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


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Part III





Department of Agriculture





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Semiannual Regulatory Agenda

[[Page 72940]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (USDA)                                       


  



_______________________________________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Office of the Secretary

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

9 CFR Chs. I-IV

36 CFR Ch. II

41 CFR Ch. 4

Semiannual Regulatory Agenda, Fall 2006

AGENCY: Office of the Secretary, USDA.

ACTION: Semiannual regulatory agenda.

_______________________________________________________________________

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

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

     For this edition of the USDA regulatory agenda, the most 
significant regulatory actions are included in part II of this 
issue of the Federal Register. The Regulatory Plan entries are 
listed in the table of contents below and are denoted by a 
bracketed bold reference, which directs the reader to the 
appropriate sequence number in part II.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For further information on any 
specific entry shown in this agenda, please contact the person listed 
for that action. For general comments or inquiries about the agenda, 
please contact Michael Poe, Office of Budget and Program Analysis, U.S. 
Department of Agriculture, Washington, DC 20250, (202) 720-1272.

Dated: September 1, 2006.

 Jacquelyn Chandler,

Chief, Legislative, Regulatory, and Automated Systems Division.

                               Agricultural Marketing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
150         Honey Research and Promotion: Packer/Importer Board (FV-03-704).......................    0581-AC37
151         National Organic Program: Sunset (Expiration) of Allowances and Prohibitions Contained    0581-AC51
            on the National List (TM-04-07).......................................................
152         Standards for Condition of Food Containers (FV-05-332)................................    0581-AC52
153         Perishable Agricultural Commodities Act: Trust Rights (FV-05-373).....................    0581-AC53
154         National Organic Program: Access to Pasture (TM-05-14)................................    0581-AC57
155         Multi-Year Revision of Fees for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Terminal Market             0581-AC63
            Inspection Services, FV-06-308........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
156         The National Organic Program: Amending the National List (TM-04-01), Crops and            0581-AC35
            Processing............................................................................
157         Changes in Fees and Hourly Fee Rates for Science and Technology Laboratory Services       0581-AC48
            (ST-05-01)............................................................................
158         Changes in Fees for Federal Meat Grading and Certification Services (LS-05-05)........    0581-AC49
159         Changes in Fees for Voluntary Federal Dairy Grading and Inspection Services (Fee          0581-AC55
            Increase) (DA-05-04)..................................................................
160         Federal Processed Fruits and Vegetables, Fee Increase (FV-05-379).....................    0581-AC56
161         National Organic Program: Amending the National List (Crop and Livestock) TM-06-04....    0581-AC61
162         National Organic Program: Amendments to the National List (Livestock) TM-03-04........    0581-AC62
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
163         National Organic Program: Add Standards for the Organic Certification of Wild Captured    0581-AB97
            Aquatic Animals (TM-01-08)............................................................
164         Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling of Beef, Pork, Lamb, Fish, Perishable                0581-AC26
            Agricultural Commodities, and Peanuts (LS-03-04)......................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 72941]]


                                Agricultural Marketing Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
165         Administrative Requirements for Voluntary Shell Egg, Poultry, and Rabbit Grading (PY-     0581-AC25
            02-003)...............................................................................
166         Eligibility Requirements for USDA Graded Shell Eggs (PY-98-006).......................    0581-AC50
167         Revision of User Fees for 2006 Cotton Crop Classification Services (CN-06-001)........    0581-AC58
168         Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, FV06-1290-1.......................................    0581-AC59
169         National Organic Program: Harvey v. Johanns Court Order (TM-06-06)....................    0581-AC60
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                      Farm Service Agency--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
170         Procurement of Commodities for Foreign Donation (Reg Plan Seq No. 1)..................    0560-AH40
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                                     Farm Service Agency--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
171         Regulatory Streamlining of the Farm Service Agency's Direct Farm Loan Programs........    0560-AF60
172         Interest Assistance Program...........................................................    0560-AG46
173         Ocean Freight Claims Administrative Appeal Process....................................    0560-AG49
174         2002 Farm Bill Regulations--Assistance for Livestock Producers........................    0560-AG76
175         Selection of FSA State and County Committees..........................................    0560-AG90
176         Environmental Compliance and Related Concerns.........................................    0560-AH02
177         Debt Collection, Debt Settlement, and Assignment of Payments..........................    0560-AH09
178         Disaster Declaration and Designation..................................................    0560-AH17
179         Conservation Contract Debt Write-Down.................................................    0560-AH23
180         Guaranteed Farm Loan Fees.............................................................    0560-AH41
181         Emergency Conservation Program........................................................    0560-AH43
182         2005 Hurricane Disaster Assistance Programs...........................................    0560-AH45
183         Reassignment of Sugar Allocation Shortfalls...........................................    0560-AH50
184         Storage Requirements for Grain Security for Marketing Assistance Loans................    0560-AH52
185         Defining Sugar Subject to Marketing Allocations.......................................    0560-AH53
186         Indian Tribal Land Acquisition Program (ITLAP) Loan Write-Downs.......................    0560-AH54
187         Guaranteed Loans--Interest To Be Paid on Loss Claims..................................    0560-AH55
188         Appraisal Requirements for Farm Ownership Loans.......................................    0560-AH56
189         Farm Storage Facility Loan Program....................................................    0560-AH60
190         Grassroots Source Water Protection Program............................................    0560-AH61
191         2006 Disaster Assistance Programs.....................................................    0560-AH62
192         Interest Rates on Farm Service Agency Farm Loan Programs Guaranteed Loans.............    0560-AH66
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Farm Service Agency--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
193         Amendments to the Standards for Approval of Warehouses for Commodity Credit               0560-AE50
            Corporation Storage Contracts.........................................................
194         Clarification of Informal Appeals Procedures..........................................    0560-AG88
195         Retaining Preferred Lender Program (PLP) Status, Processing Loss Claims, Payment of       0560-AH07
            Interest Accrued During Bankruptcy, and Redemption Rights Periods for Guaranteed Loans
196         Planting Reporting for Tropical Crops--Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program....    0560-AH19
197         Confidentiality of Conservation Program Information...................................    0560-AH32
198         Guaranteed Loans--Unauthorized Assistance.............................................    0560-AH34
199         Grains and Similarly Handled Commodities--Marketing Assistance Loans and Loan             0560-AH38
            Deficiency Payments for the 2002 Through 2007 Crop Years..............................

[[Page 72942]]

 
200         Cooperative Marketing Associations....................................................    0560-AH42
201         Emergency Forestry Conservation Reserve Program.......................................    0560-AH44
202         Revisions of Delegations of Authority.................................................    0560-AH46
203         Extension of the Milk Income Loss Contract Program....................................    0560-AH47
204         Regulations for the United States Warehouse Act; Cotton Loans.........................    0560-AH48
205         Percentages for Direct and Counter-Cyclical Program Advance Payments..................    0560-AH49
206         Revisions of Delegations of Authority.................................................    0560-AH51
207         Regulations Regarding Employee Conflicts of Interest..................................    0560-AH57
208         Delegation of Authority; Cooperative Agreements for Conservation Programs.............    0560-AH58
209         2005 Dairy Disaster Assistance Payment (DDAP-II) Program..............................    0560-AH59
210         2005 Cottonseed Payment Program.......................................................    0560-AH63
211         Removal of Obsolete Regulations; Holding Of Referenda.................................    0560-AH64
212         Removal of Obsolete Regulations.......................................................    0560-AH65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                         Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
213         Animal Welfare: Marine Mammals; Nonconsensus Language and Interactive Programs            0579-AB24
            (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review)......................................
214         Tuberculosis in Cattle; Import Requirements (Section 610 Review)......................    0579-AB44
215         Boll Weevil; Quarantine and Regulations...............................................    0579-AB91
216         Trichinae Certification Program.......................................................    0579-AB92
217         Standards for Permanent, Privately Owned Horse Quarantine Facilities (Section 610         0579-AC00
            Review)...............................................................................
218         Animal Welfare; Regulations and Standards for Birds (Reg Plan Seq No. 2)..............    0579-AC02
219         Importation of Plants for Planting; Establishing a New Category of Plants for Planting    0579-AC03
            Not Authorized for Importation Pending Risk Assessment (Rulemaking Resulting From a
            Section 610 Review) (Reg Plan Seq No. 3)..............................................
220         National Veterinary Accreditation Program (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610        0579-AC04
            Review)...............................................................................
221         Sharing Confidential Business Information Regarding the Introduction of Genetically       0579-AC08
            Engineered Organisms and Products With Government Agencies............................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
222         Phytosanitary Certificates for Imported Fruits and Vegetables.........................    0579-AB18
223         Chronic Wasting Disease in Elk and Deer; Interstate Movement Restrictions and Payment     0579-AB35
            of Indemnity..........................................................................
224         Revision of Fruits and Vegetables Import Regulations (Reg Plan Seq No. 4).............    0579-AB80
225         Phytophthora Ramorum; Quarantine and Regulations (Reg Plan Seq No. 5).................    0579-AB82
226         Interstate Movement of Sheep and Goats; Approved Livestock Facilities, Identification,    0579-AB84
            and Recordkeeping Requirements........................................................
227         Viruses, Serums, Toxins, and Analogous Products; Records and Reports..................    0579-AB90
228         Special Need Requests Under the Plant Protection Act..................................    0579-AB98
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
229         Plant Pest Regulations; Update of Current Provisions (Section 610 Review).............    0579-AA80
230         Foot-and-Mouth Disease; Payment of Indemnity..........................................    0579-AB34
231         Karnal Bunt Compensation..............................................................    0579-AB45

[[Page 72943]]

 
232         Movement of Unroasted Coffee Into Hawaii and Puerto Rico..............................    0579-AB96
233         Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy; Minimal-Risk Regions and Importation of Commodities;    0579-AB97
            Unsealing of Means of Conveyance and Transloading of Products.........................
234         Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza; Voluntary Control Program and Payment of Indemnity....    0579-AB99
235         Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy; Minimal-Risk Regions and Importation of Commodities.    0579-AC01
236         Citrus Canker; Compensation for Certified Citrus Nursery Stock........................    0579-AC05
237         Agricultural Inspection and AQI User Fees Along the U.S./Canada Border................    0579-AC06
238         Citrus Canker; Quarantine of the State of Florida.....................................    0579-AC07
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                          Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
239         Gypsy Moth; Interstate Movement of Regulated Articles (Completion of a Section 610        0579-AB55
            Review)...............................................................................
240         Pine Shoot Beetle Host Material From Canada...........................................    0579-AB76
241         Importation of Small Lots of Seed Without Phytosanitary Certificates..................    0579-AB78
242         Importation of Swine and Swine Products From the European Union.......................    0579-AB79
243         Requirements for Requests To Amend Import Regulations.................................    0579-AB83
244         User Fees for Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection Services.........................    0579-AB88
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
245         CSREES Agricultural Extension Formula Programs--Administrative Provisions.............    0524-AA26
246         CSREES Non-Formula Grant Programs--Administrative Provisions..........................    0524-AA28
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                 Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
247         Matching Requirements for Formula Funds for Agricultural Research and Extension           0524-AA25
            Activities at the 1890 Land-Grant Institutions and at the 1862 Land-Grant Institutions
            in Insular Areas......................................................................
248         Revised Administrative Provisions--Small Business Innovation Research Grants Program..    0524-AA31
249         Revised Administrative Provisions--National Research Initiative Competitive Grants        0524-AA32
            Program...............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                 Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
250         CSREES Agricultural Research Formula Programs--Administrative Provisions..............    0524-AA27
251         Guidelines for Hatch Multistate Research Funds........................................    0524-AA29
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Rural Housing Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
252         Civil Rights Compliance Requirements--1901-E to 1940-D................................    0575-AA83
253         National Flood Insurance Regulations..................................................    0575-AC07

[[Page 72944]]

 
254         Servicing Community Programs Loans and Grants.........................................    0575-AC12
255         Self-Help Technical Assistance Grants.................................................    0575-AC20
256         Community Facilities Direct Loan Program--Consolidate, Simplify, and Update               0575-AC27
            Regulations...........................................................................
257         Planning and Performing Construction and Other Development............................    0575-AC55
258         Environmental Policies and Procedures.................................................    0575-AC56
259         Community Programs Guaranteed Loans...................................................    0575-AC58
260         Section 538 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program Change Annual Guarantee Fee Due       0575-AC62
            Date..................................................................................
261         Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing--Elimination of Construction Guarantee................    0575-AC64
262         Thermal Requirements (Rulemaking Resulting From a Section 610 Review).................    0575-AC65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                     Rural Housing Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
263         Multi-Family Housing (MFH) Reinvention................................................    0575-AC13
264         Guaranteed Single-Family Housing......................................................    0575-AC18
265         3550--Direct Single-Family Housing Loans and Grants...................................    0575-AC54
266         Amend 3550--Direct Single-Family Housing Loans and Grants.............................    0575-AC59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Rural Housing Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
267         Surety Requirements...................................................................    0575-AC63
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
268         General Administrative Regulations; Sanctions--Administrative Remedies for Non-           0563-AB73
            Compliance............................................................................
269         General Administrative Regulations; Actual Production History (APH)...................    0563-AB83
270         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Tobacco Crop Insurance Provisions..................    0563-AB98
271         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Cabbage Crop Insurance Provisions..................    0563-AB99
272         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Cultivated Wild Rice Crop Insurance Provisions.....    0563-AC00
273         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Mustard Crop Insurance Provisions..................    0563-AC04
274         General Administrative Regulations; Appeal Procedures and Standards for Approval--        0563-AC06
            Reinsurance Agreement.................................................................
275         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Grape and Table Grape Crop Insurance Provisions....    0563-AC09
276         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Apple Crop Insurance Provisions....................    0563-AC10
277         Emergency and Disaster Procedures for Crop Insurance Purposes.........................    0563-AC11
278         Common Crop Insurance Regulations; Millet Crop Insurance Provisions...................    0563-AC12
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
279         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Florida Citrus Fruit Crop Insurance Provisions.....    0563-AC01
280         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Fresh Market Sweet Corn Crop Insurance Provisions..    0563-AC02
281         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Mint Crop Insurance Provisions.....................    0563-AC03
282         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Northern Potato Crop Insurance Provisions..........    0563-AC05
283         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Walnut Crop Insurance Provisions; Almond Crop          0563-AC08
            Insurance Provisions..................................................................

[[Page 72945]]

 
284         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Nursery Crop Provisions, Nursery Peak Inventory        0563-AC13
            Endorsement and Nursery Rehabilitation Endorsement....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
285         Common Crop Insurance Regulations and Various Crop Insurance Provisions...............    0563-AB96
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Federal Crop Insurance Corporation--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
286         General Administrative Regulations; Nonstandard Underwriting Classification System....    0563-AB66
287         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Peanut Crop Insurance Provisions...................    0563-AB97
288         Common Crop Insurance Regulations, Basic Provisions; Written Agreements...............    0563-AC07
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                  Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
289         United States Standards for Rough Rice; United States Standards for Brown Rice for        0580-AA94
            Processing; and United States Standards for Milled Rice...............................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                    Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
290         United States Standards for Sorghum...................................................    0580-AA91
291         Fees for Rice Inspection Service......................................................    0580-AA92
292         Clear Title Program; Technical Changes................................................    0580-AA93
293         Official Fees and Tolerances for Barley Protein Testing...............................    0580-AA95
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                   Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
294         Process Verification Service and Associated Fees......................................    0580-AA85
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                   Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
295         United States Standards for Soybeans..................................................    0580-AA90
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 72946]]


                                 Food and Nutrition Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
296         Disqualified Recipient Reporting and Computer Matching Requirements That Affect the       0584-AB51
            Food Stamp Program....................................................................
297         Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations: Resource Limits and Exclusions,         0584-AD12
            Extended Certification Periods, and Transitional Benefits.............................
298         Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP): At-Risk Afterschool Suppers................    0584-AD15
299         Food Stamp Program: Clarifications and Corrections to Recipient Claim Establishment       0584-AD25
            and Collection Standards..............................................................
300         FSP: Revisions to Bonding Requirements for Violating Retail and Wholesale Food            0584-AD44
            Concerns..............................................................................
301         Special Nutrition Programs: Fluid Milk Substitutions (Reg Plan Seq No. 6).............    0584-AD58
302         Nutrition Standards in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs........    0584-AD59
303         WIC Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP): Implementation of the FMNP Provisions in    0584-AD74
            the CN and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-265) and FMNP Funding Formula.
304         FSP: Administrative Sanctions Imposed Against Violating Electronic Benefits Transfer      0584-AD78
            (EBT) Stores..........................................................................
305         Revisions and Clarifications in Requirements for the Distribution and Control of          0584-AD81
            Donated Foods.........................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
306         Child and Adult Care Food Program: Improving Management and Program Integrity (Reg        0584-AC24
            Plan Seq No. 7).......................................................................
307         Food Stamp Program Regulatory Review: FSP Standards for Approval and Operation of Food    0584-AC37
            Stamp Electronic Benefit Transfer Systems.............................................
308         National School Lunch Program: Reimbursement for Snacks in Afterschool Care Programs..    0584-AC72
309         Child and Adult Care Food Program: Implementing Legislative Reforms To Strengthen         0584-AC94
            Program Integrity.....................................................................
310         Disclosure of Children's Free, and Reduced Price Meals, and Free Milk Eligibility         0584-AC95
            Information in the Child Nutrition Programs...........................................
311         Afterschool Snacks Under the Child and Adult Care Food Program........................    0584-AD27
312         FSP: Eligibility and Certification Provisions of the Farm Security and Rural              0584-AD30
            Investment Act of 2002 (Reg Plan Seq No. 8)...........................................
313         Quality Control Provisions of Title IV of Public Law 107-171 (Reg Plan Seq No. 9).....    0584-AD31
314         Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)......................................    0584-AD35
315         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):            0584-AD36
            Miscellaneous Vendor-Related Provisions...............................................
316         Procurement Requirements for the National School Lunch, School Breakfast, and Special     0584-AD38
            Milk Programs.........................................................................
317         Data Collection Related to Institutions and Organizations.............................    0584-AD43
318         Management of Donated Foods in Child Nutrition Programs, the Nutrition Services           0584-AD45
            Incentive Program, and Charitable Institutions........................................
319         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):            0584-AD47
            Discretionary WIC Vendor Provisions in the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act
            of 2004, Public Law 108-265...........................................................
320         District-Wide Use of Provisions 2 and 3...............................................    0584-AD51
321         Administrative Error Reduction in the School Meals Programs...........................    0584-AD52
322         Applying for Free and Reduced Price Meals in the National School Lunch Program, and       0584-AD54
            School Breakfast Program, and for Benefits in the Special Milk Program................
323         Direct Certification of Children in Food Stamp Households and Certification of            0584-AD60
            Homeless, Migrant and Runaway Children for Free Meals in the NSLP, SBP, and SMP (Reg
            Plan Seq No. 10)......................................................................
324         Verification of Eligibility for Free, and Reduced Priced Meals in the National School     0584-AD61
            Lunch and School Breakfast Programs...................................................
325         School Food Safety: Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point System.................    0584-AD65
326         Implementing Provisions From the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004:     0584-AD70
            Seamless Summer Option for Schools Participating in the National School Lunch Program.
327         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): WIC        0584-AD71
            Vendor Cost Containment (Reg Plan Seq No. 11).........................................
328         WIC: Implementation of the Nondiscretionary WIC Certification and General                 0584-AD73
            Administration Provisions.............................................................
329         Revisions and Clarifications in Requirements for the Processing of Donated Foods......    0584-AD76
330         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC):             0584-AD77
            Revisions in the WIC Food Packages (Reg Plan Seq No. 12)..............................
331         FSP: Unauthorized Redemption and Trafficking in Program Benefits......................    0584-AD79

[[Page 72947]]

 
332         Marketing and Sale of Fluid Milk in Schools...........................................    0584-AD83
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
333         FSP: Regulation Restructuring To Reflect the End of Coupon Issuance Systems...........    0584-AD48
334         School Breakfast Program: Severe Need Assistance......................................    0584-AD82
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Food and Nutrition Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
335         Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC):            0584-AB10
            Miscellaneous Provisions..............................................................
336         FSP: Civil Rights Data Collections....................................................    0584-AC75
337         Special Nutrition Programs: Uniform Federal Assistance Regulations; Nondiscretionary      0584-AD16
            Technical Amendments..................................................................
338         FSP: Employment and Training Program Provisions of the Farm Security and Rural            0584-AD32
            Investment Act of 2002................................................................
339         FSP: Discretionary Quality Control Provisions of Title IV of Public Law 107-171.......    0584-AD37
340         Child Nutrition Programs: National School Lunch Program; Serving Fruits and Vegetables    0584-AD40
            as Afterschool Snacks.................................................................
341         State Administrative Expenses.........................................................    0584-AD53
342         Implementing Provisions of the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004:       0584-AD68
            Disregard of Overpayments in the Child Nutrition Programs.............................
343         Food Distribution Programs--Distributing Agency Evaluations of Non-Commercial             0584-AD72
            Warehousing and Distribution Systems, Cost Comparisons, System Approval and
            Implementation........................................................................
344         Food Stamp Program: Expiration of Residual Paper Coupons..............................    0584-AD75
345         For-Profit Center Participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program..............    0584-AD80
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Food Safety and Inspection Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
346         Performance Standards for Pumped or Massaged Bacon....................................    0583-AC49
347         Egg Products Inspection Regulations (Reg Plan Seq No. 13).............................    0583-AC58
348         Prior Labeling Approval System: Generic Label Approval................................    0583-AC59
349         Addition of Mexico to the List of Countries Eligible for the Importation of               0583-AD01
            Slaughtered (Fresh) Poultry and Egg Products Into the United States...................
350         Food Defense Plans....................................................................    0583-AD06
351         Electronic Signatures.................................................................    0583-AD14
352         Food Allergen Labeling for Meat, Poultry, and Egg Products............................    0583-AD22
353         Definition of Veal....................................................................    0583-AD23
354         Export Product Deviations From Labeling Requirements and Ingredient Restrictions......    0583-AD24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
355         Performance Standards for the Production of Processed Meat and Poultry Products;          0583-AC46
            Control of Listeria Monocytogenes in Ready-to-Eat Meat and Poultry Products (Reg Plan
            Seq No. 14)...........................................................................

[[Page 72948]]

 
356         Nutrition Labeling of Single-Ingredient Products and Ground or Chopped Meat and           0583-AC60
            Poultry Products (Reg Plan Seq No. 15)................................................
357         Food Standards; General Principles and Food Standards Modernization...................    0583-AC72
358         Petitions for Rulemaking..............................................................    0583-AC81
359         Classes of Poultry Updating Poultry Class Standards...................................    0583-AC83
360         Prohibition of the Use of Specified Risk Materials for Human Food and Requirements for    0583-AC88
            the Disposition of Non-Ambulatory Disabled Cattle (Reg Plan Seq No. 16)...............
361         Meat Produced by Advanced Meat/Bone Separation Machinery and Meat Recovery Systems        0583-AD00
            (Reg Plan Seq No. 17).................................................................
362         Prohibition on the Use of Air-Injection Stunners for the Slaughter of Cattle (Reg Plan    0583-AD03
            Seq No. 18)...........................................................................
363         Accredited Laboratory Program.........................................................    0583-AD09
364         Availability of Lists of Retail Consignees During Meat or Poultry Product Recalls (Reg    0583-AD10
            Plan Seq No. 19)......................................................................
365         Definitions and Procedures for Determining the Net Weight Compliance of Meat and          0583-AD17
            Poultry Products......................................................................
366         Allowing Bar-Type Cut Turkey Operations To Use J-Type Cut Maximum Line Speeds.........    0583-AD18
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                              Food Safety and Inspection Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
367         Performance Criteria for On-Line Antimicrobial Reprocessing of Pre-Chill Poultry          0583-AC73
            Carcasses.............................................................................
368         Performance Standard for Chilling of Ready-To-Cook Poultry............................    0583-AC87
369         Frequency of Foreign Inspection System Supervisory Visits to Certified Foreign            0583-AD08
            Establishments........................................................................
370         Addition of the People's Republic of China to the List of Countries Eligible To Export    0583-AD20
            Processed Poultry and Poultry Products to the United States...........................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                 Foreign Agricultural Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
371         New Provisions and Revisions to Sugar Re-Export Programs..............................    0551-AA65
372         Quality Samples Program...............................................................    0551-AA68
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                       Forest Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
373         Indian Allotments on National Forest System Lands.....................................    0596-AA52
374         Species Surplus to Domestic Manufacturing Needs.......................................    0596-AB27
375         Appeal of Decisions Relating to Occupancy and Use of National Forest System Lands.....    0596-AB45
376         Law Enforcement Support Activities....................................................    0596-AB61
377         Noncompetitive Sale of Timber; Timber Substitution....................................    0596-AB70
378         Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Timber Export and Substitution        0596-AB75
            Restrictions..........................................................................
379         Locatable Minerals....................................................................    0596-AB98
380         Recreation Event Fees (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual, Chapter 2720).......    0596-AC24
381         Outfitter and Guide Special Use Authorizations (Proposed Directives, Forest Service       0596-AC25
            Handbook 2709.11, Chapter 30).........................................................
382         Secretary Determination That Domestic Species of Unprocessed Timber Are Surplus to        0596-AC27
            Domestic Needs Within the Zone of Southern California.................................
383         Clarifying Prohibitions Against Damage to the National Forest by Escaped Fires........    0596-AC30
384         Revisions to General Prohibitions Regarding Livestock and Wild Free-Roaming Horses and    0596-AC31
            Burros on National Forest System Lands................................................

[[Page 72949]]

 
385         National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Documentation for Sporicide Use on National      0596-AC32
            Forest System Lands (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Chapter 30).
386         Piscicide Applications on National Forest System Lands................................    0596-AC33
387         Clarification for the Appropriate Use of a Criminal or a Civil Citation To Enforce        0596-AC38
            Mineral Regulations...................................................................
388         Travel Management (Proposed Directives, Forest Service Manual 2300 and 7700)..........    0596-AC39
389         Small Business Administration Timber Sale Set-Aside Program...........................    0596-AC46
390         Linear Right-of-Way Rental Payment Schedule...........................................    0596-AC48
391         Forest Service National Environmental Policy Act Procedures (Reg Plan Seq No. 20).....    0596-AC49
392         Outfitter and Guide Special Use Authorizations (Proposed Directives, Forest Service       0596-AC50
            Handbook 2709.11, Chapter 40).........................................................
393         Ground Water Resource Management Policy Direction (Proposed New Directive, Forest         0596-AC51
            Service Manual, Chapter 2540).........................................................
394         Forest Service Policy on Partner, Sponsor, and Donor Recognition (Proposed Directive,     0596-AC52
            Forest Service Handbook 1509.14)......................................................
395         Categorical Exclusion for Ski Area Resort Activities (Proposed Directive, FSH 1909.15,    0596-AC53
            Chapter 30)...........................................................................
396         Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TES) Species, Species-of-Concern, Habitat          0596-AC55
            Management, and Biodiversity Conservation (Proposed Directive, FSM 2670)..............
397         Processing Applications for Wind Energy Development on National Forest System Lands       0596-AC61
            (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual 2720)......................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


                                        Forest Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
398         Sale and Disposal of National Forest Timber; Cancellation of Timber Sale Contracts....    0596-AB21
399         Special Forest Products and Forest Botanical Products.................................    0596-AB81
400         National Forest System Land Management Planning Categorical Exclusion (Final              0596-AB86
            Directive, Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Chapter 30) (Reg Plan Seq No. 21).........
401         Delegation of Authority To Approve Free Use by Individuals............................    0596-AC09
402         Predecisional Administrative Review and Objection Process for Projects Authorized         0596-AC15
            Under Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003.........................................
403         Sale and Disposal of National Forest System Timber; Timber Sale Contracts;                0596-AC16
            Modification of Contracts.............................................................
404         Onshore Oil and Gas Operations; Federal and Indian Oil and Gas Leases; Onshore Oil and    0596-AC20
            Gas Order Number 1, Approval of Operations............................................
405         Predator Damage Management (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual, Chapter 2320)..    0596-AC22
406         Integrated Resource Contracts, FS-2400-13 and FS-2400-13T (Notice of Final Contracts).    0596-AC26
407         National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Compliance Documentation for Surface Use         0596-AC34
            Plans of Operation for Exploration or Development of an Oil and Gas Lease (Final
            Directive, FSH 1909.15, Ch. 30).......................................................
408         Advertising and Sponsorship in Connection With Concessions Involving Privately Owned      0596-AC41
            Improvements on National Forest System Lands (Final Directive, Forest Service Manual
            2340).................................................................................
409         Native Plant Materials Policy (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual 2070)........    0596-AC44
410         Forest Service Renewable Resources Handbook (2409.19), Chapter 60, Stewardship            0596-AC45
            Contracting...........................................................................
411         Forest Service National Trail Management Classification System (Final Directive, FSM      0596-AC47
            2330).................................................................................
412         Sensitive Species and Endangered Species Act Consultation for Land Management Plans       0596-AC54
            (Interim Directive, Forest Service Manual 2670).......................................
413         Grizzly Bear Management (Interim Directive, FSM 2676.1)...............................    0596-AC56
414         National Forest System Land Management Planning Directive (Final Directive, Forest        0596-AC57
            Service Handbook 1909.12, Chapter 70-Wilderness Evaluation) (Reg Plan Seq No. 22).....
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
References in boldface appear in the Regulatory Plan in part II of this issue of the Federal Register.


