office practice of returning 
patent and trademark assignment documents submitted for recording (in 
the assignments database) by mail, and to dispose of the documents 
according to a record retention schedule after scanning. Further, only 
certain paper sizes for assignment documents will be accepted for 
recording. In addition, the Office proposes to clarify what assignment 
information is available to the public. Finally, the Office proposes to 
modify the practice relating to issuance of a patent to an assignee by 
providing that after payment of an issue fee, a request for a 
certificate of correction must be filed to obtain issuance of the 
patent to an assignee.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/27/03                    68 FR 38258
NPRM Comment Period End         08/26/03
Final Action                    11/00/03
Final Action Effective          12/00/03

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
[email protected]

URL For Public Comments:
[email protected]

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
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB63
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Long-Term Actions


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




762. 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

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Craig Morris
Phone: 703 308-3910

RIN: 0651-AB52

[[Page 72794]]

_______________________________________________________________________




763. CHANGES TO IMPLEMENT PATENT-RELATED PROVISIONS OF THE UNITED STATES 
PATENT AND TRADEMARK FEE MODERNIZATION ACT OF 2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert W. Bahr
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB54
_______________________________________________________________________




764. 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

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Harry I. Moatz
Phone: 703 306-4097

RIN: 0651-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                          Completed Actions


Patent and Trademark Office (PTO)



_______________________________________________________________________




765. 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                    05/30/03                    68 FR 32376
Final Action Effective          07/14/03

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
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB37
_______________________________________________________________________




766. MADRID PROTOCOL IMPLEMENTATION ACT RULES CHANGE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 1123; 35 USC 2

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 2; 37 CFR 7

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 to 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                            03/28/03                    68 FR 15119
NPRM Comment Period End         05/27/03
Final Action                    09/26/03                    68 FR 55748

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
Phone: 703 308-8900
Fax: 703 872-9280
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________




767. CHANGES TO PROMOTE QUALITY ENHANCEMENT AND PENDENCY

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Duplicate of RIN 0651-AB64      08/26/03

RIN: 0651-AB50
_______________________________________________________________________




768. 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

[[Page 72795]]

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                            03/24/03                    68 FR 14365
NPRM Comment Period End         04/24/03
Final Action                    06/30/03                    68 FR 38611
Final Action Effective          07/30/03

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
Phone: 703 305-8850
Fax: 703 305-6916
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




769. 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.

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                            04/30/03                    68 FR 23092
Final Action                    07/14/03                    68 FR 41532
Final Action Effective          10/01/03

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, PK1-802, Washington, DC 
20231
Phone: 703 305-8051
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB60
_______________________________________________________________________




770. [bull] REORGANIZATION OF CORRESPONDENCE AND OTHER GENERAL 
PROVISIONS IN 37 CFR CHAPTER 1

Priority: Info./Admin./Other. Major status under 5 USC 801 is 
undetermined.

Legal Authority: 35 USC 52; 15 USC 1123

CFR Citation: 37 CFR 1; 37 CFR 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (Office) is 
amending its rules to remove Trademark-related references from 37 CFR 
part 1 and consolidate them with other Trademark provisions in part 2.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      08/13/03                    68 FR 48286
Final Rule Effective            09/12/03

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
Phone: 703 308-8900
Fax: 703 872-9280
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0651-AB68
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Commerce (DOC)                           Final Rule Stage


Technology Administration (TA)



_______________________________________________________________________




771. 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                    02/00/04

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Karen Laney-Cummings, 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
_______________________________________________________________________




772. 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

[[Page 72796]]

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                    04/00/04

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., HCHB Room 4835, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-8010
Fax: 202 273-0607
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0692-AA15
_______________________________________________________________________




773. 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, NPRM.

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                    03/00/04

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., HCHB Room 4835, Washington, DC 20230
Phone: 202 482-8010
Fax: 202 273-0607
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0692-AA18
[FR Doc. 03-27068 Filed 12-19-03; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-BW-S
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