[[Page 72950]]


                                        Forest Service--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
415         Community and Private Land Forest Fire Assistance Program.............................    0596-AB96
416         Grazing Permit Administration (Proposed Directives, Forest Service Handbook 2209.13,      0596-AC12
            Chapters 10 and 20)...................................................................
417         Watershed Forestry Assistance Program (Proposed Directive, Forest Service Manual 3500)    0596-AC18
418         Tribal Watershed Forestry Assistance Program (Proposed Directive, Forest Service          0596-AC19
            Manual 3500)..........................................................................
419         Resource Agency Procedures for Conditions and Prescriptions in Hydropower Licenses....    0596-AC42
420         Special Areas; State Specific Inventoried Roadless Area Management: Virginia..........    0596-AC58
421         Special Areas; State Specific Inventoried Roadless Area Management: North Carolina....    0596-AC59
422         Special Areas; State Specific Inventoried Roadless Area Management: South Carolina....    0596-AC60
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                        Forest Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
423         Forest Service Trails Accessibility Guidelines (Final Interim Directive, Forest           0596-AB92
            Service Manual, Chapter 2350).........................................................
424         Forest Service Outdoor Recreation Accessibility Guidelines (Final Interim Directive,      0596-AB93
            Forest Service Manual, Chapter 2330)..................................................
425         Notice, Comment, and Appeal Procedures for National Forest System Projects and            0596-AC28
            Activities............................................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Office of the Secretary--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
426         General Nonprocurement Regulations....................................................    0503-AA21
427         Designation of Biobased Items for Federal Procurement, Round 2........................    0503-AA30
428         Designation of Biobased Items for Federal Procurement, Round 3........................    0503-AA31
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Office of the Secretary--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
429         Voluntary Labeling Program for Designated Biobased Products...........................    0503-AA28
430         Designation of Biobased Items for Federal Procurement.................................    0503-AA29
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                             Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
431         Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Financing Cooperative Stock............    0570-AA26
432         Business and Industry Loan Program--Rewrite of Program Regulations....................    0570-AA41
433         National Security Emergency...........................................................    0570-AA48
434         Equal Opportunity for Religious Organizations.........................................    0570-AA61
435         Amendment of Guarantee Requirements...................................................    0570-AA62
436         Socio-Economic Benefit Assessment System (SEBAS)......................................    0570-AA63
437         Renewable Energy Systems and Energy Efficiency Improvements (REEEI) Program...........    0570-AA64
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 72951]]


                              Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
438         Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program.....................................    0570-AA19
439         Rural Business Investment Program.....................................................    0570-AA35
440         B&I Guaranteed Loan Program Farm Bill Changes--Expanded Eligibility Criteria..........    0570-AA39
441         Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program--Implement the Debt Collection              0570-AA54
            Improvement Act (DCIA) of 1996........................................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                              Rural Business-Cooperative Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
442         Tangible Net Equity...................................................................    0570-AA49
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                  Rural Utilities Service--Proposed Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
443         Lien Accommodations and Subordinations for 100 Percent Private Financing..............    0572-AB99
444         Water and Waste Loans and Grants......................................................    0572-AC03
445         Specifications for 15, 25, and 35 kV Primary Underground Power Cable..................    0572-AC05
446         Rural Broadband Access Loans and Loan Guarantees......................................    0572-AC06
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                    Rural Utilities Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
447         Telecommunications Standards and Specifications for Materials, Equipment, and             0572-AB40
            Construction..........................................................................
448         Servicing of Water Programs Loans and Grants..........................................    0572-AB59
449         Public Television Station Digital Transition Grant Program............................    0572-AC02
450         Rural Area Definitions for RUS WEP Programs...........................................    0572-AC04
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                   Rural Utilities Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
451         Special Equipment Contract (Not Including Installation), RUS Form 398.................    0572-AB76
452         Exemption of Certain Borrowers From Controls..........................................    0572-AB85
453         Elimination of Subpart M: Operational Controls........................................    0572-AB97
454         Telecommunications System Construction Policies and Procedures........................    0572-AB98
455         Seismic Safety........................................................................    0572-AC01
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                            Natural Resources Conservation Service--Final Rule Stage
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
456         Conservation Security Program.........................................................    0578-AA36
457         Grassland Reserve Program.............................................................    0578-AA38
458         Confidentiality of Conservation Program Information...................................    0578-AA40
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 72952]]


                          National Agricultural Statistical Service--Completed Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
459         Dairy Product Mandatory Reporting.....................................................    0535-AA00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                        Office of Procurement and Property Management--Long-Term Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Regulation
 Sequence                                           Title                                            Identifier
  Number                                                                                               Number
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
460         Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR): Use of Biobased Materials..................    0599-AA12
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BILLING CODE 3410--90--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




150. HONEY RESEARCH AND PROMOTION: PACKER/IMPORTER BOARD (FV-03-704)

Priority: Routine and Frequent

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7411 through 7425

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1212

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (Department) received a 
request from the National Honey Packers and Dealers Association 
(Association), dated July 8, 2003, to develop an industry-funded 
research, promotion, consumer education, and information program for 
honey and honey products. The Association asked that this proposal be 
held and not sent forward until the industry made some modifications to 
the proposal. A new proposal was received by the Department in March 
2006. This proposed new program, the Honey Research, Promotion, and 
Consumer Education and Industry Order (Order), will assist the honey 
industry to: (1) Develop and finance an effective and coordinated 
program to strengthen the position of the honey industry and (2) 
Maintain, develop, and expand existing markets for honey and honey 
products. Under the proposed Order, first handlers (packers) and 
importers of 250,000 or more pounds of honey and honey products would 
pay an assessment of $0.01 per pound to the National Honey Packers and 
Importers Board (Board). At this initial rate, revenue for the program 
would be approximately $3 million. Of this amount, about 51 percent 
would be generated by assessments on imported honey and honey products. 
The Board would be appointed by the Department to conduct a program of 
research and promotion, industry information, and consumer information 
needed to strengthen and increase the consumption of honey and honey 
products in the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles W. Parrott, Associate Deputy Administrator, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Fruit & 
Vegetable Programs, 14th & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6393
Fax: 202 720-0016
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC37
_______________________________________________________________________




151. NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: SUNSET (EXPIRATION) OF ALLOWANCES AND 
PROHIBITIONS CONTAINED ON THE NATIONAL LIST (TM-04-07)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 through 6522

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is revising 
regulations pertaining to the use of allowed and prohibited substances 
contained on the National List. The Organic Foods Production Act 
(OFPA), (7 U.S.C. 6501 et seq.), authorizes the establishment of the 
National List of allowed and prohibited substances. The National List 
identifies synthetic substances that are allowed and nonsynthetic 
substances that are prohibited in organic crop and livestock 
production. The National List also identifies nonsynthetics and 
synthetics that are allowed for use in organic handling.
The allowances and prohibitions granted under the OFPA are required to 
be reviewed every 5 years by the National Organic Standards Board 
(NOSB). If they are not reviewed by the NOSB and renewed by the 
Secretary within 5 years of their inclusion on the National List, their 
authorized use or prohibition expires. This means that a synthetic 
substance currently allowed for use in organic production will no 
longer be allowed for use after October 21, 2007; a non-synthetic 
substance currently prohibited from use in organic production will be 
allowed after October 21, 2007; and a synthetic or nonsynthetic 
substance currently allowed for use in organic handling will be 
prohibited after October 21, 2007.
Expiration of the exempted or prohibited use of substances is provided 
for under the OFPA's sunset provision. AMS will conduct informal 
rulemaking to facilitate the sunset review of 165 exempted and 9 
prohibited substances currently on the National List. On June 17, 2005, 
AMS published an ANPRM that established

[[Page 72953]]

October 21, 2007, as the date by which the sunset review and renewal 
process must be concluded. This ANPRM discussed how the NOP will manage 
the sunset review and renewal process. The ANPRM also began the public 
comment process on whether the existing specific exemptions or 
prohibitions on the National List should be continued for organic 
production and handling. The comment period for the ANPRM closed on 
August 16, 2005. The NOSB will have approximately 90 days from the 
close of the comment period to provide a recommendation to AMS 
concerning the continued use and prohibition of over 150 materials. AMS 
expects to publish a proposed rule before the end of this year.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           06/17/05                    70 FR 35177
ANPRM Comment Period End        08/16/05
NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, 
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC51
_______________________________________________________________________




152. STANDARDS FOR CONDITION OF FOOD CONTAINERS (FV-05-332)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1622 through 1624

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 42

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is proposing to 
revise regulations pertaining to 7 CFR part 42, Standards for Condition 
of Food Containers. Periodically, AMS reviews inspection standards to 
determine if they meet current industry practices. Based on our most 
recent analysis, we believe that the standards need to be revised. The 
revisions are necessary in order to provide standards that reflect 
current U.S. industry practices. Revisions to the standards include, 
but are not limited to: (1) Incorporating new defects and updating 
current defects for metal, glass, rigid and semi-rigid, and flexible 
containers; (2) Updating the standards to include new packaging 
technology such as aseptic packaging, metal cans with easy open lids, 
plastic rings that hold several containers together; and (3) Removing 
the Operating Characteristic (OC) curves for on-line sampling and 
inspection.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lynne Eyre Yedinak, Food Technologist, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9939
Fax: 202 690-0102
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC52
_______________________________________________________________________




153. PERISHABLE AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES ACT: TRUST RIGHTS (FV-05-373)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 4990

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 46

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), Perishable 
Agricultural Commodities Act Branch, has issued an advance notice of 
proposed rulemaking in response to concerns raised by the industry that 
sellers may lose their status as trust creditors when using electronic 
data interchange (EDI) for invoicing. The Perishable Agricultural 
Commodities Act (PACA) imposes a statutory trust on the assets, 
including inventory and receivables of a licensee or firm operating 
subject to the PACA that have not paid for perishable agricultural 
commodities. The PACA provides that a creditor may preserve its rights 
under the trust by including specified language on billing or invoicing 
statements. In 1997, the PACA regulations were amended to state that 
electronic transmissions are considered ``ordinary and usual billing 
and invoicing statements.'' While perfecting PACA trust rights on paper 
invoices is fairly straightforward, due to the nature of technology, 
perfecting trust rights using EDI is not. Sellers who use EDI 
transmissions to perfect their trust rights perceive a threat that 
their trust rights may not be preserved. AMS is soliciting comments on 
the preservation of PACA trust rights in connection with EDI invoicing 
so that the Agency will be able to provide greater direction to the 
industry of how PACA trust rights can be preserved when invoicing 
electronically.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           01/30/06                     71 FR 4831
ANPRM Comment Period End        03/16/06
NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Bruce W. Summers, Chief, PACA Branch, Fruit and 
Vegetable Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4180
Fax: 202 690-4413
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC53
_______________________________________________________________________




154. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: ACCESS TO PASTURE (TM-05-14)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The National Organic Program (NOP) is administered by the 
Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). Under the NOP, AMS established 
national standards for the production and handling of organically 
produced agricultural products. Since implementation of the NOP, some 
members of the public have advocated for a more explicit regulatory 
standard on the relationship between livestock, particularly dairy 
animals, and grazing land. They have asserted the current

[[Page 72954]]

regulatory language on access to pasture for ruminants and temporary 
confinement based on an animal's stage of production, when applied 
together, do not provide a uniform requirement for the pasturing of 
ruminant animals that meet the principles underlying an organic 
management system for livestock and livestock products that consumers 
expect. Comments received as a result of the proposed rule will assist 
in determining the Agency's next steps in rulemaking on this issue.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           04/13/06                    71 FR 19131
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/12/06
NPRM                            12/00/06
Final Action                    03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, 
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC57
_______________________________________________________________________




155. [bull] MULTI-YEAR REVISION OF FEES FOR THE FRESH FRUIT AND 
VEGETABLE TERMINAL MARKET INSPECTION SERVICES, FV-06-308

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 51

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is raising fresh 
fruit and vegetable destination market fees by 15 percent in order to: 
(1) Build and maintain the 4 months of operating reserve as required by 
AMS policy and (2) cover the costs associated with providing quality 
inspection services to destination markets.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Rita Bibbs-Booth, Program Support Section Head, 
Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Program 
Support Section Head, Room 2049-South, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250-0240
Phone: 202 720-0391
Fax: 202 720-5136
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC63
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




156. THE NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: AMENDING THE NATIONAL LIST (TM-04-
01), CROPS AND PROCESSING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On December 21, 2000, the Secretary of Agriculture 
(Secretary) established within the National Organic Program (NOP) the 
National List. The National List regulations identify synthetic 
(natural) substances and ingredients that are prohibited for use in 
organic production and handling. Under the authority of the Organic 
Foods Production Act of 1990 (OFPA), as amended (7 U.S.C. 6501 et 
seq.), the National List can be amended by the Secretary based on 
proposed amendments developed by the National Organic Standards Board 
(NOSB). This action will amend the National List to reflect 
recommendations submitted to the Secretary by the NOSB from November 
15, 2000, through March 3, 2005. Between the specified time period, the 
NOSB has recommended that the Secretary add 4 substances to section 
205.601 and 11 substances to section 205.605 of the National List 
regulations. This action will also amend the mailing address for where 
to file a Certification or Accreditation appeal pursuant to section 
205.681(d).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/16/05                    70 FR 54006
NPRM Comment Period End         11/15/05
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, 
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC35
_______________________________________________________________________




157. CHANGES IN FEES AND HOURLY FEE RATES FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 
LABORATORY SERVICES (ST-05-01)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 91; 7 CFR 92

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is proposing to change the 
hourly fee rates for Science and Technology (S&T) Laboratory Services. 
This action is being taken to raise these rates to reflect, among other 
factors, national and locality pay increases for Federal employees and 
inflation, operating costs, instrumentation and training, and program 
and agency administrative overhead costs. In the past, AMS has amended 
its regulations on an as needed basis in order to recover laboratory 
program costs. With this proposed regulation, AMS is providing for 
three annual standard

[[Page 72955]]

hourly fee rate increases for fiscal years 2007-2009. This would 
provide the agricultural commodity industries and other stakeholders 
with more timely and relevant information regarding voluntary user fees 
for laboratory testing services. The agency is also proposing to remove 
tables and schedules with listings of individual tests and services. 
Three annual hourly fee rate adjustments are proposed for appeals, 
holiday, and overtime services to reflect the anticipated increase cost 
of providing these laboratory services each fiscal year. The 
regulations are also being updated to identify current facility 
addresses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/22/06                    71 FR 55369
NPRM Comment Period End         10/23/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: James V. Falk, Docket Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA, AMS, Science and 
Technology, Technical Services Branch, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-4089
Fax: 202 720-4631
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC48
_______________________________________________________________________




158. CHANGES IN FEES FOR FEDERAL MEAT GRADING AND CERTIFICATION SERVICES 
(LS-05-05)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is raising the fees for 
voluntary meat grading and certification services provided by the Meat 
Grading and Certification Branch. This amendment will allow the Branch 
to offset increased operating expenses and decreased revenue hours and 
allow the Branch a 4-month operating reserve required by the Agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/06                    71 FR 15631
NPRM Comment Period End         05/30/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Larry R. Meadows, Chief, Meat Grading and Certification 
Branch, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 
Livestock and Seed Program, Department of Agriculture, 139 Denver West 
Parkway, Bldg. 53, Suite 350, Lakewood, CO 80401
Phone: 720 497-2520
Fax: 720 497-0571
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC49
_______________________________________________________________________




159. CHANGES IN FEES FOR VOLUNTARY FEDERAL DAIRY GRADING AND INSPECTION 
SERVICES (FEE INCREASE) (DA-05-04)

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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 through 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 54; 7 CFR 58

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is revising regulations 
pertaining to Grading and Inspection, General Specification for 
Approved Plants and Standards for Grades of Dairy Products, to increase 
the fees. The increased fees are necessary to cover the increased costs 
of Federal employee pay and location adjustments as well as increases 
in operational costs; provide a limited amount of funding to continue 
to automate business practices to improve program efficiency and 
effectiveness; and increase the fees charged to applicants for the 
review of meat and poultry processing equipment.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/20/06                    71 FR 20351
NPRM Comment Period End         05/22/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: John Mengel, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4664
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC55
_______________________________________________________________________




160. FEDERAL PROCESSED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES, FEE INCREASE (FV-05-379)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621; 7 USC 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 52

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is raising fees 
contained in 7 CFR part 52, Processed Fruits and Vegetables, Processed 
Products Thereof, and Certain Other Processed Food Products. The 
proposed fee increase ranging from 19 to 26 percent will increase 
revenue by $2.0 million in fiscal year (FY) 2006. Also, planned fee 
increases during FY 2007 to FY 2009 will enable AMS to replenish 
program reserves to a 4.1 month level, approximately $6.4 million, by 
the end of FY 2009. Furthermore, it is proposed that an applicant 
entering into a year-round inspection contract will incur costs for the 
plant survey and sanitation inspection. This would increase program 
revenue by approximately $143,400 annually. Finally, it is proposed 
that an applicant entering into a year-round inspection contract, less 
than year-round (four or more consecutive 40-hour weeks) contract, or 
lot inspection will incur costs for Sunday differential if an employee 
works on Sunday. This would increase program revenue by approximately 
$34.724 annually.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/11/06                    71 FR 39017
NPRM Comment Period End         08/10/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 72956]]

Agency Contact: Terry B. Bane, Branch Chief, Department of Agriculture, 
Agricultural Marketing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-4693
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC56
_______________________________________________________________________




161. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: AMENDING THE NATIONAL LIST (CROP 
AND LIVESTOCK) TM-06-04

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service is amending the National 
Organic Programs' National List of Allowed and Prohibited Substances 
(National List) regulations to reflect recommendations submitted to the 
Secretary of Agriculture (Secretary) by the National Organic Standards 
Board (NOSB) on August 17, 2005. Consistent with the recommendations 
from the NOSB, this proposed rule would add one new substance, along 
with any restrictive annotations to the National List. The NOSB 
recommended adding ``Sucrose octanoate esters``.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/03/06                    71 FR 37854
NPRM Comment Period End         08/02/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, 
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC61
_______________________________________________________________________




162. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: AMENDMENTS TO THE NATIONAL LIST 
(LIVESTOCK) TM-03-04

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 to 6522

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Services is amending regulations 
pertaining to the National Organic Program National List to reflect 
recommendations submitted to the Secretary of Agriculture by the 
National Organic Standards Board. This rule will add 13 substances, 
along with any restrictive annotations to the National List of Allowed 
and Prohibited Substances.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/17/06                    71 FR 40623
NPRM Comment Period End         09/15/06
Final Action                    03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley, Associate Deputy Administrator, 
National Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural 
Marketing Service, Room 4008, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC62
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Mark A. Bradley
Phone: 202 720-3252
Fax: 202 205-7808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




164. MANDATORY COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELING OF BEEF, PORK, LAMB, FISH, 
PERISHABLE AGRICULTURAL COMMODITIES, AND PEANUTS (LS-03-04)

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 60

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/30/03                    68 FR 61944
NPRM Comment Period End         12/29/03
Interim Final Rule              10/05/04                    69 FR 59708
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/03/05
Interim Final Rule Effective    04/04/05
Final Action                    09/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

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

Agency Contact: Erin Morris
Phone: 202 720-1749
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC26

[[Page 72957]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)



_______________________________________________________________________




165. ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR VOLUNTARY SHELL EGG, POULTRY, AND 
RABBIT GRADING (PY-02-003)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56; 7 CFR 70

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/24/06                    71 FR 42005

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Charles Johnson
Phone: 202 690-3153
Fax: 202 690-2746
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________




166. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR USDA GRADED SHELL EGGS (PY-98-006)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 56

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/19/06                    71 FR 20287

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: David Bowden, Jr.
Phone: 202 720-3506
Fax: 202 690-0941
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Previously reported as 0581-AB56
RIN: 0581-AC50
_______________________________________________________________________




167. [bull] REVISION OF USER FEES FOR 2006 COTTON CROP CLASSIFICATION 
SERVICES (CN-06-001)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 473A

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 28

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, June 1, 2006.

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service will adjust the user fees 
for cotton producers for 2006 crop cotton classification services under 
the Cotton Statistics and Estimates Act in accordance with the formula 
specified in the Uniform Cotton Classing Fees Act of 1987. The formula 
takes into account the inflationary rate, the estimated volume of the 
crop, and the level of the reserve fund of the Cotton Program. The 
actual adjustment in the fee was calculated in early 2006, as soon as 
all three of the factors required by legislation for the formula became 
available. The user fee for this years' crop cotton classification 
services is expected to generate $43 million in revenues.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/20/06                    71 FR 20350
NPRM Comment Period End         05/05/06
Final Action                    08/16/06                    71 FR 47073
Final Action Effective          08/17/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Darryl Earnest, Deputy Administrator, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, 14 & Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-3193
Fax: 202 690-1718
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC58
_______________________________________________________________________




168. [bull] SPECIALTY CROP BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM, FV06-1290-1

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1621 note

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1290

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) published a proposed 
rule in the Federal Register on April 20, 2006, to establish 
eligibility and application requirements, the review and approval 
process, and grant administration procedures for the Specialty Crop 
Block Grant Program (SCBGP). The proposed program is intended to 
enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops. Between April 20 and 
May 22, AMS received 82 comments from industry members, congressional 
members, and the public. The SCBGP is authorized under section 101 of 
the Specialty Crops Competitiveness Act of 2004 (7 U.S.C. 1621 note). 
Section 101 directs the Secretary of Agriculture to make grants to 
States for each of the fiscal years 2005 through 2009 to be used by the 
State departments of agriculture solely to enhance the competitiveness 
of specialty crops.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/20/06                    71 FR 20353
NPRM Comment Period End         05/22/06
Final Action                    09/11/06                    71 FR 53303
Final Action Effective          10/11/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Trista Etzig, Project Manager, Department of 
Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture, 
14th & Independence Avenue SW, Room 2086-South, Stop 0243, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-4942
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0581-AC59
_______________________________________________________________________




169. [bull] NATIONAL ORGANIC PROGRAM: HARVEY V. JOHANNS COURT ORDER (TM-
06-06)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6501 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agricultural Marketing Service's National Organic Program 
revised certain sections of the National Organic Program regulations to 
comply with a June 9, 2005, consent final judgment and order issued by 
the United States District Court, District of Maine, and to address the 
November 10, 2005, amendments made to the Organic Foods Production Act 
of 1990, concerning the transition of dairy livestock into organic 
production.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/27/06                    71 fr 24820
NPRM                            05/12/06
Final Action                    06/07/06                    71 FR 32803

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

[[Page 72958]]

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Barbara Robinson, Deputy Administrator, National 
Organic Program, Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-1300

RIN: 0581-AC60
BILLING CODE 3410--02--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




170. PROCUREMENT OF COMMODITIES FOR FOREIGN DONATION

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 1 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0560-AH40
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 7; 7 CFR 18

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/09/04                     69 FR 6056
NPRM Comment Period End         05/04/04
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AF60
_______________________________________________________________________




172. INTEREST ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/22/05                    70 FR 36055
Correction                      08/11/05                    70 FR 46799
NPRM Comment Period End         09/06/05
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AG46
_______________________________________________________________________




173. OCEAN FREIGHT CLAIMS ADMINISTRATIVE APPEAL PROCESS

Priority: Other Significant

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/03/03                     68 FR 9944
NPRM Comment Period End         04/02/03
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AG49
_______________________________________________________________________




174. 2002 FARM BILL REGULATIONS--ASSISTANCE FOR LIVESTOCK PRODUCERS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1439

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AG76
_______________________________________________________________________




175. SELECTION OF FSA STATE AND COUNTY COMMITTEES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 7; 7 CFR 710

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice                          08/17/04                    69 FR 51052
Comment Period End              09/22/04                    69 FR 56742
Notice                          01/18/05                     70 FR 2837
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AG90
_______________________________________________________________________




176. ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE AND RELATED CONCERNS

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 799

[[Page 72959]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH02
_______________________________________________________________________




177. DEBT COLLECTION, DEBT SETTLEMENT, AND ASSIGNMENT OF PAYMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Related RIN: Previously reported as 0560-AF22
RIN: 0560-AH09
_______________________________________________________________________




178. DISASTER DECLARATION AND DESIGNATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 791; 7 CFR 1945

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH17
_______________________________________________________________________




179. CONSERVATION CONTRACT DEBT WRITE-DOWN

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 766

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH23
_______________________________________________________________________




180. GUARANTEED FARM LOAN FEES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/15/06                    71 FR 27978
NPRM Comment Period End         07/14/06
Correction                      07/27/06                    71 FR 42605
NPRM Comment Period Extended    08/04/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Elder
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH41
_______________________________________________________________________




181. EMERGENCY CONSERVATION PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 701

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/26/06                    71 FR 30263
NPRM Comment Period End         06/26/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH43
_______________________________________________________________________




182. 2005 HURRICANE DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/10/06                    71 FR 27188
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/09/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH45
_______________________________________________________________________




183. REASSIGNMENT OF SUGAR ALLOCATION SHORTFALLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1435

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Elder
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH50
_______________________________________________________________________




184. [bull] STORAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR GRAIN SECURITY FOR MARKETING 
ASSISTANCE LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 714b

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 72960]]

Abstract: This rule proposes amending regulations governing the 
Marketing Assistance Loan Programs of the Commodity Credit Corporation 
(CCC) that are authorized by the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act 
of 2002 (2002 Act). The major proposed regulatory changes would impact 
the administration of the programs by amending regulations governing 
constraints imposed by CCC on warehouses that store CCC grain and 
similar commodities pledged as collateral for CCC loans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/03/06                    71 FR 37857
NPRM Comment Period End         08/02/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH52
_______________________________________________________________________




185. [bull] DEFINING SUGAR SUBJECT TO MARKETING ALLOCATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7272

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1435

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 7 CFR 1435.2, USDA is modifying the following definition: 
Sugar means any grade or type of saccharine product derived, directly 
or indirectly, from sugarcane, sugar beets, sugarcane molasses, or 
sugar beet molasses and consisting of, or containing, sucrose or invert 
sugar, including raw sugar, refined crystalline sugar, edible molasses, 
edible cane syrup, liquid sugar, and in-process sugar.
Currently, sugar produced from imported thick juice and similar 
sugarcane products such as cane syrup and high test molasses are not 
charged against a seller's domestic allocation because these products 
are already considered ``sugar,'' as defined in the sugar marketing 
allotment program regulation, upon entry to the United States. However, 
these products are not classified by the Department of Homeland 
Security, Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement as ``sugar.'' 
Therefore, they are not subject to the sugar tariff-rate quota. This 
inconsistency in the definition of sugar permits imported beet thick 
juice and its cane syrup counterparts to circumvent the sugar program. 
If this is done in significant quantities, it could negatively impact 
sugar prices resulting in CCC expenditures for sugar purchases.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           09/08/06                     71 FR 5301
ANPRM Comment Period End        11/07/06


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH53
_______________________________________________________________________




186. [bull] INDIAN TRIBAL LAND ACQUISITION PROGRAM (ITLAP) LOAN WRITE-
DOWNS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 109-221

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 770

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will revise 7 CFR part 770 to comply with the 
Native American Technical Corrections Act of 2005 (Public Law 109-221, 
May 12, 2006) (``NATCA''). Section 203 of the NATCA provides that (1) 
actual rental proceeds from the lease of land acquired by FSA Farm Loan 
Programs ITLAP loans shall be deemed to constitute the value of that 
land and (2) satisfies the requirement for an appraisal of that land 
when a Tribe applies for a write-down based on rental value. Prior to 
the passage of the NATCA, the value of land that is collateral for an 
ITLAP loan that is the subject of an application for a write-down was 
determined by a market value rent study of market rents for land in the 
subject land's general area. This requirement reduced the incentive for 
borrowers who apply for a write-down of the ITLAP loan to manipulate 
the value of their loan collateral by mismanagement of that land, or 
otherwise fail to collect a level of rent that reflects the local 
market. Value was determined by an independent professional source 
based on the amount that land in the same area and of the same type 
could be leased. The NATCA removes this requirement. Write-down amounts 
will be based on the dollar amount the land is rented for, not the 
amount of rent for which it could be leased.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH54
_______________________________________________________________________




187. [bull] GUARANTEED LOANS--INTEREST TO BE PAID ON LOSS CLAIMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule proposes to allow a maximum of 210 days of interest 
to accrue from the payment due date with only one exception--FSA's 
failure to approve or reject the claim within 40 days of receipt. Also, 
the actions expected of lenders and FSA staff will be emphasized. 
Lenders are expected to file estimated or final loss claims on all 
accounts in a timely manner. Depending on the circumstances, the 
estimated loss claim could be for zero dollars. FSA staff will be 
reminded to monitor their estimated loss claims closer to avoid extra 
interest days.

[[Page 72961]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH55
_______________________________________________________________________




188. [bull] APPRAISAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FARM OWNERSHIP LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1941; 7 CFR 1943; 7 CFR 761

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed amendment will provide that, for a loan that is 
not a Farm Ownership Loan, evaluation of the rights to any associated 
oil, gas, and minerals will not be required for the appraisal to be 
considered adequate. Conversely, any and all oil, gas, and mineral 
rights attached to any real estate property being offered as security 
for a Farm Ownership loan will be required to be evaluated in any real 
estate appraisal obtained by FSA in connection with the loan decision. 
Failure to include oil, gas, and minerals in the appraisal for a loan 
that is not a Farm Ownership Loan will in no way impair the Agency's 
ability to obtain our rights associated with a mortgage, deed of trust, 
or other security interest in such oil, gas, and minerals.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH56
_______________________________________________________________________




189. [bull] FARM STORAGE FACILITY LOAN PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 15 USC 714

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1436

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The CCC Charter Act authorizes CCC to provide financing for 
producers to build or upgrade farm storage and handling facilities. The 
Farm Storage Facility Loan Program was implemented in May 2000, with 
the final rule published in the Federal Register on January 18, 2001. 
Since that time, questions have come up regarding specific subjects not 
addressed in the final rule. The regulation presently states that the 
structure financed must be used to store an eligible facility loan 
commodity until the loan is repaid. The eligible facility loan 
commodities include wheat, rice, soybeans, sunflower seed, canola, 
rapeseed, safflower, flaxseed, mustard seed, dry peas, lentils, and 
small chickpeas harvested as whole grains, and peanuts. In addition, 
corn, grain sorghum, oats, wheat, and barley are eligible commodities 
to be stored as either whole grain or other than whole grain. Due to 
recent inquiries into the program for the storage of hay and processed 
feed, the regulation needs to be amended to include procedure to follow 
when an ineligible commodity is stored in a structure under loan.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH60
_______________________________________________________________________




190. [bull] GRASSROOTS SOURCE WATER PROTECTION PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 3839bb--2

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 709

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement the Grassroots Source Water 
Protection provisions of the section 2502, Farm Security and Rural 
Investment Act of 2002 and section 1240O/1230 of the Food Security Act 
of 1985, amended.
The Appropriation Act of 2006 will provide $3,750,000 in expenses to 
carry out the program. The FSA will oversee the program that 
establishes and operates the grassroots water protection program by 
each State rural water association. Each State rural water association 
provides onsite technical assistance capabilities to make the voluntary 
measurements plans in preventing source water pollution for the 
producers' and farmers' lands at State and local level and conduct 
other aspects of the program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH61
_______________________________________________________________________




191. [bull] 2006 DISASTER ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

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

Legal Authority: PL 109-234

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement the provisions of the Emergency 
Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 2006 (2006 Act) related to the 
Livestock Compensation Program (LCP), Livestock

[[Page 72962]]

Indemnity Program (LIP), Livestock Indemnity Program for Contract 
Growers (LIP-CG), the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), and the Crop 
Disaster Assistance Program for specialty and nursery crops. The 
programs will provide assistance to eligible producers who suffered 
losses in counties covered by a natural disaster declaration related to 
hurricanes Katrina, Ophelia, Rita, and Wilma or a related condition and 
to producers in contiguous counties. The Act provides that, in general, 
the programs be implemented under the same terms and conditions as the 
similar programs already established for the 2005 hurricanes. See the 
attached 2006 Act for more specific information.

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: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH62
_______________________________________________________________________




192. [bull] INTEREST RATES ON FARM SERVICE AGENCY FARM LOAN PROGRAMS 
GUARANTEED LOANS

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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1989 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 7 CFR 762.124, USDA is considering a modification of the 
following section on interest rates, terms, charges, and fees: Neither 
the interest rate on the guaranteed portion nor the unguaranteed 
portion may exceed the rate the lender charges its average agricultural 
loan customer. At the request of the Agency, the lender must provide 
evidence of the rate charged the average agricultural loan customer. 
This evidence may consist of average yield data, or documented 
administrative differential rate schedule formulas used by the lender. 
Thus, FSA is proposing to amend its guaranteed loan regulations at 7 
CFR part 762.124(a)(3) to provide that the interest rates charged on 
FSA Guaranteed Farm Loans must be based on a published index.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department of 
Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH66
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Farm Service Agency (FSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




193. AMENDMENTS TO THE STANDARDS FOR APPROVAL OF WAREHOUSES FOR 
COMMODITY CREDIT CORPORATION STORAGE CONTRACTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/25/06                    71 FR 42017

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AE50
_______________________________________________________________________




194. CLARIFICATION OF INFORMAL APPEALS PROCEDURES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 780

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/30/06                    71 FR 30568

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Elder
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AG88
_______________________________________________________________________




195. RETAINING PREFERRED LENDER PROGRAM (PLP) STATUS, PROCESSING LOSS 
CLAIMS, PAYMENT OF INTEREST ACCRUED DURING BANKRUPTCY, AND REDEMPTION 
RIGHTS PERIODS FOR GUARANTEED LOANS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/03/06                    71 FR 43955

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH07

[[Page 72963]]

_______________________________________________________________________




196. PLANTING REPORTING FOR TROPICAL CROPS--NONINSURED CROP DISASTER 
ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1437

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/07/06                    71 FR 52738

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH19
_______________________________________________________________________




197. CONFIDENTIALITY OF CONSERVATION PROGRAM INFORMATION

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Transferred to NRCS RIN 0578-
AA40                            05/01/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH32
_______________________________________________________________________




198. GUARANTEED LOANS--UNAUTHORIZED ASSISTANCE

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 762

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       05/23/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Elder
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH34
_______________________________________________________________________




199. GRAINS AND SIMILARLY HANDLED COMMODITIES--MARKETING ASSISTANCE 
LOANS AND LOAN DEFICIENCY PAYMENTS FOR THE 2002 THROUGH 2007 CROP YEARS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1421

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/06/06                    71 FR 32415
Correction                      06/19/06                    71 FR 35147

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH38
_______________________________________________________________________




200. COOPERATIVE MARKETING ASSOCIATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1425

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/28/06                    71 FR 42749

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Geraldine Broadway
Phone: 202 720-1272
Fax: 202 690-3673
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH42
_______________________________________________________________________




201. EMERGENCY FORESTRY CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1410

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/02/06                    71 FR 91912

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH44
_______________________________________________________________________




202. REVISIONS OF DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/25/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH46
_______________________________________________________________________




203. EXTENSION OF THE MILK INCOME LOSS CONTRACT PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1430

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/17/06                    71 FR 19621

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0560-AH47
_______________________________________________________________________




204. REGULATIONS FOR THE UNITED STATES WAREHOUSE ACT; COTTON LOANS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1425

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM Comment Period End        04/14/06

[[Page 72964]]

NPRM                            05/26/06                    71 FR 30318
Final Action                    08/30/06                    71 FR 51422

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Elder
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH48
_______________________________________________________________________




205. PERCENTAGES FOR DIRECT AND COUNTER-CYCLICAL PROGRAM ADVANCE 
PAYMENTS

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1412

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/10/06                    71 FR 17982

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

Jacquelyn C. Chandler
Phone: 202 720-1272
Fax: 202 720-8635
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH49
_______________________________________________________________________




206. [bull] REVISIONS OF DELEGATIONS OF AUTHORITY

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1231

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: USDA amends the delegations of authority from the Secretary 
of Agriculture to the Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural 
Services and to the Administrator, Farm Service Agency, for technical 
determinations for the Conservation Reserve Program principally due to 
enactment of Public Law 108-498.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/21/06                    71 FR 35491

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH51
_______________________________________________________________________




207. [bull] REGULATIONS REGARDING EMPLOYEE CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: PL 103-354

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1900

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule clarifies the regulations governing employee 
conflicts of interest for the successor agencies of the former Farmers 
Home Administration, which was reorganized by the Department of 
Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994 into the Farm Service Agency 
(FSA), Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Rural Housing Service, and 
Rural Utilities Service. Since the reorganization, FSA revised its 
regulations to streamline them and separate them from the other 
successor agencies. FSA's regulations regarding employee conflicts of 
interest are now found in regulations published by the Office of 
Government Ethics in 5 CFR 2635 and regulations published jointly by 
OGE and FSA in 5 CFR part 8301. To avoid confusion regarding 
applicability of the regulations, this rule amends 7 CFR part 1900, 
subpart D, to provide specifically that they do not apply to FSA.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/11/06                    71 FR 38979

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH57
_______________________________________________________________________




208. [bull] DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY; COOPERATIVE AGREEMENTS FOR 
CONSERVATION PROGRAMS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 6912(a)(1)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: USDA amends the delegations of authority from the Secretary 
of Agriculture to the Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural 
Services and to the Administrator, Farm Service Agency (FSA), to 
implement Cooperative Agreements for Conservation Programs implemented 
by FSA and to implement the Grassroots Source Water Protection Program 
authorized by the Food Security Act of 1985, section 1240O

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/30/06                    71 FR 51421

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH58
_______________________________________________________________________




209. [bull] 2005 DAIRY DISASTER ASSISTANCE PAYMENT (DDAP-II) PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 109-234

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement the dairy disaster assistance 
provisions of the Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 
2006.

[[Page 72965]]

The legislation provides $17 million to make payments to dairy 
producers for dairy production and dairy spoilage losses in counties 
declared a natural disaster by the Secretary of Agriculture or a major 
disaster or emergency designated by the President during the 2005 
calendar year due to Hurricanes Katrina, Ophelia, Rita, Wilma, or a 
related condition. Contiguous counties are included.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/31/06                    71 FR 63668

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH59
_______________________________________________________________________




210. [bull] 2005 COTTONSEED PAYMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 109-234

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1427

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement the cottonseed assistance 
provisions of the Emergency Agricultural Disaster Assistance Act of 
2006. The Act provides $15 million to make payments to producers and 
first handlers of the 2005 crop of cottonseed in counties declared a 
disaster by the President in 2005 due to hurricanes. The FSA shall 
provide payment under subsection (a) under the same terms and 
conditions as provided under section 2006 of the Agricultural 
Assistance Act of 2003. The Act also states that the assistance to 
producers and first handlers is to be based on their cotton production 
during the most recent year for a which disaster payment specifically 
for cottonseed was not authorized.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/31/06                    71 FR 63665

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tom Witzig, Director, Regulatory Review Group, 
Department of Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0572
Phone: 202 205-5851
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH63
_______________________________________________________________________




211. [bull] REMOVAL OF OBSOLETE REGULATIONS; HOLDING OF REFERENDA

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: PL 108-357

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 717

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action removes the regulations at 7 CFR part 717, 
Holding Of Referenda, because of the expiration of their statutory 
authority and the ending of the programs they governed. There are no 
impacts on past or current program operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/24/06                    71 FR 49986

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department of 
Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH64
_______________________________________________________________________




212. [bull] REMOVAL OF OBSOLETE REGULATIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 15 USC 714b et seq; 7 USC 3801 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 700; 7 CFR 702; 7 CFR 711; 7 CFR 729; 7 CFR 752; 7 
CFR 755; 7 CFR 1413; 7 CFR 1446; 7 CFR 1470; 7 CFR 1479; 7 CFR 1480; 7 
CFR 1481; 7 CFR 1382

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action removes regulations rendered obsolete by 
expiration of their statutory authority and the ending of their 
respective programs. There are no impacts on past or current program 
operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/15/06                    71 FR 54401

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Phillip Elder, Agricultural Economist, Department of 
Agriculture, Farm Service Agency, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-8104
Fax: 202 720-5233
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0560-AH65
BILLING CODE 3410--05--S

[[Page 72966]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




213. ANIMAL WELFARE: MARINE MAMMALS; NONCONSENSUS LANGUAGE AND 
INTERACTIVE PROGRAMS (RULEMAKING RESULTING FROM A SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2131 to 2159

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 3

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The U.S. Department of Agriculture regulates the treatment of 
certain marine mammals under the Animal Welfare Act. The present 
standards for treatment of these animals have been in effect for over 
10 years. During this time, advances have been made and new information 
has been developed with regard to the housing and care of marine 
mammals. We intend to develop amendments to the marine mammal standards 
on which consensus was not reached during negotiated rulemaking 
conducted between September 1995 and July 1996. The amendments would be 
to standards affecting variances, indoor facilities, outdoor 
facilities, space requirements, and water quality, as well as swim-
with-the-dolphin programs. These actions appear necessary to ensure 
that the minimum standards for the humane handling, care, treatment, 
and transportation of marine mammals in captivity are based on current 
general, industry, and scientific knowledge and experience.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/30/02                    67 FR 37731
ANPRM Comment Period End        07/29/02
NPRM                            03/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Barbara Kohn, Senior Staff Veterinarian, Animal Care, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
4700 River Road, Unit 84, Riverdale, MD 20737-1234
Phone: 301 734-8271

RIN: 0579-AB24
_______________________________________________________________________




214. TUBERCULOSIS IN CATTLE; IMPORT REQUIREMENTS (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1622; 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 
31 USC 9701

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations regarding the 
importation of animals into the United States to establish several 
levels of risk classifications to be applied to foreign regions with 
regard to tuberculosis, and to establish requirements governing the 
importation of cattle based on each risk classification. These changes 
are necessary to help ensure that cattle infected with tuberculosis are 
not imported into the United States.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         10/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Dr. Kelly Rhodes, Senior Staff Veterinarian, 
Regionalization Evaluation Services Staff, NCIE, VS, Department of 
Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River 
Road, Unit 38, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4356

RIN: 0579-AB44
_______________________________________________________________________




215. BOLL WEEVIL; QUARANTINE AND REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish domestic boll weevil regulations 
that would restrict the interstate movement of regulated articles 
within regulated areas and from regulated areas into or through 
nonregulated areas in commercial cotton producing States. The proposed 
regulations would help prevent the artificial spread of boll weevil 
into noninfested areas of the United States and the reinfestation of 
areas from which the boll weevil has been eradicated.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/31/06                    71 FR 63707
NPRM Comment Period End         01/02/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: William Grefenstette, National Coordinator, Boll Weevil 
Eradication Program, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 138, Riverdale, MD 
20737
Phone: 301 734-8676

RIN: 0579-AB91
_______________________________________________________________________




216. TRICHINAE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 7 USC 1622

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 149; 9 CFR 160 to 161

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would establish a voluntary Trichinae 
Certification Program for U.S. pork that has been produced under 
disease-prevention conditions. Under the proposed program, we would 
certify pork production sites that follow prescribed good production 
practices that reduce, eliminate, or avoid the risk of exposure of 
animals to the zoonotic parasite Trichinella spiralis, a disease of 
swine. Such a program should enhance the ability of producers to export 
pork and pork products to overseas markets. This proposed program, 
which would be funded by program fees, has been developed as a 
cooperative effort by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National 
Pork Board, and the pork processing industry. If adopted, this program 
would include those producers who choose to participate in the program, 
as well as slaughter facilities

[[Page 72967]]

and other persons that handle or process swine from pork production 
sites that have been certified under the program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Dave Pyburn, National Trichinae Coordinator, VS, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
210 Walnut Street, Room 891, Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 515 284-4122

RIN: 0579-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________




217. STANDARDS FOR PERMANENT, PRIVATELY OWNED HORSE QUARANTINE 
FACILITIES (SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1622; 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 
31 USC 9701

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would establish standards for the approval of 
permanent, privately owned quarantine facilities for horses. We are 
taking this action because demand for quarantine services for horses 
exceeds the space available at existing facilities. We believe that 
allowing imported horses to be quarantined in permanent, privately 
owned quarantine facilities that meet these newly proposed criteria 
would facilitate the importation of horses while continuing to protect 
against the introduction of communicable diseases of horses.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Dr. Freeda Isaac, Staff Veterinarian, VS, National 
Center for Import and Export, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 39, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-8364

RIN: 0579-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________




218. ANIMAL WELFARE; REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS FOR BIRDS

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 2 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0579-AC02
_______________________________________________________________________




219. IMPORTATION OF PLANTS FOR PLANTING; ESTABLISHING A NEW CATEGORY OF 
PLANTS FOR PLANTING NOT AUTHORIZED FOR IMPORTATION PENDING RISK 
ASSESSMENT (RULEMAKING RESULTING FROM A SECTION 610 REVIEW)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 3 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0579-AC03
_______________________________________________________________________




220. NATIONAL VETERINARY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM (RULEMAKING RESULTING 
FROM A SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317; 15 USC 1828

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 160 to 162

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations regarding the 
National Veterinary Accreditation Program to establish two 
accreditation categories in place of the current single category, to 
add requirements for supplemental training and renewal of 
accreditation, and to offer accreditation specializations. These 
changes are intended to support the Agency's animal health safeguarding 
initiatives, to involve accredited veterinarians in integrated 
surveillance activities, and to make the provisions governing our 
National Veterinary Accreditation Program more uniform and consistent.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/01/06                    71 FR 31109
NPRM Comment Period End         07/31/06
Supplemental NPRM               01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Dr. Lawrence Miller, Program Manager, National 
Veterinary Accreditation Program, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 46, Riverdale, 
MD 20737
Phone: 301 734-6188

RIN: 0579-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________




221. [bull] SHARING CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS INFORMATION REGARDING THE 
INTRODUCTION OF GENETICALLY ENGINEERED ORGANISMS AND PRODUCTS WITH 
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 31 USC 9701

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 340

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action would amend our regulations regarding genetically 
engineered organisms to add provisions concerning the sharing of 
confidential business information (CBI) with authorized officials of 
State, tribal, and Federal Government agencies. The proposed provisions 
would create mechanisms for sharing CBI submitted under the regulations 
pursuant to a permit application or notification application. This 
action is necessary to facilitate interagency communication and 
cooperation, to increase the transparency of regulatory decisionmaking, 
and to maintain rigorous yet appropriate regulation of genetically 
engineered organisms.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07

[[Page 72968]]

NPRM Comment Period End         05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State, Tribal

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Michael Wach, Biotechnology Regulatory Services, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
4700 River Road, Unit 147, Riverdale, MD 20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-0485

RIN: 0579-AC08
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




222. PHYTOSANITARY CERTIFICATES FOR IMPORTED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 21 
USC 136 and 136a

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319.56 to 319.56-8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Currently APHIS does not require a phytosanitary certificate 
to accompany fruits and vegetables imported into the United States 
except for certain fruits and vegetables grown in designated foreign 
regions. This rule would amend our regulations to require that a 
phytosanitary certificate accompany all fruits and vegetables imported 
into the United States, with certain exceptions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/29/01                    66 FR 45637
NPRM Comment Period End         10/29/01
NPRM; Availability of Risk 
Assessment                      05/24/06                    71 FR 29846
NPRM; Availability of Risk 
Assessment Comment Period End   07/24/06
Final Rule                      02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Shirley Wager-Page, Branch Chief, Commodity Import 
Analysis and Operations, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 133, Riverdale, 
MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-0627

RIN: 0579-AB18
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8316

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 55; 9 CFR 81

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would establish requirements for the 
interstate movement of farmed elk and deer and provide indemnity for 
the depopulation of farmed elk and deer that have been infected with, 
or exposed to, chronic wasting disease (CWD).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/08/02                     67 FR 5925
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/09/02
NPRM                            12/24/03                    68 FR 74513
NPRM Comment Period End         02/23/04
Final Rule                      07/21/06                    71 FR 41682
Delay of Effective Date         09/08/06                    71 FR 52983
Final Rule Effective            10/19/06
Notice of Receipt of Petitions 
and Request for Comments        11/03/06                    71 FR 64650
Comment Period End              12/04/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Dean Goeldner, Staff Veterinarian, National Center for 
Animal Health Programs, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 43, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1231
Phone: 301 736-4916

RIN: 0579-AB35
_______________________________________________________________________




224. REVISION OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES IMPORT REGULATIONS

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 4 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0579-AB80
_______________________________________________________________________




225. PHYTOPHTHORA RAMORUM; QUARANTINE AND REGULATIONS

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 5 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0579-AB82
_______________________________________________________________________




226. INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF SHEEP AND GOATS; APPROVED LIVESTOCK 
FACILITIES, IDENTIFICATION, AND RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 8301 to 8317

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 71

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking would amend the regulations regarding the 
interstate movement of animals to require livestock facilities that 
handle sheep or goats in interstate commerce to be approved by us. This 
would include stockyards, livestock markets, buying stations, 
concentration points, or any other premises where sheep or goats in 
interstate commerce are assembled. Our approval would be contingent on 
the facility operator meeting certain minimum standards

[[Page 72969]]

and other conditions relating to the receipt, handling, and release of 
sheep and goats at the facility, as well as complying with certain 
animal identification and recordkeeping requirements. The standards and 
other conditions would be based, in part, on recently implemented 
regulations relating to the interstate movement of sheep and goats in 
order to control the spread of scrapie, a serious disease of sheep and 
goats. This rule would provide for the establishment of standards for 
the approval of livestock facilities that handle sheep or goats in 
interstate commerce.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/26/04                    69 FR 52451
NPRM Comment Period End         10/25/04
Final Rule                      03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Diane Sutton, Senior Staff Veterinarian, National 
Center for Animal Health Programs, VS, Department of Agriculture, 
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 43, 
Riverdale, MD 20737-1235
Phone: 301 734-6954

RIN: 0579-AB84
_______________________________________________________________________




227. VIRUSES, SERUMS, TOXINS, AND ANALOGOUS PRODUCTS; RECORDS AND 
REPORTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 151 to 159

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 101; 9 CFR 116

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend the Virus-Serum-Toxin Act 
regulations concerning records and reports to require veterinary 
biologics licensees and permittees to record and submit reports to the 
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) concerning adverse 
events associated with the use of biological products that they produce 
or distribute. We would specify the information that must be included 
in the adverse event report and would require veterinary biologics 
manufacturers to report to APHIS the number of doses of each licensed 
product that they distribute. These actions would assist APHIS in 
providing complete and accurate information to consumers regarding 
adverse reactions or other problems associated with the use of licensed 
biological products. This proposed rule replaces a previously published 
proposed rule, which we are withdrawing as part of this document, that 
contained fewer specifics concerning the information that would have to 
be recorded in adverse event reports associated with the use of 
veterinary biologics that are submitted to the Agency.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/17/05                    70 FR 48325
NPRM Comment Period End         10/17/05
Final Rule                      06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Albert P. Morgan, Chief Staff Veterinarian, VS, Center 
for Veterinary Biologics, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 148, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1237
Phone: 301 734-8245

RIN: 0579-AB90
_______________________________________________________________________




228. SPECIAL NEED REQUESTS UNDER THE PLANT PROTECTION ACT

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed action would amend our domestic quarantine 
regulations to establish a process by which a State or political 
subdivision of a State could request approval to impose prohibitions or 
restrictions on the movement in interstate commerce of specific 
articles that are in addition to the prohibitions and restrictions 
imposed by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. The Plant 
Protection Act provides that States or political subdivisions of States 
may make such special need requests, but there are currently no 
procedures in place for their submission or consideration. This action 
would establish a process by which States may make a special need 
request.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/04/06                    71 FR 16711
NPRM Comment Period End         06/05/06
Final Rule                      02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Mr. James Writer, Agriculturist, Invasive Species and 
Pest Management, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 137, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-7121

RIN: 0579-AB98

[[Page 72970]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 330

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Flanders
Phone: 301 734-5930

RIN: 0579-AA80
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 53

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/01/02                    67 FR 21934
NPRM Comment Period Extended    06/28/02                    67 FR 43566
NPRM Comment Period End         07/01/02
NPRM Comment Period End         07/31/02


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Mark Teachman
Phone: 301 734-8073

RIN: 0579-AB34
_______________________________________________________________________




231. KARNAL BUNT COMPENSATION

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/01/02                    67 FR 21561
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/01/02
NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Vedpal S. Malik
Phone: 301 734-6774

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




232. MOVEMENT OF UNROASTED COFFEE INTO HAWAII AND PUERTO RICO

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 305; 7 CFR 319

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Shirley Wager-Page
Phone: 301 734-8453

RIN: 0579-AB96
_______________________________________________________________________




233. BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY; MINIMAL-RISK REGIONS AND 
IMPORTATION OF COMMODITIES; UNSEALING OF MEANS OF CONVEYANCE AND 
TRANSLOADING OF PRODUCTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93 to 95

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/28/05                    70 FR 71213
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/27/06
Final Rule                       To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Karen A. James-Preston
Phone: 301 734-4356

Related RIN: Related to 0579-AB73
RIN: 0579-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




234. LOW PATHOGENIC AVIAN INFLUENZA; VOLUNTARY CONTROL PROGRAM AND 
PAYMENT OF INDEMNITY

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 53; 9 CFR 56; 9 CFR 145 to 147

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/26/06                    71 FR 56302
Interim Final Rule Effective    09/26/06
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/27/06


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Andrew R. Rhorer
Phone: 770 922-3496

RIN: 0579-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________




235. BOVINE SPONGIFORM ENCEPHALOPATHY; MINIMAL-RISK REGIONS AND 
IMPORTATION OF COMMODITIES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93 to 96

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Lisa Ferguson
Phone: 301 734-6954

RIN: 0579-AC01
_______________________________________________________________________




236. CITRUS CANKER; COMPENSATION FOR CERTIFIED CITRUS NURSERY STOCK

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/08/06                    71 FR 33168
Interim Final Rule Effective    06/08/06

[[Page 72971]]

Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      08/07/06


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Agency Contact: Stephen R. Poe
Phone: 301 734-4387

RIN: 0579-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




237. [bull] AGRICULTURAL INSPECTION AND AQI USER FEES ALONG THE U.S./
CANADA BORDER

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 7 
USC 8301 to 8317; 21 USC 136 and 136a; 49 USC 80503

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319; 7 CFR 354

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend the foreign quarantine and user fee 
regulations by removing the exemptions from inspection for fruits and 
vegetables grown in Canada and the exemptions from user fees for 
commercial vessels, commercial trucks, commercial railroad cars, 
commercial aircraft, and international air passengers entering the 
United States from Canada. As a result of this action, all agricultural 
products imported from Canada will be subject to inspection, and 
commercial conveyances, as well as airline passengers arriving on 
flights from Canada, will be subject to inspection and user fees. We 
are taking this action in part because we are not recovering the costs 
of our current inspection activities at the U.S./Canada border. In 
addition, our data show an increasing number of interceptions on the 
U.S./Canada border of prohibited material that originated in regions 
other than Canada that presents a high risk of introducing plant pests 
or animal diseases into the United States. These findings, combined 
with additional Canadian airport preclearance data on interceptions of 
ineligible agricultural products approaching the U.S. border from 
Canada, strongly indicate that we need to expand and strengthen our 
pest exclusion and smuggling interdiction efforts at that border. In 
order to do this and to recover the costs of our existing inspection 
activity, we need to collect user fees from commercial conveyances and 
international air passengers entering the United States from Canada.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/25/06                    71 FR 50320
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/24/06
Interim Final Rule Effective    11/24/06


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Alan S. Green, Executive Director, Plant Health 
Programs, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health 
Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 36, Riverdale, MD 20737
Phone: 301 734-8261

RIN: 0579-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________




238. [bull] CITRUS CANKER; QUARANTINE OF THE STATE OF FLORIDA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will amend the citrus canker regulations to list 
the entire State of Florida as a quarantined area for citrus canker and 
to amend the requirements for the movement of regulated articles from 
Florida now that the eradication of citrus canker in Florida is no 
longer being carried out as an objective. It will also amend the 
regulations to allow regulated articles that would not otherwise be 
eligible for interstate movement to be moved to a port for immediate 
export. These changes are necessary in light of the Department's 
determination that the established eradication program was no longer a 
scientifically feasible option to address citrus canker.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/01/06                    71 FR 43345
Interim Final Rule Effective    08/01/06
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/02/06


Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, State

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Stephen R. Poe, Senior Operations Officer, EDP, PPQ, 
Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, 
4700 River Road, Unit 137, Riverdale, MD 20737-1231
Phone: 301 734-4387

RIN: 0579-AC07

[[Page 72972]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




239. GYPSY MOTH; INTERSTATE MOVEMENT OF REGULATED ARTICLES (COMPLETION 
OF A SECTION 610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450; 7 USC 77701 to 7772; 7 USC 7781 to 7786; 21 
USC 136 and 136a

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 301; 7 CFR 319

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule would amend the gypsy moth regulations by removing 
restrictions on the interstate movement of wood chips, which do not 
pose a risk of containing gypsy moth egg masses, and by adding 
restrictions on the movement and importation of bark and bark products, 
which pose a risk of containing gypsy moth egg masses. In addition, the 
rule would extend by 2 months the period during which regulated 
articles originating outside of any generally infested area must be 
safeguarded from infestation in order to be eligible for interstate 
movement directly through any generally infested area without a 
certificate or permit. These changes are necessary to update the 
provisions in the regulations to ensure consistent actions by the 
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, our cooperators, and 
industry in order to limit the artificial spread of gypsy moth.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/23/03                    68 FR 28157
NPRM Comment Period End         07/22/03
Final Action                    07/19/06                    71 FR 40875
Final Action Effective          08/18/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Additional Information: Additional information about APHIS and its 
programs is available on the Internet at http://www.aphis.usda.gov.

Agency Contact: Weyman Fussell, Program Manager, Invasive Species and 
Pest Management, PPQ, Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant 
Health Inspection Service, 4700 River Road, Unit 134, Riverdale, MD 
20737-1236
Phone: 301 734-5705

RIN: 0579-AB55
_______________________________________________________________________




240. PINE SHOOT BEETLE HOST MATERIAL FROM CANADA

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Rule                      09/29/06                    71 FR 57383
Final Rule Effective            09/29/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Frederick A. Thomas
Phone: 301 734-8367

RIN: 0579-AB76
_______________________________________________________________________




241. IMPORTATION OF SMALL LOTS OF SEED WITHOUT PHYTOSANITARY 
CERTIFICATES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/13/06                    71 FR 19097
Final Action Effective          05/15/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Arnold T. Tschanz
Phone: 301 734-5306

RIN: 0579-AB78
_______________________________________________________________________




242. IMPORTATION OF SWINE AND SWINE PRODUCTS FROM THE EUROPEAN UNION

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 93 to 94; 9 CFR 98

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/19/06                    71 FR 29061
Correction                      06/01/06                    71 FR 31069
Final Action Effective          06/19/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Chip Wells
Phone: 301 734-4356

RIN: 0579-AB79
_______________________________________________________________________




243. REQUIREMENTS FOR REQUESTS TO AMEND IMPORT REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 319

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/30/06                    71 FR 30563
Final Action Effective          06/29/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ronald Sequeira
Phone: 919 513-2663

RIN: 0579-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________




244. USER FEES FOR AGRICULTURAL QUARANTINE AND INSPECTION SERVICES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 354

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Affirmation of Interim Final 
Rule                            08/24/06                    71 FR 49984

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: William E. Thomas
Phone: 301 734-8295

Donna Ford
Phone: 301 734-5901

RIN: 0579-AB88
BILLING CODE 3410--34--S

[[Page 72973]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


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



_______________________________________________________________________




245. CSREES AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION FORMULA PROGRAMS--ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 341 et seq; 7 USC 1444

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Passage of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 
2002, sections 7212 and 7213, has resulted in the need for CSREES to 
clarify its distribution of funding, matching requirements, carryover 
provisions, and reporting requirements for extension programs at 1862 
Land-Grant Institutions and 1890 Land-Grant Institutions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ellen Danus, Chief, Policy, Oversight, and Funds 
Management Branch, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State 
Research, Education, and Extension Service, STOP 2299, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 401-4325
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________




246. CSREES NON-FORMULA GRANT PROGRAMS--ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450i; PL 101-624; PL 105-185; PL 104-127; . . .

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3427; 7 CFR 3400; 7 CFR 3402; 7 CFR 3405; 7 CFR 
3406; . . .

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: CSREES plans to propose one administrative provision that 
contains the elements common to all of the competitive and 
noncompetitive grant programs it administers. In a relatively short 
period of time, this will allow the Agency to apply basic rules to 
grant programs that are currently operating without them, including new 
non-formula grant programs created by the passage of the Farm Security 
and Rural Investment Act of 2002.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Erin Daly, Senior Financial Policy Specialist, 
Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and 
Extension Service, STOP 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 401-3319
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA28
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


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



_______________________________________________________________________




247. MATCHING REQUIREMENTS FOR FORMULA FUNDS FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH 
AND EXTENSION ACTIVITIES AT THE 1890 LAND-GRANT INSTITUTIONS AND AT THE 
1862 LAND-GRANT INSTITUTIONS IN INSULAR AREAS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 361a et seq; 7 USC 341 et seq; 7 USC 1449

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3419

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Passage of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 
2002, sections 7212 and 7213, has changed the matching requirements for 
the 1890 Land-Grant Institutions and the 1862 Land-Grant Institutions 
in insular areas. Issues regarding the use of matching funds, sources 
of matching funds, and matching waivers for the Insular 1862 Land-Grant 
Institutions need to be clarified.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/29/03                    68 FR 23014
NPRM Comment Period End         06/30/03
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ellen Danus, Chief, Policy, Oversight, and Funds 
Management Branch, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State 
Research, Education, and Extension Service, STOP 2299, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 401-4325
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA25
_______________________________________________________________________




248. REVISED ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION 
RESEARCH GRANTS PROGRAM

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

Legal Authority: 15 USC 638; PL 99-591, 100 Stat 3341; PL 106-554

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3403

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: CSREES proposes revising the existing administrative 
provisions for the Small Business Innovation Research Grants Program 
Administrative Regulations to implement changes compliant with the 
Small Business Innovation Research Policy Directive (67 FR 60072) of 
September 24, 2002.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/18/06                    71 FR 28780
NPRM Comment Period End         06/19/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

[[Page 72974]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Winston Sherman, Department of Agriculture, Cooperative 
State Research, Education, and Extension Service, STOP 2299, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 401-5061
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA31
_______________________________________________________________________




249. REVISED ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS--NATIONAL RESEARCH INITIATIVE 
COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 450i(b)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3411

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension 
Service proposes to make three revisions to the ``Eligibility 
requirements'' subsection of the administrative provisions for the 
National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program (NRICGP). All 
three of the proposed changes would impact the eligibility requirements 
for NRICGP's Agricultural Research Enhancement Awards, which are 
intended to help institutions develop competitive research programs and 
to attract scientists to conduct research in the agriculture, food, and 
environmental sciences. CSREES proposes to change the eligibility 
requirements for Postdoctoral Fellowships, New Investigator Awards, and 
Strengthening Awards. The proposed changes will increase the impact of 
the Agricultural Research Enhancement Awards. The expected results are 
(1) for Postdoctoral Fellowships, improved funding continuity and 
potentially more postdoctoral scientists entering into an agricultural 
research career; (2) for New Investigator Awards, improved project 
design and increased probability of a successful agricultural research 
program; and (3) for Strengthening Awards, improved research project 
continuity and more incentive for researchers to stay at USDA-
Experimental Program for Stimulating Competitive Research or small/mid-
sized institutions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/06/06                    71 FR 32479
NPRM Comment Period End         08/07/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Erin Daly, Senior Financial Policy Specialist, 
Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and 
Extension Service, STOP 2299, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250-2299
Phone: 202 401-3319
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA32
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


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



_______________________________________________________________________




250. CSREES AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH FORMULA PROGRAMS--ADMINISTRATIVE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/07/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ellen Danus
Phone: 202 401-4325
Fax: 202 401-7752
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA27
_______________________________________________________________________




251. GUIDELINES FOR HATCH MULTISTATE RESEARCH FUNDS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/07/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janet Downey
Phone: 202 205-0453
Fax: 202 401-3481
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0524-AA29
BILLING CODE 3410--09--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency intends to publish a proposed rule to effectuate a 
comprehensive civil rights regulation implementing the following laws: 
The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA); title VI of the Civil Rights 
Act of 1964; title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, as amended by 
the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988 (The Fair

[[Page 72975]]

Housing Act); section 504 Federally Conducted and Federally Assisted 
Programs; title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Age 
Discrimination Act of 1975; and Executive Orders 11246 and 12898 
(Environmental Justice). The revised regulations will provide detailed 
guidelines for field offices for improved enforcement and compliance 
with these laws, which heavily impact the Agency's programs. Mechanisms 
for monitoring compliance by field offices and recipients of Federal 
financial assistance at all levels will decrease the Agency's 
vulnerability that exists due to noncompliance with recently enacted 
Civil Rights legislation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Carlton L. Lewis, Chief, Program Compliance Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, STOP 0703, Washington, DC 20250-0703
Phone: 202 692-0097
TDD Phone: 202 692-0107
Fax: 202 692-0305
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AA83
_______________________________________________________________________




253. NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE REGULATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Linda Rodgers, Technical Support Branch Chief, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0761
Phone: 202 720-9647
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC07
_______________________________________________________________________




254. SERVICING COMMUNITY PROGRAMS LOANS AND GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency will consolidate seven regulations containing 
Community Facility (CF) servicing information into one, streamlined 
regulation. The Agency will also make changes to improve the servicing 
options available to CF borrowers. The goal is to work with borrowers 
to enable them to continue operating and providing essential community 
services to rural residents. This consolidation and the proposed 
changes will improve service to borrowers and will ensure that the 
Government's investment is protected and maximized. The proposed action 
will have no financial impact on the public or the Agency. The 
consolidation and revisions of these regulations will be in the best 
interest of the Government and the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Beth Jones, Loan Specialist, Community Programs 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0787, Washington, DC 20250-0787
Phone: 202 720-1498
Fax: 202-690-0471
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC12
_______________________________________________________________________




255. SELF-HELP TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 42 USC 1480

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1944; 7 CFR 3551

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulations for 7 CFR 1944-I ``Self-Help Technical 
Assistance Grants'' is being rewritten and renumbered to 7 CFR 3551. 
Changes are proposed for clarification of policy and procedures 
relative to the: 1) Application procedure, which is changing to an 
annual competitive grant process; 2) labor contribution of 
participating families; 3) monitoring of grantee progress through Self-
Help Automated Reporting and Evaluation System (SHARES); and 4) define 
the roles of Technical and Management Assistance Contractors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Carolyn Bell, Single Family Housing Direct Loan 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0783, Washington, DC 20250-0783
Phone: 202 720-1532
Fax: 202 720-2232
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC20

[[Page 72976]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1926

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

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Anita Outen, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, STOP 
0787, Washington, DC 20250-0787
Phone: 202 720-1497
Fax: 202-690-0471
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC27
_______________________________________________________________________




257. PLANNING AND PERFORMING CONSTRUCTION AND OTHER DEVELOPMENT

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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1926; 42 USC 1472; 42 USC 1476; 42 USC 1479; 42 
USC 1490

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1924, subpart A; 7 CFR 1924, subpart C; 7 CFR 1942, 
subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Housing Service (RHS) is consolidating, 
simplifying, and updating the Agency standards for planning and 
developing sites and buildings to bring them in line with contemporary 
industry standards. This Agency regulation will contain the policies 
and procedures for planning and developing sites and buildings proposed 
for RHS financial assistance. This effort will produce a user-friendly 
tool to help program constituents, rural communities, and Agency 
personnel.
The consolidation effort will also bring the requirements of these two 
regulations in line with the Agency's Single Family Housing, Multi-
Family Housing, Community Programs, and Business and Industry 
regulations and handbooks. This action will have no financial impact on 
the public or Agency. These consolidations and technical revisions are 
in the best interest of the Government and public. This is a positive 
and needed action in RHS program delivery and will add value to the 
access and delivery of the Agency's programs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Linda Rodgers, Technical Support Branch Chief, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0761
Phone: 202 720-9647
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC55
_______________________________________________________________________




258. ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1794; 7 CFR 1901, subpart F; 7 CFR 1940, subpart G; 
7 CFR 1940, subpart J

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Development Agencies (Rural Housing Service, Rural 
Utilities Service, and Rural Business-Cooperative Service) are seeking 
to consolidate, simplify, and update the different Agency environmental 
requirements into a common environmental regulation. This Rural 
Development regulation will replace 7 CFR 1794, the current RUS 
environmental regulation; 7 CFR 1940-G, the current RHS/RBS 
environmental regulation; 7 CFR 1901-F, the current Historic 
Preservation regulation; and 7 CFR Part 1940-J, the current 
Intergovernmental Review regulation.
This consolidation effort will produce a single user-friendly tool to 
help the program constituents, rural communities, and Rural Development 
staff and bring the environmental requirements of Agency actions in 
line with the environmental requirements of other Federal programs for 
similar actions. This rule consists of subparts A through O.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Linda Rodgers, Technical Support Branch Chief, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0761
Phone: 202 720-9647
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC56
_______________________________________________________________________




259. COMMUNITY PROGRAMS GUARANTEED LOANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3575, subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Housing Service proposes to amend its regulations 
utilized to service the Community Facilities guaranteed loan program by 
adding terms and definitions applicable to this subpart, amend or add 
existing regulation to establish reporting responsibilities for lenders 
participating in the program, and amend or add regulation to clarify 
program parameters in making, guaranteeing, holding, servicing, or 
liquidating guaranteed loans. The intended effect of this action is to 
provide a precise understanding of terms as they apply to eligibility 
and program

[[Page 72977]]

implementation and maintenance, and to establish accountability for 
adequate servicing on guaranteed loans.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Kendra L. Doedderlein, Senior Loan Specialist, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, STOP 0787, Washington, DC 20250-0787
Phone: 202 720-1503
Fax: 202-690-0471
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC58
_______________________________________________________________________




260. SECTION 538 GUARANTEED RURAL RENTAL HOUSING PROGRAM CHANGE ANNUAL 
GUARANTEE FEE DUE DATE

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

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3565, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Rural Housing Service (RHS) administers the section 538 
Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing Program (GRRHP) under the authority of 
the Housing Act of 1949. Under the GRRHP, RHS guarantees loans for the 
development of housing and related facilities for low- or moderate-
income families in rural areas.
RHS is proposing to amend 7 CFR part 3565, subpart B, to change the 
language in 3565.53 (b) to change the due date of the annual guarantee 
fee.
The annual guarantee fee is a non-refundable amount that the lender 
must pay each year that the loan guarantee remains in effect. Currently 
the Finance Office in St. Louis calculates annual guarantee fees 
manually since the borrower submissions of December 31 year-end 
financial information are not loaded into their automated systems by 
January 1, when annual guarantee fees are due. The Finance Office has 
requested that the annual guarantee fee due date is changed from 
January 1 to February 1 to allow their automated systems to be uploaded 
with December 31 year-end information thus enabling them to automate 
the annual guarantee fee calculation process. RHS expects this revision 
will have no economic impact on the lender, the developer and the 
project.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/04/06                    71 FR 58545
NPRM Comment Period End         12/04/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: C.B. Alonso, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 
0781, Washington, DC 20250-0781
Phone: 202 720-1624
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC62
_______________________________________________________________________




261. [bull] GUARANTEED RURAL RENTAL HOUSING--ELIMINATION OF CONSTRUCTION 
GUARANTEE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3565, sec 538

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Rural Development is amending the Guaranteed Rural Rental 
Housing Program (GRRHP) regulation 7 CFR part 3565 to make a 
construction loan ineligible for a GRRHP guarantee and eliminate the 2 
percent conversion reserve in lieu of the occupancy requirement. Rural 
Development wishes to eliminate the guarantee on the construction loan 
as construction guarantees represent less than 20 percent of closed 
loans in the GRRHP portfolio. Similarly, construction loan guarantees 
in processing are less than 23 percent.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Arlene Nunes, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 
0781, Washington, DC 20250-0781
Phone: 202 401-2307
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC64
_______________________________________________________________________




262. [bull] THERMAL REQUIREMENTS (RULEMAKING RESULTING FROM A SECTION 
610 REVIEW)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7CFR 1924, subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The current Agency Procedure, section 1924.6 (a)(3)(i)(A), 
requires that surety be provided when the construction contract exceeds 
$100,000. This Procedure Notice changes the surety requirements in 
1924-A [section 1924.6 (a)(3)(i)(A)] from a $100,000 contract amount to 
the Rural Development Single-Family Housing area lending limits, which 
will vary with the locality. This will liberalize the requirement for 
surety and take into account the increase in construction cost of 
single-family homes in the Rural Development's Single-Family Housing 
Program since the last revision (1980) to this section of the 
regulation. This should ease the burden on small contractors for whom 
obtaining surety is difficult and expensive, additionally reducing 
costs to our single-family housing borrowers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michel Mitias, Architect-Program Support Staff, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence

[[Page 72978]]

Avenue SW, STOP 0761, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-9653
Fax: 202 690-4335
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC65
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




263. MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING (MFH) REINVENTION

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Housing Service (RHS) has consolidated and 
streamlined the regulations pertaining to section 515 Rural Rental 
Housing, section 514 Farm Labor Housing Loans, section 516 Farm Labor 
Housing Grants, and section 521 Rental Assistance Payments. Fourteen 
published regulations have been reduced to one regulation and handbooks 
for program administration. This will simplify loan origination and 
portfolio management for applicants, borrowers, and housing operators, 
as well as Rural Development field staff. This also provides 
flexibility for program modifications to reflect current and 
foreseeable changes. It reduces regulations that address solely 
internal Agency program administration. Finally, the regulation is more 
customer-friendly and responsive to the needs of the public.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/02/03                    68 FR 32872
NPRM Comment Period End         08/01/03
Interim Final Rule              11/26/04                    69 FR 69032
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/27/04
Interim Final Rule Effective    02/22/05                     70 FR 8503
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michael Steininger, Multi-Family Housing Direct Loans, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Stop 0782, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1610
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: [email protected]

Stephanie White, Multi-Family Housing Direct Loans, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 
0782, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1615
Fax: 202 690-3444
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Merged with 0575-AC24
RIN: 0575-AC13
_______________________________________________________________________




264. GUARANTEED SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING

Priority: Other Significant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/15/99                    64 FR 70124
NPRM Comment Period End         02/14/00
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

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

RIN: 0575-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________




265. 3550--DIRECT SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING LOANS AND GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1472

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3550

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Rural Housing Service intends to revise the definitions of 
new and existing dwellings to remove the reference to a 10-year 
warranty plan; remove dollar limits and use 1 percent of insurance 
coverage on loss deductible clauses with the objective of recognizing 
the increasing cost of home ownership insurance due to higher cost of 
home purchase; and require homeowner education for new home buyers.
This package has been separated into two rules. All revisions, except 
the homeowner education requirements were published as a direct final 
rule on February 8, 2005 [70 FR 6551]. The Agency developed a proposed 
rule to implement the homeowner education requirement.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               02/08/05                     70 FR 6551
NPRM                            03/06/06                    71 FR 11167
NPRM Comment Period End         05/05/06
Final Action                    12/00/06
Final Action Effective          01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 72979]]

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Janet Carter, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Housing Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 
0783, Washington, DC 20250-0783
Phone: 202 720-1489
Fax: 202-690-2232
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC54
_______________________________________________________________________




266. AMEND 3550--DIRECT SINGLE-FAMILY HOUSING LOANS AND GRANTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In 1996, a new payment assistance formula was implemented to 
provide assistance to Rural Housing Service customers to make home 
ownership affordable through the section 502 Direct Loan Program. No 
analysis has been conducted on the formula and its actual impacts since 
the change was implemented. Anecdotal information reveals that the 
formula may result in disparate treatment for some customers, 
especially those in the more rural counties. In addition, the formula 
is complex and difficult to explain to customers and partners. USDA has 
contracted for a study of the formula to determine the extent of 
disparate or unintended borrower treatments/consequences of the 
existing formula and develop more equitable and simplified alternatives 
to provide payment assistance to our customers without increasing the 
cost of the program to the Government.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/17/06                     71 FR 8523
NPRM Comment Period End         04/18/06
Final Action                    06/00/07
Final Action Effective          07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Michael S. Feinberg, Acting Director, Single Family 
Housing Direct Loan Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Housing 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1474
Fax: 202-720-2232
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0575-AC59
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Housing Service (RHS)



_______________________________________________________________________




267. SURETY REQUIREMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1924, subpart A

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/02/06                    71 FR 25739

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Michel Mitias
Phone: 202 720-9653
Fax: 202 690-4335
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Previously reported as 0575-AC60
RIN: 0575-AC63
BILLING CODE 3410--XV--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




268. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; SANCTIONS--ADMINISTRATIVE 
REMEDIES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Kreitzer, Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop 
Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence Avenue, Washington, DC 20250-
0807
Phone: 202 690-1683

RIN: 0563-AB73
_______________________________________________________________________




269. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; ACTUAL PRODUCTION HISTORY (APH)

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to update the rules governing 
establishment and maintenance of APH databases by incorporating changes 
in the Common Crop Insurance Provisions--Basic Provisions, as mandated 
by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000 (ARPA), and to 
incorporate existing Risk Management Agency procedures and language 
used in procedural handbooks and crop insurance provisions, and making 
other

[[Page 72980]]

changes and clarifications to better meet the needs of insureds.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AB83
_______________________________________________________________________




270. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, TOBACCO CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to solicit public comments on 
FCIC's proposed action to remove and reserve section 457.156, Quota 
Tobacco Crop Insurance Provisions, and to revise Guarantee Tobacco Crop 
Insurance Provisions as Tobacco Crop Insurance Provisions. The American 
Jobs Creation Act of 2004 eliminated the USDA Tobacco Marketing Quota 
Regulations and price support program by FSN as administered by the 
Farm Service Agency (FSA). The revisions will remove references to 
quota and add coverage for tobacco grown under a processor contract.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




271. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, CABBAGE CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed 
action to convert the cabbage pilot crop insurance program to a 
permanent insurance program for the 2007 and succeeding crop years. The 
cabbage pilot program began in the 2000 crop year by offering cabbage 
crop insurance coverage to producers in Alaska, California, Florida, 
Georgia (Colquitt and Rabun Counties), Illinois, Michigan, New York, 
North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, 
Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. Following an evaluation of the 
cabbage pilot program, FCIC's Board of Directors approved conversion of 
the pilot program to a permanent program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________




272. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, CULTIVATED WILD RICE CROP 
INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed 
action to convert the cultivated wild rice pilot crop insurance program 
to a permanent insurance program for the 2007 and succeeding crop 
years. The cultivated wild rice pilot program began in the 1999 crop 
year by offering cultivated wild rice crop insurance coverage to 
producers in Minnesota and California.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC00
_______________________________________________________________________




273. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, MUSTARD CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed 
action to convert the mustard pilot crop insurance program to a 
permanent insurance program for the 2007 and succeeding crop years. The 
mustard pilot program began in the 1999 crop year by offering mustard 
crop insurance coverage to producers in North Dakota. Following an 
evaluation of the mustard pilot program, FCIC's Board of Directors 
approved conversion of the pilot program to a permanent program and 
approved expansion for the 2005 crop year into counties in Montana, 
Idaho, Oregon, and Washington where actuarially sound rates can be 
established.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

[[Page 72981]]

Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________




274. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; APPEAL PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS 
FOR APPROVAL--REINSURANCE AGREEMENT

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will solicit comments to amend the Appeal 
Procedures and the Standards for Approval regulations by making some 
clarifications to the appeal process.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Nancy Kreitzer, Department of Agriculture, Federal Crop 
Insurance Corporation, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4619, South 
Building, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-1683
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0563-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________




275. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, GRAPE AND TABLE GRAPE CROP 
INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to solicit comments to revise the 
Grape crop provisions and Table Grape crop provisions by: 1) Expanding 
basic units by variety, 2) clarifying quality adjustment for Grape crop 
insurance provisions, 3) clarifying reduced tonnage contracts for the 
Grape crop insurance provisions, and 4) clarifying that cause of loss 
on Grape crop insurance provisions and Table Grape crop insurance 
provisions be the same.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC09
_______________________________________________________________________




276. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, APPLE CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

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

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to solicit public comments on 
FCIC's proposed action to revise the Apple Crop Provisions. The 
revision clarifies how production to count for appraised and harvested 
production on acreage designated as fresh apple acreage is determined 
under section 14 (Optional Coverage for Fresh Fruit Quality 
Adjustment). The current language is unclear and if misinterpreted may 
cause inequities in calculating crop insurance indemnities.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC10
_______________________________________________________________________




277. EMERGENCY AND DISASTER PROCEDURES FOR CROP INSURANCE PURPOSES

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Risk Management Agency is proposing to revise the Common 
Crop Insurance Policy Basic Provisions to specify that, in the event of 
a natural disaster that impact crops and programs of the Federal Crop 
Insurance Corporation and where there has been a Presidential Disaster 
Declaration, the Secretary of Agriculture may determine that certain 
variances or waivers in policy and procedure requirements are necessary 
to protect the interests of policyholders. This would allow the Risk 
Management Agency to provide relief in the underwriting of crop 
protection and the adjudication of claims or when the impacts of 
natural disasters cause unnecessary delays in providing crop insurance 
protection or processing claims. It is not intended to provide 
insurance coverage where it would not be otherwise authorized or 
provide indemnity payments greater than what is authorized under the 
policy. The purpose would be to expedite the process of policyholders 
receiving their indemnities at a time when they are most at need.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC11
_______________________________________________________________________




278. [bull] COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS; MILLET CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

[[Page 72982]]

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of the proposed rule is to solicit public 
comments on FCIC's proposed action to amend the Millet Crop Insurance 
Provisions to remove the reduction in indemnity for any unharvested 
millet acreage and revise the end of the insurance period dates to use 
only one date rather than dual dates.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC12
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




279. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, FLORIDA CITRUS FRUIT CROP 
INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed 
action to amend the Florida Citrus Fruit Crop Insurance Provisions by 
replacing the provisions currently contained at 7 CFR part 457.107 with 
revised provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/13/06                    71 FR 60439
NPRM Comment Period End         11/27/06
Final Action                    05/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC01
_______________________________________________________________________




280. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, FRESH MARKET SWEET CORN CROP 
INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposal to 
modify, clarify, and standardize the provisions to be consistent with 
other crop provisions. Some of the proposed changes are to remove and/
or to add definitions to enable the expansion of sweet corn into other 
areas; to revise provisions to allow coverage in some regions for sweet 
corn that is direct marketed to consumers; to revise the end of the 
insurance period to allow flexibility for coverage to be expanded into 
other areas; and to clarify the computations for computing the amount 
of harvested production.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/28/06                    71 FR 42770
NPRM Comment Period End         09/26/06
Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC02
_______________________________________________________________________




281. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, MINT CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposed 
action to convert the mint pilot crop insurance program to a permanent 
insurance program for the 2007 and succeeding crop years. The mint 
pilot program began in the 2000 crop year by offering mint crop 
insurance coverage to producers in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Washington, 
and Indiana. Following an evaluation of the mint pilot program, FCIC's 
Board of Directors approved conversion of the pilot program to a 
permanent program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/06/06                     71 FR 6016
NPRM Comment Period End         04/24/06                    71 FR 14828
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC03
_______________________________________________________________________




282. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, NORTHERN POTATO CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule will solicit public comments on FCIC's proposal to 
revise the Northern Potato Crop provisions and endorsements for the 
2007 crop year by: 1) Changing the loss adjustment procedure; 2) 
enhancing the

[[Page 72983]]

Northern Potato Processing Quality Endorsement; 3) clarifying the 
Northern Potato Quality Endorsement, Certified Seed Endorsement, and 
Storage Coverage Endorsement; and 4) clarifying the Central and 
Southern Potato Crop Provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/28/06                    71 FR 42761
NPRM Comment Period End         09/26/06
Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




283. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, WALNUT CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS; ALMOND CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The purpose of this rule is to amend the Common Crop 
Insurance, Regulations Almond and Walnut Crop Insurance Provisions. 
This rule will reduce the growing season requirement for almond and 
walnut trees.
This change will allow insurance to attach to such trees because newer 
varieties of almond and walnut trees are more vigorous and produce at 
an earlier age. The newer varieties are planted more densely, achieve 
full canopy sooner, and come into full production earlier.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/21/06                    71 FR 14119
NPRM Comment Period End         05/22/06
Final Action                    01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC08
_______________________________________________________________________




284. [bull] COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, NURSERY CROP PROVISIONS, 
NURSERY PEAK INVENTORY ENDORSEMENT AND NURSERY REHABILITATION 
ENDORSEMENT

Priority: Routine and Frequent

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: To solicit public comments on FCIC's proposal to revise the 
Nursery Crop Provisions amending the definition of ``liners'' to 
clarify liner insurability requirements. FCIC also proposes to amend 
the Nursery Peak Inventory Endorsement to add a new definition of peak 
basic unit value and to clarify the peak basic unit value is limited to 
200 percent of the basic unit value declared under the Nursery Crop 
Insurance Provisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/01/06                    71 FR 52013
NPRM Comment Period End         10/31/06
Final Action                    04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0563-AC13
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




285. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS AND VARIOUS CROP INSURANCE 
PROVISIONS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/14/06
NPRM Comment Period End         09/12/06                    71 FR 40194
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB96

[[Page 72984]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC)



_______________________________________________________________________




286. GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS; NONSTANDARD UNDERWRITING 
CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 400

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/01/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB66
_______________________________________________________________________




287. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, PEANUT CROP INSURANCE PROVISIONS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/26/06                    71 FR 55995
Final Action Effective          10/26/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




288. COMMON CROP INSURANCE REGULATIONS, BASIC PROVISIONS; WRITTEN 
AGREEMENTS

Priority: Routine and Frequent

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 457

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/29/06                    71 FR 36979
Final Action Effective          06/29/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Timothy Hoffmann
Phone: 816 926-7743

RIN: 0563-AC07
BILLING CODE 3410--08--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




289. UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR ROUGH RICE; UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR 
BROWN RICE FOR PROCESSING; AND UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR MILLED RICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 868

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: GIPSA is proposing to revise the U.S. Standards for Rough 
Rice, Brown Rice for Processing, and Milled Rice, under the AMA, to 
eliminate the requirement for certain grade related information to be 
shown on the grade-line of certificate for classes of Mixed Rice.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA94
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




290. UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR SORGHUM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 71 87k

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 810

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: GIPSA is revising the United States Standards for Sorghum. 
GIPSA is amending the grain standards to change the definitions of 
sorghum classes by deleting references to tannin and adding language 
referencing the presence or absence of a pigmented test. GIPSA is 
amending the grain standards to change the definition of nongrain 
sorghum by removing sorghum-sudangrass hybrids, sorgrass, and sweet 
sorghum (sorgo), and adding language referencing seeds of Sorghum 
bicolor (L.) Moench that appear atypical of grain sorghum. GIPSA is 
amending the grade and grade requirements for sorghum by reducing the 
grading limits for broken kernels and foreign material and the 
subfactor foreign material and inserting a total count limit of 10 for 
other material used to determine sample grade factors.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/29/06                    71 FR 15633
NPRM Comment Period End         05/30/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA91

[[Page 72985]]

_______________________________________________________________________




291. FEES FOR RICE INSPECTION SERVICE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1627

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 868

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule revises the regulations governing the 
sampling, inspection, weighing, and certification for rice by 
increasing certain fees charged for the services by approximately 18 
percent. Further, the rice fees increased an additional 3 percent each 
year through fiscal year 2010 and establish a stowage examination fee.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/11/06                    71 FR 18231
NPRM Comment Period End         06/12/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA92
_______________________________________________________________________




292. CLEAR TITLE PROGRAM; TECHNICAL CHANGES

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1631; 7 CFR 2.22 and 2.81

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 205

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule is being issued to make changes to the clear title 
regulations as required by amendments made by the 2002 Farm Bill, which 
bring the clear title requirements more into conformity with the 
Uniform Commercial Code. GIPSA is making additional changes to allow 
the use of an approved unique identifier in place of the former mandate 
for States to display a social security number through their systems 
providing clear title information. The rule will adopt these changes in 
the regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              09/27/06                    71 FR 56338
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      11/27/06
Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA93
_______________________________________________________________________




293. [bull] OFFICIAL FEES AND TOLERANCES FOR BARLEY PROTEIN TESTING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 7187k

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800, 801

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: GIPSA extended its official inspection program to include 
testing of barley protein effective July 1, 2005. Testing is provided 
using near-infrared spectroscopy analyzers that were previously 
approved for different grains. To recover the cost of providing this 
service, GIPSA is establishing a fee identical to the fees already 
established for other near-infrared spectroscopy measurements.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/08/06                    71 FR 65371
Interim Final Rule Effective    11/09/06
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/08/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler, Regulatory Liaison, Department of 
Agriculture, Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA95
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




294. PROCESS VERIFICATION SERVICE AND ASSOCIATED FEES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 868.31

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA85

[[Page 72986]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA)



_______________________________________________________________________




295. UNITED STATES STANDARDS FOR SOYBEANS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 800; 7 CFR 810

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/06/06                    71 FR 52403

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: H. Tess Butler
Phone: 202 720-7486
Fax: 202 690-2755
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0580-AA90
BILLING CODE 3410--EN--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




296. DISQUALIFIED RECIPIENT REPORTING AND COMPUTER MATCHING REQUIREMENTS 
THAT AFFECT THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule describes requirements for State agencies 
to report information on individuals disqualified from the program for 
intentional program violations to FNS and codifies prisoner 
verification and death master file matching mandated by legislation and 
previously implemented through agency directive. (89-010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07
Final Action                    06/00/07
Final Action Effective          09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AB51
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2032

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 253; 7 CFR 254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend FDPIR regulations by: 1) 
Bringing the maximum level of allowable resources in line with the Food 
Stamp Program by: a) Establishing a new resource limit of $3,000 for 
households with a disabled member and b) increasing the resource limit 
from $1,750 to $2,000 for households without elderly or disabled 
members; 2) allowing a resource exclusion for the first $1,500 of the 
value of one prepaid funeral arrangement per household member; 3) 
allowing households in which all members are elderly or disabled to be 
certified for up to 24 months; and 4) allowing State agencies the 
option to provide transitional benefits to households that leave the 
Temporary Assistance Program for Needy Families. The above provisions 
are modeled after Food Stamp Program provisions. (01-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07
NPRM Comment Period Ends        11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD12
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would revise the Child and Adult Care Food 
Program (CACFP) regulations to allow reimbursement of suppers provided 
by at-risk afterschool care programs in seven States. Six States were 
initially authorized by the Agricultural Risk Protection Act (Pub. L. 
106-224); the seventh State was authorized by fiscal year 2002 
appropriation legislation. At-risk suppers in these States (Delaware, 
Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Missouri, New York, and Oregon) are 
reimbursed under the same conditions set forth in the National School 
Lunch Act (NSLA) for at-risk snacks in the CACFP. Children who are 18 
or younger and enrolled in qualifying afterschool programs located in 
the seven States may receive free suppers. To qualify, afterschool care 
programs must be located in low-income areas, provide care to children, 
and have an educational or enrichment purpose. (01-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07
Final Action                    02/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

[[Page 72987]]

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD15
_______________________________________________________________________




299. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: CLARIFICATIONS AND CORRECTIONS TO RECIPIENT 
CLAIM ESTABLISHMENT AND COLLECTION STANDARDS

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272; 7 CFR 273

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 13 of the Food Stamp Act of 1977, as amended, 
requires State agencies to pursue collection of recipient overissuances 
in the Food Stamp Program. On July 6, 2000, FNS published a major rule 
that revised many of the processes and procedures in this area. This 
proposed rule provides clarifications and corrections to the July 6, 
2000, rulemaking. (02-003)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD25
_______________________________________________________________________




300. FSP: REVISIONS TO BONDING REQUIREMENTS FOR VIOLATING RETAIL AND 
WHOLESALE FOOD CONCERNS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2021

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278.1(b)(4); 7 CFR 278.2(f)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The proposed rule will revise the current bonding 
requirements set forth in section 278.1(b)(4) of Food Stamp Program 
(FSP) regulations that are imposed against retailers who have violated 
FSP rules and regulations. Section 12(d) of the Food Stamp Act of 1977 
(the Act), as amended, gives the Secretary of Agriculture the 
discretionary authority to require that retailers who have been 
sanctioned for program violations present a collateral bond as a 
condition of future authorization. The Act also gives the Secretary the 
authority to prescribe the amount, terms, and conditions of such bonds 
by regulation. Currently, all violating retailers that are sanctioned 
for a specified period of time or imposed a civil money penalty are 
required to submit a bond if they wish to continue to participate in 
the FSP. The bond must be valid as long as the firm is authorized to 
participate in the FSP regardless of the period of disqualification 
imposed or the amount of the civil money penalty assessed. Retailers 
are required to renew their bond through a financial institution on a 
periodic basis. The proposed rule will: 1) Eliminate the current 
bonding requirement for retailers who are disqualified for a period of 
6 months or imposed a civil money penalty in lieu of a 6-month 
disqualification period; and 2) limit the requirement to no more than 1 
year for retailers who are disqualified for a specified period of time 
greater than 6 months or imposed a civil money penalty in lieu of a 
specified period of time greater than 6 months. Section 278.2(f) of the 
FSP regulations stipulates that retail food stores may not accept food 
stamp benefits in payment for any eligible food sold to food stamp 
households on credit. Thus, the proposed rule will also assign a 
specified period of time for retailers to be removed from the program 
for accepting food stamp benefits in payment for eligible food on 
credit. (04-002)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD44
_______________________________________________________________________




301. SPECIAL NUTRITION PROGRAMS: FLUID MILK SUBSTITUTIONS

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 6 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AD58
_______________________________________________________________________




302. NUTRITION STANDARDS IN THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH AND SCHOOL 
BREAKFAST PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265, sec 103

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Public Law 108-265 requires the Secretary to issue 
regulations that reflect specific recommendations for increased 
consumption of foods and food ingredients in school nutrition programs 
based on the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
The current regulations specify that reimbursable meals offered by 
schools meet the Dietary Guidelines for Americans that are specified in 
the regulations. This proposed rule would revise the current 
regulations on nutrition standards to require that participating 
schools meet the applicable recommendations of the most recent Dietary 
Guidelines for Americans and other dietary recommendations. (04-017)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07

[[Page 72988]]

NPRM Comment Period End         06/00/07
Final Action                    10/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD59
_______________________________________________________________________




303. WIC FARMERS' MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (FMNP): IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 
FMNP PROVISIONS IN THE CN AND WIC REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2004 (PUB. L. 
108-265) AND FMNP FUNDING FORMULA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 248

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule amends the FMNP regulations to implement 
the nondiscretionary FMNP provisions in Public Law 108-265, the Child 
Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004. The legislative 
provisions include: (1) An option for State agencies to authorize 
roadside stands without prior FNS approval; (2) revising the match 
requirement to apply the 30 percent to the administrative cost of the 
program instead of 30 percent of the total cost of the program 
(administrative and food costs); and (3) increasing the maximum Federal 
benefit level from $20 to $30.
Also included in this rulemaking will be a funding formula methodology 
for the FMNP when funds requested exceed available funds to allocate. 
The FMNP is a fixed grant program with limited funds. Funding increases 
are not guaranteed from year to year. Section 17(m) of the Child 
Nutrition Act of 1966, as amended, sets forth broad funding 
requirements for the FMNP. By law, after base grants are provided to 
current State agencies (i.e., total Federal funds received in the prior 
fiscal year), the remaining funds are divided so that 75 percent is 
provided for expansion funds for current State agencies and 25 percent 
is provided for new State agencies. Currently, beyond the division of 
funds noted above, there are no requirements for how to allocate funds 
for expansion and new State agencies when funds requested exceed the 
amount of available funds. This proposed regulation would amend 7 CFR 
part 248 to set forth a funding formula in cases where FMNP funds 
requested exceed available funds to allocate. The proposed methodology 
would provide a base funding level for each State agency. Funding above 
the base level would be based on the individual State's need relative 
to all other State agencies' needs. (05-003)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Additional Information: This action consolidates two previous actions: 
the FMNP Funding Formula Rule, RIN 0584-AD41 (withdrawn in the spring 
2005 agenda), and the Implementation of the FMNP Provisions Included in 
the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004, RIN 
0584-AD46 (withdrawn from the fall 2004 agenda).

URL For More Information:
www.fns.usda.gov/wic

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Merged with 0584-AD41
RIN: 0584-AD74
_______________________________________________________________________




304. FSP: ADMINISTRATIVE SANCTIONS IMPOSED AGAINST VIOLATING ELECTRONIC 
BENEFITS TRANSFER (EBT) STORES

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Sec 12 of the Food Stamp Act

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278.6(e)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The United States Department of Agriculture, Food and 
Nutrition Service (FNS), is proposing to revise section 278.6 of the 
Food Stamp Program Regulations entitled Disqualification of Retail Food 
Stores and Wholesale Food Concerns, and Imposition of Civil Money 
Penalties In Lieu Of Disqualifications. This section of the regulation 
is being revised as result of the implementation of the Electronic 
Benefits Transfer (EBT) system. This section of the regulations 
addresses the administrative sanctions (i.e., imposing a period of 
disqualification or assessing a monetary penalty) that may be imposed 
by FNS against retail food stores and wholesale food concerns that are 
found violating the Food Stamp Program.
Background
EBT is an electronic system that allows a food stamp recipient to 
authorize transfer of their Government benefits from a Federal account 
to a retailer account to pay for eligible food items. All States, the 
District of Columbia, Virgin Islands, Guam, and Puerto Rico have 
operational food stamp EBT systems. All food stamp benefits are being 
issued by EBT. Approximately, 153,000 retail food stores are authorized 
to accept food stamp benefits.
One of the benefits of EBT is that it helps curb food stamp fraud 
committed by retail food stores. EBT creates an electronic record of 
each food stamp transaction, making it easier to identify and document 
instances where food stamp benefits are being illegally obtained (i.e., 
food stamp benefits being exchanged for cash or non-food items) by 
retail food stores.
Proposed Regulation
FNS is continuing to improve using EBT data efficiently to detect and 
pursue abuse. Section 278.6 of the Food Stamp regulations, however, 
does not thoroughly address the actions/sanctions that FNS may impose 
against retail food stores that are found

[[Page 72989]]

violating the program via the EBT system. Since the inception of EBT, 
FNS has discovered that food stores have departed from some of the 
conventional methods of committing food stamp fraud and have devised 
new and innovative ways to commit fraud using the EBT system. Hence, 
Section 278.6 of the Food Stamp Program regulations must be revised in 
order to address the administrative sanctions that may be imposed by 
FNS against EBT stores found violating the program.
In addition to providing for EBT specific sanctions, FNS will conduct a 
comprehensive review of existing regulatory sanctions for conventional 
fraud and will make regulatory changes that are warranted and 
appropriate. (05-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/07
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD78
_______________________________________________________________________




305. [bull] REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS IN REQUIREMENTS FOR THE 
DISTRIBUTION AND CONTROL OF DONATED FOODS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250; 7 CFR 251.4

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule would amend current regulations in 7 CFR part 250 to 
ensure the safe storage and management of donated foods and their 
efficient and cost-effective distribution, while reducing reporting and 
administrative requirements currently imposed on distributing agencies. 
Specifically, the rule would propose to:
 Require the distributing agency, and distributing agency 
agreements with recipient agencies, to ensure that the storage, 
management, distribution, and use of donated foods will be conducted in 
accordance with Federal food safety requirements.
 Require that inventory management systems assure that donated 
foods can be tracked in the event of a food recall.
 Retain FNS' authority to require the distributing agency to 
reevaluate its storage and distribution system and justify its 
efficiency and cost-effectiveness, but remove the requirement that the 
distributing agency reevaluate its storage and distribution system on a 
periodic basis.
 Require the distributing agency to permit direct deliveries of 
donated foods to recipient agencies, or to commercial storage 
facilities, processors, or other contractors, to the extent that such 
deliveries may be made cost-effectively.
 Remove the requirement that the distributing agency maintain a 
separate salvage account for funds obtained from salvage of donated 
foods, claim recoveries, etc., and the requirement that FNS approve 
certain expenditures from such accounts.
 Remove the exemption from claims recovery of donated food 
inventory losses in amounts less than 1 percent of total inventory of 
such food.
 Remove the requirement that the distributing agency submit 
commodity acceptability reports to FNS and conduct surveys of recipient 
agencies to collect information for such purpose.
 Retain the prohibition against maintenance of excessive 
donated food inventories (i.e., more than a 6-month supply) but remove 
the requirement that the distributing agency submit a report of 
excessive donated food inventories for donated foods received in child 
nutrition programs and TEFAP.
Lastly, the rule would rewrite 7 CFR part 250 in a ``plain language'' 
format to make it easier to read and understand for the general public.
We do not anticipate any additional costs imposed on distributing or 
recipient agencies or other entities as a result of the changes 
proposed in this rule. (06-002)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD81
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 7 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2034

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 274.12

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes revisions to food stamp regulations affecting 
the standards and administration of EBT systems for food stamp 
issuance. Current regulations at 7 CFR 274.12 delineate the standards 
that EBT

[[Page 72990]]

systems must meet in order to be approved for operation. This rule 
revises those regulations to provide the State agency more flexibility 
in implementing and operating those systems. Clarifications and FNS 
settlement improvements are also incorporated into the rule. The rule 
contains a provision to provide State agencies with a new option to 
allow retailers with commercial equipment to use a Store and Forward 
process instead of the manual voucher process when the system is down. 
This provision went forward as an interim provision so that the 
Department can solicit additional comments. All the other provisions 
went forward as final. (96-016)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/12/01                    66 FR 36495
NPRM Comment Period End         09/10/01
Interim Final Rule              04/11/05                    70 FR 18263
Final Rule                      04/11/05                    70 FR 18263
Interim Final Rule Effective    05/11/05
Final Rule Effective            05/11/05
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/10/05
Final Action                    06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC37
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 105-336

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

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The William F. Goodling Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act 
of 1998 amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to 
authorize reimbursement for snacks served under the NSLP in afterschool 
care programs operated by schools. The afterschool program must be 
organized primarily to provide care for children and have an 
educational or enrichment purpose. Additionally, the statute mandates 
free snacks for all children enrolled in afterschool care programs 
operated by schools in areas served by a school in which at least 50 
percent of the enrolled children are certified for free or reduced 
price meals. (98-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/11/00                    65 FR 60502
NPRM Comment Period End         01/09/01
Final Action                    10/00/07
Final Action Effective          11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC72
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 243

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

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

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/27/02                    67 FR 43448
Interim Final Rule Effective    07/29/02
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/24/02
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

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

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC94
_______________________________________________________________________




310. DISCLOSURE OF CHILDREN'S FREE, AND REDUCED PRICE MEALS, AND FREE 
MILK ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION IN THE CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 106-224, sec 242; PL 103-448, sec 108; PL 108-265, 
sec 104

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

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

[[Page 72991]]

Abstract: This rule establishes requirements for the disclosure of 
children's free and reduced price meal and free milk eligibility 
information by agencies that make the free and reduced price meal or 
free milk determination under the National School Lunch Program, the 
School Breakfast Program, the Special Milk Program, the Child and Adult 
Care Food Program, and the Summer Food Service Program. The rule 
responds to amendments to the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch 
Act, which allow limited disclosure of children's free and reduced-
price meal or free milk eligibility information, comments received on 
the July 25, 2000, proposed rule on ``Disclosure of Children's 
Eligibility Information'' (65 FR 45725 issued under RIN 0584-AC21), and 
comments received on the January 11, 2001, interim rule on ``Disclosure 
of Children's Eligibility Information to State Medicaid and the State 
Children's Health Insurance Program'' (66 FR 2195 issued under RIN 
0584-AC95). This rule incorporates the proposed rule and interim rule 
into one final rule. Therefore, RIN 0584-AC21 was withdrawn, and the 
final provisions are issued under RIN 0584-AC95. The final rule adopts 
or modifies as necessary many of the provisions mandated by the statute 
and required by the interim rule. The objective is to provide 
consistency in procedures when determining agencies' option to disclose 
children's eligibility information and to provide some protection 
against unauthorized disclosures and misuse of personal information, 
regardless of whether the disclosure is to Medicaid or SCHIP or to an 
education or other program. (00-004)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule Effective    10/01/00
Interim Final Rule              01/11/01                     66 FR 2195
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/11/01
Final Action                    12/00/06
Final Action Effective          01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AC95
_______________________________________________________________________




311. AFTERSCHOOL SNACKS UNDER THE CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 105-336

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The William F. Goodling Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act 
of 1998 amended the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act to 
authorize reimbursement for snacks served under CACFP in afterschool 
care programs operated by at-risk centers. The afterschool program must 
be organized primarily to provide care for children and have an 
educational or enrichment purpose. All snacks are served free to 
participants because at-risk centers are located in eligible areas 
(that is, areas served by a school in which at least 50 percent of the 
enrolled children are certified for free or reduced price meals). (02-
004)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/11/00                    65 FR 60502
NPRM Comment Period End         01/09/01
Final Action                    02/00/07
Final Action Effective          03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD27
_______________________________________________________________________




312. FSP: ELIGIBILITY AND CERTIFICATION PROVISIONS OF THE FARM SECURITY 
AND RURAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 2002

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 8 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AD30
_______________________________________________________________________




313. QUALITY CONTROL PROVISIONS OF TITLE IV OF PUBLIC LAW 107-171

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 9 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AD31
_______________________________________________________________________




314. SENIOR FARMERS' MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM (SFMNP)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 4306

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 249

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule will implement the provision of the Farm 
Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (Pub. L. 107-171) that gives 
the Department the authority to promulgate regulations for the 
operation and administration of the SFMNP. The purposes of the SFMNP 
are to provide fresh, nutritious, unprepared locally grown fruits, 
vegetables, and herbs from farmers' markets, roadside stands, and 
community supported agriculture programs to low-income seniors and to 
increase the consumption of agricultural commodities by expanding, 
developing, and/or aiding in the development of domestic farmers' 
markets, roadside stands, and community supported agriculture programs. 
(02-012)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/26/05                    70 FR 30558
NPRM Comment Period End         07/25/05
Final Action                    12/00/06
Final Action Effective          01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

URL For More Information:
www.fns.usda.gov

[[Page 72992]]

URL For Public Comments:
www.fns.usda.gov/wic

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD35
_______________________________________________________________________




315. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND 
CHILDREN (WIC): MISCELLANEOUS VENDOR-RELATED PROVISIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule amends the WIC regulations to clarify issues 
that have arisen subsequent to the publication of the WIC Food Delivery 
Systems final rule. It includes the following provisions: Allows the 
release of vendor information such as telephone numbers, e-mail/website 
addresses, store type, and whether the vendor has been disqualified; 
provides for an abbreviated administrative review when a State agency 
issues a civil money penalty in lieu of a reciprocal WIC 
disqualification; and prohibits State agencies from requiring infant 
formula manufacturers to provide free formula or other items as part of 
their infant formula rebate solicitations and contracts. (02-013)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/27/05                    70 FR 43332
NPRM Comment Period End         11/25/05
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD36
_______________________________________________________________________




316. PROCUREMENT REQUIREMENTS FOR THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH, SCHOOL 
BREAKFAST, AND SPECIAL MILK PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1752

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210, 215, 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rule makes changes in three areas: the school food 
authority's responsibility for proper procurement procedures and 
contracts; prohibitions on the school food authority's use of nonprofit 
school food service account funds for costs resulting from improper 
procurements and contracts; and the State agency's review and approval 
of school food authority procurement procedures and contracts. (03-001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/30/04                    69 FR 78340
NPRM Comment Period End         02/28/05
Final Action                    12/00/06
Final Action Effective          01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD38
_______________________________________________________________________




317. DATA COLLECTION RELATED TO INSTITUTIONS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: EO 13279

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220; 7 CFR 225; 7 CFR 226; 7 CFR 246; 7 
CFR 247; 7 CFR 251

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Executive Order 13279, which was signed on December 12, 2002, 
instructs Federal agencies, to the extent permitted by law, to collect 
data regarding the participation of faith-based and community-based 
organizations in social service programs that receive Federal financial 
assistance. This rulemaking authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 
require State agencies to collect and submit data to the Food and 
Nutrition Service that identifies the faith-based and community 
organizations that participate in the Federal nutrition assistance 
programs. This rulemaking adds requirements to the following programs: 
Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, 
National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Child and 
Adult Care Food Program, Summer Food Service Program, Commodity 
Supplemental Food Program, and the Emergency Food Assistance Program. 
The data collection effort ends 5 years after the effective date of the 
final rule. (04-001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/03/06                    71 FR 10914
NPRM Comment Period End         06/01/06
Interim Final Rule              12/00/06
Interim Final Rule Effective    01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD43
_______________________________________________________________________




318. MANAGEMENT OF DONATED FOODS IN CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS, THE 
NUTRITION SERVICES INCENTIVE PROGRAM, AND CHARITABLE INSTITUTIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: Older Americans Act of 1965, as amended

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250.12, 250.19, 250.24, 250.40, 250.41; 7 CFR 
250.42, 250.48, 250.49, 250.50

Legal Deadline: None

[[Page 72993]]

Abstract: This final rule revises or clarifies requirements with 
respect to the distribution, management, and use of donated foods in 
child nutrition programs, the Nutrition Services Incentive Program, and 
by charitable institutions. Most significantly, it establishes specific 
requirements to ensure that school food authorities and other recipient 
agencies in child nutrition programs receive the value of all donated 
foods provided under contract with food service management companies to 
conduct the food service. It requires the food service management 
company to credit the recipient agency for donated foods received, 
through invoice reductions, refunds, or other means of crediting. The 
rule provides some flexibility in crediting for and use of donated 
foods by allowing the recipient agency to use donated food values other 
than the USDA purchase price and by allowing the food service 
management company to substitute donated foods with commercially 
purchased foods, with the exception of (1) donated ground beef and 
ground pork, and (2) end products received from processors. (04-003)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/08/06                    71 FR 33344
NPRM Comment Period Extended    08/03/06                    71 FR 43992
NPRM Comment Period End         09/07/06
Final Action                    03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD45
_______________________________________________________________________




319. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND 
CHILDREN (WIC): DISCRETIONARY WIC VENDOR PROVISIONS IN THE CHILD 
NUTRITION AND WIC REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2004, PUBLIC LAW 108-265

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: Final, Statutory, December 2004.

Abstract: This rule proposes to amend regulations for the Special 
Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) by 
adding three requirements mandated by the Child Nutrition and WIC 
Reauthorization Act of 2004, Public Law 108-265, concerning retail 
vendors authorized by WIC State agencies to provide supplemental food 
to WIC participants in exchange for WIC food instruments. This 
rulemaking would require WIC State agencies to notify WIC-authorized 
retail vendors of an initial violation, for violations requiring a 
pattern of occurrences in order to impose a sanction, before 
documenting a subsequent violation unless notification would compromise 
an investigation. In addition, State agencies would maintain a list of 
State-licensed wholesalers, distributors, and retailers, and 
manufacturers registered with the Food and Drug Administration, and 
would require WIC-authorized retail vendors to purchase infant formula 
only from sources on the list. Further, State agencies would prohibit 
the authorization of or payments to WIC-authorized vendors that derive 
more than 50 percent of their annual food sales revenue (``above-50-
percent vendors'') and which provide incentive items or other free 
merchandise except food or merchandise of nominal value to program 
participant customers unless the vendor provides the State agency with 
proof that the vendor obtained the incentive items or merchandise at no 
cost. The intent of these provisions is to, respectively, enhance due 
process for vendors; prevent defective infant formula from being 
consumed by infant WIC participants; and, prevent increased WIC food 
costs caused by above-50-percent vendors who provide incentive items to 
participants which ultimately are derived from the proceeds of WIC 
purchases. (04-007)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/01/06                    71 FR 43371
NPRM Comment Period End         10/02/06
Final Action                    10/00/07
Final Action Effective          11/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD47
_______________________________________________________________________




320. DISTRICT-WIDE USE OF PROVISIONS 2 AND 3

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Currently, schools may choose to use ``Provision 2'' or 
``Provision 3,'' to reduce application burdens and simplify meal 
counting and claiming procedures. Provision 2 allows schools to 
establish claiming percentages and to serve all meals at no charge for 
a 4-year period. Provision 3 allows schools to simply receive the same 
level of Federal cash and commodity assistance each year, with some 
adjustments, for a 4-year period. Both provisions are used by schools 
with significant percentages of children eligible for free and reduced-
price school meals. Schools serve all meals at no cost to the child but 
continue to be reimbursed at the rate determined in the year that the 
actual number of free and reduced price eligible children was 
determined.
In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Richard B. Russell 
National School Lunch Act, 7 CFR 245, Determining Eligibility for Free 
and Reduced Price Meals and Free Milk in Schools, will be revised to 
allow school districts to use ``Provision 2`` or

[[Page 72994]]

''Provision 3`` on a district-wide basis as well as on a school basis. 
(04-009)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              08/00/07
Interim Final Rule Effective    09/00/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      10/00/07
Final Action                    06/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD51
_______________________________________________________________________




321. ADMINISTRATIVE ERROR REDUCTION IN THE SCHOOL MEALS PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Public Law 108-265, the Child Nutrition and WIC 
Reauthorization Act of 2004 (Act), amended the Richard B. Russell 
National School Lunch Act and section 7 of the Child Nutrition Act of 
1966 in the following ways. The new law:
-- Establishes the additional category of schools at high risk for 
administrative errors, as defined by the Secretary, that are subject to 
an additional administrative review;
-- Details a corrective action plan for States that fail to meet 
Secretary's performance criteria;
-- Allocates funds to States based on number of local education 
agencies with high level or high risk for administrative error. (04-
010)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/00/07
Interim Final Rule Effective    07/00/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/00/07
Final Action                    03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD52
_______________________________________________________________________




322. APPLYING FOR FREE AND REDUCED PRICE MEALS IN THE NATIONAL SCHOOL 
LUNCH PROGRAM, AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM, AND FOR BENEFITS IN THE 
SPECIAL MILK PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulations for determining eligibility for free and 
reduced price meals and free milk in schools will be revised to require 
that:
(1) Descriptive materials distributed to parents and guardians contain 
a notification that:
-- Participants in the special supplemental nutrition program for 
women, infants, and children (the WIC program), the Food Stamp Program, 
the Food Distribution Program on Indian reservations, and State 
Temporary Assistance for Needy families (TANF) programs may be eligible 
for free or reduced-price school meals; and
-- Documentation may be requested for verification of eligibility for 
free or reduced-price meals;
(2) Eligibility determinations for free or reduced-price school meals 
(other than cases where ``direct certification'' is used) are to be 
made on the basis of a complete application executed by an adult member 
of the household or in accordance with guidance issued by the 
Secretary. It will also stipulate that the household application must 
identify the names of each child in the household for whom free or 
reduced-price meal benefits are being requested and bars State agencies 
and local educational authorities from requesting separate applications 
for each child in cases where the children attend schools in the same 
local educational authority;
(3) Explicitly permits applications with electronic signatures if the 
application is submitted electronically and the application filing 
system meets confidentiality standards set by the Secretary; and
(4) Eligibility for free or reduced-price school meals remains valid 
for 1 year for most students. Eligibility would remain in effect 
beginning with approval for the current school year and ending on a 
date during the subsequent school year determined by the Secretary. An 
exception is included for cases where verification activities indicate 
ineligibility. (04-012)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/00/07
Interim Final Rule Effective    03/00/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/00/07
Final Action                    07/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD54
_______________________________________________________________________




323. DIRECT CERTIFICATION OF CHILDREN IN FOOD STAMP HOUSEHOLDS AND 
CERTIFICATION OF HOMELESS, MIGRANT AND RUNAWAY CHILDREN FOR FREE MEALS 
IN THE NSLP, SBP, AND SMP

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 10 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AD60

[[Page 72995]]

_______________________________________________________________________




324. VERIFICATION OF ELIGIBILITY FOR FREE, AND REDUCED PRICED MEALS IN 
THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 245

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Richard 
B. Russell National School Lunch Act, the verification procedures in 7 
CFR 245, Determining Eligibility for Free and Reduced Price Meals and 
Free Milk in Schools, will be revised to require that, starting July 
2005:
1. Local Educational Authorities (LEAs) verify the eligibility of 
children in a sample of approved free and reduced-price school meal 
applications. The basic sample size would be the lesser of 3 percent of 
all approved applications (as of October 1 of the school year) selected 
from error-prone applications or 3,000 approved error-prone 
applications. Error-prone applications would be those defined as within 
$100 a month or $1200 annually of the applicable income limit or, 
alternately, under criteria set by USDA. However, local educational 
agencies could choose 1 of 2 alternate sample sizes (effectively the 
options established in current regulations) if:
-- Their nonresponse rate for the preceding school year is less than 20 
percent, or
-- For a local educational agency with more than 20,000 children 
approved by application as eligible for free or reduced-price school 
meals as of October 1, their nonresponse rate for the preceding school 
year is improved by 10 percent from the nonresponse rate for the second 
preceding school year.
A nonresponse rate is the percentage of approved household applications 
for which verification information has not been obtained by a LEA. 
However, second-preceding-school-year nonresponse rates may not be 
available for all schools for the 2005-2006 school year. As a result, 
this rule would also provide that, for the 2005-2006 school year, large 
local educational agencies (20,000+ approved students) also could 
qualify to use 1 of the 2 alternate sample sizes (the options in 
current regulations) if they attempt to verify all approved household 
applications through the use of direct verification. When verifying 
eligibility for free or reduced-price school meals, local educational 
agencies can first use direct verification and obtain and use income 
and program participation information from public agencies 
administering certain programs. The programs are: The Food Stamp 
Program, the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, State 
TANF programs, State Medicaid programs, or similar income-tested 
programs (or other sources of information). In cases in which there are 
not enough error-prone applications to comply with the options, local 
educational agencies would be required to randomly select additional 
applications to fulfill the percentage or number requirement.
2. Requires local educational agencies to complete all verification 
activities (including required ``follow-up'' activities) by November 15 
of each school year; States may extend this deadline to December 15 
under criteria set by the Secretary. It will also require local 
educational agencies to make appropriate modifications to eligibility 
determinations based on their verification activities.
3. It also allows local educational agencies to ``decline'' to verify 
up to 5 percent of their verification sample and replace the declined 
applications with other approved applications.
4. Requires that the local educational agency provide written notice to 
households selected for verification. The notice must include a toll-
free phone number that the household can call for assistance with the 
verification process. (04-019)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              02/00/07
Interim Final Rule Effective    03/00/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      02/00/08
Final Action                    02/00/09

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD61
_______________________________________________________________________




325. SCHOOL FOOD SAFETY: HAZARD ANALYSIS AND CRITICAL CONTROL POINT 
SYSTEM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Richard 
B. Russell National School Lunch Act, the National School Lunch Program 
and School Breakfast Program Regulations will be revised to require 
that school food authorities implement a school food safety program for 
the preparation and service of meals that complies with any ``hazard 
analysis and critical control point'' system established by USDA 
through guidance, training, and technical assistance. (04-023)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/00/06
Interim Final Rule Effective    01/00/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/00/07
Final Action                    08/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Yes

Small Entities Affected: Governmental Jurisdictions, Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD65

[[Page 72996]]

_______________________________________________________________________




326. IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS FROM THE CHILD NUTRITION AND WIC 
REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2004: SEAMLESS SUMMER OPTION FOR SCHOOLS 
PARTICIPATING IN THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210; 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 116 of the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization 
Act of 2004 (Pub. L. 108-265) amended section 13(a) of the Richard B. 
Russell National School Lunch Act (NSLA) to authorize a Seamless Summer 
Option for public or private nonprofit school food authorities to 
participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School 
Breakfast Program (SBP). The law stipulates that schools that 
participate under the Seamless Summer Option must be reimbursed for 
breakfasts served at the School Breakfast Program free rates and for 
lunches and snacks served at the National School Lunch Program free 
rates.
The Committee Report (108-279) accompanying the Child Nutrition and WIC 
Reauthorization Act of 2004 notes that the provision closely tracks the 
Seamless Summer Feeding Waiver, which was available to school sponsors 
nationwide from fiscal years 2002 through 2004. This interim final rule 
will amend 7 CFR parts 210 and 220 to incorporate the Seamless Summer 
Option that will be available to public and private nonprofit school 
food authorities that participate in the NSLP and SBP. The Department 
also intends to incorporate into the NSLP and SBP regulations much of 
the policy that has been developed for schools that were approved by 
State agencies or FNS to operate the waiver. (04-028)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              03/00/07
Interim Final Rule Effective    04/00/07
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/00/07
Final Action                    03/00/08

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD70
_______________________________________________________________________




327. SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION PROGRAM FOR WOMEN, INFANTS, AND 
CHILDREN (WIC): WIC VENDOR COST CONTAINMENT

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 11 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AD71
_______________________________________________________________________




328. WIC: IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NONDISCRETIONARY WIC CERTIFICATION AND 
GENERAL ADMINISTRATION PROVISIONS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 1786

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This final rule implements the nondiscretionary WIC 
provisions in the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004 
(Pub. L. 108-265). It contains provisions that address the following 
aspects of WIC Program administration and operation:
1.Expansion of definitions of ``nutrition education'' and 
``supplemental foods''
2.Infant formula rebate contracts
 -- Adds new definitions (``State alliance'' and ``primary contract 
infant formula'')
 -- Limits the size of State alliances -- Requires State agencies to 
use primary contract infant formula as the first choice of issuance
 -- Allows State agencies to round up to the next whole can of infant 
formula as part of the prescribed food package
 -- Requires uncoupling of bids for milk- and soy-based infant formula 
in certain rebate solicitations
 -- Requires that bid solicitations require manufacturers to make a 
cent-for-cent increase or decrease in rebate amounts to match changes 
in national wholesale prices occurring subsequent to the bid opening
 -- Requires a State agency to have a system to ensure that rebate 
invoices provide a reasonable estimate or actual count of the number of 
units sold in the program
3.Program eligibility
 -- Provides additional exceptions to the physical presence requirement
 -- Excludes from consideration as income certain payments (Federal 
Supplemental Subsistence Allowance (FSSA)and National Flood Insurance)
4.Food delivery systems
 -- Requires State agencies to allow participants to receive 
supplemental foods from any of the authorized stores under retail food 
delivery systems
 -- Requires the State plan to include a description of the State 
agency's procedures for accepting and processing vendor applications 
outside the established timeframes
 -- Prohibits a State agency from imposing the cost of electronic 
benefit transfer equipment, systems, or processing on retail vendors
5.Funding and financial management
 -- Increases State agency carry-forward authority for nutrition 
services and administration funds from 1 percent to 3 percent
 -- Allows State agencies to use funds recovered through local agency 
claims in the same way that it uses funds recovered from vendors and 
participants. (04-006)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    12/00/06
Final Action Effective          01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

Additional Information: This rule was initially assigned RIN 
0584-AD49, and was withdrawn from the Fall 2004 Unified Agenda 
and Plan on September 14, 2004.

URL For More Information:
www.fns.usda.gov/wic

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302

[[Page 72997]]

Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD73
_______________________________________________________________________




329. REVISIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS IN REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PROCESSING OF 
DONATED FOODS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250.3, 250.13, 250.16, 250.17, 250.18; 7 CFR 
250.19, 250.24, 250.30

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend current regulations to require 
multi-State processors to sign National Processing Agreements (NPA) 
with the Department to process donated foods into end products, as 
under a current demonstration project. Under NPA, the Department would 
be responsible for the review and approval of end product data 
schedules and the management of the processor's performance bond to 
protect the value of donated food inventories. Processors would still 
be required to enter into State Participation Agreements (SPA) to sell 
end products in the State and to meet other State-specific processing 
requirements. The proposals would reduce the workload currently 
required of State agencies in approving end product data schedules and 
accounting for donated foods provided to processors. However, State 
agencies may continue to ensure that processing requirements are met 
under current agreement or contract options.
This proposed rule would also amend other processing requirements to 
reduce the paperwork burden and workload and to more fully integrate 
donated foods with commercial business practices. It would amend 
current regulations to: (1) Allow processing agreements or contracts of 
up to 5 years duration, rather than the current 1 year, with an option 
for two 1-year extensions; (2) allow substitution of donated beef and 
pork with like commercial foods of U.S. origin and of equal or better 
quality; (3) remove the verification of end product sales through 
commercial distributors; (4) reduce independent CPA audit requirements 
for multi-State processors by revising upward the donated food value 
thresholds that determine the required frequency of such audits; and 
(5) require in-State processors to obtain an independent CPA audit 
every 3 years, and remove the requirement that distributing agencies 
conduct an on-site review of such processors at least once every 2 
years.
Lastly, we would use the rule to rewrite and reorganize processing 
regulations in a ``plain language`` format to make them easier to 
understand for the general public. (05-005)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/24/06                    71 FR 50250
NPRM Comment Period End         11/22/06
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD76
_______________________________________________________________________




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

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 12 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0584-AD77
_______________________________________________________________________




331. FSP: UNAUTHORIZED REDEMPTION AND TRAFFICKING IN PROGRAM BENEFITS

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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 2011 to 2036

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 278

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This interim final rulemaking is being developed in response 
to reports of incidents in which an authorized retailer has redeemed a 
Food Stamp Program participant's program benefits without the knowledge 
of the participant. In addition, this rule serves to modify actions 
that may be taken against some retailers found to be trafficking in 
program benefits.
The Food Stamp Act, as amended, provides for the prosecution of any 
unauthorized issuance, redemption, use, transfer, acquisition, 
alteration or possession of coupons, ATP cards, or other program access 
device by an individual, partnership, corporation, or other legal 
entity to prosecution under sections 15(b) and (c) of the Food Stamp 
Act or under any other applicable Federal, State, or local law, 
regulation, or ordinance. Stealing benefits from a recipient by 
redeeming program benefits without their knowledge would be an offense 
that could be prosecuted under the current statute. However, program 
regulations do not provide clear administrative penalties for such 
thefts of Food Stamp Program benefits. In the absence of prosecution, 
there are currently no administrative actions that may be taken against 
such entities for stealing the program benefits of recipients. In 
addition, it has been determined that this activity does not meet the 
definition of trafficking as reflected in current Food Stamp Program 
regulations.
This interim final rulemaking will add a simple amendment to current 
regulations to provide for the establishment of an administrative 
penalty for such violations of the Food Stamp Program equivalent to the 
penalty for trafficking in program benefits. Authorized individuals, 
partnerships, corporations, or other legal entities found to have 
stolen benefits from program recipients without their knowledge or 
complicity shall be disqualified from program participation 
permanently. Any firm charged with such a violation would be provided 
with the opportunity for administrative and judicial review of the 
disqualification action as provided for in current program regulations.
In addition, in response to ongoing investigations by the Office of 
Inspector General of the USDA and the recommendations of the Department 
of

[[Page 72998]]

Justice, this interim final rulemaking puts in place a variation on 
current trafficking sanctions. Current legislation and regulations 
require immediate permanent disqualification for trafficking, subject 
to appeal. However, regulations provide a 10-day waiting period during 
which a firm may reply to the charges of trafficking as well as request 
and provide justification for a trafficking civil money penalty in lieu 
of permanent disqualification.
There have been documented cases in which a preponderance of evidence 
indicates that there is a likelihood of continuous and flagrant 
trafficking activity that would take place if certain firms were 
permitted to continue in operational status during that 10-day period. 
In response, this interim rule provides for immediate termination of 
POS device operations for Food Stamp Program transactions in certain 
cases. This immediate termination would take place at the direction of 
the Office of Inspector General of the USDA and/or the Assistant United 
States Attorney's Office serving the appropriate geographic locale. At 
the direction of either or both of the aforementioned parties, the 
Agency would take immediate action to terminate the redemption of Food 
Stamp Program benefits by that firm if there is a finding of egregious 
trafficking activity. The firm will receive all other due process 
considerations currently provided in the program regulations; however, 
it's ability to conduct Food Stamp Program business will be immediately 
suspended. (06-001)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD79
_______________________________________________________________________




332. [bull] MARKETING AND SALE OF FLUID MILK IN SCHOOLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Public Law 108-265 amended the Richard B. Russell National 
School Lunch Act to prohibit schools from directly or indirectly 
restricting the sale or marketing of fluid milk products on school 
premises or at school sponsored events at any time or any place. This 
amendment was in response to procurement contracts that limited the 
types of products that schools could sell outside of the reimbursable 
meal programs. This rule finalizes the incorporation of that 
requirement into the regulations governing the National School Lunch 
Program. (04-015)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/21/05                    70 FR 70031
Interim Final Rule Effective    12/21/05
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      05/22/06
Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Duplicate of 0584-AD57
RIN: 0584-AD83
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




333. FSP: REGULATION RESTRUCTURING TO REFLECT THE END OF COUPON ISSUANCE 
SYSTEMS

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 274.8 and 274.12; 7 CFR 278

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

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

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

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

RIN: 0584-AD48
_______________________________________________________________________




334. [bull] SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM: SEVERE NEED ASSISTANCE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-265

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 220

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Prior to the interim rule, in order to receive the higher 
severe need School Breakfast Program reimbursements, schools must have 
served 40 percent plus of their lunches free or at a reduced price in 
the second preceding year and must document their costs. They received 
the lesser of their documented costs or the severe need rate.
In response to Public Law 108-265, which amended the Child Nutrition 
Act of 1966, 7 CFR 220, the School Breakfast Program's regulations, is 
revised to remove the requirement to document costs. This rule also 
revises the regulations to require that the Secretary determine how 
schools without a second preceding year history may qualify for severe 
need reimbursements. (04-008)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/02/05                    70 FR 66247
Interim Final Rule Effective    12/02/05

[[Page 72999]]

Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      05/01/06
Final Action                    12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

Agency Contact: Sharon Ackerman, Agency Regulatory Officer, Department 
of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service, Room 918, 3101 Park Center 
Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302
Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Duplicate of 0584-AD50
RIN: 0584-AD82
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 246

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    09/27/06                    71 FR 56708

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State, Tribal

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

RIN: 0584-AB10
_______________________________________________________________________




336. FSP: CIVIL RIGHTS DATA COLLECTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 272

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/18/06                    71 FR 28759
Final Action Effective          06/19/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

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

RIN: 0584-AC75
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Info./Admin./Other

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210, 215, 220, 225, 226, and 235

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    07/13/06                    71 FR 39513
Final Action Effective          09/11/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

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

RIN: 0584-AD16
_______________________________________________________________________




338. FSP: EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAM PROVISIONS OF THE FARM 
SECURITY AND RURAL INVESTMENT ACT OF 2002

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 273.7

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/09/06                    71 FR 33376
Final Action Effective          08/06/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

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

RIN: 0584-AD32
_______________________________________________________________________




339. FSP: DISCRETIONARY QUALITY CONTROL PROVISIONS OF TITLE IV OF PUBLIC 
LAW 107-171

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 271; 7 CFR 273; 7 CFR 275; 7 CFR 277

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Merged With 0584-AD31           03/01/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

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

Related RIN: Merged with 0584-AD31
RIN: 0584-AD37
_______________________________________________________________________




340. CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAMS: NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAM; SERVING 
FRUITS AND VEGETABLES AS AFTERSCHOOL SNACKS

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 210.10

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/18/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

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

Sharon Ackerman

[[Page 73000]]

Phone: 703 305-2246
Fax: 703 605-0220
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0584-AD40
_______________________________________________________________________




341. STATE ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 235

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/11/06                    71 FR 46074
Final Action Effective          09/11/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: State

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

RIN: 0584-AD53
_______________________________________________________________________




342. IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS OF THE CHILD NUTRITION AND WIC 
REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2004: DISREGARD OF OVERPAYMENTS IN THE CHILD 
NUTRITION PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    05/30/06                    71 FR 30561
Final Action Effective          06/29/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

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

RIN: 0584-AD68
_______________________________________________________________________




343. FOOD DISTRIBUTION PROGRAMS--DISTRIBUTING AGENCY EVALUATIONS OF NON-
COMMERCIAL WAREHOUSING AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS, COST COMPARISONS, 
SYSTEM APPROVAL AND IMPLEMENTATION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 250

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn--Provisions will be 
incorporated into another rule  05/22/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

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

RIN: 0584-AD72
_______________________________________________________________________




344. FOOD STAMP PROGRAM: EXPIRATION OF RESIDUAL PAPER COUPONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 274.12(a)

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       10/25/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

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

RIN: 0584-AD75
_______________________________________________________________________




345. FOR-PROFIT CENTER PARTICIPATION IN THE CHILD AND ADULT CARE FOOD 
PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 226

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    10/23/06                    71 FR 62057
Final Action Effective          11/22/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, State

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

Related RIN: Duplicate of 0584-AD66
RIN: 0584-AD80
BILLING CODE 3410--30--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




346. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR PUMPED OR MASSAGED BACON

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 424.22(b)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to revise the regulatory provisions 
concerning the production and testing of pumped or massaged bacon (9 
CFR 424.22(b)). FSIS is proposing to remove provisions that prescribe 
the substances and amounts of such substances that must be used to 
produce pumped or massaged bacon. FSIS is proposing to replace these 
provisions with an upper limit for nitrite and a performance standard 
that establishments producing pumped or massaged bacon must meet. To 
meet the proposed performance standard, the process used to produce 
pumped or massaged bacon would be required to limit the presence of 
nitrosamines when the product is cooked.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Deputy Assistant 
Administrator, Office of Policy, Program, and Employee Development, 
Department of Agriculture, Food Safety

[[Page 73001]]

and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20250
Phone: 202 205-0495
Fax: 202 401-1760
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC49
_______________________________________________________________________




347. EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION REGULATIONS

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 13 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AC58
_______________________________________________________________________




348. PRIOR LABELING APPROVAL SYSTEM: GENERIC LABEL APPROVAL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

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

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer 
Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC59
_______________________________________________________________________




349. ADDITION OF MEXICO TO THE LIST OF COUNTRIES ELIGIBLE FOR THE 
IMPORTATION OF SLAUGHTERED (FRESH) POULTRY AND EGG PRODUCTS INTO THE 
UNITED STATES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS is proposing to add Mexico to the list of countries from 
which fresh slaughtered poultry and egg products may be imported into 
the United States

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sally White, Director, International Equivalence Staff, 
Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, Room 
2137, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6400
Fax: 202 720-7990
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Duplicate of 0583-AC92
RIN: 0583-AD01
_______________________________________________________________________




350. FOOD DEFENSE PLANS

Priority: Other Significant

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: 7 USC 138f; 7 CFR 2.18, 2.53; 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 
USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 1031 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 420

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
require that official establishments develop, implement, and maintain 
food security plans to prevent intentional product contamination. FSIS 
is also proposing to require establishments to review these plans at 
least once a year and modify them as appropriate. FSIS is taking this 
action to enhance protection of the nation's food supply against 
possible terrorist acts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Bobby Palesano, Acting Deputy Executive Associate for 
Program Development, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, Room 2932, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2490
Fax: 202 205-0080
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD06
_______________________________________________________________________




351. ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) (21 USC 601 et 
seq); Poultry Product Inspection Act (PPIA) (21 USC 451 et seq); Egg 
Products Inspection Act (EPIA) (21 USC 1031 et seq); Government 
Paperwork Elimination Act of 1998 (PL 105-277, title XVII)

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
accept electronic signatures as equal to handwritten signatures so long 
as the electronic report-generating and recordkeeping system uses 
procedures and controls designed to ensure authenticity, integrity, and 
where necessary, confidentiality. Such systems must also ensure that 
signatures are linked to records; that signatures cannot be excised, 
copied, transferred, or otherwise falsified; and that the signer cannot 
repudiate signed records as not genuine.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 73002]]

Agency Contact: Wanda Haxton, Program Analyst, Regulations and 
Petitions Policy Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0299
Fax: (202)6900486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD14
_______________________________________________________________________




352. [bull] FOOD ALLERGEN LABELING FOR MEAT, POULTRY, AND EGG PRODUCTS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 1031 et 
seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317.2(f); 9 CFR 381.118; 9 CFR 590.411(c)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has 
jurisdiction over meat, poultry, and egg products while FDA has 
jurisdiction over all other food and ingredients, including their 
labeling. On August 2, 2004, the President signed the Food Allergen 
Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA)(S. 741) into law which, 
in part, requires that labels for food products under the jurisdiction 
of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearly state the presence of 
any of eight major foods or food groups (i.e., milk, eggs, fish, 
Crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soy beans) because 
these foods account for 90 percent of all food allergies.
The Agency recognizes that, in addition to the requirements FSIS has 
for ensuring that all ingredients of health concern are controlled in 
processing and declared on labeling, there is a need for clear and 
understandable, consumer-friendly terms that would be helpful for 
allergen-sensitive individuals to make informed food choices for all 
foods including meat, poultry, and egg products. Therefore, FSIS is 
developing a proposed rule to adopt the same naming conventions for the 
labeling of any of the eight major foods or food groups that is 
required by FALCPA when they are used to formulate a meat, poultry, or 
egg product.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer 
Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD22
_______________________________________________________________________




353. [bull] DEFINITION OF VEAL

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
establish a definition for ``veal.'' FSIS sees a clear need to define 
this term to distinguish this type of meat from other products of young 
cattle to ensure that the term ``veal'' is fairly and accurately used 
in commerce.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Jeffrey L. Brown, Program Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2096
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD23
_______________________________________________________________________




354. [bull] EXPORT PRODUCT DEVIATIONS FROM LABELING REQUIREMENTS AND 
INGREDIENT RESTRICTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601(m) and 606(d); 21 USC 453(g)

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 318.8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is proposing to 
amend its meat and poultry products inspection regulations by removing 
the regulatory requirements that permit the use of certain ingredients 
in meat and poultry products that are intended for export only. After 
reviewing provisions of the Federal Meat Inspection Act and the Poultry 
Products Inspection Act, FSIS has concluded that meat and poultry 
products that are in conflict with domestic compositional standards and 
regulations may not be exported, even if they comply with the laws of 
the foreign countries to which they are destined. This conclusion 
represents a change in the Agency's implementation of the Acts; 
however, FSIS finds that this change is compelled by terms of the Acts 
themselves.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Ms. Daphne Brown, Regulations and Petitions Policy 
Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 
1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD24

[[Page 73003]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




355. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF PROCESSED MEAT AND 
POULTRY PRODUCTS; CONTROL OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES IN READY-TO-EAT MEAT 
AND POULTRY PRODUCTS

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 14 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________




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

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 15 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AC60
_______________________________________________________________________




357. FOOD STANDARDS; GENERAL PRINCIPLES AND FOOD STANDARDS MODERNIZATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 601 et seq; 21 USC 451 et seq; 21 USC 321 et 
seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 410; 21 CFR 130

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and the Food 
and Drug Administration (FDA) have proposed to establish a set of 
general principles for food standards. The adherence to these 
principles will result in standards that will better promote honesty 
and fair dealing in the interest of consumers, protect the public, 
allow for technological advances in food production, be consistent with 
international food standards, and be clear, simple, and easy to use for 
both manufacturers and the agencies that enforce compliance with the 
standards. The proposed general principles will establish the criteria 
that the agencies will use in considering whether a petition to 
establish, revise, or eliminate a food standard will be the basis for a 
proposed rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            05/20/05                    70 FR 29214
NPRM Comment Period End         08/18/05
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer 
Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC72
_______________________________________________________________________




358. PETITIONS FOR RULEMAKING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 553

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 392

Legal Deadline: None

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

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/12/06                     71 FR 1988
NPRM Comment Period End         03/13/06
Final Action                    03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dr. Daniel L. Engeljohn, Deputy Assistant 
Administrator, Office of Policy, Program, and Employee Development, 
Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0495
Fax: 202 401-1760
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC81
_______________________________________________________________________




359. CLASSES OF POULTRY UPDATING POULTRY CLASS STANDARDS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.170(a)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS will amend the official U.S. classes of poultry so that 
they more accurately and clearly describe the characteristics of 
poultry in the market today. Poultry classes are defined primarily in 
terms of age and sex of the bird. Genetic improvements and new poultry 
management techniques have reduced the grow-out period for some poultry 
classes while extensive cross breeding has produced poultry with higher 
meat yields but blurred breed distinctions. This action is being taken 
to ensure that poultry products are labeled in a truthful and non-
misleading manner. The rule will update existing regulations to reflect 
current poultry characteristics and production practices. Therefore, 
the impact on the poultry industry is expected to be minimal.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/29/03                    68 FR 55902
NPRM Comment Period End         02/09/04
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer 
Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC83
_______________________________________________________________________




360. PROHIBITION OF THE USE OF SPECIFIED RISK MATERIALS FOR HUMAN FOOD 
AND REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DISPOSITION OF NON-AMBULATORY DISABLED CATTLE

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 16 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AC88

[[Page 73004]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 17 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AD00
_______________________________________________________________________




362. PROHIBITION ON THE USE OF AIR-INJECTION STUNNERS FOR THE SLAUGHTER 
OF CATTLE

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 18 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AD03
_______________________________________________________________________




363. ACCREDITED LABORATORY PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 318, 381, and 439

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The rule revises, edits, and consolidates provisions to 
establish standards and procedures for the accreditation of non-Federal 
analytical chemistry laboratories. FSIS is amending the regulations to 
accommodate more readily the adoption of newer methods for analyzing an 
expanded number of chemical residues and to correct some factual data. 
In addition, FSIS is making other editorial changes to reflect Agency 
reorganizations and program changes since a rule was published in 1993. 
This rule also consolidates the regulations, now in two parts, into a 
single part, 9 CFR part 439.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/17/06                     71 FR 2483
NPRM Comment Period End         03/20/06
Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Lynn E. Dickey Ph.D, Director, Regulations and 
Petitions Policy Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and 
Inspection Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-5627
Fax: 202 690-0486
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD09
_______________________________________________________________________




364. AVAILABILITY OF LISTS OF RETAIL CONSIGNEES DURING MEAT OR POULTRY 
PRODUCT RECALLS

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 19 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0583-AD10
_______________________________________________________________________




365. DEFINITIONS AND PROCEDURES FOR DETERMINING THE NET WEIGHT 
COMPLIANCE OF MEAT AND POULTRY PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 317; 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 442

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has proposed to 
amend the Federal meat and poultry products inspection regulations in 
order that they reference the revised version of the National Institute 
of Standards and Technology (NIST) Handbook 133 that contains standards 
for determining the reasonable variations allowed for the declared net 
weight on labels of immediate containers of meat and poultry products; 
the procedures to be used to determine the net weight and net weight 
compliance of meat and poultry products; and related definitions. The 
Agency also is proposing to consolidate the separate net weight 
regulations for meat and poultry products in a new CFR part, applicable 
to both meat and poultry products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/28/06                    71 FR 15340
NPRM Comment Period End         05/30/06
Final Action                    09/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robert Post Ph.D., Director, Labeling and Consumer 
Protection Staff, Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0279
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD17
_______________________________________________________________________




366. ALLOWING BAR-TYPE CUT TURKEY OPERATIONS TO USE J-TYPE CUT MAXIMUM 
LINE SPEEDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 21 USC 451 et seq

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.68

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: FSIS has proposed to amend the Federal poultry products 
inspection regulations to provide that turkey slaughter establishments 
that open turkey carcasses with Bar-type cuts may operate at the 
maximum line speeds established for J-type cuts, if the establishment 
uses the specific type of shackle described in this proposed rule. 
Under this proposed rule, as under current regulations, the inspector 
in charge will reduce line speeds when, in his or her judgment, the 
prescribed inspection procedure cannot be adequately performed within 
the time available because of the health conditions of a particular 
flock or because of other factors. Such factors include the manner in 
which birds are being presented to the inspector for inspection and the 
level of contamination among the birds on the line.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            09/09/05                    70 FR 53582
NPRM Comment Period End         12/08/05
Final Action                    03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Shaukat Syed, Director, New Technology Staff, 
Department of Agriculture, Food Safety and Inspection Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0675
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD18

[[Page 73005]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)



_______________________________________________________________________




367. PERFORMANCE CRITERIA FOR ON-LINE ANTIMICROBIAL REPROCESSING OF PRE-
CHILL POULTRY CARCASSES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381; 9 CFR 424

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn-Issues will be 
addressed in future rulemakings 08/07/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 205-0495
Fax: 202 401-1760
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC73
_______________________________________________________________________




368. PERFORMANCE STANDARD FOR CHILLING OF READY-TO-COOK POULTRY

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 381.66

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn-Issues will be 
addressed in future rulemakings 08/07/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Daniel L. Engeljohn
Phone: 202 205-0495
Fax: 202 401-1760
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AC87
_______________________________________________________________________




369. FREQUENCY OF FOREIGN INSPECTION SYSTEM SUPERVISORY VISITS TO 
CERTIFIED FOREIGN ESTABLISHMENTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 9 CFR 327.2; 9 CFR 381.96

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    08/03/06                    71 FR 43958

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Sally White
Phone: 202 720-6400
Fax: 202 720-7990
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD08
_______________________________________________________________________




370. ADDITION OF THE PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA TO THE LIST OF COUNTRIES 
ELIGIBLE TO EXPORT PROCESSED POULTRY AND POULTRY PRODUCTS TO THE UNITED 
STATES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2.18, 2.53; 9 CFR 381

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    04/24/06                    71 FR 20867

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Sally White
Phone: 202 720-6400
Fax: 202 720-7990
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0583-AD20
BILLING CODE 3140--DM--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)



_______________________________________________________________________




371. NEW PROVISIONS AND REVISIONS TO SUGAR RE-EXPORT PROGRAMS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 19 USC 1202; 19 USC 3314

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1530

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This regulation governs the importation of world price sugar 
and its subsequent use as a refined re export, product ingredient, or 
input into the production of polyhydric alcohols. The proposed 
amendments and/or modifications are principally aimed at reorganizing 
and simplifying the complexity of the current regulation; clarifying 
certain definitions, including the coverage of beet and cane sugar; 
extending the scope of the regulation to specially include toll 
operations, which was inadvertently omitted; and implementing Mexico-
NAFTA legal commitments. The proposed action will provide for increased 
operational efficiencies and promote the Government's objectives 
regarding regulatory simplification.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

ANPRM                           05/01/03                    68 FR 23230
ANPRM Comment Period End        06/02/03
NPRM                            01/21/05                     70 FR 3150
NPRM Comment Period End         03/22/05
Final Action                    06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Tamoria S. Thompson-Hall, Budget Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, 
Room 6083-S, MS 1028, Washington, DC 20250-1028
Phone: 202 690-1690
Email: [email protected]

Kimberly Chisley, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of Agriculture, 
Foreign Agricultural Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, 
DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0551-AA65
_______________________________________________________________________




372. QUALITY SAMPLES PROGRAM

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

Legal Authority: 44 USC 3501; 15 USC 714

[[Page 73006]]

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1483

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Rule proposes to establish regulations applicable to the 
Quality Samples Program (QSP), currently authorized by section 5(f) of 
the CCC Charter Act, 15 U.S.C. 714c(f). This proposed rule would codify 
existing guidelines. The rule would provide specific regulations 
concerning program administration. Significant provisions include 
program objectives and priorities, eligible organizations, 
qualification requirements, application and review processes, 
reimbursement rules and procedures, financial reporting and program 
evaluation requirements, and program controls.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/03/06                    71 FR 43992
NPRM Comment Period End         10/02/06
Interim Final Rule              04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

URL For More Information:
www.fas.usda.gov

Agency Contact: Kimberly Chisley, Regulatory Coordinator, Department of 
Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-2568
Fax: 202 720-3814
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0551-AA68
BILLING CODE 3410--10--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




373. INDIAN ALLOTMENTS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1603; 43 USC 1740; 25 
USC 337

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 254

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule sets forth the Forest Service role and 
procedures in the conveyance of Indian allotments on National Forest 
System (NFS) lands. The Indian Allotment Act of 1910, as amended, 
authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to make allotments of NFS 
lands to American Indians for homesteading and agricultural and grazing 
purposes, but only after a determination by the Secretary of 
Agriculture that the lands are more valuable for agriculture or grazing 
than for timber. The Forest Service has relied upon U.S. Department of 
the Interior rules and procedures at 43 CFR part 2533 to govern its 
involvement in Indian allotment cases. Litigation and a decision by the 
Interior Board of Land Appeals require the Forest Service to set forth 
its own regulations. This proposed rule clarifies the role of the 
Forest Service in the allotment process. It preserves the rights of 
affected individual American Indians who wish to apply for allotments 
on NFS lands. An earlier version of this proposed rule was published in 
the Federal Register on June 22, 1987 (52 FR 23473). Very few comments 
were received on the 1987 proposed rule, and this revision of the 
proposed rule makes only limited changes needed to update the rule due 
to the passage of 18 years since publication of the first version of 
the proposed rule. Because of the amount of time that has elapsed since 
the earlier version of the proposed rule was published, the Agency 
believes that it is in the public interest to publish a revised 
proposed rule and request comment prior to adopting a final rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            06/22/87                    52 FR 23473
NPRM Comment Period End         07/22/87
Second NPRM                     12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AA52
_______________________________________________________________________




374. SPECIES SURPLUS TO DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING NEEDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 620 et seq.

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.200

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would amend 36 CFR 223.200 to list species 
proposed to be surplus to domestic manufacturing needs. This proposed 
rule would implement a portion of section 620a(b) of the Forest 
Resources Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990 (16 USC 620 et 
seq.). Section 620a(a) of the Act provides that no person who acquires 
unprocessed timber originating from Federal lands west of the 100th 
meridian in the contiguous 48 States may export such timber from the 
United States, or sell, trade, exchange, or otherwise convey such 
timber from the United States, unless such timber has been determined 
under subsection (b) to be surplus to the needs of timber manufacturing 
facilities in the United States. Section 620a(b) of the Act provides 
that the prohibition contained in subsection (a) shall not apply to 
specific quantities of grades and species of unprocessed timber 
originating in Federal lands which the Secretary determines, through 
rulemaking, to be surplus to domestic manufacturing needs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB27

[[Page 73007]]

_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 212; 36 CFR 214; 36 CFR 215; 36 CFR 228; 26 CFR 
241; 36 CFR 251; 36 CFR 254; 36 CFR 292

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed rule to revise 
the process by which certain parties can appeal decisions relating to 
authorizations for use and occupancy of National Forest System lands 
and resources. This proposed rule would create a new part 214 to 
replace regulations at 36 CFR part 251, subpart C. The Forest Service 
has a continuing commitment to review its regulations periodically, to 
identify specific problems in administering them, and to determine 
whether they meet agency and public needs. Experience with the 
procedures at 36 CFR part 251, subpart C, has shown that certain 
provisions in the rule consistently raise questions. Thus, the agency 
has identified a need to amend the procedures at 36 CFR part 251, 
subpart C, to correct and clarify aspects of the part 251 appeals 
process and its relationship to the amended appeal rule at 36 CFR part 
215. Among specific changes being proposed are acknowledgement that 
this is the appropriate part for appeal of decisions related to 
locatable mining operations; making terminology consistent with part 
215; establishing time frames for intervening, scheduling oral 
presentations or requesting stays; clarifying that decisions to deny 
permits for noncommercial group use are not subject to appeal, but 
rather are immediately subject to judicial review; and making 
conforming technical revisions to 36 CFR parts 212, 215, 228, 241, 251, 
254, and 292.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB45
_______________________________________________________________________




376. LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPPORT ACTIVITIES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1011(f); 16 USC 472; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 559(a) 
to 559(g); 40 USC 484(m)

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 262

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On February 16, 1994 (59 FR 7880), the Forest Service 
published a proposed rule for 36 CFR part 261, Prohibitions, and part 
262, Law Enforcement Support Activities. Due to the high level of 
interest in and comment on part 261, the decision was made to publish 
second proposed rules separately for each part.
The Forest Service is proceeding with publication of a second proposed 
rule for part 262, Law Enforcement Support Activities. The proposed 
revisions to part 262 are narrow in scope and are meant to clarify 
specific administrative provisions. In particular, they address the 
limitations and conditions for paying rewards in connection to fire or 
property prosecution; clarify the rules regarding the purchase of 
information or evidence in furtherance of investigations; and clarify 
certain actions and regulations regarding the impoundment, removal, and 
disposition of animals and personal property from National Forest 
System lands. The proposed rule also responds to comments concerning 
part 262 that were received in response to the proposed rule published 
in 1994. The majority of those comments referred to how the rule 
defines certain terms. To address those comments in this second 
proposed rule, the agency proposes to add a new section for 
definitions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/16/94                     59 FR 7880
NPRM Comment Period End         05/18/94
Second NPRM                     02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB61
_______________________________________________________________________




377. NONCOMPETITIVE SALE OF TIMBER; TIMBER SUBSTITUTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472(a)

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.85

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule would revise 36 CFR 223.85 by changing the 
reference to 16 USC 472(d) to 16 USC 472a(d). This proposed rule would 
revise the existing regulations regarding noncompetitive sale of timber 
based on the Secretary of Agriculture's determination that 
``extraordinary conditions'' exist to apply to sales agency wide. This 
proposed rule would add paragraph (c), which further defines 
extraordinary conditions to allow forest officers, without 
advertisement, to make modifications to awarded timber and forest 
product sales, which result in the substitution of timber or forest 
products from outside the sale area specified in the contract. This 
would be applied to situations where replacement timber from outside 
the sale area could be substituted for timber lost as a result of 
litigation or catastrophic events. Substitute timber or forest products 
must be from the same national forest, and meet agency requirements for 
compliance with the National Environmental Protection Act, the National 
Forest Management Act, and notice, comment, and appeal procedures at 36 
CFR part 215. This proposed rule would authorize the Forest Service to 
propose timber sale modifications and to enter into discussions with 
purchasers on such modifications. But, timber purchasers would not be 
obligated to accept any proposed modifications.
To the extent that timber sale cancellations and partial cancellations 
are avoided, the effect of this proposed rule would be to reduce future 
damage claims on timber sales.

[[Page 73008]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB70
_______________________________________________________________________




378. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; TIMBER EXPORT 
AND SUBSTITUTION RESTRICTIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 620

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223; 36 CFR 261

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule for timber export and substitution 
restrictions would implement the provisions of the Forest Resources 
Conservation and Shortage Relief Act of 1990, as amended in 1997. The 
proposed rule defines the certain terms necessary to facilitate uniform 
compliance; prohibits transfer of unprocessed private timber for export 
by a person who possesses or acquires unprocessed Federal timber; 
prohibits export of such unprocessed private timber by a third or 
successive party; prescribes procedures for reporting the acquisition 
and disposition of National Forest System (NFS) and private timber 
requiring domestic processing, including transfers; prescribes 
procedures for identifying unprocessed NFS and private timber requiring 
domestic processing; and establishes procedures for assessing civil and 
criminal penalties and applying administrative remedies for violations 
of the Act, its implementing regulations, and contracts subject to the 
Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB75
_______________________________________________________________________




379. LOCATABLE MINERALS

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 30 USC 21 to 54; 30 USC 612

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 228, subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This revision follows recommended changes developed by the 
Government Accountability Office and Office of Inspector General audits 
and recommendations in the National Research Council's 1999 report 
titled ``Hard rock Mining on Federal Lands.'' The proposed rule would 
improve the administration of the locatable minerals program. The 
proposed rule's objectives are to improve the process for modifying, 
suspending, and terminating plans of operation; improve the process of 
reviewing and adjusting reclamation bonds to cover the full cost of 
reclamation; improve the process of managing temporary closures; define 
proper occupancy and use; and improve noncompliance and enforcement 
actions. This proposed rule revision will increase the efficiency of 
locatable minerals administration and protect the public from funding 
mine reclamation.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




380. RECREATION EVENT FEES (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, 
CHAPTER 2720)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 497, 551

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed directive to 
amend Forest Service Manual 2721.49 regarding the basis of determining 
fees for recreation events. Currently, fees are based on a percentage 
of gross revenues. The proposed fee system would establish a fee based 
on the number of people involved in the event. This modification in the 
fee system would result in fees similar to the Bureau of Land 
Management for this type of use. Additionally, the modification would 
reduce the administrative workload, for both holders and the 
Government, associated with the auditing of records for permits that 
generate less than $100,000 in revenue.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC24
_______________________________________________________________________




381. OUTFITTER AND GUIDE SPECIAL USE AUTHORIZATIONS (PROPOSED 
DIRECTIVES, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 2709.11, CHAPTER 30)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 497

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed agency directive 
to amend Forest Service Handbook 2709.11, section 37, regarding fees 
for outfitting and guiding special use

[[Page 73009]]

authorizations. This action is being taken to improve administrative 
efficiency for the agency and reduce administrative burden to small 
business. For example: for minor concession uses, the proposed 
directive would revise the current fee system from one based on a 
percentage of gross revenue to a flat rate, thus reducing record 
keeping and audit requirements. Public comment is invited and will be 
considered in development of a final directive.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directives             12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC50
RIN: 0596-AC25
_______________________________________________________________________




382. SECRETARY DETERMINATION THAT DOMESTIC SPECIES OF UNPROCESSED TIMBER 
ARE SURPLUS TO DOMESTIC NEEDS WITHIN THE ZONE OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 620

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.200(d)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to amend 36 CFR 223.200 to 
add a new paragraph (d) to address the Secretary of Agriculture's 
proposed determination that domestic species of unprocessed timber 
within the zone of southern California are being considered surplus to 
domestic needs. Section 439 of Public Law 101-382, the Forest Resources 
Conservation and Shortage Relief Act (16 USC 620 note, 620, 620a-j) 
established special authorities for determining if specific quantities 
of grades and species of unprocessed timber originating from Federal 
lands is surplus to domestic manufacturing needs.
Extended drought conditions, overstocking, and increased bark beetle 
activities have created a forest health and fuels management crisis on 
national forests in southern California. The San Bernardino National 
Forest, the most heavily impacted national forest, has identified over 
100,000 acres of dead and dying timber for priority treatment, with an 
estimated 140 million board feet of salvage volume. As of September 
2003, over 474,000 acres of the gross acreage within the forest 
boundary is showing significant vegetative mortality. Processing 
infrastructure such as loggers, log truckers, or mills do not exist in 
the area. Most of this timber volume is economically inaccessible to 
the domestic timber market.
The Secretary's proposed determination that domestic species of 
unprocessed timber is surplus to domestic needs would allow the lifting 
of export restrictions so unprocessed timber could be offered on the 
foreign market. This action would increase utilization of dead and 
dying timber, increase capability to reduce hazardous fuels, and 
decrease government costs.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC27
_______________________________________________________________________




383. CLARIFYING PROHIBITIONS AGAINST DAMAGE TO THE NATIONAL FOREST BY 
ESCAPED FIRES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 551

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 261.1; 36 CFR 261.2; 36 CFR 261.5

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service intends to amend 36 CFR 261.1, 261.2, and 
261.5 to clarify that strict liability will be applied to a person who 
commits a prohibited action under section 261 that results in a fire 
escaping and damaging or threatening National Forest System lands. This 
section has not been interpreted consistently in the courts. Amending 
the CFR to align with the Model Penal Code definitions of criminal 
intent will achieve consistency in application and interpretation.
In addition, the CFR will be amended to clarify that a person 
conducting a legitimate prescribed fire on private or public lands 
adjacent to National Forest System Lands will be subject to the Model 
Penal Code standard of negligence. This will bring the law enforcement 
action in line with the objectives and goals of the National Fire Plan 
and the Healthy Forest Initiative by assuring those who conduct those 
activities with due diligence will not be subject to a strict liability 
interpretation in 36 CFR 261.5.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC30
_______________________________________________________________________




384. REVISIONS TO GENERAL PROHIBITIONS REGARDING LIVESTOCK AND WILD 
FREE-ROAMING HORSES AND BURROS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 551

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 222; 36 CFR 261.7; 36 CFR 261.21

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to revise the regulation 
governing the management of wild free-roaming horses and burros. This

[[Page 73010]]

proposed action will incorporate into regulation new provisions for 
management of wild horses and burros enacted by the Fiscal Year 2005 
Omnibus Appropriations Act (Pub. L. 108-447, Division E, title 1, 
section 142). This proposed action would also eliminate concerns raised 
by employees and others about inconsistencies in Forest Service and 
Bureau of Land Management regulations on the management of wild horses 
and burros.
The Fiscal Year 2005 Omnibus Appropriations Act amended the Wild Free-
Roaming Horses and Burros Act (Pub. L. 92-195) and mandated the sale of 
wild horses and burros that meet specific criteria. In general, the law 
mandates the sale of excess wild horses and burros that are more than 
10 years of age or that have been offered unsuccessfully for adoption 
at least 3 times. These animals are to be made available for sale 
without limitation, including through auction to the highest bidder, at 
local sale yards, or other convenient livestock selling facilities, 
until all excess animals offered for sale are sold or until appropriate 
management levels are attained across all areas occupied by wild horses 
and burros. Funds generated from the sale of these animals are to be 
credited to the Bureau of Land Management and used to help alleviate 
costs generated from the adoption of wild horses and burros.
Additionally, the Forest Service wishes to merge this revision of 36 
CFR part 222 with an existing proposed action to revise 36 CFR part 
261, subpart A--General Prohibitions; section 261.7, Livestock; and 
section 261.21, Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros (RIN 0596-AC31). 
That proposed rule would clarify ambiguity regarding whether strict 
liability must be proven for violations of the prohibitions set out in 
those sections related to livestock and wild free-roaming horses and 
burros.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC31
_______________________________________________________________________




385. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) DOCUMENTATION FOR 
SPORICIDE USE ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, 
FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1909.15, CHAPTER 30)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 4321 to 4346

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is considering development of a new 
Categorical Exclusion (CE) to Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 1909.15, 
Environmental Policy and Procedures Handbook, chapter 30, which 
addresses categories of action that normally do not require either an 
environmental impact statement (EIS) or environmental assessment (EA). 
The new category would be applicable to the use of fungicide on 
recently cut trees through thinning or other tree cutting activity in 
conjunction with the Healthy Forest Initiative categorical exclusions 
(and possibly other situations). Coordination with other governmental 
agencies will be conducted during development of the aforementioned CE.
The Healthy Forest Initiatives (HFI) Categorical Exclusion 31.2(10) 
states `Hazardous fuels reduction activities'(d) shall not include the 
use of herbicide or pesticides. . ..' It has come to our attention that 
a frequently connected action of thinning for fuels reduction is the 
use of sporax or borax fungicide to maintain stand health. Such 
fungicides, although commonly used in forestry and elsewhere, are 
technically classified as a pesticide and as such are not allowed under 
31.2(10). This incongruity has had the following effect: (a) Some units 
may be alternatively using timber sale improvement category 31.2(6) or 
other categories, because they do not preclude the use of fungicides. 
This results in an underreporting of HFI accomplishments, and given the 
scope of the other categories, it is likely that fewer acres are being 
treated; (b) Although not confirmed, some units may not be treating the 
harvested stands to protect against fungal agents which could put 
stands at risk; and (c) Some units may be alternatively using 
environmental assessments. This results in increased planning costs and 
time and underreporting of HFI accomplishments.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC32
_______________________________________________________________________




386. PISCICIDE APPLICATIONS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 241; 36 CFR 251.50(a); 36 CFR 261.9(f)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: State Fish and Game agencies typically use piscicides as a 
tool for managing fish populations in water bodies of the U.S. At 
times, these State agencies apply piscicides when they conduct 
fisheries management on water within the National Forest Systems lands. 
Current regulations at 36 CFR 251.5 and 261.9(f), require permits for 
all land uses and prohibit the use of any pesticide on National Forest 
System lands ``. . . except for personal use as an insect repellent or 
as provided by special-use authorization for other minor uses.`` The 
wording in these regulations has led to confusion and inconsistent 
application of Forest Service piscicide policy that has delayed 
restoration projects and strained working relationships with State 
cooperators.
Therefore, the Forest Service is proposing that the regulations at 36 
CFR part 241 (Fish and Wildlife), 36

[[Page 73011]]

CFR part 251, subpart B, (Special Uses, 251.50(a)), and 36 CFR part 
261, subpart A (General Prohibitions, 36 CFR 261.9(f)) be modified to 
allow State Game and Fish agencies to apply piscicides without first 
having to obtain a special use authorization, under certain conditions. 
A special use authorization would still be required for piscicide 
application within wilderness areas. The regulation could help 
eliminate redundancy with other State and Federal laws and regulations 
and improve the implementation of restoration and management projects.
Eliminating the Forest Service special use authorization requirement 
for this use is not expected to change the frequency of piscicide 
applications on National Forest System lands or change how piscicides 
are used. States are required to comply with other Federal laws when 
applying piscicides, such as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act 
and the Endangered Species Act.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC33
_______________________________________________________________________




387. CLARIFICATION FOR THE APPROPRIATE USE OF A CRIMINAL OR A CIVIL 
CITATION TO ENFORCE MINERAL REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 261.10 (b); 36 CFR 261.10 (k)

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to amend the regulations at 
36 CFR 261.10 to clarify when a criminal citation should be used for 
unauthorized mining operations. This revision is necessary to address 
recent adverse District Court decisions which have found that sections 
261.10(b) and (k) do not apply to the enforcement of unauthorized 
mining operations. These sections deal with taking possession of, 
occupying, or using National Forest System lands for residential 
purposes, and the use or occupancy of the lands or facilities, 
respectively. Adding appropriate language would make it clear that 
these sections do apply to mineral operations.
In addition, in the definitions section where operating plan is 
defined, references to other mineral-related regulations will be added 
to indicate that 36 CFR 261.10 applies to them as well.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC38
_______________________________________________________________________




388. TRAVEL MANAGEMENT (PROPOSED DIRECTIVES, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 2300 
AND 7700)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: EO 11644; 36 CFR 212

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The final regulation entitled ``Travel Management; Designated 
Routes and Areas for Motor Vehicle Use (36 CFR part 212)'' was 
published on November 9, 2005 (70 FR 68264). The Forest Service plans 
to publish proposed directives to implement the regulation. The 
proposed directive changes are needed to provide guidance on 
implementation of the Travel Management regulation, conform terminology 
to the rule, and provide consistent direction on the process of 
designating roads, trails, and areas for motor vehicle use.
The proposed changes consolidate policy for travel planning for roads 
and trails in FSM 7710, while retaining separate chapters related to 
operations and maintenance for roads (FSM 7730) and trails (FSM 2350). 
The changes would expand the scope of the current roads analysis 
process to encompass motorized trails and areas, while streamlining 
travel analysis to ensure that it is completed in a timely manner.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC39
_______________________________________________________________________




389. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION TIMBER SALE SET-ASIDE PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 36 CFR 223.118

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing a revision of its policy 
procedures in Forest Service Handbook 2409.18, Timber Sale Preparation 
Handbook, chapter 90, Programs With Small Business Administration, to 
drop structural changes in the Forest Service Directives. This proposed 
revision would better reflect the current timber sale program, make the 
recomputation process as fair as possible, and simplify the process by 
which market share is determined. This proposed policy change would not 
affect scheduled recomputations and special recomputations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              08/01/06                    71 FR 43435
Comment Period End              10/02/06
Comment Period Extended         09/29/06                    71 FR 57462

[[Page 73012]]

Comment Period End              12/11/06
Final Action                    01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC46
_______________________________________________________________________




390. [bull] LINEAR RIGHT-OF-WAY RENTAL PAYMENT SCHEDULE

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 15801

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 251.57

Legal Deadline: NPRM, Statutory, August 8, 2006.

Abstract: The Forest Service (FS) is seeking public participation in 
the formulation of a proposed rule to update the linear right-of-way 
rental fee schedule authorized by 36 CFR 251.57 and set out in Forest 
Service Handbook 2709.12, chapter 30. Section 367 of the Energy Policy 
Act of 2005 (the Act) directs the Secretary of Agriculture to, not 
later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the Act on August 8, 
2005, update the per-acre rental fee schedule. The rental fee schedule 
covers most linear rights-of-way granted under section 28 of the 
Mineral Leasing Act of 1920, as amended, and title V of the Federal 
Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, as amended. Both laws require 
the holder of a right-of-way to pay annually, in advance, the fair 
market value to occupy, use, or traverse public lands, for facilities 
such as power lines, fiber optic lines, pipelines, roads, and ditches. 
The Act also requires the FS to revise the per-acre rental fee zone 
values by State, county, and type of linear right-of-way use to reflect 
current land values in each zone.
The Secretary of the Interior is also required by the Act to make these 
same revisions for rights-of-way on public lands administered by the 
Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM published an advance notice of 
proposed rulemaking on April 27, 2006 (71 FR 24836).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC48
_______________________________________________________________________




391. [bull] FOREST SERVICE NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT PROCEDURES

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 20 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0596-AC49
_______________________________________________________________________




392. [bull] OUTFITTER AND GUIDE SPECIAL USE AUTHORIZATIONS (PROPOSED 
DIRECTIVES, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 2709.11, CHAPTER 40)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 43 USC 1761 to 1771

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed agency directive 
to amend Forest Service Handbook 2709.11, section 41.53, regarding the 
administration of outfitting and guiding special use authorizations. 
This action is being taken to simplify the application and 
administration process for temporary use permits; offer the same terms 
and conditions to educational and institutional permit holders as to 
other types of permit holders; clarify policy for priority use permits 
governing performance, inspections, and allocation of use; and develop 
a process for allocation of use on a first-come, first-served basis for 
temporary use permits to facilitate greater participation in outfitting 
and guiding by youth, educational, and religious groups.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Split from 0596-AC25
RIN: 0596-AC50
_______________________________________________________________________




393. [bull] GROUND WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICY DIRECTION (PROPOSED 
NEW DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, CHAPTER 2540)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 475; 16 USC 526

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: In recent years, the USDA Forest Service has been receiving 
an increasing number of inquiries and applications to access ground 
water resources on National Forest System lands nationwide. With the 
need for water expected to continue increasing in most areas of the 
country, it is likely this trend will persist. As a consequence, a need 
for national direction to ensure consistent and informed responses 
nationwide to ground water-related projects and proposals has been 
identified. This direction would amend the Forest Service Manual by 
adding section 2543 to chapter 2540. The new manual section: Clarifies 
Agency responsibilities with respect to ground water issues; provides 
direction for consideration of ground water resources in 
decisionmaking, including water-well and water-pipeline applications, 
siting of public water supplies, and implementation of source water 
protection programs on NFS lands; initiates a policy of quantifying 
ground

[[Page 73013]]

water withdrawals from NFS lands; establishes ground water data 
management requirements; and promotes sustainable use of ground water 
resources.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC51
_______________________________________________________________________




394. [bull] FOREST SERVICE POLICY ON PARTNER, SPONSOR, AND DONOR 
RECOGNITION (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1509.14)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 558a to 558d; 42 USC 12501; 16 USC 1271; 16 USC 
1641 to 1646

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is proposing to publish a directive to 
Forest Service Handbook 1509.14 where consistent national direction 
regarding sponsorship and donor recognition can be established. The 
proposed policy will establish new guidelines for the acceptance, 
utilization, and recognition of donations. The guidelines are intended 
to be practical standards under which the USDA Forest Service may fully 
use its donation acceptance authorities, while maintaining integrity, 
impartiality, and public confidence.
Donations are appropriate tools authorized by Congress for the 
Department and its bureaus to accomplish their missions. The 
Department's policy is to accept, utilize, recognize, and solicit 
donations in a manner that promotes and enhances the Department's 
programs, activities, and operations, consistent with applicable law 
and the donation guidelines. The policy will also set forth the Chief's 
delegation of authority regarding donations and fundraising; establish 
roles and responsibilities for USDA FS employees who work with donors, 
fundraising partners, and potential donors; identify plans and 
agreements relating to philanthropic activities and explain when they 
are required to be used; establish criteria for consideration in 
accepting of donations; and provide general guidance on appropriate 
forms of donor recognition. The policy will also serve as guiding 
criteria for USDA FS employees' conduct in relation to donation and 
sponsorship activities and fundraising campaigns which benefit the USDA 
FS. The USDA FS seeks to ensure the integrity and appropriateness of 
donations and fundraising activities and add new direction on how 
partners are acknowledged for their contributions. This policy is to be 
used by USDA FS employees in tandem with the Partnership Guide.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC52
_______________________________________________________________________




395. [bull] CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION FOR SKI AREA RESORT ACTIVITIES 
(PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FSH 1909.15, CHAPTER 30)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 CFR 1b

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a proposed directive to 
amend Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, chapter 30, regarding 
categorical exclusions (CEs) from documentation under the National 
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Its purpose is to improve management 
efficiency for ski areas operating under special use authorization on 
National Forest System lands.
Experience in environmental analysis of ski area developments has shown 
that many projects implementing a ski area master development plan or 
programmatic decision that was analyzed through an Environmental 
Assessment (EA) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) have not 
individually or cumulatively had a significant effect on the human 
environment. In the majority of projects, the issues associated with 
ski areas arise from the initial development or expansion of an area 
rather than from implementing projects.
The current list of CEs in this handbook omits some activities that do 
not warrant additional analysis and therefore places an unnecessary 
cost burden on the Agency and ski area operators. The Agency will 
review past environmental analyses to determine the types of 
implementing projects that typically do not have significant effects. 
Examples may include lift replacement or modification, minor 
modification of existing ski trails and terrain, vegetation management, 
improving or replacing existing facilities, and minor construction 
within the permitted area.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              06/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC53

[[Page 73014]]

_______________________________________________________________________




396. [bull] THREATENED, ENDANGERED, AND SENSITIVE (TES) SPECIES, 
SPECIES-OF-CONCERN, HABITAT MANAGEMENT, AND BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION 
(PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FSM 2670)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service proposed to revise Forest Service Manual 
2670, Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive (TES) Plants and Animals, 
to set forth direction to ensure compliance with existing laws, 
regulations, and de-facto Agency policies and to reflect current 
conservation biology, knowledge, management practices, and emerging 
ecosystem and TES species-related topics and issues.
This amendment is needed to: (1) Better guide forest plan compliance 
with the two National Forest Management Act (NFMA) planning rules on 
ecosystem and species conservation; (2) guide project level effects 
analysis and documentation for TES species; (3) modify objectives for 
TES species and habitat conservation; (4) modify policies for TES 
species and habitat conservation; (5) modify responsibilities assigned 
for TES species and habitat conservation; (6) correct several 
definitions related to TES species and habitat management; (7) correct 
cooperation procedures for TES species and habitat conservation; (8) 
update direction on sensitive species management; (9) set forth any 
direction needed for species-of-concern; (10) update direction on the 
recovery of T&E species; and (11) incorporate two 2006 Interim 
Directives on the 2005 NFMA Planning Rule and on grizzly bear 
management.
The proposed changes are expected to provide more effective 
implementation of the Endangered Species Act, the 1982 and 2005 NFMA 
planning regulations, and Agency strategies and policies for at-risk 
species and their habitats.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC55
_______________________________________________________________________




397. [bull] PROCESSING APPLICATIONS FOR WIND ENERGY DEVELOPMENT ON 
NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 
2720)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 109-58; EO 13212; 16 USC 472; 16 USC 4601(6a(c)); 7 
USC 1011(f); . . .

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is seeking comment on proposed policy that 
would govern the review and processing of applications for wind energy 
development on National Forest System land. This policy would address 
the internal agency process and responsibilities for: (1) Reviewing 
proposed wind energy plans of development, site plans, and operation 
plans; (2) issuing special use authorizations for site testing and 
monitoring (met towers), and (3) issuing special use authorizations for 
wind energy development in accordance with existing Forest Service 
regulations pertaining to special land uses set out at 36 CFR 251.54; 
as well as (4) determining the level of environmental analysis required 
for individual wind energy projects in accordance with the National 
Environmental Policy Act, Council of Environmental Quality regulations, 
and existing Forest Service environmental policy and procedures.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC61
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




398. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST TIMBER; CANCELLATION OF TIMBER 
SALE CONTRACTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 618

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.30; 36 CFR 223.40; 36 CFR 223.116

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is issuing a final rule to revise current 
regulations regarding cancellation of timber sale contracts, permits, 
and other such instruments authorizing the sale or harvest of timber or 
other forest products. This rule is needed to clarify when, why, and by 
whom contracts may be cancelled to remove redundant provisions and to 
provide a new formula for compensation when the Government must cancel 
timber sale contracts. The Forest Service takes every precaution before 
authorizing a particular activity on National Forest System lands to 
ensure that its authorization conforms with existing laws and with 
existing conditions on the ground at the time of the authorization. The 
current regulations place an inappropriate amount of financial 
liability on the Forest Service when the agency must, for reasons of 
public policy, judicial decision, or statutory direction, cancel a 
timber sale contract or permit. The regulatory

[[Page 73015]]

changes are necessary because the Forest Service is unable to continue 
bearing the majority of the financial risk and burden of contract 
cancellations. This rule would more reasonably allocate the risk 
between the Government and private parties. Establishing these 
reasonable limits to the Government's exposure to financial liability 
and burden of risk in the event of contractual changes or contract 
cancellations is critical to protecting the public's financial 
interests.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/30/96                    61 FR 68690
NPRM Comment Period End         02/13/97
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB21
_______________________________________________________________________




399. SPECIAL FOREST PRODUCTS AND FOREST BOTANICAL PRODUCTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 106-113

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is promulgating regulations for managing 
special forest products and forest botanical products. The regulations 
will guide the Forest Service in the administration of the broader 
category of special forest products. The interim final rule also 
implements Public Law 106-113, which authorizes a pilot program of 
charges and fees for harvest of forest botanical products. Forest 
botanical products include products such as herbs, berries, seeds, and 
wildflowers that are not wood products. The intended effect of this 
rule is to give guidance and provide consistency for the sustainability 
and sale of special forest products including forest botanical 
products.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB81
_______________________________________________________________________




400. NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND MANAGEMENT PLANNING CATEGORICAL 
EXCLUSION (FINAL DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1909.15, CHAPTER 30)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 21 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0596-AB86
_______________________________________________________________________




401. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY TO APPROVE FREE USE BY INDIVIDUALS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.8

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service published an interim final rule to revise 
the current regulations at 36 CFR 223.8 to increase the value of timber 
and special forest products on National Forest System lands made 
available for free use. The current regulation, which has not been 
updated for over 30 years, provides for free use of timber up to $20 in 
value in any one fiscal year. Forest Supervisors may grant permits of 
material not exceeding $100 in value. Regional Foresters may approve 
permits for larger amounts and, in times of emergency, may delegate 
authority to Forest Supervisors for up to $500 in value. Prior approval 
is required by the Chief if the amount exceeds $5,000 in value. The 
market value of timber and special forest products has increased, 
however, and therefore, the regulation needs to be updated to reflect 
current values. This increase will authorize Forest Supervisors and 
Regional Foresters to provide free use of timber and special forest 
products up to $5,000 and $10,000 in value respectively. Comments 
received will be considered in the development of the final rule.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/04/06                      71 FR 523
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/06/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC09
_______________________________________________________________________




402. PREDECISIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW AND OBJECTION PROCESS FOR 
PROJECTS AUTHORIZED UNDER HEALTHY FORESTS RESTORATION ACT OF 2003

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-148

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 215; 36 CFR 218, subpart A

Legal Deadline: Other, Statutory, January 5, 2004, PL 108-148, sec 105.
The Healthy Forest Restoration Act of 2003 (HFRA) required the 
Secretary of Agriculture to promulgate interim final regulations within 
30 days after the enactment of the Act.

Abstract: The Forest Service promulgated an interim final rule on 
January 9, 2004 (69 FR 1529), at 36 CFR part 218, to establish a 
predecisional administrative review process whereby persons can seek 
administrative review and file objections for hazardous fuel reduction 
projects authorized under the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 
(HFRA). The Agency solicited public comment on the interim final rule 
for a 90-day period. The comments received will be utilized to finalize 
36 CFR part 218.

[[Page 73016]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/09/04                     69 FR 1529
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      04/08/04
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC15
_______________________________________________________________________




403. SALE AND DISPOSAL OF NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM TIMBER; TIMBER SALE 
CONTRACTS; MODIFICATION OF CONTRACTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472a; 16 USC 618; 16 USC 620 to 620j

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 223.112

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is adopting a final rule at part 223, 
subpart B, of title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, section 223.112. 
This final rule authorizes timber sale contracting officers to modify 
contracts to provide a redetermination of stumpage rates and deposits 
to reflect significant timber market declines. This rule applies to 
existing timber sale contracts awarded after October 1, 1995, that have 
been suspended for more than 90 days, during the normal operating 
season because of administrative appeals or litigation, through no 
fault of the timber purchaser.
This final rule provides relief for purchasers in this situation by 
enabling them to obtain stumpage rate redeterminations to continue 
existing contracts after the suspension has been lifted to ensure the 
economic viability of the sale.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              04/09/04                    69 FR 18813
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      06/08/04
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC16
_______________________________________________________________________




404. ONSHORE OIL AND GAS OPERATIONS; FEDERAL AND INDIAN OIL AND GAS 
LEASES; ONSHORE OIL AND GAS ORDER NUMBER 1, APPROVAL OF OPERATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 30 USC 223 et seq

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 228

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Through a joint Federal Register publication, the Bureau of 
Land Management (BLM), acting as lead agency, and the Forest Service 
are proposing to revise the current 1983 Onshore Oil and Gas Order 
Number 1 (Order). The new proposed Order is being jointly published by 
the Forest Service and the BLM to facilitate common conservation 
practices and procedures across agency boundaries.
The Order provides the requirements necessary for the approval of all 
proposed oil and gas exploratory, development, or service wells on all 
Federal and Indian (except Osage Tribe) onshore oil and gas leases. The 
revision is necessary due to provisions of the 1987 Federal Onshore Oil 
and Gas Leasing Reform Act, legal opinions, court cases since the Order 
was issued in 1983, and other policy and procedural changes. The 
revised Order would address the submittal of a complete Application for 
Permit to Drill or Deepen package, including a Drilling Plan, Surface 
Use Plan or Operations, evidence of bond coverage, operator 
certification, and clarification as to when a BLM right-of-way grant or 
Forest Service special use permit are needed to authorize secondary 
uses supporting the oil and gas operation.
The proposed rule changes to 36 CFR part 228 would include: (1) Removal 
of a specific reference to the 1983 Order to a reference that plans of 
operations or master development plans be submitted ``in accordance 
with the current applicable Onshore Oil and Gas Order,'' (2) removal of 
the appendix (text of 1983 Order), and (3) removal of a non-existent 
cross-reference to appeal procedures at 36 CFR part 217 and replacing 
that reference with ``the current applicable agency appeal 
procedures,'' and (4) inclusion of 5 congressionally-mandated 
categorical exclusions promulgated in section 390 of the Energy Policy 
Act of 2005.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/27/05                    70 FR 43349
NPRM Comment Period End         08/26/05
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC20
_______________________________________________________________________




405. PREDATOR DAMAGE MANAGEMENT (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE 
MANUAL, CHAPTER 2320)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 426

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a notice of proposed 
directive to FSM 2320 to clarify the role of the Forest Service in 
predator damage management in wilderness. In 1993, the Forest Service 
entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Animal and 
Plant Health Inspection Service-Wildlife Services (APHIS-WS) to clarify 
the

[[Page 73017]]

Forest Service's role in working with APHIS-WS regarding predator 
damage management activities conducted by APHIS-WS on National Forest 
System lands. In 1995, direction was issued to FSM 2650 to bring Forest 
Service policy on predator damage management into conformance with the 
MOU. Additionally in 1995, an interim directive to FSM 2323.33c was 
issued regarding predator damage management in wilderness to conform 
with both the MOU and FSM 2650. The interim directive clarified the 
role of APHIS-WS as the lead agency in preparing environmental 
documentation for predator control activities initiated by APHIS. The 
interim directive to FSM 2323.33c was reissued in 1997 and expired in 
1998. Therefore, the current direction in effect in FSM chapter 2320 
does not reflect the MOU or policy changes made in FSM 2650. A 
Washington Office team is working with Regional staff, APHIS-WS, and 
the Office of General Counsel to amend FSM 2320 to conform with the 
MOU, FSM 2650, and clarify and strengthen the Forest Service's role and 
responsibility regarding predator damage management action in 
wilderness. Comments received on this proposed directive will be 
considered in the development of the final directive.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              06/07/06                    71 FR 32915
Comment Period Extended         08/08/06
Comment Period End              09/07/06
Final Directive                 03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC22
_______________________________________________________________________




406. INTEGRATED RESOURCE CONTRACTS, FS-2400-13 AND FS-2400-13T (NOTICE 
OF FINAL CONTRACTS)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-7

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 323 of Public Law 108-7, the Consolidated 
Appropriations Resolution (16 U.S.C. 2104 note) established special 
authorities for stewardship contracting not addressed in existing 
Forest Service timber sale contracts. In general, the new authorities 
provide for including service work in timber sale contracts and 
applying the value of timber or other forest products removed as an 
offset against the cost of services received. Integrated Resource 
Contracts FS-2400-13 and FS-2400-13T are being developed for use with 
stewardship end result contracting when the value of timber exceeds the 
cost of service work.
Except where they deviate to address the new authorities, the FS-2400-
13 and FS-2400-13T contracts parallel recently revised timber sale 
contracts FS-2400-6 and FS-2400-6T, which became effective upon notice 
in the Federal Register on May 6, 2004 (69 FR 25367).
In order to fully implement the authorities under section 323 of Public 
Law 108-7, and because they are so similar to timber sale contracts FS-
2400-6 and FS-2400-6T, the Agency implemented interim use of the 
integrated resource contracts while public comments are being sought. 
Comments received will be considered in the development of the final 
contracts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Notice of Interim Contracts     10/05/04                    69 FR 59577
Comment Period End              11/04/04
Notice of Final Contracts       01/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC26
_______________________________________________________________________




407. NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA) COMPLIANCE DOCUMENTATION 
FOR SURFACE USE PLANS OF OPERATION FOR EXPLORATION OR DEVELOPMENT OF AN 
OIL AND GAS LEASE (FINAL DIRECTIVE, FSH 1909.15, CH. 30)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 42 USC 4321 to 4346

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service proposes to add a new categorical 
exclusion to Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 1909.15, Environmental 
Policy and Procedures Handbook, chapter 30, which addresses categories 
of actions that normally do not require either an environmental impact 
statement (EIS) or environmental assessment (EA). The new category will 
be applicable to the issuance of Surface Use Plans of Operation for 
exploration or development of an oil and gas lease.
Executive Order 13212 states that ``For energy-related projects, 
agencies shall expedite their review of permits or take other actions 
as necessary to accelerate the completion of such projects, while 
maintaining safety, public health, and environmental protections. The 
agencies shall take such actions to the extent permitted by law and 
regulation, and where appropriate.``
The National Energy Policy and the Forest Service Energy Implementation 
plan call for streamlining of processing Applications for Permit to 
Drill (APDs) and other energy related permits in an environmentally 
sound manner.
Comments received on the proposed categorical exclusion are being used 
in development of the final direction in FSH 1909.15, chapter 30. In 
accordance with Council on Environmental Quality regulations, the 
Forest Service must give prior notice and opportunity for comment by 
publishing the proposed categorical exclusion in the Federal Register 
before the agency adopts final direction.

[[Page 73018]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              12/13/05                    70 FR 73722
Comment Period End              02/13/06
Final Directive                 12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC34
_______________________________________________________________________




408. ADVERTISING AND SPONSORSHIP IN CONNECTION WITH CONCESSIONS 
INVOLVING PRIVATELY OWNED IMPROVEMENTS ON NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LANDS 
(FINAL DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 2340)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is publishing a final directive to Forest 
Service Manual 2343.03 regarding (1) advertising in concessions 
involving privately developed facilities operated under special use 
authorization on National Forest System (NFS) lands and (2) sponsorship 
of new public services associated with those concessions. With respect 
to advertising, the current policy addresses only exterior advertising 
while the final directive adds direction to allow the permit holder to 
advertise inside buildings and other interior spaces owned by the 
holder. With respect to sponsorship, the final directive adds new 
direction on sponsorships that promote public participation in the 
management of NFS lands. The final directive describes the duration, 
location, and content of recognition of sponsors. Additionally, the 
final directive addresses special events and waives a prohibition on 
exterior advertising during a short-term event and requires the holder 
to not display the Forest Service shield or other Agency symbol in 
conjunction with product names, services, and advertising.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Directive               11/25/05                    70 FR 71081
Comment Period End              03/27/06
Final Directive                 03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC41
_______________________________________________________________________




409. NATIVE PLANT MATERIALS POLICY (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE 
MANUAL 2070)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: EO 13112; 36 CFR 219.10(b)

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service is developing new proposed directives to 
Forest Service Manual 2070, Native Plant Materials, which would address 
the uses of native plant materials in the revegetation, restoration, 
and rehabilitation of National Forest System lands in order to achieve 
the Agency's goal of conserving aquatic and terrestrial biological 
diversity. The proposed policy would include a requirement to 
collaborate with Federal, State, and local government entities and the 
public to develop and implement a program for native plant materials 
with emphasis on life forms beyond the current conifer effort.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              05/26/06                    71 FR 30375
Comment Period End              07/25/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

Nona Jones, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, MS 1135, ADM - 
1ST-D&R, Post Office Box 96090-808RPE, Washington, DC 20090-6090
Phone: 703 605-4927
Fax: 703 235-2337
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC44
_______________________________________________________________________




410. FOREST SERVICE RENEWABLE RESOURCES HANDBOOK (2409.19), CHAPTER 60, 
STEWARDSHIP CONTRACTING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-278

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Public Law 108-278, the Tribal Forest Protection Act, 
authorizes the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture, upon 
request of an Indian tribe to enter into an agreement or contract to 
carry out a project to protect Indian forest land that meets specified 
criteria to issue public notice of initiation of any necessary 
environmental review or of the potential of entering into such an 
agreement or contract under which the Indian tribe would carry out 
certain activities. It authorizes the appropriate Secretary to enter 
into such an agreement or contract following completion of any 
necessary environmental analysis.
The Forest Service (FS) has issued an interim directive (ID) to Forest 
Service Handbook 2409.19 establishing guidance for evaluating proposals 
submitted by tribes. The intended effect of issuance of this ID is to 
provide consistent overall guidance to FS employees regarding tribal 
proposals. Forest Service is seeking comments on this interim directive 
to ensure that issues or deficiencies are addressed.

[[Page 73019]]

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Directive; Request for 
Comment                         12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC45
_______________________________________________________________________




411. [bull] FOREST SERVICE NATIONAL TRAIL MANAGEMENT CLASSIFICATION 
SYSTEM (FINAL DIRECTIVE, FSM 2330)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 36 CFR 212

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: On July 3, 2006, the Forest Service published a Notice in the 
Federal Register for public comment on the Agency's proposed revisions 
to the National Trail Class Management System and Trail Design 
Parameters. The Forest Service uses this system to classify National 
Forest System Trails into 5 classes: Trail Class 1- Minimal/ 
Undeveloped; Trail Class 2- Simple/Minor Development; Trail Class 3- 
Developed/Improved; Trail Class 4- Highly Developed; and Trail Class 5- 
Fully Developed. These trail classes are assigned to existing trails 
according to the physical characteristics of the trail. The Forest 
Service has an estimated 133,000 miles of National Forest System 
Trails. The National Trail Class System is an internal agency tool that 
local Forest Service mangers use to designate trail classes at the 
field level. The Trail Design Parameters are used as the technical 
guidelines for trail construction and maintenance. Both of these tools 
are used internally by the Forest Service and are part of the national 
processes for evaluating the condition and design of Forest Service 
trails. These tools are used by the Forest Service to consistently 
inventory and classify trails. The Trails Classification System does 
not have any on-the-ground environmental impacts.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Proposed Directive              07/03/06                    71 FR 38021
Comment Period End              09/03/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC47
_______________________________________________________________________




412. [bull] SENSITIVE SPECIES AND ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT CONSULTATION 
FOR LAND MANAGEMENT PLANS (INTERIM DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 
2670)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service needs to issue an interim directive to 
clarify sensitive species and Endangered Species Act consultation 
management with the 2005 Planning Rule prior to the approval of the 
first Forest Land Management Plan (LMP) under the 2005 National Forest 
Management Act (NFMA) Planning Rule. The Agency anticipates that the 
first LMP will be approved in late summer or autumn of 2006. After 
consideration of comments, the direction subsequently would be issued 
in a comprehensive amendment to Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2670. 
Direction issued to sections FSM 2670.45 and FSM 2670.46 would add 
responsibilities for those Forest Supervisors and District Rangers who 
prepare Land Management Plans under the 2005 National Forest Management 
Act (NFMA) Planning Rule. The interim directive would describe changes 
necessary because of the different mechanisms and procedures in the 
2005 NFMA Planning Rule to accomplish the plant community diversity and 
other requirements of the NFMA, and because these mechanisms and 
procedures are intended to implement the 2005 NFMA Planning Rule rather 
than the 1982 Planning Rule. The new policy would read, ``The 
provisions contained in the FSM 2670 that apply to sensitive species 
and to conducting a biological evaluation for Land Management Plan 
(LMP) decisions made under the 2005 Planning Rule, do not apply to that 
LMP, once the plan is approved.'' Direction issued to sections FSM 
2670.45 and FSM 2670.46 would add responsibilities for those Forest 
Supervisors and District Rangers who prepare Land Management Plans 
under the 2005 National Forest Management Act (NFMA) Planning Rule. The 
change is necessary because, by themselves, such LMPs have no effect on 
listed species or designated critical habitat under the Endangered 
Species Act that can be meaningfully identified and evaluated. The new 
policy would state, ``A forest that revises its Land Management Plan 
(LMP) under the 2005 NFMA Planning Rule is subject to its regulations 
at 36 CFR 219.10, and to direction in FSM 1921.73, Ecological 
Evaluation of Sustainability, and Forest Service Handbook 1909.12, Land 
Management Planning Handbook. As a result, there would be no basis to 
request an ESA section 7(a)(2) jeopardy consultation on the LMP. In 
addition, all provisions contained in FSM 2670 that refer to 
identifying effects of forest plans to endangered and threatened 
species, to not jeopardizing species, or to using section 7(a)(2) 
formal consultation, do not apply to the development, amendment, 
revision, or implementation of LMPs. Collaboration with the United 
States Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service 
under section 7(a)(1) on LMP programs for the conservation of 
endangered and threatened species would continue.``
The proposed changes are expected to provide more effective 
implementation of the 1982 and 2005 NFMA planning regulations and a 
better field understanding of applicable policies on these topics.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Directive; Request for 
Comment                         12/00/06

[[Page 73020]]

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC54
_______________________________________________________________________




413. [bull] GRIZZLY BEAR MANAGEMENT (INTERIM DIRECTIVE, FSM 2676.1)

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 1531 et seq

CFR Citation: None

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Forest Service plans to issue an interim directive (ID) 
to FSM 2676.1 to provide appropriate and updated direction on Grizzly 
Bear populations and Distinct Population Segments (DPS), such as the 
pending Yellowstone Grizzly DPS, that are delisted.
The updated direction will reflect new information on the current 
status of grizzly bears. The direction in the ID would be broadened to 
be applicable to populations that are listed as ``Threatened'' under 
the Endangered Species Act, and to ``Distinct Population Segments`` 
that are delisted. The interim changes remove out-of-date population 
estimates and adds the current status of the population in the Greater 
Yellowstone Area. The ID addresses habitat management objectives, 
rather than recovery criteria, and removes the requirement to establish 
thresholds through the cumulative effects assessment process. New 
authorities, objectives, responsibilities, and policy on habitat 
management and the use of direct bear management techniques will be 
added and those that are obsolete will be removed.
The interim changes are expected to lead to more effective 
implementation of conservation activities for grizzly bears and a 
better field understanding of applicable policies for grizzly bear 
management.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Directive; Request for 
Comment                         12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC56
_______________________________________________________________________




414. [bull] NATIONAL FOREST SYSTEM LAND MANAGEMENT PLANNING DIRECTIVE 
(FINAL DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE HANDBOOK 1909.12, CHAPTER 70-WILDERNESS 
EVALUATION)

 Regulatory Plan: This entry is Seq. No. 22 in part II of this issue of 
the Federal Register.

RIN: 0596-AC57
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




415. COMMUNITY AND PRIVATE LAND FOREST FIRE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 230 subpart D (new)

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB96
_______________________________________________________________________




416. GRAZING PERMIT ADMINISTRATION (PROPOSED DIRECTIVES, FOREST SERVICE 
HANDBOOK 2209.13, CHAPTERS 10 AND 20)

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Directives              07/19/05                    70 FR 41370
Comment Period End              08/20/05
Proposed and Interim Directives 08/19/05                    70 FR 48663
Comment Period End              12/19/05
Notice--Previous Actions 
Withdrawn for Reconsideration   09/20/05                    70 FR 55102
Proposed Directives             12/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC12
_______________________________________________________________________




417. WATERSHED FORESTRY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, FOREST 
SERVICE MANUAL 3500)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Advance Notice of Proposed 
Guideline                       05/25/04                    69 FR 29688
Comment Period End              07/26/04
Proposed Guideline               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

[[Page 73021]]

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Local, State

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC19
RIN: 0596-AC18
_______________________________________________________________________




418. TRIBAL WATERSHED FORESTRY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (PROPOSED DIRECTIVE, 
FOREST SERVICE MANUAL 3500)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: None

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Advance Notice of Proposed 
Guideline                       05/25/04                    69 FR 29687
Comment Period End              07/26/04
Proposed Guideline               To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal, Tribal

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC18
RIN: 0596-AC19
_______________________________________________________________________




419. RESOURCE AGENCY PROCEDURES FOR CONDITIONS AND PRESCRIPTIONS IN 
HYDROPOWER LICENSES

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/17/05                    70 FR 69804
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      01/17/06
Final Action                     To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC42
_______________________________________________________________________




420. [bull] SPECIAL AREAS; STATE SPECIFIC INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREA 
MANAGEMENT: VIRGINIA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 539; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1608; 16 
USC 1613; 23 USC 201; 36 CFR 294

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 294, subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Governor of Virginia submitted a petition to the 
Secretary of Agriculture under the provisions of the State Petitions 
for Inventoried Roadless Area Management, 36 CFR part 294, subpart B 
(2005 rule), adopted on May 5, 2005. The Secretary accepted the 
Governor's petition and initiated a proposed rulemaking for the 
roadless areas in Virginia. This rulemaking would prohibit road 
construction and reconstruction and timber harvest in certain 
inventoried roadless areas on the George Washington and Jefferson 
National Forests. Exceptions to the prohibitions would be allowed for 
certain health, safety, resource protection, and ecological management 
needs.
However, on September 20, 2006, the United States District Court for 
the Northern District of California issued an order setting aside the 
2005 rule and reinstating the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation rule 
(2001 rule). On September 22, 2006, the State of Wyoming filed a motion 
asking the Wyoming District Court, among other things, to reinstate its 
order enjoining the 2001 rule. As a result of ongoing litigation, USDA 
has notified the States that they may consider submitting a new 
rulemaking petition for roadless area management under the generic 
petition provisions in the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 
553(e)) and Agriculture Department regulation (7 CFR 1.28).

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC59, Related to 0596-AC60
RIN: 0596-AC58
_______________________________________________________________________




421. [bull] SPECIAL AREAS; STATE SPECIFIC INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREA 
MANAGEMENT: NORTH CAROLINA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 529; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1608; 16 
USC 1613; 23 USC 201; 36 CFR 294; . . .

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 294, subpart D

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Governor of North Carolina submitted a petition to the 
Secretary of Agriculture under the provisions of the State Petitions 
for Inventoried Roadless Area Management, 36 CFR part 294, subpart B 
(2005 rule), adopted on May 5, 2005. The Secretary accepted the 
Governor's petition and initiated a proposed rulemaking for the 
roadless areas in North Carolina that would prohibit road construction 
and reconstruction and timber harvest in certain inventoried roadless 
areas on the Croatan, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests in North 
Carolina. Exceptions to the prohibitions would be allowed for certain 
health, safety, resource protection, and ecological management needs.
However, on September 20, 2006, the United States District Court for 
the Northern District of California issued an order setting aside the 
2005 rule and reinstating the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation rule 
(2001 rule). On September 22, 2006, the State of Wyoming filed a motion 
asking the Wyoming District Court, among other things, to reinstate its 
order enjoining the 2001 rule. As a result of ongoing litigation, USDA 
has notified the States that they may consider submitting a new 
rulemaking petition for roadless area management under the generic 
petition provisions in the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 
553(e)) and Agriculture Department regulation (7 CFR 1.28).

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

[[Page 73022]]

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC58, Related to 0596-AC60
RIN: 0596-AC59
_______________________________________________________________________




422. [bull] SPECIAL AREAS; STATE SPECIFIC INVENTORIED ROADLESS AREA 
MANAGEMENT: SOUTH CAROLINA

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 16 USC 472; 16 USC 529; 16 USC 551; 16 USC 1608; 16 
USC 1613; 23 USC 201; 36 CFR 294

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 294, subpart E

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Governor of South Carolina submitted a petition to the 
Secretary of Agriculture under the provisions of the State Petitions 
for Inventoried Roadless Area Management, 36 CFR part 294, subpart B 
(2005 rule), adopted on May 5, 2005. The Secretary accepted the 
Governor's petition and initiated a proposed rulemaking for the 
roadless areas in South Carolina that would prohibit road construction 
and reconstruction and timber harvest in certain inventoried roadless 
areas on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests in South 
Carolina. Exceptions to the prohibitions would be allowed for certain 
health, safety, resource protection, and ecological management needs.
However, on September 20, 2006, the United States District Court for 
the Northern District of California issued an order setting aside the 
2005 rule and reinstating the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation rule 
(2001 rule). On September 22, 2006, the State of Wyoming filed a motion 
asking the Wyoming District Court, among other things, to reinstate its 
order enjoining the 2001 rule. As a result of ongoing litigation, USDA 
has notified the States that they may consider submitting a new 
rulemaking petition for roadless area management under the generic 
petition provisions in the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 
553(e)) and Agriculture Department regulation (7 CFR 1.28).

Timetable: Next Action Undetermined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks, Regulatory Analyst, Department of 
Agriculture, Forest Service, ATTN: ORMS, D&R Branch, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250-0003
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

Related RIN: Related to 0596-AC58, Related to 0596-AC59
RIN: 0596-AC60
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Forest Service (FS)



_______________________________________________________________________




423. FOREST SERVICE TRAILS ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES (FINAL INTERIM 
DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, CHAPTER 2350)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: None

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Directive                 05/22/06                    71 FR 29294

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB92
_______________________________________________________________________




424. FOREST SERVICE OUTDOOR RECREATION ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES (FINAL 
INTERIM DIRECTIVE, FOREST SERVICE MANUAL, CHAPTER 2330)

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: None

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Directive                 05/22/06                    71 FR 29288

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AB93
_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 36 CFR 215

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       07/14/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Andria D. Weeks
Phone: 202 205-3610
Fax: 202 260-6539
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0596-AC28
BILLING CODE 3410--11--S

[[Page 73023]]

_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




426. GENERAL NONPROCUREMENT REGULATIONS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 5 USC 901 et seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 3020

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: USDA published 7 CFR part 3015, Uniform Federal Assistance 
Regulations, in 1981 to establish and codify departmentwide policies 
and standards for administering grants and cooperative agreements to 
governmental and nongovernmental entities. Since that time, the Office 
of Management and Budget has led efforts to establish Governmentwide 
common rules for governmental and nongovernmental recipients of grants 
and cooperative agreements. Consequently, over the years, USDA has 
codified its Governmentwide common rules in other parts of title 7 of 
the CFR. This has resulted in corresponding amendments to part 3015 to 
revise its scope accordingly. We are proposing to remove part 3015 and 
to add part 3020 to parts of title 7. We are proposing to include other 
administrative requirements that were never codified. The alternative 
would be to continue to work with the disjointed, outdated part 3015. 
Expected results are that the new part 3020 will be more clear and 
concise and will only contain those cross-cutting requirements not 
included in other USDA departmentwide administrative regulations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            07/16/03                    68 FR 41947
NPRM Comment Period End         08/15/03
Final Action                    03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State, Local, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Tyson Whitney, Department of Agriculture, Office of the 
Secretary, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-8978
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA21
_______________________________________________________________________




427. [bull] DESIGNATION OF BIOBASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT, ROUND 
2

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

Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 9002

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2902

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will designate for preferred procurement 
under the Federal Biobased Preferred Procurement Program, 10 items. 
These are: Adhesive and mastic removers, insulating foam for wall 
construction, hand cleaners and sanitizers, composite panels, 
transformer fluids, biodegradable containers, fertilizers, metalworking 
fluids, sorbents, and graffiti and grease removers.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/17/06                    71 FR 47566
NPRM Comment Period End         10/16/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

URL For More Information:
www.biobased.oce.usda.gov

Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan, Agricultural Economist, Department of 
Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, Office of Energy Policy and New 
Uses, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4059, South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 401-0532
Fax: 202 401-0535
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA30
_______________________________________________________________________




428. [bull] DESIGNATION OF BIOBASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT, ROUND 
3

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 9002

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2902

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This rulemaking will designate for preferred procurement 
under the Federal Biobased Products Preferred Procurement Program, 10 
items. These are: 2-cycle engine oils, lip care products, biodegradable 
films, stationary equipment hydraulic fluids, biodegradable cutlery, 
glass cleaners, greases, dust suppressants, carpets, and carpet and 
upholstery cleaners.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/17/06                    71 FR 47590
NPRM Comment Period End         10/16/06
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Federal

URL For More Information:
www.biobased.oce.usda.gov

Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan, Agricultural Economist, Department of 
Agriculture, Office of the Secretary, Office of Energy Policy and New 
Uses, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Room 4059, South Building, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 401-0532
Fax: 202 401-0535
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA31
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Office of the Secretary (AgSEC)



_______________________________________________________________________




429. VOLUNTARY LABELING PROGRAM FOR DESIGNATED BIOBASED PRODUCTS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2902

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    01/11/05                     70 FR 1792

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan
Phone: 202 401-0532
Fax: 202 401-0535

[[Page 73024]]

Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA28
_______________________________________________________________________




430. DESIGNATION OF BIOBASED ITEMS FOR FEDERAL PROCUREMENT

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 2902

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    03/16/06                    71 FR 13686

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: Federal

Agency Contact: Marvin Duncan
Phone: 202 401-0532
Fax: 202 401-0535
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0503-AA29
BILLING CODE 3410--90--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Business--Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




431. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--FINANCING 
COOPERATIVE STOCK

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart A; 7 CFR 4279, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency proposes to revise the Business and Industry 
Program regulations to incorporate additional guidance and eliminate or 
reduce certain requirements when financing cooperative stock.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brenda Griffin, Loan Specialist, B&I Processing 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6802
Fax: 202 720-6003
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA26
_______________________________________________________________________




432. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY LOAN PROGRAM--REWRITE OF PROGRAM REGULATIONS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart A; 7 CFR 4279, subpart B; 7 CFR 4287, 
subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The regulations are being completely rewritten to make 
changes that will ultimately reduce delinquencies, enhance program 
effectiveness, correct minor inconsistencies, and make the regulations 
more clear and easier to understand.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: Local, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Michael Foore, Program Advisor, Office of the 
Administrator, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0056
Fax: 202 690-4737
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA41
_______________________________________________________________________




433. NATIONAL SECURITY EMERGENCY

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

Legal Authority: 7 USC 1963

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) proposes to 
streamline procedures for loans and grants for existing business and 
industry direct and guarantee loan programs. This rulemaking will also 
establish emergency regulations for the community facilities program 
currently administered within the Rural Housing Service (RHS).

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robin Meigel, Finance Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 1569, Washington, DC 
20250-1569
Phone: 202 720-9452
Fax: 202 720-7491
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA48
_______________________________________________________________________




434. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS

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

Unfunded Mandates: Undetermined

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1980; 7 CFR 4274; 7 CFR 4279

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency proposes to amend RD Instructions 1980-E, 4274-D, 
and 4279-B to remove the prohibition on making financial assistance 
available to faith-based organizations. These regulations are to be 
further amended to provide guidance regarding the

[[Page 73025]]

separation of inherently religious activities and those for which 
assistance is provided.
This guidance is the same in both justification and purpose to that 
provided in the final rule amendments to 7 CFR part 16, published in 
the Federal Register on July 9, 2004, Volume 69, pages 41375 to 41383.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: Rick Bonnet, Senior Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, STOP 3221, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-1804
Fax: 202 690-3808
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA61
_______________________________________________________________________




435. AMENDMENT OF GUARANTEE REQUIREMENTS

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

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1932, note; 7 USC 1989; 31 USC 3716; 
412 USC 1480

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1951, subpart C

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Agency proposes to add a paragraph providing that any 
amounts paid by the Agency pursuant to a claim by a guaranteed lender 
will constitute a Federal debt owing to the Agency by any third-party 
guarantor of the defaulted loans, to the extent of the amount of the 
third-party guarantee.
A final rule was published on January 22, 2004 [69 FR 2999], adding 
section 1951.133 that provides any amounts paid by the Agency on 
account of the liabilities of guaranteed loan borrower constitute a 
Federal debt owing to the agency by the guaranteed loan borrower for 
purposes of the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C. 
3716) (DCIA), to collect the debt. This proposed rulemaking will have 
the effect of making the DCIA remedies available to the Agency for 
pursuing collection against third-party guarantors as well.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06
NPRM Comment Period End         02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Robin Meigel, Finance Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 1569, Washington, DC 
20250-1569
Phone: 202 720-9452
Fax: 202 720-7491
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA62
_______________________________________________________________________




436. [bull] SOCIO-ECONOMIC BENEFIT ASSESSMENT SYSTEM (SEBAS)

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

Legal Authority: 5 USC 301; 7 USC 1989

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279; 7 CFR 4287

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Socio-Economic Benefit Assessment System (SEBAS) requires 
specific items of project information to estimate the performance and 
economic effectiveness of Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans. At 
present, the information needed to generate SEBAS performance reports 
is not required by regulation. The proposed action will revise the 
identified regulations to require information necessary to generate 
performance output data from SEBAS. Specifically, detailed sales and 
wage information and a list of expenses related to applicant 
operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: William C Smith, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, STOP 3224, Washington, DC 20250-3224
Phone: 202 205-0903
Fax: 202 720-6003
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA63
_______________________________________________________________________




437. [bull] RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS 
(REEEI) PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4280; 7 CFR 4279, subpart A; 7 CFR 4279, subpart B; 
7 CFR 4287, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Socio-Economic Benefit Assessment System (SEBAS) model 
requires specific items of project information to estimate the 
performance and economic effectiveness of Business and Industry 
Guaranteed Loans. At present, the information needed to generate SEBAS 
performance reports is not required by regulation. The proposed action 
will revise the identified regulations to require information necessary 
to generate performance output data from SEBAS. Specifically, detailed 
sales, sales and wage information, and a list of expenses related to 
applicant operations.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/07
NPRM Comment Period End         04/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses, Governmental Jurisdictions, 
Organizations

Government Levels Affected: Local, State, Tribal

Federalism:  Undetermined

Agency Contact: William C Smith, Loan Specialist, Department of 
Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400

[[Page 73026]]

Independence Avenue SW, STOP 3224, Washington, DC 20250-3224
Phone: 202 205-0903
Fax: 202 720-6003
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA64
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Business--Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




438. RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LOAN AND GRANT PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 7 USC 940c

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1703, subpart B; 7 CFR 4280, subpart A

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action improves the ease of use by the public and 
program beneficiaries. The regulations will simplify the application 
format, review and selection process, and recipients' recordkeeping 
requirements. It will also add a section on the appeal of adverse 
decisions.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/15/99                    64 FR 69937
NPRM Comment Period End         02/14/00                    65 FR 69937
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Todd Hubbell, Loan Specialist, Specialty Lenders 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, STOP 3225, Washington, DC 20250-
3225
Phone: 202 690-2516
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA19
_______________________________________________________________________




439. RURAL BUSINESS INVESTMENT PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 107-171, sec 6029

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4290

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This action will implement the provisions of section 6029 of 
the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act, which authorizes the Rural 
Business Investment Program. The purpose of the program is the 
establishment of equity capital investment in Rural Business Investment 
Companies and other entities through a combination of grants and 
guarantees of debentures with the objective of fostering economic 
development in rural areas. By law, the program is required to be 
administered by another Federal agency that has considerable expertise 
in operating a similar program. The Rural Business-Cooperative Service 
has contracted with the Small Business Administration.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              06/08/04                    69 FR 32200
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/08/04
Final Action                    08/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: Michael Foore, Program Advisor, Office of the 
Administrator, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 205-0056
Fax: 202 690-4737
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA35
_______________________________________________________________________




440. B&I GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM FARM BILL CHANGES--EXPANDED ELIGIBILITY 
CRITERIA

Priority: Other Significant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 6013 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 
2002 adds other renewable energy systems as an eligible loan purpose. 
Section 6017 expands eligibility criteria for loans to cooperatives and 
loan guarantees in non-rural areas under certain conditions and expands 
eligibility and relaxes financial reporting requirements for the B&I 
Cooperative Stock Purchase Program. It also allows the Agency to 
require specialized appraisals for the B&I program. Section 6019 
requires the Agency to provide a short, simplified application form for 
guarantees of $400,000 or less initially. 7 CFR part 4279, subpart B, 
must be changed to incorporate these provisions of the statute.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              11/09/04                    69 FR 64829
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      12/09/04
Interim Final Rule Effective    12/09/04
Final Action                    07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Brenda Griffin, Loan Specialist, B&I Processing 
Division, Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-6802
Fax: 202 720-6003
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA39
_______________________________________________________________________




441. BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY GUARANTEED LOAN PROGRAM--IMPLEMENT THE DEBT 
COLLECTION IMPROVEMENT ACT (DCIA) OF 1996

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: Not Yet Determined

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 4279, subpart B

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Business-Cooperative Service proposes to revise RD 
Instruction 4279-B to require personal and corporate guarantees for the 
term of the guaranteed loan and to develop Agency-approved personal and 
corporate guaranteed forms to identify that the financial assistance 
received is

[[Page 73027]]

a Federal debt and subject to the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 
1996.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            04/07/05                    70 FR 17616
NPRM Comment Period End         06/06/05
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: Businesses

Government Levels Affected: Undetermined

Agency Contact: David W. Lewis, Branch Chief, B&I Servicing Branch, 
Department of Agriculture, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, STOP 3224, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 690-0797
Fax: 202 720-6003
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA54
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Business--Cooperative Service (RBS)



_______________________________________________________________________




442. TANGIBLE NET EQUITY

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1980; 7 CFR 4279

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Final Action                    06/08/06                    71 FR 33181

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Fred Kieferle
Phone: 202 720-7818
Fax: 202 720-6003
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0570-AA49
BILLING CODE 3410--XY--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                    Proposed Rule Stage


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




443. LIEN ACCOMMODATIONS AND SUBORDINATIONS FOR 100 PERCENT PRIVATE 
FINANCING

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717-R

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS proposes to amend its regulations on lien accommodations 
and subordinations. The rule proposes to remove the procedures where 
case-by-case RUS approval of the issuance of additional secured debt is 
required and establish those procedures: Eligible financing purposes, 
decision factors for granting lien accommodations, application content 
and timeframe, in an agency guide bulletin. This proposed rule will 
focus on lien accommodation policies and establish a more user-friendly 
regulation for lien accommodation and subordination for 100 percent 
private financing. RUS proposes this clarification of the rule and 
update to the existing lien accommodation and subordination regulations 
in its ongoing effort to maintain current program rules.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and 
Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AB99
_______________________________________________________________________




444. WATER AND WASTE LOANS AND GRANTS

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

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1780

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service, an agency delivering the United 
States Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Utilities 
Programs, is proposing to amend its regulation used to process water 
and waste disposal (WWD) loans and grants. The regulation will be 
amended to provide predevelopment planning grants for low-income and 
poverty-stricken areas, enhancements for water and sewer systems with 
significant security weaknesses, changes to the use of grant funds for 
rural or Native Alaskan Villages, mandatory use of pre-authorized debit 
(PAD) repayment for borrowers, modified reserve requirements for 
borrowers, simplified application process, requirements for alternative 
project delivery methods, and planning for future enhancements to 
delivery of the program.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and 
Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AC03

[[Page 73028]]

_______________________________________________________________________




445. SPECIFICATIONS FOR 15, 25, AND 35 KV PRIMARY UNDERGROUND POWER 
CABLE

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1728

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: This proposed rule is necessary to provide RUS electric 
borrowers with updated specifications for 15 and 25 kV underground 
power cable and to provide borrowers with specifications for 35 kV 
underground power cable. These specifications cover single-phase and 
multi-phase primary underground power cable, which RUS electric 
borrowers use to construct their rural underground electric 
distribution systems.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and 
Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AC05
_______________________________________________________________________




446. [bull] RURAL BROADBAND ACCESS LOANS AND LOAN GUARANTEES

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

Legal Authority: PL 107-171; 7 USC 901 et. seq

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1738

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Since the Broadband Program's inception, the Agency has faced 
and continues to face significant challenges in administering the 
program, including the fierce competitive nature of the broadband 
market, the fact that many companies proposing to offer broadband 
service are start-up organizations with limited resources, constantly 
changing technology, and economic factors such as the higher cost of 
serving rural communities. Because of these challenges, the agency has 
been reviewing the characteristics of the Broadband Program and has 
determined that modifications are required to accelerate the deployment 
of broadband service to the rural areas of the country in order to meet 
President Bush's initiative for universal broadband deployment by 2007. 
Therefore, this rulemaking proposes to implement changes on the 
following subject matter:
1) Funding in competitive markets;
2) the definition of Eligible Rural Community;
3) a new standard for minimum data transmission rate;
4) new equity requirements and modified loan purposes to include 
operating expenses;
5) market survey requirements; and
6) time limits for build-out and deployment and funding against current 
borrowers.
Additional clarifications to procedural matters will also be 
incorporated as necessary.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and 
Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AC06
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




447. TELECOMMUNICATIONS STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR MATERIALS, 
EQUIPMENT, AND CONSTRUCTION

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Development Utilities Programs proposes to amend 7 
CFR 1755 to include requirements presently contained in Bulletin 345-3. 
This rule would establish and codify provisions for the inclusion and 
removal of products from I.P. 344-2. This rule also proposes to 
integrate the existing section on field trials in the procedures for 
product acceptance and inclusion in this codification, as well as 
clarifying and reorganizing the field trials section.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            08/05/05                    70 FR 45314
NPRM Comment Period End         10/04/05
Final Action                    03/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and 
Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AB40
_______________________________________________________________________




448. SERVICING OF WATER PROGRAMS LOANS AND GRANTS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

[[Page 73029]]

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1782; 7 CFR 1951; 7 CFR 1955; 7 CFR 1956

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Rural Utilities Service, an agency delivering the United 
States Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Utilities 
Programs, consolidates and amends the regulations utilized to service 
water and waste loan and grant programs. Unnecessary and burdensome 
requirements for water and waste loan and grant servicing under the 
program will be eliminated. The streamlining will allow the agency to 
provide better service to entities needing assistance in resolving 
financial and economic problems in their communities and in general 
improve the quality of life in rural areas.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            11/15/04                    69 FR 65546
NPRM Comment Period End         01/14/05
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Acting Director, Program Development and 
Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Stop 1522, Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AB59
_______________________________________________________________________




449. PUBLIC TELEVISION STATION DIGITAL TRANSITION GRANT PROGRAM

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

Legal Authority: PL 108-447

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1740

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: The Federal Communications Commission had required all 
television broadcasters to initiate the broadcast of a digital 
television signal and to cease analog television broadcasts. To assist 
stations with the transition, Congress recognized the need to 
facilitate the digital transition in public television stations that 
serve rural areas. This grant program will assist rural public 
television to finance the conversion of television services to digital 
broadcasting. To continue this program in FY 2005, Congress provided 
$10 million for grant funds in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 
2005 (Pub. L. 108-447). Congress also authorized additional purposes, 
which were specifically excluded in the NOFA. This regulation will 
incorporate the new statutory requirements and updates this competitive 
grant program for FY 2005.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              01/20/06                     71 FR 3205
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      03/31/06
Final Action                    02/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and 
Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AC02
_______________________________________________________________________




450. RURAL AREA DEFINITIONS FOR RUS WEP PROGRAMS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

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

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1775; 7 CFR 1778; 7 CFR 1779; 7 CFR 1780; 7 CFR 
1783

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: RUS is issuing a regulation to standardize the definition of 
``rural'' and ``rural area'' to implement section 6020 of the Farm 
Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, to amend section 343(13)(B) 
of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, which defines the 
term ``rural'' and ``rural area'' for the purpose of water and waste 
disposal grants, and direct and guarantee loans provided under 
paragraphs (1), (2), and (24) of section 306(a). This rule will create 
a standard definition of ``rural'' and ``rural area'' with respect to 
RUS Water and Environmental Programs in 7 CFR 1775, 1778, 1779, 1780, 
and 1783.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Direct Final Rule               12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan, Director, Program Development and 
Regulatory Analysis, Department of Agriculture, Rural Utilities 
Service, Room 5168, South Building, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, 
Washington, DC 20250
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AC04
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


Rural Utilities Service (RUS)



_______________________________________________________________________




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

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1755

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/10/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AB76

[[Page 73030]]

_______________________________________________________________________




452. EXEMPTION OF CERTAIN BORROWERS FROM CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/11/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AB85
_______________________________________________________________________




453. ELIMINATION OF SUBPART M: OPERATIONAL CONTROLS

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1717

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/11/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AB97
_______________________________________________________________________




454. TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CONSTRUCTION POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1753

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/10/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AB98
_______________________________________________________________________




455. SEISMIC SAFETY

Priority: Substantive, Nonsignificant

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1792

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            10/16/06                    71 FR 60672
Direct Final Rule               10/16/06                    71 FR 60657
Direct Final Rule Effective     11/30/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Richard Annan
Phone: 202 720-0784
Fax: 202 720-4120
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0572-AC01
BILLING CODE 3410--15--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                       Final Rule Stage


Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)



_______________________________________________________________________




456. CONSERVATION SECURITY PROGRAM

Priority: Economically Significant. Major under 5 USC 801.

Legal Authority: 16 USC 3838

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1470

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under the Conservation Security Program (CSP) NRCS is 
authorized to provide financial and technical assistance to owners and 
operators of agricultural operations to promote conservation and 
improvement of the quality of soil, water, air, energy, plant and 
animal life, and other conservation purposes.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                            01/02/04                      69 FR 193
NPRM Comment Period End         03/02/04
Interim Final Rule              06/21/04                    69 FR 34502
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      09/20/04
Interim Final Rule              03/25/05                    70 FR 15201
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/25/05
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Harry Slawter, Resource Conservationist, Department of 
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, P.O. Box 2890, 
Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 720-1845
Fax: 202 720-4265
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA36
_______________________________________________________________________




457. GRASSLAND RESERVE PROGRAM

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: PL 107-171; 16 USC 3838

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 1415

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Under Grassland Reserve Program (GRP) the Department enters 
into easement or rental agreements with owners of grazing land to 
protect and restore such lands. The Department will designate payment 
for cost share to restore the functions and values of grasslands.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              05/21/04                    69 FR 29173
Interim Final Rule Comment 
Period End                      07/20/04
Final Action                    12/00/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Floyd Wood, Easement Program Division, Department of 
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Washington, DC 
20013
Phone: 202 720-0242
Fax: 202 720-9689
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA38

[[Page 73031]]

_______________________________________________________________________




458. CONFIDENTIALITY OF CONSERVATION PROGRAM INFORMATION

Priority: Other Significant

Legal Authority: 5 USC 552(b)(3)

CFR Citation: 7 CFR 609

Legal Deadline: None

Abstract: Section 1244 of the Food Security Act of 1985, as amended by 
the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, prohibits the 
release and disclosure of proprietary information unless certain 
exceptions apply. Once implemented, the regulations will ensure program 
participant confidence that proprietary information will not be 
released and disclosed and will ensure that the public benefits 
provided by the conservation programs will not be undermined.

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Interim Final Rule              07/00/07

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Government Levels Affected: State

Agency Contact: Brown Kevin, Deputy Chief for Management, Department of 
Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, PO Box 2890, 
Washington, DC 20013
Phone: 202 720-6297
Fax: 202 720-2588
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0578-AA40
BILLING CODE 3410--16--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Completed Actions


National Agricultural Statistical Service (NASS)



_______________________________________________________________________




459. DAIRY PRODUCT MANDATORY REPORTING

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Completed:
________________________________________________________________________

Reason                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

Withdrawn                       08/23/06

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: No

Small Entities Affected: No

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Dan Kerestes
Phone: 202 720-3570
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0535-AA00
BILLING CODE 3410--20--S
_______________________________________________________________________


Department of Agriculture (USDA)                      Long-Term Actions


Office of Procurement and Property Management (OPPM)



_______________________________________________________________________




460. AGRICULTURE ACQUISITION REGULATION (AGAR): USE OF BIOBASED 
MATERIALS

Priority: Other Significant

CFR Citation: Not Yet Determined

Timetable:
________________________________________________________________________

Action                            Date                      FR Cite

________________________________________________________________________

NPRM                             To Be                       Determined

Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Required: Undetermined

Small Entities Affected:  Businesses

Government Levels Affected: None

Agency Contact: Joseph J. Daragan
Phone: 202 720-5729
Fax: 202 720-5729
Email: [email protected]

RIN: 0599-AA12
[FR Doc. 06-7543 Filed 12-08-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-98-S